Looking for your next vacation destination? Charleston, South Caroline should hit the top of your list! It offers the perfect mix of city and beach vibes given it is surrounded by several smaller cities and islands. Take the family for some fun, party with other couples or make it a romantic trip for two. Whoever goes won’t be disappointed, and here’s a Charleston travel guide to get it started!
Where to Stay in Charleston
When it comes to accommodations, the options are endless! Your choice mainly depends on your preferred location, group size, price range and style. As far as location goes, you need to decide between seaside or city. If you are traveling with a group, a cottage, beach resort or rental may be the best bet. If you want to soak in the architectural charm of Charleston, a historic inn or bed & breakfast would be a great option. Now if you are more of the swanky type, definitely consider a hotel in the city. Just be aware that downtown Charleston accommodations can get pretty pricey, so if price is a factor something outside of the city may fit the bill better.
During our stay we opted for the beach resort feel at the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina. It’s location was prime being only 15 minutes from downtown Charleston via water taxi. Such a fun way to get out on the water and see the views at an affordable price – $12 for a day pass per person or $8 one way per person. Some of the the amenities included a private beach, pools, bars, restaurants, bikes and spa. Our room had a wrap around balcony on the harbor side with beautiful views. The beach club part of the hotel appeared newly renovated with fabulous views as well.
We definitely recommend the resort; however, we personally found out quickly that we really loved downtown Charleston so spent a lot of time taking the water taxi or Ubers into the city so think next time we would opt to stay downtown, especially somewhere that offered a pool. One hotel we fell in love with and would like to try is The Ryder Hotel. A boutique hotel with a bohemian vibe, great location and the cutest pool/bar area!
Explore tons of accommodation options via charleston.com
What to Do in Charleston
Now that you have where to stay in place, you will have to figure out what sites you want to partake in! Charleston has so many activities to choose from, making each day a different adventure if you want. When it comes to history, there are several forts, houses, buildings and places of worship to tour. Plantations, gardens and parks are another area of wonder to explore. For the sports oriented, there are loads of golf courses with beautiful scenery and views to take in during your round. If your cardio is shopping focused, there is no shortage of local boutiques and big name retailers – head to King Street to swipe your card!
All those adventures will work up an appetite and Charleston’s food scene will definitely satisfy your belly! The cuisine selection is plentiful with seafood and southern fare being on the forefront. When it comes to cocktails, the bar scene is hopping and there are some really great rooftops to check out. Overall, we always take recommendations from the locals as feel they have the best insights and honesty. A few of our favorite dinner and drink spots: 5Church, Fig, 167 Raw, Husk, Henry’s, Vendue, The Watch, Stars. Now dessert can’t be missed either and hands down, Carmella’s is the spot!
Pro Tip: Make dinner reservations far in advance or plan to eat really early or late. Also, rooftops are just as fun during the day for a midday break given less crowded.
Charleston Travel Ready!
Ready to book your Charleston trip, yet? This is just a snippet of all the city has to offer. We are already thinking about planning another trip in October to celebrate our anniversary and experience more. It’s honestly one of our dream areas to live someday, and we hope to get to explore more soon!
Travel girl,
Lindsey
