My husband and I were looking for a quiet getaway between Thanksgiving and the over-scheduled Christmas holidays, and we found it at Litchfield Plantation ^THC on scenic Pawleys Island, South Carolina. Located on 600 acres nestled between the Atlantic and the Waccamaw River, this peaceful spot offers a multitude of diversions from quiet beach walks to outdoor adventures to busy restaurants serving some of the best seafood on the East Coast.

As we approached the plantation's entry gate, we were greeted by dual columns of stately oaks dripping with Spanish moss that frame the main house. We checked in at the guest center, and the helpful attendant patiently explained various entertainment and sightseeing options available nearby, even highlighting three different maps to make sure we found our way.