Hotels in Salem

Serenity Awaits: Discover Salem's Hidden Waterfalls and Majestic Mountains

Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Salem is a hidden gem that captivates nature lovers with its stunning landscapes. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, this quaint town offers breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. Explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Hartwell, trek to picturesque waterfalls, and wander through lush natural parks. Ideal for romantic getaways or serene escapes, Salem invites visitors to embrace its tranquil charm. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in the beauty of the mountains, Salem promises an unforgettable experience that feels worlds away from the everyday hustle. For the best hotel rates in Salem, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Salem

Some of the best places to stay in Salem are Bear Lake Reserve, Mirror Lake and Cedar Creek. Salem, South Carolina, offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Bear Lake Reserve is ideal for nature lovers, featuring hiking and water activities. Mirror Lake provides a serene setting perfect for relaxation and picnics, while Cedar Creek offers picturesque landscapes for exploration. Accommodations range from budget-friendly options to mid-range hotels, ensuring comfort for all travelers. For first-time visitors, Mirror Lake is the best choice, providing a peaceful introduction to Salem's charm. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Salem:

1. Bear Lake ReserveOpens in a new window: Bear Lake Reserve is an outdoor lover's paradise, featuring stunning natural scenery and a plethora of adventure activities. It's an ideal spot for those seeking a blend of relaxation and outdoor thrills, with nearby attractions like Western Carolina University and the beautiful Lake Glenville. For your stay, consider The Yellow House on Plott Creek RoadOpens in a new window and Brookside Mountain Mist Inn B&BOpens in a new window, both 4.0-star Bed & Breakfasts offering adventure sports like skiing, rafting, and hiking. Andon-Reid Inn B&BOpens in a new window is another great option, providing business amenities alongside adventure sports, making it perfect for both leisure and work travelers.
2. Mirror LakeOpens in a new window: Mirror Lake is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy nearby attractions like Dry Falls and the Old Edwards Club for golf enthusiasts. Half-Mile FarmOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast that caters to business travelers with its dedicated facilities. For a more luxurious experience, Lake Rabun Hotel & RestaurantOpens in a new window offers a boutique atmosphere with a full-service spa, while Highlander Mountain HouseOpens in a new window provides pet-friendly accommodations, perfect for travelers bringing their furry friends along.
3. Cedar CreekOpens in a new window: Cedar Creek is a fantastic destination for families and nature enthusiasts, featuring picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. With attractions like Lake Glenville and the Chattooga River nearby, it promises a memorable experience. Club Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Sapphire ValleyOpens in a new window is a family-friendly resort with amenities for children, while Hotel CashiersOpens in a new window provides a natural setting with pet-friendly options and adventure sports. For those seeking a cozy atmosphere, Brook Trout InnOpens in a new window is a charming lodge allowing pets, ensuring a comfortable stay in a serene environment.

Things to do in Salem for first time

A three-day visit to Salem offers an ideal escape into nature, featuring stunning lakes, majestic mountains, and lush forests. Enjoy activities like wakeboarding, canoeing, and scuba diving, or simply relax by the beach. This picturesque landscape promises adventure and tranquility for every traveler. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Salem:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Lake Keowee, where you can enjoy stunning views and perhaps engage in some water activities like kayaking or fishing. After soaking in the natural beauty, make your way to Memorial Stadium, home to Clemson University. Explore the vibrant campus atmosphere and take a moment to appreciate the local sports culture. Conclude your day with a visit to Lee Gallery, where you can admire contemporary art and exhibitions that showcase local talent and creativity.
• Day 2: Start your day at Lake Jocassee, a breathtaking reservoir known for its clear blue waters and surrounding scenic mountains. Spend some time hiking or taking a boat tour to discover hidden waterfalls. Next, head to Gorges State Park, where numerous trails and breathtaking vistas await. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of waterfalls and lush forests. Wrap up your day with a visit to Whitewater Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States, where you can take in the stunning views and snap some memorable photos.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Oconee State Park, where you can enjoy a morning hike or a peaceful picnic by the lake. The park's beautiful trails will lead you through lush landscapes teeming with wildlife. Next, explore the Oconee Station State Historic Site, where you can delve into the area's rich history and learn about the significance of the historic structures. Finally, conclude your day at Whitewater Lake, perfect for a relaxing evening stroll or simply unwinding by the water, reflecting on your adventurous journey through the scenic beauty of Salem.

5 tips to find a great Salem hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Salem is in January, June, and December, when hotel prices are more affordable. For the best experience, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the city's main attractions, which include beautiful lakes, stunning waterfalls, and picturesque natural parks. This way, you can make the most of your trip while keeping costs down and ensuring great value for your money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals to Salem, Hotels.com is a great resource. You could find discounted hotel rates by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections. Be sure to compare prices to ensure you're getting the best offer. Additionally, consider setting up email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions. This way, you'll be more likely to snag a great deal for your Salem getaway!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Salem.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. If you're looking for more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and the accessibility of the places you intend to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Salem. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

Best time to go to Salem

Salem experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.4°F (3.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.3°F (21.3°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Salem, June, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.