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The Latest From Carolina Traveler

Looking for some unique outdoor date ideas to make the most of your summertime? We're featuring one-of-a-kind summer date activities that are sure to raise your endorphins (and adrenaline levels!)

🏔️Outdoor date ideas for rugged maniacs: Conquer tough terrain on a Sky Valley Mountain Cat ride

☀️Outdoor date ideas for water seekers: Meander through the marsh on a Lowcountry Watersports Creek Cat

🍺Outdoor date ideas for the wild at heart: Sip craft brews with beloved animals at the Riverbanks Zoo

🐊Outdoor date ideas for park lovers: Watch out for alligators at the #4 best lake in the Carolinas

🐎 Outdoor dates ideas for those wanting to get off the grid: Embark on an Outer Banks wild horses and shelling safari

🏖️  Sign up now to become a Carolina Traveler VIP subscriber and get first dibs on family-friendly fun, outdoor date ideas, and seasonal itineraries in NC and SC. Winter, spring, summer, or fall, we're always giving away tickets and prizes to Carolina VIP subscribers and members of our Carolina Traveler Facebook group.

Kids feeding giraffes

Mark your calendars for Brew at the Zoo: August 2, 2024

Unleash Your Wild Side At Brew At The Zoo

Get ready for an adventure like no other at the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, SC, on August 2, 2024, from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM! It's the Brew at the Zoo event, and it's going to be a ripper of a night! Imagine strolling through the zoo after hours, sipping on an array of delicious craft beers from local brewers.

You’ll encounter amazing wildlife, enjoy live music, and savor scrumptious bites from top-notch food vendors. Best of all, your ticket helps support vital wildlife conservation efforts. So, gather your mates and come along for a wild night of brews, tunes, and animal encounters. This is one of the most epic outdoor date ideas you won’t want to miss—get your tickets now and join the fun!

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Creek Cats lined up on the dock at Lowcountry Watersports

Choose your Creek Cat fighter!

Meander Through The Marsh On A Creek Cat

If you’re looking for outdoor date ideas that'll get your heart racing, look no further than the Creek Cat adventure with Lowcountry Watersports in Hilton Head, SC! These nifty little watercrafts are perfect for a thrilling escapade through the stunning coastal waterways. Imagine zipping through serene creeks and marshes at 30mph, spotting dolphins, egrets, and other magnificent wildlife up close.

Whether you’re a seasoned navigator or a first-time boater, the Creek Cat is easy to handle, making it perfect for couples seeking a unique and exciting experience. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll explore hidden gems of the Lowcountry, all while enjoying the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. Book your Creek Cat adventure today and make your date one for the books!

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Riding mountain cats through the woods

Over the river and through the woods — it's easy to navigate challenging terrain on a mountain cat!

Conquer Rocky Terrain On A Mountain Cat

Get ready for the ride of your life with Mountain Cat Off Road Adventures in North Carolina’s High Country! Buckle up and feel the rush as you tackle rugged terrain and steep inclines with fully electric 4-wheel drive adventure vehicles (EAVs). These powerful machines make conquering rocky paths a breeze, giving adventurers of all skill levels an unforgettable off-road experience.

This isn’t just any tour—it’s your chance to reconnect with nature and unleash your inner thrill-seeker. Perfect for outdoor date ideas, families, or friends looking for an adrenaline-packed day out, Sky Valley Zipline Tours' 140-acre property offers miles of exciting trails to explore.

Tours last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on group size, and are open to participants aged 14 and up (maximum weight 275 pounds). EAV tours are also accessible to those with certain mobility impairments. Contact Sky Valley Zipline Tours today to customize your adventure and get ready for an epic off-road journey!

Kayaking on Lake Marion -- one of several outdoor date ideas for SC residents

Lake Marion is one of few lakes in the Carolinas where you can kayak through an old cypress swamp.

The #4 Best Lake In The Carolinas

Looking for perfect outdoor date ideas at one of the best lakes in the Carolinas? Look no further than Lake Marion! This stunning lake offers a plethora of fun activities that are perfect for couples looking to enjoy nature and adventure together.

Start your day with a relaxing boat ride across the expansive waters. Rent a pontoon or a kayak with Santee Boat Rentals and explore the scenic shoreline, spotting local wildlife like egrets, herons, and even alligators. If you’re up for more adventure, try your hand at jet skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing.

For a more laid-back experience, pack a picnic and find a secluded spot along the shore to enjoy lunch with a view (we recommend Santee State Park). In the evening, set up a cozy campfire at one of the lakeside campgrounds. Roast marshmallows, share stories, and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the water.

Lake Marion truly offers some of the best outdoor date ideas for couples looking to experience the best lakes in the Carolinas! For more epic lake adventures, check out #5-10 below — you're sure to find some epic outdoor date ideas:

OBX wild horses on Shackleford Banks

Look, the OBX wild horses are looking for shells, too!

OBX Wild Horses & Shelling Safari

Get ready for an epic adventure with the Shackleford Wild Horses and Shelling Safari in the NC Outer Banks! If you’re seeking top-tier outdoor date ideas, this is the ultimate experience. Hop on a catamaran and sail to Shackleford Banks, where wild horses roam free and pristine beaches await. Picture this: you and your date exploring untouched shores, collecting stunning shells, and spotting the majestic wild horses up close—talk about a Carolina bucket list moment!

Before you book, remember to pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be trekking through sandy terrain. The safari typically lasts around 2.5 hours, giving you ample time to soak in the sights and sounds of this incredible island.

This adventure offers the perfect blend of excitement and romance, making it an unforgettable outdoor date idea. So, what are you waiting for? Book your Shackleford Wild Horses and Shelling Safari today and embark on a wild, romantic adventure in one of the best outdoor spots in the Carolinas!

Get first dibs on free tickets, last-minute Summer Break day trips ideas, and other travel opportunities when you sign up now to become a Carolina Traveler VIP subscriber! We're regularly giving away tickets and prize packages to Carolina VIP subscribers and members of our Carolina Traveler Facebook group.

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