From the glitzy strip of Myrtle Beach to the natural wonders of the mountain country, South Carolina is a popular destination for vacationing families.

Beaches

South Carolina's stunning beaches have always been a favorite destination of families, and many resorts and hotels cater to them. It may seem a bit gaudy to some, but with its glut of family attractions, Myrtle Beach is undeniably a family favorite. If you and the kids want fun in the sun, Myrtle has lots of both, plus 60 miles of beach and big waves. If you want to get away from the crowds, there's lots of shoreline to explore that offers a more relaxed atmosphere – try one of the resorts around Charleston or in the Low Country. Explore the sands of the Isle of Palms, Kiawah Island or Fripp Island.

Theme Parks

To cool off in the South Carolina heat, splash around Myrtle Waves, which boasts being the biggest water park in the state. Charleston has three water parks: Splash Island, Splash Zone and Whirlin' Waters Adventure Waterpark. You'll find all kinds of family fun at Carowinds theme park 15 minutes north of Rock Hill on the state border, from water rides and roller coasters, to lower-key rides for younger children and live shows. Family Kingdom in Myrtle Beach is an amusement park by the sea, which you can view from atop the state's largest Ferris wheel or an old-fashioned, gut-wrenching wooden roller coaster.

Museums, Zoos

The reptilian exhibits at the Serpentarium on Edisto Island make children squirm with delight. Ripley's Aquarium in Myrtle Beach is also a favorite of children. Learn more about the lives of raptors – owls, vultures, hawks and falcons -- on a guided walking tour at the International Center For Birds of Prey in Awendaw, 15 miles from Charleston. Check out a startling array of reptiles, giant frogs and exotic birds at Alligator Adventure in North Myrtle Beach. The South Carolina Aquarium breaks down its exhibits by regions of the state, including the mountain forest, salt marsh and ocean, so its species range from the river otter to loggerhead turtle and octopi. The great hall's two-story windows offer one of the best views of Charleston Harbor. The Charleston museum's collection includes George Washington's christening cup and an Egyptian mummy and hands-on exhibits for children. In Columbia, kids might like the Confederate Relic Room and Museum; and catch the penguin and sea lion feedings there at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.

Waterfalls

When you are ready to get away from the theme park crowds, explore South Carolina's Upcountry waterfalls, which dramatically cascade down rugged granite faces, some hundreds of feet. Some are accessible by hikes, easy walks on forest paths, and others can be seen from the side of the road. There are at least 18 spectacular falls in Oconee County alone.

Parks

To get to really know South Carolina, visit its parks. Congaree National Park features old-growth bottomland hardwood forest, with one of the tallest deciduous forests in the world. Chattooga National Wild and Scenic River boasts towering waterfalls, thick forests and some of the best whitewater rafting in the nation. Among the state's 20 wildlife preserves is the Audubon Swamp Garden in Charleston, a black-water swamp that is home to bald eagles, otters and turtles. Many of South Carolina's state parks have cabins and lakes. Two favorites are Hunting Island State Park and Edisto Beach State Park, which also has oceanside campgrounds and some of the state's tallest palmetto trees.