Santee, South Carolina at a Glance…
Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, the charming town of Santee beckons tourists with its unique combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and warm Southern hospitality. With its picturesque landscapes, abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, and fascinating historical sites, Santee is more than just a destination; it’s an experience waiting to be enjoyed.
Embrace Santee Outdoors
Santee’s biggest drawcard is undoubtedly Lake Marion, a vast freshwater lake that lures anglers, boaters, and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re casting a line into its pristine waters, cruising its serene surface, or simply basking in the lakeside tranquility, Lake Marion promises an unforgettable experience.
For those who prefer terra firma, Santee State Park offers a wealth of outdoor adventures. Meandering hiking trails wind through enchanting cypress swamps and fragrant pine forests, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife encounters. It’s a nature lover’s paradise.
A Golfer’s Paradise
Santee has established itself as a golfer’s paradise, featuring three championship golf courses that cater to players of all skill levels. Each course offers unique challenges amidst beautifully manicured fairways and towering pines, ensuring breathtaking views with every swing. With a commitment to quality, Santee is a haven for golf enthusiasts, where the joy of the game flourishes in a stunning natural setting.
Santee History
Santee presents a wealth of opportunities for history enthusiasts. A visit to the Santee Cooper Country Museum is essential, providing an in-depth exploration of the region’s extensive heritage. The museum features a diverse array of exhibits, including Native American artifacts and an insightful examination of the Santee Cooper Project’s significant influence on local development. This institution offers an engaging and informative experience that effectively encapsulates the historical narrative of the area.
Southern Hospitality Awaits
Santee’s charm extends beyond its natural and historical attractions to its welcoming community. Stroll through the town’s quaint shops, engage with friendly locals, and savor the delectable flavors of authentic Southern cuisine in local restaurants. It’s a taste of Southern hospitality that will leave you with lasting memories.
Santee, South Carolina, promises a well-rounded vacation experience, seamlessly blending outdoor adventure, historical exploration, and the legendary warmth of the South. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Santee has it all, making it the ideal destination for your next I-95 getaway.
Places to Stay in Santee, South Carolina…
The heart of commercial activity in Santee is right at I-95, exit 98, where more than 15 motels are conveniently located within a one-mile radius. This area features several prominent hotel chains, ensuring a variety of accommodations for travelers and visitors.
There are several of the major chains ( Baymont by Wyndham, Best Western Plus, Comfort Inn and Suites, Econo Lodge, Fairfield Inn and Suites, Hampton Inn, Quality Inn and Suites, Red Roof Inn, Rodeway Inn, Super 8 by Wyndham, Travelodge by Wyndham, Tru by Hilton) at this exit, as well as a number of locally owned establishments. Whatever your taste and budget, you are sure to find exactly what you’re looking for here..
A complete listing of places to stay along I-95 in the Santee, South Carolina area can be found here: https://www.i95exitguide.com/lodging/south-carolina-lodging/
If you’re a camper, you’re in luck. There are plenty of public and private camping and RV parks here as well! Santee Lakes Campground (I-95, exit 102), Lake Marion Resort and Santee State Park (I-95, exit 98) are close by.
Places to Eat in Santee, South Carolina…
Over two dozen restaurants are located right off I-95, exit 98. Besides the fast-food chains there are a number of fine local restaurants. Jake’s Steaks & Ribs and Randazzo’s Italian & Seafood Restaurant a just two. I recommend Clark’s Family Restaurant (located at Clark’s Inn). They have excellent meals at very reasonable prices!
A complete listing on places to eat along I-95 in Santee, South Carolina, can be found here: https://www.i95exitguide.com/food/south-carolina-restaurants/
Places to Go in Santee, South Carolina…
If you love fishing or recreational boating, you’ll be in heaven in Santee. But if that’s not your thing there’s still plenty to see and do here. For the golfer there’s Santee-Cooper Resort, Chapel Creek Plantation, Lake Marion Golf Club, and Santee-Cooper Country Club accessible from I-95, exit 98.
If a slower pace is more your style, visit The Santee National Wildlife Refuge (I-95, exit 102). It has a foot trail and observation tower as well as a Visitor’s Center offering information and interpretive exhibits.
Fort Watson (3 miles north of Santee on US 301) is a great place to get a panoramic view of Santee-Cooper and the countryside.
Getting Around Santee, South Carolina…
Getting around is pretty simple. I-95 runs north-south and exits 102, 98, 97, and 93 will get you to all parts of Santee. Exit 98, however is the primary exit as far as traveler services go. The area lakes are located both east and west of I-95, and immediately accessible from this exit.
Santee, South Carolina Links
Need more? Try these links for additional information about Santee, South Carolina.
The I-95 Exit Information Guide
“Flat out, the single best website for auto travelers on the Net” — Yahoo’s Internet Life Magazine.
Santee Cooper Country Visitor’s Guide
All kinds of information about the Santee-Cooper area from the region’s promotions commission.
Town of Santee, South Carolina
Official Town of Santee website.
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Is the Wings and Wheels museum in Santee still open?
Santee is one of those towns that runs on people traveling down I 95, I myself am a small business owner in Santee and know my business thrives on all of the lovely travelers. Stop in at Craig’s place cafe and deli next time your in Santee! Located a 1/4 mile to the left if you are traveling North bound,1/4 mile right if you are traveling south. Drive safe!
It has been awhile since we visited Santee but when there we found it very friendly and interesting. We stopped at Clark’s Inn, which we would recommend, and will stop the next time we are there. Very friendly people there and a very good meal.
Would like to explore it a little more next time. We were a little disappointed in the outlet mall as there didn’t seem to be many stores open.
Where do I have the best chance of getting into Crappies and catfish while in Santee?
I have stopped multiple times at the Best Western right off of exit 98 on I-95 in Santee. Nice place, friendly people, clean rooms, nice pool. You can’t ask for more.
I would try Bells Marina. They have guides and waterfront hotel with fishing docks and boats