St. Matthews South Carolina BEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES


Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near St. Matthews, South Carolina.



1. Dreher Island State Park

Lake Murray Peninsula Beaches. Stretching over three islands on Lake Murray, this park features sandy swimming beaches, fishing piers, and shaded picnic areas with stunning water views. Enjoy a relaxing day sunbathing, paddling, or spotting local wildlife along the shore.

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2. Lake Wateree State Park

Family-Friendly Lakefront. Nestled along the shores of Lake Wateree, this park offers a recreational beach for swimming, picnicking, and lakeside fun. Kids and adults alike can enjoy boating, birdwatching, and relaxing by the scenic water.

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3. Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park

Riverside Urban Escape. Set along the Broad River, this park features sandy riverbanks perfect for sunbathing, casual beach games, and picnics. Walk scenic trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy access to recreational water activities right in the heart of Columbia.

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4. Santee State Park

Lake Marion Retreat. Located on the shores of Lake Marion, Santee State Park boasts a sandy swimming beach, fishing docks, and ample picnic spots. Visitors can swim, kayak, or watch herons and egrets in this tranquil lakeside getaway.

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5. Colleton State Park

Edisto River Beachfront. Situated along the Edisto River, the park offers a sandy riverbank beach popular for swimming, tubing, and relaxing under shade trees. The peaceful setting is ideal for picnics, wildlife observation, and paddling adventures.

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6. Lake Greenwood State Park

Lakeside Recreation Spot. With a broad beach area on Lake Greenwood, this park draws swimmers, sunbathers, and families seeking water fun. Enjoy picnicking, fishing, and easy access to boat rentals along the scenic shoreline.

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7. Calhoun Falls State Park

Lake Russell Hideaway. This park features a sandy swimming beach on Lake Russell, surrounded by pine woods and peaceful water views. Play on the beach, fish from the shore, or enjoy nature trails and lakeside picnics.

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8. Sesquicentennial State Park

Metro Lake Beach. Located just outside downtown Columbia, Sesqui offers a sandy swimming beach on a spring-fed lake, plus shaded picnic shelters and an accessible playground. Paddleboat rentals and hiking trails complement the beach experience.

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9. Lake Murray Public Park

Popular Swim Beach. Situated on the north shore of Lake Murray, this well-loved public park features a large sandy beach for swimming, sunbathing, and lakeside picnics. The clear, calm waters make it a summer hotspot for families and friends.

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10. Cheraw State Park

Cypress-Lined Lake Beach. This state park boasts a broad sandy swimming beach on Lake Juniper, framed by cypress trees and wildflowers. Visitors enjoy swimming, canoeing, and picnicking in a peaceful natural setting.

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