Must-See Bucket List Destinations for Seniors

What is Living on the Coast Like?

Seniors often face an overwhelming number of potential retirement locations. The opportunities are endless, from living on the coast with the white sand beaches of Florida to the mountain communities tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains. One increasingly popular destination for seniors is the Lowcountry of South Carolina. The Lowcountry encapsulates the lower half of the South Carolina coastline and derives its name from being below the Fall Line, or the region where the hard rock of the mountains reaches the softer sand of the coastal plain.

This region of the country has become increasingly popular for various reasons. Most notable, however, are the low taxes, temperate weather, and ample retirement communities. Seniors in this part of the country enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, sailing, kayaking, tennis, and golfing at the area’s championship golf courses.

The culinary scene in the Lowcountry is also a crowd-pleaser. There, you can find fantastic seafood and, of course, signature Southern cuisine, including shrimp and grits, red rice, and lowcountry boil. Along with the delicious food, entertainment is always close by with live music and shows at many of the area’s bars, restaurants, venues, and theaters.

Below, we will explore some of the best travel destinations for seniors in the South East.

Top 10 Senior-Friendly Travel Destinations in the Southeast

1. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, is one of the premier travel destinations on the East Coast. Packed with a rich history, award-winning cuisine, and the notorious Savannah Bananas, there is fun for all ages. The city is also an architecture lover’s dream, with its well-preserved colonial-style buildings lighting up the streets in colors ranging from hot pink to mellow yellow.

2. Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington, North Carolina, is home to the famous River Walk and the Airlie Gardens, which features 100,000 azalea trees and live oaks dating back to the 1500s. Are you in the mood for a nice bite to eat? Try one of Wilmington’s top-rated restaurants or walk over to the skylit Old Wilmington City Market and the rambling Cotton Exchange—a historic shopping and dining complex.

3. Charleston, South Carolina

If you’re looking for the classic Southern feel, look no further than Charleston, South Carolina. The city has so much to offer and is filled with colorful homes, lush greenery, and a thriving culinary scene. Charleston also has ample boutique hotels, so you can enjoy your stay while feeling immersed in the city and its people.

4. Asheville, North Carolina

If you want to eat, drink, and enjoy scenic mountain views, Asheville, North Carolina, is for you. Regarded as a microbrew capital, Asheville is genuinely a beer-lovers dream. The fun doesn’t stop there. Here, you will find endless hiking trails, top-tier restaurants, and charming cabins scattered in the hills surrounding downtown. Asheville is truly a must-see destination for seniors desiring a peaceful mountain getaway.

5. New Orleans, Louisiana

The birthplace of jazz certainly deserves a spot on this list. Its combination of food, culture, and genuinely friendly people creates a destination fit for any traveler. Grab yourself a shrimp po’boy, walk the French Quarter, and hit Café Du Monde for a midday drink and beignet. New Orleans combines Southern hospitality with the liveliness of a major city—making this an ideal spot for an invigorating weekend getaway.

6. Beaufort, South Carolina

For those looking for a quieter weekend with great food and shopping, Beaufort is your best bet. Founded in 1711, Beaufort is known for its historic homes and charming downtown—making it a dream destination for a quick getaway. There are many things to do in the city and its surrounding areas, such as lounging at the beach, shopping downtown, or taking a historic tour.

7. Ocracoke, North Carolina

An island on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Ocracoke isn’t the most accessible destination. However, once there, you will immerse yourself in white sand beaches, charming local restaurants, and all the ocean activities your heart desires. A weekend here is a true “escape,” as Cape Hatteras National Seashore nearly surrounds the entire island.

8. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is another one for those mountain lovers. Tucked away in the Great Smoky Mountains, the city offers a wide range of outdoor activities and city entertainment. From shows to unique amusement parks, Gatlinburg is the place to be if you want a mountain weekend filled with fun for the entire family.

9. Saint Simons Island, Georgia

An hour and a half south of Savannah, you will find yourself on the charming Saint Simons Island. Part of Georgia’s Golden Isles chain, Saint Simons is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Here, you can experience biking, fishing, beachcombing, and golfing in amazingly scenic locations.

10. Chattanooga, Tennessee

While it wasn’t always this way, Chattanooga is undoubtedly a bucket-list place to visit now. Here, you will find some of the most picturesque views the Appalachian Mountains offer while also having access to a vibrant downtown. If you are feeling gutsy, test your nerves on one of the world’s steepest passenger railroads at Lookout Mountain.

Want to Make Charleston Your Home?

Located a short drive from Charleston, Seafields is a vibrant community with convenient access to all of the Lowcountry’s charm.

First, ask yourself if independent living is right for you or your loved one. Once you’ve decided to choose an independent living community, you need to choose the right property for you.

Here at Seafields, we believe that luxury independent living provides many unique benefits for seniors easing into retirement. Our community offers its residents stunning scenery, active social calendars, and amenities rivaled by the highest-quality resorts.

Seafields includes amenities such as a state-of-the-art gym, spa, resort-like pool, and various fine dining experiences. If this sounds like a fit for your living needs, we would love to hear from you! Reach out to us below, and we will happily answer any questions or concerns you may have as you continue this journey.