A Traveler's Guide to Exploring the Best of Charleston to Fort Myers

If you're looking for a road trip that includes stunning scenery, rich history, delectable food and plenty of adventure, then a road trip between Charleston, South Carolina and Fort Myers, Florida, is your perfect match. From charming small towns, dense forests, quiet beaches, and stunning national parks, there's so much to see and do along the way.

The Halfway Point: Starke, FL

As you embark on this journey, make sure to check out Starke in Florida, the halfway point on your trip. Nestled between Gainesville and Jacksonville, Starke is a quiet town, but it exudes Southern charm, and has a few years of history infused in it, as it is over 150 years old. If you're a fan of classic Southern dishes, then you're in the right place. Stop by the iconic restaurant, The Downtown Grill, and sample some of the best steaks, seafood platters, and delicious southern sides.

Now, let's jump into the Top Five Popular Attractions to see between Charleston and Fort Myers:

1. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

As you make your way through South Carolina, take a detour to visit Congaree National Park. It's a hidden gem, but well worth a visit. Congaree is the largest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in America, and it will take you on an adventure through the dense forest, with gentle hikes, kayaking on the river, and maybe even spotting some wildlife. This is a must-stop destination for any nature-lover.

2. Okefenokee Swamp Park, Georgia

If you're driving by Georgia, then Okefenokee Swamp Park is a must-visit destination. It's a natural wonder with an area of over 400,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness. The swamp is teeming with wildlife, from alligators, turtles, and frogs to deer, foxes, and boars. The swamp walkway and boat tours are the best ways to explore the park fully. You might also want to schedule a visit at night, as the swamp comes alive in a different way.

3. Savannah Historic District, Georgia

Savannah is a beautiful city with a lot of colonial charm. The best way to see Savannah is to explore its historic district on foot or on a bicycle. With 22 squares to explore, each with its unique design and history. The most popular one being Chippewa square with the iconic Forrest Gump bench. The era of Savannah's prosperity is evident in the antique shops, beautiful architecture, and plenty of museums in the city.

4. Florida Caverns State Park, Florida

Florida Caverns State Park is a treasure trove, with a fascinating underground cave system that took millions of years of geological evolution to form. The cave tour is an unforgettable experience that takes you to another world of stunning cave formations, stalactites, and underground pools. The state park also has other activities like horseback riding, canoeing, and camping.

5. Sanibel Island, Florida

On your way to Fort Myers, stop by Sanibel Island, one of Florida's most captivating barrier islands. Sanibel Island has scenic beaches with miles of quiet and clean beaches, plenty of seashells to collect, and natural preserves. While visiting, make sure to check out J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you'll spot many shorebirds, manatees, alligators, and more in their natural habitats.

Conclusion

Driving through Charleston and Fort Myers is an unforgettable experience, with so many beautiful destinations to see along the way. For the best route, consider the I-95 South to Jacksonville and then the I-10 West to Starke, then driving towards Panama City, Sanibel Island, and Fort Myers. Next time you're nearby, do check out these top five attractions, and experience the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Southern United States.