I’m so excited to share my local’s guide to Charleston today! Being born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina I am a bit biased when I say Charleston is the best place to visit. But hey, I’m not the only one. The readers of Conde Nast, Travel + Leisure, and Southern Living have all named us a number one city in America (and the world) for the past 10 years in a row. Whether you are here for the beaches, history, or to eat your way through, you’ll find what you are looking for in Charleston.
I live in downtown Charleston, work in the local hospitality industry, and spend AMPLE time eating out and enjoying the city. I truly love and take advantage of where I live so this background definitely qualifies me to tell you what is actually the best to see and do. Here is my local’s guide to all the latest and greatest (and historic) in the one and only, Charleston!
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Getting to Charleston
Charleston International Airport has been voted a top airport. The airport itself is small, but super nice, clean, and airy. There are great local food outlets like Caviar and Bananas for coffee or sandwiches and salads at lunch time. Our airport is small but mighty – CHS operates 61 direct flights to 40+ destinations with more constantly being added. Getting here is a breeze.
The city is also easily accessible via US17, I26 and I95 if you are driving. We are about two hours from Myrtle Beach, 3 hours from Jacksonville, and 3 hours from Charlotte.
Local’s Guide to Charleston: Where to Stay
There are so many hotel choices when it comes to Charleston from large luxury properties to small boutique hotels and historic inns. The city is exploding with options! While there are many beautiful properties, here is where I would personally choose to stay in my own hometown.
The Dewberry
Here in Charleston, buildings can not be any taller than the church steeples (we’re the holy city, after all). The Dewberry is one of the tallest at eight stories high with one of the best rooftop views in the city. It is styled in mid-century decor with a charming, modern edge to it. They even have their own floral print which you’ll find on the armoire in the rooms (I am obsessed with it). And speaking of the rooms, you’ll love the massive bathrooms with soaking tubs and marble everywhere.
The Living Room is one of my favorite cozy places for a cocktail or head upstairs to the Citrus Club for an incredible view over the city.
And no trip is complete without a visit to their intimate spa. The Dewberry has created their own heavenly scent which you’ll smell throughout from the soap, shampoo, to candles.
Zero George
Zero George is the most charming bed and breakfast style property. It is comprised of only 16 luxury suites throughout their several renovated historic buildings. It feels like you are staying at your Charleston friend’s house with the sweeping piazzas (porches) and twinkling gas burning lanterns.
The Restoration
The Restoration is perfect if you are traveling with family or for a girls weekend. The apartment style rooms feature high ceilings, multiple bed and baths, and full kitchen. These aren’t your typical hotel suites – think a true Charleston residence with heart pine floors and exposed brick throughout. Venture upstairs to their rooftop that features 360 degree views of Charleston and an extensive menu for lunch, happy hour, or dinner. Our family stayed here during our wedding weekend and returns here often.
Check out more of my favorites in this post:
Local’s Guide to Charleston: What to See & Do
Charleston was founded in 1670 – that’s 350+ years ago – and is beaming with historical sites. Take a stroll along the historic battery, admire the architecture, stand on the sites of the civil war, or taste the authentic lowcountry cuisine based on old world ingredients. There’s so much to see and do in Charleston, you’ll want to plan a second trip! As a Charleston native, here are some of my favorite things to do.
Shopping
Stroll down King Street and window shop or pop into some local favorites. Don’t miss a stop at Lake Pajamas, Croghan’s Jewel Box, Dumas, Candlefish, and more!
Venture over to the old city market to shop for authentic sweet grass baskets and find things from local artisans. Be sure to check out the Charleston themed jewelry at Gold Creations.
Visit a vintage market for local makers or look up my friends at AL&EM to see where they are popping up next so you can go home with permanent jewelry.
Stroll through the gardens at Middleton Place
There are many historic homes and gardens in Charleston, but I love Middleton Place for it’s manicured, English style gardens. It’s like strolling through Downton Abbey. More than that, you can learn how the family lived and enlighten yourself on slavery and those who worked to make the plantation prosper. The property is still owned by the Middleton descendants and includes their personal family heirlooms.
Catch sunrise or sunset at the Battery
I absolutely love watching the sun go up and down. There’s no better place than seeing the sunset or sunrise than over the water. If you are downtown, swing by the battery and take in the breathtaking lowcountry scenery.
Visit a local Charleston Beach
A can’t miss in my local’s guide to Charleston! You’re at the beach so you HAVE to pick one to spend a day. I lived on Folly growing up and love it for its laid back, eccentric, surfer vibe. There are some great restaurants like Taco Boy, Snapper Jack’s, and Rita’s to name a few.
Sullivan’s is my current go-to for the residential nature and long stretch of beach. I also love popping into Mex1 for tacos and margaritas after a beach day. If you are looking for something more resort-y and family friendly, Isle of Palms or Kiawah Island is the winner.
Step back in time at the Nathaniel Russell House
The Nathaniel Russell house is my favorite house museum. Maybe it’s because I grew up across the street from it attending school. But mostly, I love the cantilevered staircase and hearing how the family lived their lives in the old Charleston days. Fun Fact: My husband and I did our wedding “first look” in the NRH garden.
Look for Dolphins
No matter how many hundreds of times I have seen dolphins, it never gets any less magical. Shem creek in Mount Pleasant is the best place to spot dolphins. There are many restaurants and bars to enjoy, just take my word for it and don’t get in the water there.
Sunday Farmer’s Market at Marion Square
If you are here on a Sunday, be sure to check out the farmer’s market. Grab a coffee and shop for local products and produce! And check out Second Sunday on King Street if you are here on the second Sunday of the month.
Get on the Water
Charleston is stunning by land, but even more beautiful by sea. Get on the water whether your friends have a boat, kayaking, or a sunset cruise aboard the Schooner Pride.
Take a Stroll
Take a stroll past Rainbow Row and down Tradd Street to admire the charming architecture, then make your way to the historic battery. Book a walking tour with Bulldog Tours if you want to hear about the past. Or smell the roses at Hampton Park. Walking is the best way to get to see all of the charms of Charleston!
Check out all of my favorite things to see and do in Charleston in this post:
Local’s Guide to Charleston: Where to Eat
Let me start by saying that nowhere in Charleston is locals only or “non-touristy”. Some places and areas are more touristy than others (East Bay Street), but there’s pretty much nowhere that visitors have not discovered. And that’s a good thing – we have amazing restaurants thanks to the renowned chefs. Charleston boasts the most award winning chefs with numerous James Beard Award nominees and winners. Our chefs reinvented traditional lowcountry cuisine and added their own personalities to that. Here are places that I love to visit regularly.
Chubby Fish
For a seafood centric, coastal town, Chubby Fish is one the best places for fresh, sustainable seafood in Charleston. Tucked into the Elliotborough neighborhood, you’ll love the local vibe and nautical flare. The menu changes daily, but some of my favorite staples are bibb lettuce, chili garlic shrimp, curry, and crudo or ceviche! Plan to get there at least by 5pm to put your name down if you want to eat before 9pm. Head over to Elliotborough Mini Bar for a cocktail while you wait.
Edmund’s Oast
Edmund’s Oast is one of my absolute favorites for lunch or dinner. I love sitting outside in the inviting courtyard for lunch or grabbing a spot at the inside bar for dinner or dessert. The dessert menu is often longer than the food menu. Disclaimer: I had my wedding reception here and love everyone on the EO team so much!
Chez Nous
Chez Nous means Our House in French and is hands down the most romantic restaurant in Charleston. It’s set in a tiny Charleston single style home that has been renovated into a restaurant. The menu changes daily, but there are always two apps, two entrees, and two desserts.
Park and Grove
The best brunch spot recently turned to a focus on dinner. Either one you choose, you won’t be disappointed at Park and Grove.
Basic Kitchen
If you are vegan, Basic Kitchen is the best place to cater to that. The basic bowl is so good and the cauliflower “wings” are amazing! Be sure to try the beet margarita too.
The Ordinary
One of my top 5 faves in Charleston. The Ordinary is phenomenal, nothing ordinary about it! You have to get the oyster sliders and try a mix of small and large plates. If zucchini carpaccio is on the menu, it’s a must try.
The Obstinate Daughter
Located on Sullivan’s Island, Obstinate Daughter is another all time favorite for pasta. It is consistently good and I really love the atmosphere. Try the geechie frites – basically fried grits! And pop downstairs for ice cream sandwiches at Beardcat’s.
Xiao Bao Biscuit
If you are looking for a little asian fusion, Xiao Bao Biscuit is my favorite for their okonomiyaki.
Leon’s Oyster Shop
You’ve likely heard of Leon’s already and it is truly so good. It’s very casual, set inside a former car repair shop with the best food. My order: fried oyster sandwich (ask for it on a bun – how it was served originally) with cucumber salad, siam salad, raw oysters, hush puppies with honey butter, and soft serve ice cream.
167 Raw and 167 Sushi Bar
You have also probably heard of 167 Raw. And it is so good, but you need to get there before 6pm to get on the list. I love the tuna burger and ceviche! Their sister restaurant, 167 Sushi, does take reservations and is the best sushi experience I have ever had.
Jackrabbit Filly
Located in North Charleston near Park Circle, Jackrabbit Filly is worth the short drive. It is one of the best Chinese fusion meals in a completely unpretentious space.
Chasing Sage
Chasing Sage has become a recent favorite of ours. It is very vegetarian friendly and the food is seriously so good. The menu rotates seasonally focusing on fresh vegetables and small plates – which I love so I can sample all the things!
Charleston BBQ Options
And if you eat meat, Lewis Barbecue and Rodney Scott‘s are the best there is.
Read all about my favorite spots in these posts:
- Best Charleston Restaurants – Ultimate Guide
- Vegan and Vegetarian Friendly
- My Fave Rooftops in Charleston
- Where to Get the Best Mocktails
- Best Breakfast & Brunch in Charleston
Where to Drink in Charleston
Breweries/Day Drinking
- Palmetto Brewing – often have live music outside and great variety of drinks
- Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co – try the veggie burger or mahi sandwich with a “something cold” beer
- Revelry Brewing – great local spot with rooftop bar
- HomeTeam BBQ – home of the infamous game changer
- Tavern and Table at Shem Creek – great drinks and snacks, wonderful sunset spot
- Island Cabana Bar – dockside views of the Ravenel Bridge (my new spot!)
Best Charleston Wine Bars
- Goat Sheep Cow – get the crack cheese and thank me later
- Edmund’s Oast Exchange – often live jazz on Thursday-Saturday! And champagne fridays!
- The Tippling House – stop in here for a drink if you are having dinner at Chez Nous
- Graft – great wine and great people!
Charleston Rooftop Bars
- The Watch – 360 degree views of Charleston and great cocktails
- Citrus Club – highest rooftop in the city with spectacular views
Downtown Charleston Nightlife
- Uptown Social
- Vintage Lounge
- Frontier Lounge
- Ritual
- Trio
- Republic
- Silver Dollar
- and tons more!
Climate
Charleston is beautiful year round as there is always something in bloom! Most people tend to gravitate to Charleston in the spring and summer, but the winter is sometimes my favorite. Although I live for summer, it doesn’t typically get too cold here and it is not uncommon to have sunny and 75 degree January days!
What to Wear in Charleston SC
A locals guide to Charleston weather and navigating the climate.
What to wear in Charleston in Summer
Charleston spring weather is typically March – May and is usually very comfortable in the 70s during the day. It’s warm enough for dresses with a light coat and some days you may still need pants.
Charleston Summers are HOT and humid especially during July and August so recommend packing flowy clothing. You WILL sweat simply walking out the door in these two months.
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Sandals
- Sundresses
- Skirts and/or cute sets
- Swimsuit and cover ups
- Light jacket for spring weather
- Something trendy for dinners, but know everywhere is more casual than you think 🙂
I wrote a whole post on this topic which you can find here:
Charleston Outfit Ideas: