Region Rundown: PeeDee
Explore the Pee Dee region of South Carolina, where the richness of agricultural heritage and the vibrancy of coastal life converge. Named after the Pee Dee River and the Native American inhabitants, the region has long been an agricultural hub and hotspot. Nowadays, the region has diversified far beyond just crops! On the coasts you'll find serene beaches and adrenaline filled amusement parks, head inland and you'll encounter gorgeous fields and thick forestry. Pee Dee is a place that has it all.
Rich in history, agricultural, and natural wonders, the Pee Dee Region of South Carolina is a gem known for its laid-back way of life. Don’t get it wrong, though, this region is at the forefront of industrial presence!
The PeeDee region of South Carolina includes: Chesterfield, Clarendon, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Lee, Marion, Marlboro, Sumter, and Williamsburg Counties.
Pee Dee Farmer's Market
Agricultural history runs deep here, the South Carolina Cotton Museum in Bishopville and the South Carolina Tobacco Museum near Mullins both give a good glimpse into it. Nowadays, there's some big food names around these parts. Companies like McCall Farms and Ruiz Food Products (you might know them as El Monterey) have both farms and factories in the Pee Dee area. The Pee Dee State Farmer’s Market showcases the region’s produce for those looking to shop local.
The favorable climate is good for more than just crops, it makes this region a great place for birdwatching at Lee State Park or kayaking on the coastal plain. This regions has plenty of parks, gardens, and marketplaces for you to explore.
William Byran At Darlington in 2023 (photo credit - Darlington Raceway)
We told you this region is fast paced! At the heart of the Pee Dee is the Darlington Raceway, home to the iconic Southern 500, and NASCAR’s oldest superspeedway. While you probably won't see them on the "The Track Too Tough to Tame", Honda of South Carolina is also in the area. Their Timmonsville manufacturing plant is one of thirteen in the country.
Darlington County is also home and Headquarters for Sonoco Products Company, which has been in business since 1889! This packaging company is one of the world's largest, they've produced everything from heavy duty industrial materials to yogurt containers. Aside from food production and manufacturing, other major industries in Pee Dee include healthcare and social assistance.
A Portion Of The Grand Strand
The Grand Strand stretches 14 miles across the coast of South Carolina, but many would argue that Myrtle Beach is the well-known icon of the Pee Dee region. Home to one of the country's tallest ferris wheels, the Myrtle Beach Skywheel, this city is recognizable by it's boardwalk, skyline, and lush resorts. An estimated 20 million people visit the 60 miles of sandy shores of the Grand Strand every year. Understandably, the city is built on tourism and hospitality, a boost for the Pee Dee area! Golf is just as important as the beaches. There are about 100 golf courses in the area, all lined with restaurants, hotels, and activities.
Sea Grant Consortium (photo credit - scseagrant)
The city of Conway is home to Coastal Carolina University, the best place for an education if you are looking to study the nearby marshes! The university is part of the National Sea Grant Program, which researches coastal conservation. The school does research on the many barrier islands in Pee Dee, such as Waties Island.
Major Institutions of Higher Education:
- Coastal Carolina University
- Coker University
- Florence-Darlington Technical College
- Horry-Georgetown Technical College
- Webster University
- Williamsburg Technical College
The Pee Dee region of South Carolina continues to captivate both residents and visitors alike. Whether you're exploring its historic landmarks, enjoying its cultural attractions, or immersing yourself in its outdoor wonders, the Pee Dee offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Palmetto State.
