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Top rated rentals — Salem
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Destination guide

Throw yourself into the great outdoors

It's the outdoorsy goings on around this bite-sized town that entice vacationers to this part of South Carolina, and your Salem vacation rental will put you in a prime position to enjoy them all. Nearby Nantahala National Forest and Gorges State Park, just over state lines in North Carolina, will help you get your hiking fix, while on the other side of town are holiday-friendly Lake Keowee and Lake Joocasee. Don't let the fact that they're man-made reservoirs put you off—they have pristine waters, dramatic mountain backdrops, and adrenalin-raising activities aplenty.

Things to do

Combine countryside thrills with big town chills

Hitting the trails and frolicking in the waters near your Salem vacation rental will keep you plenty busy, but should you find yourself craving some big town excitement, then the nearby town of Greenville is at your service. Tucked into the Appalachian foothills, with the Reddy River twisting through the city center, it's home to just 70,000 people, but punches way above its weight when it comes to boutiques, bars, and fancy dining. Culture fans should hightail it to the County Museum of Art, which has works by Southern artists spanning hundreds of years.

Activities

Adrenalin rush on land and in the water

Brush off your hiking boots and polish your kayaks! When you bed down in a Salem vacation rental, you won't be able to resist the call of the wild. Nantahala National Forest has 600 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as areas for off-road vehicle fun and horseback riding. Neighboring Gorges State Park is home to waterfalls, trout streams, and rainforest. At both Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee, you can sail, kayak, and water ski, and with waters so clear, you can even try your hand at scuba diving.

Weather

Fun in the South Carolina Sun

Like the rest of South Carolina, Salem has a humid subtropical climate, which means that summers are hot and muggy with regular rainstorms, while winters are short, mild, and pretty dry. Summer highs hover around 90 degrees in July and August, while average winter temperatures tend to peak in the upper 50s between December and February. As a major summer vacation destination, you'll be more likely to score yourself a bargain on your Salem vacation rental between the fall and the spring, as soon as school is back in session.

Natural features

Discover the green heart of South Carolina

Salem itself is a tiny town of around 150 people, with a quiet main drag and a few long residential streets. It's surrounded by lush countryside, hills and greenery, thanks to its position in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains. To the north are the thick forests, hills, and streams of both Nahantla State Forest and Gorges National Park, while below are clear lakes of Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee. Head further south and its gets hotter, drier, and flatter as you head towards the beaches of the Atlantic.

How to get there

How to get to and around Salem

Fly into Greenville-Spartanburg Intl. Airport (GSP), the closest airport, located 43.1 mi (69.3 km) from the city center.

What are the top vacation rentals in or near Salem?

The heart wants what the heart wants, and right now that's a vacation. Now's the time to pack your bags and head for one of these top vacation rentals in or near Salem:

  • Take advantage of amenities including a nearby hospital and a nearby waterfront at "7 Mi From Clemson, 5000 Square Ft Lake House". Situated around 15 miles from Salem, this property has 4 bedrooms and is a hit with guests.
  • Another great choice is "Spacious Lake Hartwell Home With Cozy Cabin Appeal", which is around 20 miles from Salem. Featuring 3 bedrooms, cable/satellite TV services and pet-friendly services, it has everything you need to make your stay comfortable.

For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Salem vacation rental for you.

Can I find log cabins to rent in or near Salem?

You sure can! From simple retreats to luxurious escapes and everything in between, we've got a wide range of log cabins to rent in or near Salem. If you're into adventure, you'll love these options:

  • "Awesome Lakefront Log Cabin With Covered Dock": Enjoy a week or so resting and relaxing at this fantastic cabin in the middle of nature. Once you're feeling revitalized, enjoy golf or sailing, which are some of the fun things to do in this area.
  • "Modern Log Cabin With Beautiful Views Of Lake Keowee Near Clemson": After a fun day of trying out some popular local pastimes, such as golf and mountain biking, put your feet up at this sought-after getaway.

What are the top-rated vacation rentals for weekend getaways in or near Salem?

We all deserve a break from time to time. If you're craving a couple of carefree mornings lounging around with a good book and a steaming coffee, we've got some fabulous weekend getaways in and around Salem. Check out some of our favorites:

  • Find some peace at "Luxury Townhome On Lake Keowee At Stoneledge". Located about 12 miles to the south of Salem, this cozy escape has everything you need for a relaxed stay, including high-speed internet services and towels.
  • "Awesome Lakefront Log Cabin With Covered Dock" is another fantastic option. It's located 11 miles to the south of Salem and features a firepit, outdoor furniture and more.

Can I find studio apartments for rent in and around Salem?

Absolutely! If you'd like a simple yet stylish stay, you can't go past a studio apartment. These compact properties ooze charm and are often conveniently placed in the center of town. We recommend the following options in or near Salem:

  • One of our top picks is "Lake View Cottage - Gorgeous Sunsets". Lock in a few nights at this popular abode and you'll have access to a fridge and winery tours.
  • Alternatively, use "Stumphouse Cabin Near Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park" as a base to explore the sights around you. This cozy home away from home comes with off-street parking options, cable/satellite TV services and more.

Can I find short term rentals in or near Salem?

Whether you're chasing a chic apartment or a house with room enough for the whole family, you'll find the perfect place on Vrbo. Enjoy a mini break at one of these favorite picks in or near Salem:

  • Within close reach of central Salem, "Easy Access Lake Front With Beach" welcomes short-term guests. When you're not chilling out in your comfortable digs, get out and discover all the fun stuff around you.
  • Alternatively, spend a couple of relaxing nights at "Stoneledge Luxury Lakefront Townhome". This comfy, conveniently located property will feel like your home away from home.

What are the best romantic weekend getaways in or near Salem?

Whether spent in a rustic cabin or a luxury condo, a romantic weekend getaway is a perfect way to add some zing to your relationship. Whisk your honey off for a couple of days at one of these top escapes in or near Salem:

  • Put on some relaxing tunes and chill together at "7 Mi From Clemson, 5000 Square Ft Lake House". Around 15 miles from Salem, this property has everything you need for a romantic weekend getaway, including a fireplace and a restaurant dining guide.
  • "Spacious Lake Hartwell Home With Cozy Cabin Appeal" is another popular option that's bound to impress. It's around 20 miles from Salem and comes with a fireplace and a restaurant dining guide.

What are the best large group vacation rentals in or near Salem?

Big groups mean big fun. They also mean finding someplace that'll effortlessly fit your whole gang. Check out our large group vacation rentals in or around Salem and spend time with your favorite people under the same roof:

  • Offering space, privacy and comfort, you'll get your guests' nod of approval at "Easy Access Lake Front With Beach". Up to 14 people can be accommodated at this retreat which has 6 bedrooms, a nearby waterfront and a firepit. You'll find it around 10 miles to the south of Salem.
  • Nothing is more important than spending time with loved ones, and "Pristine Views From Lakefront Home" makes it easy to do that. Located around 12 miles to the south of Salem, as many as 13 people can stay in this vacation rental which has 4 bedrooms. A fireplace and a nearby waterfront are among the various amenities you'll have at hand.

What are the best houses for rent with a pool in or near Salem?

A pool is often an all-important amenity when deciding where to spend your vacation, especially if you're getting away with the kids. Browse these houses with a pool in or near Salem and fill your days with frolicking good fun:

  • Switch to vacay mode at "7 Mi From Clemson, 5000 Square Ft Lake House", where your top priority will be lounging by the pool. Amenities including on-site watersports and a DVD player help make this getaway a guest favorite.
  • Otherwise, unpack your suitcase at "Lake House Near Clemson, Priv. Dock". As well as its inviting pool, you can also make use of a toaster and a garden.

Salem has a humid subtropical climate, with average summertime temperatures ranging between 60 ºF and 80 ºF. But there's no need to wait until summer to visit. Take a look at the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the perfect Salem vacation rental and plan your escape for whenever you like.

What are the best large family vacation rentals in or near Salem?

Whether you're getting away with a small group or you're bringing your great uncle and cousins along, family vacations mean fun. These large rentals in and around Salem have room for everyone — along with everything you need to keep them happy:

  • About 15 miles south of Salem, "7 Mi From Clemson, 5000 Square Ft Lake House" has 4 bedrooms and sleeps up to 11 guests. Amenities here include a microwave oven and a TV.
  • "Spacious Lake Hartwell Home With Cozy Cabin Appeal", around 20 miles to the south of central Salem, was made for family gatherings. As many as 10 of your relatives or friends can fit into this spacious rental which offers 3 bedrooms, a balcony, a toaster and more.

When it's time to head out and explore, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions in the area to stick on your itinerary. Yellow Branch Falls is a great place to start.

Can I find family cabin rentals in or near Salem?

Get away from it all and treat the ones you love to a different type of vacation. Stay in one of these family cabins in or near Salem and get the camping experience — but with all the creature comforts!

  • "Cabin At Beautiful Lake Jocassee" - Enjoy precious time with your nearest and dearest at this retreat, which is around 1 mile northeast of the center of Salem. A toaster and a separate dining area are among its family-friendly amenities.
  • "Between The Lakes Cabin" - Rally the troops and spend a few nights or longer at this inviting property, which is around 1 mile to the east of Salem. You'll have access to a kitchen, a garden and a good deal more.

For more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the Salem vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.