Santee is a stunning town located along Santee River Valley in Orangeburg County, in the heart of South Carolina, United States.
The town’s population was 1,165 in 2020. This town has successfully evolved into a resort town that depended majorly on an agricultural economy. However, it is currently known for its assortment of golf courses and fishing expeditions.
In April and October, the weather is moderate with minimum humidity, making it the best time to visit the city of Santee.
There are many attractions in Santee, such as the Lake Marion, the Smith’s Super Store, the Fisheagle Wildlife Tours, Lone Star BBQ Tavern and Grille, the Santee State Park, the Lake Marion Watersports Complex, the Santee National Golf Club, and more.
Are you planning to explore Santee? Check out the best things to do in Santee, SC
Things to Do in Santee, SC
1. The Lake Marion
Lake Marion
Lake Marion is located in Santee State Park. It is renowned as the biggest South Carolina freshwater lake. It is one of the best places to visit in Santee, SC.
You can stop by the Lake with your family and friends and enjoy its gorgeous views as you have a lovely picnic.
It is also famous for its assortment of big fish and wildlife. It is easily accessible by the public from the Santee National Wildlife Refuge, the Santee State Park, and numerous public boat ramps.
Lake Marion is an excellent place for anglers and bird watchers; you can also take a hike in the Lake’s surroundings.
Address: 401 Bass Dr, Santee, SC 29142, United States
2. The Santee National Golf Club
The Santee National Golf Club is one of the numerous golfing spots in Santee, which draws people from different places.
For golf players looking for a unique, challenging tee time, the Santee National Golf Club is the number one attraction for them.
This award-winning golf facility was rated as one of the best places to play golf on “Places to Play” by Golf Digest.
The Santee National Golf Club offers you a chance to experiment and master your golfing skills through its amazing rolling hills, water hazards, and thick forests.
The Golf Club shows off a unique mix of championship golf and a southern style of hospitality. The Santee National Golf Club features a modernized clubhouse and a fully packed gift shop that caters to all your golfing needs.
There is a restaurant that offers deliciously prepared meals and snacks with a variety of drinks for everyone to enjoy.
Address: 8636 Old Number Six Hwy, Santee, SC 29142, United States
3. The Santee Cajun Guide Service
The Santee Cajun Guide Service is the right choice for anyone looking for a fantastic fishing guide in Santee.
It is a certified fishing guide company that specializes in offering guided trips on the Santee Cooper Lakes and Lake Marion.
There are different kinds of trips, ranging from multi-day to full-day to half-day. The Santee Cajun Guide Service provides guests with professional instructors who are available to show them the good fishing points in Santee Lake.
The Santee Cajun Guide Service also provides visitors with the best tools and equipment to prepare them for a fantastic fishing time.
The company was established by Mouse, who had her first clients in 1998 as one of the first female fishing guides in the region.
The perfect time to enjoy these trips with the Santee Cajun Guide Service is during the fall and spring seasons.
Address: Santee, SC 29142, United States
4. The Santee Welcome Center
Santee Welcome Center
The Center is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. It is an excellent place to learn more about the city’s history.
It offers numerous free services, including brochures, maps, and information about several local attractions.
The Santee Welcome Center offers free Wi-Fi, traffic & weather information, and accommodation details throughout South Carolina.
The Center got you covered if you also want details about the state’s beautiful parks, theater & lodging reservations, and golf courses.
Address: 160 Southwest Ln, Santee, SC 29142, United States
5. Lone Star BBQ Tavern and Grille
Lone Star BBQ Tavern and Grille
Lone Star BBQ Tavern and Grille is found in four different old country stores built in the 1800s, also known as “plantation commissaries.”
Each building is packed with antiques and other unique collectibles; many were in ancient buildings before they were transferred to their present location.
The restaurant features a large gift shop stocked with old candy, soft drinks, and more.
Lone Star BBQ Tavern and Grille makes their chopped BBQ pork overnight using hickory in a Cookshack cooker with hickory chips.
They serve Barbecue Hash, Barbecue Hash, Cheese, and Tomato Pie, Fried Chicken with Sweet Potatoes, Apple Peach or Blackberry Cobbler, Fried Chicken with Black Eye Peas and Baked, Baked Chicken with Lima Beans and Baked Beans, and more.
Address: 2212 State Park Rd, Santee, SC 29142, United States
6. The Santee State Park
Santee State Park
Hiking in Santee State Park is one of the best things to do in Santee, SC. The Park is a place that brings you closer to nature.
The Santee State Park is the most visited place by outdoor enthusiasts, especially nature lovers from different faces of life.
The Park was founded in 1949, encompassing 2,500 acres. It is located on Lake Marion’s south shore.
The State Park consists of hiking trails of more than 11 miles which go through scenic fields, wetlands, and forests.
The Santee State Park is undisputedly the best place to go hiking, offering different trails to hike in a gorgeous environment.
Address: 251 State Park Rd, Santee, SC 29142, United States
7. Holiday Inn Santee
Holiday Inn Santee
Holiday Inn Santee is a modern hotel located approximately 0.8 miles and 1.7 miles from Lake Marion Golf Course and Santee State Park
Holiday Inn Santee is a great choice if you need a secure and peaceful place to stay during your vacation in Santee.
Every room is equipped with large flatscreen TVs with cables, desks, coffeemakers, microwaves, mini-fridges, and soft sofas.
Holiday Inn Santee provides a comfortable environment and excellent rooms with nice beds and gorgeous walls.
The resort offers free Wi-Fi throughout the property with a free large parking area and complimentary breakfast.
The suites feature additional living rooms and pull-out jacuzzis, while the property features an indoor pool, fitness centers, and a meeting room.
Address: 139 Bradford Blvd, Santee, SC 29142, United States
8. The Santee Recreation and Water Park
The Santee Recreation And Water Park is an outstanding location for children and adults in the city of Santee.
Everyone is definitely going to have an awesome experience through the numerous collection of amenities at the Park.
It is a water amusement Park that comprises a kids’ pool and a lazy river where visitors can relax and float lazily on water.
The Santee Recreation and Water Park feature a splash pad which is the center of attraction for children as they play around and have fun.
You will find two gigantic slides and cabanas available for rental for those who would love to relax after all the fun.
There is a concession stand that offers delicious foods and drinks, plus a small space for private group parties.
The Santee Recreation and Water Park is open on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 11 am to 7 pm and Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm.
Address; 1761 Bass Dr, Santee, SC 29142, United States
Also, check out the best of attractions and activities in Conway, and Surfside Beach for a fun vacation in South Carolina.
9. The Fisheagle Nature Adventures
The Fisheagle Nature Adventures is a great choice if you want to learn a lot about the wildlife and ecosystem in Santee.
This company specializes in wildlife eco-tours offering guided boat tours throughout Lake Moultrie, the Cooper River, the Pinopolis Lock Lake Marion, and the Tailrace Canal.
There are professional naturalists and tour guides who know their stuff, and they are available during tours to offer detailed descriptions of the region and its history.
The Fisheagle Nature Adventures showcases all the perfect spots to explore and have terrific fun experiences.
They also offer rentals for water sports equipment such as fishing boats, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
Address: 277 State Park Rd, Santee, SC 29142, United States
10. Smith’s Super Store
Smith’s Super Store
A place that offers unique items perfect as gifts for yourself or loved ones, Smith’s Super Store is one of the best stores in Santee.
You can never go wrong at Smith’s Super Store, which is why the store is usually filled with locals and visitors.
Smith’s Super Store offers a wide variety of local snacks, souvenirs, and other special items which are available for purchase.
You can also purchase different designs of hats and t-shirts, including postcards, trinkets, keychains, and more.
Make sure you try some of their delicious homemade fudge with over seventy flavors, fireworks, gourmet gifts, and more. Smith’s Super Store offers you items you can’t get elsewhere for affordable prices.
Address: 9039 Old Number Six Hwy, Santee, SC 29142, United States
11. The Fisheagle Wildlife Tours
Are you wondering what to do in Santee, SC? Whenever you feel like going on a wonderful expedition, book a tour at the Fisheagle Wildlife Tours.
The Fisheagle Wildlife Tours is certainly one of the premier locations in Santee for those who want to explore wildlife and nature.
Suppose you want a close-up view of the plethora of wildlife in the town. The Fisheagle Wildlife Tours will take you on a remarkable journey.
You will find bald eagles, alligators, birds, osprey, turtles, herons, and many other animals in their various natural habitats.
The Fisheagle Wildlife Tours takes you through wildlife sanctuaries, flooded forests, and other essential points.
If you want to go on the Fisheagle Wildlife Tours, the summer months are the best periods to do so.
Address: 277 State Park Rd, Santee, SC 29142, United States
12. Santee Seafood Bistro
Santee Seafood Bistro
Are you famished? And looking for a place to enjoy some delicious seafood? One of the top things to do in Santee, SC, is to visit Santee Seafood Bistro.
Santee Seafood Bistro is the best when it comes to seafood; they serve meals with a unique blend of flavors and spices.
The restaurant is perfect for relaxing and enjoying meals with your family and friends, including kids.
The meals offered are made on site from scratch using the best and most healthy ingredients purchased from local farmers.
Santee Seafood Bistro offers fried prawns, fried catfish, fried seafood, waffles, Fried Green Tomatoes, Fried Shrimp, Shrimp N Grits, Snow Crab Legs, Seared Seafood Platter, Seafood Bristol’s Tin Tub, calamari, etc.
According to the customers’ requests, the staff offers delicious tea and peach cobbler, including a variety of beers such as riesling, merlot, red, corona extra, and more.
Address: 648 Bass Dr, Santee, SC 29142, United States
13. The Lake Marion Golf Course
Are you ready to have fun? Then, add a visit to the Lake Marion Golf Course to your checklist of fun things to do in Santee, SC. The Lake Marion Golf Course is located in the middle of the town as an 18-hole golf course that offers players an amazing golf time.
The Lake Marion Golf Course, founded in 1978, was designed by Eddie Riccoboni. It is a venue for a series of tournaments held throughout the year.
The Golf Course is characterized by fairways lined with pine trees, forty-seven sand bunkers, and bordering lakes.
The Lake Marion Golf Course is a cherished location for many golf players, from beginners to experts.
The Golf Course consists of golf carts, a driving range, a cozy clubhouse, and the biggest golf pro shop in the area. Almost every corner is filled with lots of golfing equipment, apparel, and more.
Address: 9069 SC-6, Santee, SC 29142, United States
14. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
If you want a simple but classy restaurant where you can have some bonding time with your loved ones, check out Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Santee.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is a popular chain known for serving the most flavorful and delicious American fares.
The restaurant also features a general store which is open to everyone. So you can stop by after enjoying a meal with your loved ones.
Make sure you try out Chicken Pot Pie, Biscuits and Cornbread, Chicken Tenders Macaroni and Cheese, Grilled Blackened Catfish with Fried Okra Mashed, Country Vegetable Plate, Steak Fries, Grilled Sirloin Steak, and more.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store offers unsweetened tea, black cherry, Stewart’s blood sodas, freshly brewed tea, crafted coffee, and more.
Address: 250 Britain St, Santee, SC 29142, United States
15. The Fairfield Inn & Suites Santee
If you’re still confused about where to reside in the city, book a room at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Santee.
The Fairfield Inn & Suites Santee features various fundamental amenities, including a fitness center and an outdoor pool.
You’re offered a selection of nicely decorated rooms with different themes to choose from according to your preferences.
They offer guest rooms that are fully equipped with a mini fridge, microwave, comfortable chairs & seats, relaxing patio, soft beds, and more.
The Fairfield Inn & Suites Santee features a meeting space where meetings and corporate events can be held.
Guests are also offered complimentary breakfast meals, including oatmeal, sausage, scrambled eggs, waffles, and more.
Address: 9074 Old Number Six Hwy, Santee, SC 29142, United States
Also, check out our list of things to do in Bluffton, things to do in Murrells Inlet and things to do in Pawleys Island for a fun time in these cities of South Carolina.
16. The Lake Marion Watersports Complex
For the fans of water-related activities, add a visit to the Lake Marion Watersports Complex to your list of fun things to do in Santee, SC.
The Lake Marion Watersports Complex offers a wide variety of watersports, making it a favorite destination for water sports lovers.
You can engage in water skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding; you’re sure to have great fun.
An onsite shop offers a wide variety of equipment for your desired watersport, either for rentals or purchases.
The Lake Marion Watersports Complex is a fantastic place to visit during the summer season, as a great place to cool off on a hot day.
Address: 510 Ragtime Trail, Santee, SC 29142, United States
17. Gabi’s Attic Antiques & Uniques
If you don’t know what to do in Santee, SC, ensure to buy some antiques to serve as memorabilia for your vacation in Santee.
Gabi’s Attic Antiques & Uniques is a one-of-a-kind antique store that is concerned with offering customers nothing but the best.
Gabi’s Attic Antiques & Uniques offers rare vintage items and an extensive collection of other items, from pottery and furniture to paintings.
You can choose from the variety of items displayed on the booths, such as jewelry, vintage toys, China, furniture, and crafts.
The store offers the best china, concrete, gift items, Avon, collectible houses of Sheila, and more. Gabi’s Attic Antiques & Uniques is always open to everyone, with friendly staff ready to attend to everybody.
Address: 9035 Old Number Six Hwy, Santee, SC 29142, United States
18. The Santee Cooper Country Club
One of the most beautiful places to play golf in Santee is the Santee Cooper Country Club, an incredible place for golfers.
The Santee Cooper Country Club is an 18-hole golf course that guarantees both amateurs and professionals an incredible time.
It was originally opened in 1967, encompassed by beautiful native foliage and pines with a well-cared-for George Cobb layout that challenges every shot.
The golf course features nice dogleg holes, challenging Par 3, and well-placed bunkers. You will also enjoy the beautifully designed Par 5 and its varying elevation.
The Santee Cooper Country Club features a well-liked driving range and a large golf pro shop with an enormous collection of apparel and equipment.
There are PGA professionals available to offer guidance and tutorials; you can visit the highly comfortable and elegant clubhouse.
Address: 630 Santee Dr, Santee, SC 29142, United States
19. Captain’s Quarters Seafood and Steak
Captain’s Quarters Seafood and Steak, a one-of-a-kind restaurant in the city, offers visitors family-like vibes and atmosphere.
Every guest at Captain’s Quarters Seafood and Steak is treated as family rather than strangers the moment they walk in.
Captain’s Quarters Seafood and Steak offers beautifully decorated interiors with unique designs and comfortable seats.
There are different options for you to pick from, starting from vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
They are known for their perfectly browned prime rib roast, ribs, and stuffed crab; you must try them out whenever you visit.
Captain’s Quarters Seafood and Steak serve sumptuous meals like Shrimp and Grits, Baked Potato, popcorn shrimp, clam chowder, Prime Rib, and Shrimp Combo, Fried Flounder, Crab Stuffed Grouper with Shrimp and Fried Calamari.
The restaurant also offers a wide variety of drinks to blend with the delicious meal, including malbec, liqueur, or Margaritas.
Address: 9053 Old Number Six Hwy, Santee, SC 29142, United States
20. Armando’s Mexican Restaurant
Armando’s Mexican Restaurant
Are you a fan of Mexican cuisine? If yes, visit Armando’s Mexican Restaurant to enjoy delicious Mexican food.
Armando’s Mexican Restaurant is the right spot for those who want to hum and smile while you dine and wine.
They serve high-quality meals prepared using authentic recipes and the freshest locally sourced ingredients.
The restaurant guarantees customers an amazing service that cannot be matched with other regional restaurants.
Some of the meals served include Texas Fajitas, California Burritos, Molcajete, Beef Chicken and Shrimp Fajitas, Chicken Bowl, Chicken Fajitas, Quesadilla Ranchera, Chips and Salsa, and more.
Armando’s Mexican Restaurant staff provides a relaxed and comfortable environment for visitors to get satisfaction for their money.
Address: 9134 Old, SC-6, Santee, SC 29142, United States
21. The Oasis Bar & Grill
The Oasis Bar & Grill is one of the best places to visit in Santee, SC, especially when you want to relax and chill after a long and stressful day.
The Oasis Bar & Grill provides delicious meals and drinks you cannot get elsewhere. As a local bar and grill, the Oasis Bar & Grill provides an energetic and vibrant atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
The Bar offers various chilled beers and liquor of different brands, with numerous TVs showing recent sports activities.
The Oasis Bar & Grill offers meals like grilled steaks, salads, burgers, beef, Sandwiches, and more.
Visitors are also offered amazing live entertainment, which they get to enjoy while they dine and drink.
Address: 8101 Old Highway 6, Santee, SC 29142, United States
22. The Rotonda
The Rotonda
The Rotonda has one of the best banquet facilities in the area. It is a family-owned and operated catering and banquet facility which offers visitors the most incredible dining experience.
They take pride in serving their guests mouthwatering dishes in a relaxed environment with an enormous show of southern hospitality.
The Rotonda offers catering services for private reunions and large events; it doesn’t matter the size of the gathering.
They have private rooms that can comfortably contain about thirty to forty persons and large spaces that accommodate up to two hundred twenty-five guests.
You can use their transportation, photography, linen, and floral services for an indoor, casual, picnic, and formal gatherings.
Address: 1550 Bass Dr, Santee, SC 29142, United States
23. Thai House 2 Restaurant
Thai House 2 Restaurant
Thai House 2 Restaurant is known for serving the most delicious and authentic meals; they have been doing this for more than 15 years.
They believe they have the duty of showcasing the original Thai tradition by providing a highly hospitable environment.
The food menu features lots of delicious meals which are based on the availability of local ingredients or seasons.
Some meals offered include curry chicken, vegetable chicken, spring rolls, drunken noodles, Hawaiian fried rice, seafood combo fried rice, spicy crab roll, avocado roll, and more.
Address: 9086 Old Number Six Hwy, Santee, SC 29142, United States
Check out other cities in South Carolina, here is a list of things to do in Spartanburg, things to do in Florence and fun things to do Sumter in for a fun time
Plan Your Trip to Santee
Santee is a vibrant city in South Carolina, it offers an eclectic mix of attractions for the entire family, including adults and children.
There are numerous things in store for everyone, majorly adventures and outdoor fun.
Whether traveling alone or with your family and friends, you will undoubtedly enjoy your visit to Santee.
Have a fun trip!