WHERE TO STAY IN CHARLESTON SC

On the map, which shows the best area to stay in Charleston SC, you can see a selection of some of the best located hotels.

If you were interested in finding out where to stay in Charleston SC, you may also be interested in knowing where to stay in Myrtle Beach and where to stay in Hilton Head.

The Historical District, the best area to stay in Charleston

The Historical District is the ideal neighborhood in which to stay while touring Charleston. This area is comprised of wonderfully preserved historic landmarks, monuments, and homes. Set on a peninsula, the Historical District neighborhood is incredibly walk-able. In fact, walking around the area, taking in the beautiful 18th and 19th century architecture is a unique historic and cultural experience in-of-itself.

East Battery Street holds some of the most impressive, colonial mansions, while Rainbow Row features a strip of cheerfully painted homes. Stroll along King Street for high-end designer shops and boutiques, restaurants and bars of worldly fare, and trendy art galleries. The Historical District also houses the Charleston City Market. This open-air market historically served as a space for farmers to sell their produce and other goods beginning in 1840. Today you can purchase crafts, souvenirs, and sample some South Carolina Barbecue and other southern delicacies. For a relaxing afternoon, spend some time in the picturesque Waterfront Park. Pop in to the Charleston Museum, Old Slave Mart Museum, or Gibbes Museum of Art for an educational affair. The Historical District of South Carolina has everything you need in terms of sights, shopping, arts, and food.

Hotels in Historic District

Other areas to stay in Charleston

Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is a more residential place to stay in Charleston, making it calm and quiet, yet scenic. It is the largest suburb of Charleston featuring colonial architecture similar to that found in the Historical District, on an equally charming, yet less grand scale. The expansive Shem Creek Park offers tranquility, with boardwalks, hiking trails, and wetland landscapes.

This neighborhood houses several museums and monuments related to the United States Military and militant past, including Patriots Point, the Vietnam Experience Exhibit, and Cold War submarine memorial. Mount Pleasant offers many colorful diners and restaurants with both local and international cuisine. For beach-goers, Sullivan's Island and the Isle of Palms are only a short 10-15 minute drive from the center of Mount Pleasant.

Hotels in Mount Pleasant

West Ashley

West Ashley is another residential suburb of Charleston, set on the banks of the Ashley and Stono Rivers, featuring waterfront landscapes. Magnolia Plantation should not be missed for it’s fragrant and colorful botanical gardens. West Ashley gives convenient access to the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, which preserves the area of the first lasting English settlement in South Carolina.

Both Mount Pleasant and West Ashley maintain adequate transportation options into Downtown Charleston, by car and public transportation. Stay in these areas to escape the hustle of the city center, while still enjoying the colonial and colorful charms of Charleston.

Hotels in West Ashley

North Charleston

Just 6 miles from Charleston, North Charleston is the 9th largest city in South Carolina. North Charleston is a great area to stay just 4 miles from Charleston International Airport and it is one of the States most important industrial centers. Accommodation is widely available for visitors, some of whom comes specifically for shopping. The coast and fine beaches are relatively close by so seafood is an excellent choice in the City’s restaurants.

Immediate attractions include the H.L. Hunley Museum whose main exhibit is the Civil War-era submarine and the North Charleston and American LaFrance Fire Museum and Educational Center. The Convention Center includes the Performing Arts Center and the North Charleston Coliseum, a major attraction for visitors.

Hotels in North Charleston

Staying at Charleston area beaches

Kiawah Island

Situated just 25-miles from Downtown Charleston lies Kiawah Island boasting award-winning golf courses and 10 miles of pristine sandy beaches. You will find a few options to stay at Kiawah Island and most of them are homely cottages, stylish villas and inns where the entire family can stay and unwind for the weekend.

There are some lovely cafes and restaurants in the area to suit everyone’s needs - from cafes like Java Java to restaurants like Ryder Cup Bar. You might also spot some wildlife such as a dolphin in the Kiawah River or an alligator across a golf course. You might be disappointed in terms of nightlife as there are no clubs here in the city.

Hotels in Kiawah Island

Folly Beach

Also referred to by the locals as “Edge of America”, Folly Beach is 11.6 miles away from Charleston. Explore the expansive beaches, painted sunsets and great food. This family vacation paradise has a lot to offer and makes for a fantastic place to stay. Six miles of beach offers something for each family member from surfing to productive shark tooth hunting. Load up on fried shrimp and Jimmy Buffett vibes at The Crab Shack for a hearty meal.

There are many rental homes ranging from mother-in-law suites to whole-house rentals. If you want to go to a hotel, Tides is a great place to stay.

Hotels in Folly Beach

Isle of Palms

Located just 12 miles away from the historic Charleston, Isle of Palms offers endless opportunities to stay and have a good time. The city has a beautiful beach, championship golf & tennis, a marina and much more to keep you occupied during your stay. Visit the Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant which offers fishing, scenic walking paths, a playground for kids. One of the most fun ways to explore the Atlantic is to rent a boat! If you are lucky, you can also spot dolphins.

There are some sprawling rental homes at Isle of Palms which you can choose from which also have easy access to the water.

Hotels in Isle of Palms

Seabrook Island

Located just thirty minutes away from Charleston is this private seafront community which can make for a great romantic escapade and stay away from the hustle and bustle of Charleston. There are two championship golf courses, a tournament-grade tennis center and a full-service equestrian center. You can also unwind on the sandy beaches stretching three miles.

For those looking for a place to stay at Seabrook Island, there are many vacation rentals and island houses that you can choose from. Of course, don’t forget to dine at some of the amazing restaurants this city has to offer like the Salty Dog Bohicket.

Hotels in Seabrook Island