Cheap flights from Los Angeles to Charleston from £94

Fort Sumter is a national monument because it was the place where the first shot of the Civil War was fired in 1861. You can catch a ferry to the fort, which stands on an island in Charleston Harbour. During the crossing, there are often dolphins swimming alongside. As well as the fort, there is a museum to visit and also the caves where the old canons are still housed. Self-guided tours are available.

Discover the history of Boone Hall Plantation that was built in 1681 by an Englishman. You are welcomed by a guide dressed in period costume. There is a tour by tram and performance in the Gullah Theatre by a performer in historical costume. The plantation gardens are beautifully maintained.

An evening river boat cruise with dinner on board is something very different and very memorable. Dinner will be a three or four-course meal of some of the area’s best dishes, and afterwards, it is fun to spend time on the observation deck, taking in all the sights and enjoying a romantic sunset.