Take it from someone born and raised in Charleston for all of the best hotels in Charleston and which area to base. I work in the tourism industry and live in downtown Charleston so I’ve got all the best insider information on where to stay in Charleston, SC.
In this guide, I am sharing all about the best neighborhoods to stay in Charleston– why I love them, the top hotels in each, my favorite restaurants and things to do nearby. Whether you plan to visit the historic district or nearby beaches, I’m walking you through everything you need to know.
I personally spend a lot of time in each of these areas whether shopping or dining and have actually been to all of the hotels I recommend in this post.
As always, I would love to hear from you and am more than happy to answer any of your Charleston questions. It’s one of my favorite subjects! DM on instagram or send me a note! If you’d like help booking your hotel with my VIP perks send me an email with your dates and top hotel choices and I’ll reply with the best rates and perks!
Short on time? Check out my top recommendations for choosing where to stay in Charleston, SC!
📍 FRENCH QUARTER/HISTORIC DISTRICT | Walking distance to all of Charleston’s top attractions, picturesque streets and historic sites in the oldest area of Charleston. Perfect for first time visitors or those looking for where to stay in Charleston without a car.
📍 MARION SQUARE/ UPPER KING STREET | The heart of Charleston in walking distance to the best restaurants, shops and nightlife. It’s where I would stay in Charleston as a local.📍
📍CANNONBOROUGH-ELLIOTBOROUGH | Residential Charleston neighborhood with charming bed & breakfasts, local boutiques, and amazing restaurants within a short walk. A hidden gem area in Charleston for visitors who enjoy a more local experience.
📍 WESTSIDE | Budget friendly area within a 5 minute drive to the Historic District. Located along the Ashley River with great views.
📍 CHARLESTON BEACH RESORTS | Charleston is known for its 5 area beaches each with a different personality. Great for summer vacations or families.
Keep reading for an in-depth guide for choosing the best place to stay in Charleston, SC!
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Where to Stay in Charleston, SC: The Best Areas
First things first, let me give you the lay of the land. Charleston is a peninsula surrounded by two rivers – the Ashley River to the West and the Cooper River to the East. These rivers meet to form Charleston Harbor. The whole peninsula is only about 3 miles wide at its biggest part, so it’s fairly small and walkable throughout most of the city!
Charleston as a county is actually a big area consisting of multiple beaches and popular suburbs like Mount Pleasant and North Charleston. However, most people when thinking of Charleston are talking about the historic district. That is where you will likely want to stay in Charleston as a first time visitor.
Next, I will break down the two main downtown areas to focus for your trip to help you decide which best suits you. I’m also including a third charming residential neighborhood, then a fourth budget friendly choice and finally, the best beach resorts in Charleston.
Map of Where to Stay in Charleston
Use this Charleston map to understand where the things I have suggested are located in relation to one another.
Option 1: Charleston City Center near Marion Square and Upper King Street
I am starting with this area first because it’s where I would personally choose to stay (and I have stayed – hello, staycations!) If I haven’t stayed in these hotels, I have dined in the restaurants, drank at the bars, been to the spas, and had complete tours of every single one – perks of working in the tourism industry.
Here’s why you should stay in the city center (PS, no one really calls it that, but it’s the best way to describe it to you). It is the heart of Charleston. You will be right in the middle of everything in a short walking distance to almost anything (within 20 minutes or so to the furthest sites). This area is right along King Street where some of the best Charleston restaurants and shops are located. It’s more modern and not quite as touristy.
Stay here if you are in Charleston for the food, shopping, and nightlife! You will find newer and more modern hotel options along with trendy restaurants and cocktail bars! It’s a great choice especially if you have already been to Charleston before and spent time in the historic district.
Best Hotels in Charleston near Marion Square
These are my absolute favorite luxury hotels to stay at in Charleston. As a local, I have stayed in many Charleston hotels, visited their spas, and dined in the restaurants. I’ve also had the opportunity to tour all the ones I recommend so you can trust these are thoroughly vetted!
1. The Dewberry
TripAdvisor | Expedia | Booking.com
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. As a local, I visit the spa several times a year and it’s my favorite spa in Charleston.
Personally, I chose to stay at The Dewberry on my wedding night and it was the best luxury experience for a special occasion. We booked the Charleston flat room type which is larger corner room!
2. Hotel Bennett
TripAdvisor | Expedia | Booking.com
Hotel Bennett is located on King Street overlooking beautiful Marion Square. It’s incredibly elegant with its southern take on a grand European hotel. Enjoy luxury rooms and amenities, a spa, rooftop pool, all pink bar Camellias and take in the Charleston skyline at rooftop bar, Fiat Luxe.
3. Zero George
TripAdvisor | Expedia | Booking.com
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.
They have the most incredible restaurant onsite featuring a tasting menu in their super romantic dining room or outdoor patio. We went for our anniversary this year and it was amazing. You can also opt to do a cooking class during lunch time!
4. The Pinch
The Pinch is a super trendy and new hotel located along King Street, close to Marion Square and College of Charleston. It’s a great place to stay if you will be in town for a week or longer. The rooms and suites all offer a king size bed, kitchen area, live plants, sonos speaker, in room washer/dryer, and more allowing you to have all the comforts of home. It is a really cool place to stay in Charleston with two incredible on site restaurants led by chef Jason Stanhope – The Quinte and Lowland Tavern!
✅ HOW TO BOOK THESE HOTELS WITH MY VIP PERKS!:
If you’re interested in access to my VIP perks like complimentary upgrades, daily breakfast for two, a $100 resort credit, and early check in/late check out, reach out to me here with your travel dates and I can help book your hotel. As a local travel advisor, I have relationships with hotels that offer my clients exclusive VIP perks at NO extra cost – seriously it’s not too good to be true! I can also help you select a hotel as I know them so well in Charleston!
Best Restaurants in the Upper King Street/Marion Square Area
These are a few of the best restaurants that you can easily walk to in this area of Charleston, SC. You will find some of my favorite rooftop restaurants and bars in this area.
- Chez Nous – intimate, french, super romantic
- Oku – sushi
- Halls Chophouse – steakhouse, gospel brunch on Sunday
- Felix – French bistro
- The Darling Oyster Bar – seafood and raw bar
- The Ordinary – best seafood
- Malagon – spanish
- Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits – for breakfast and late-night bites
- Lowland Tavern
- The Quinte
Nearby Things to Do in Charleston’s City Center
Here are some of the best things to do in Charleston for this part of town.
- Charleston Museum
- South Carolina Aquarium
- Children’s Museum
- Shopping on King Street
- Aiken Rhett House Museum
- Bars + Nightlife
- International African American Museum
- College of Charleston
- Gaillard Center
Option 2: Charleston’s Famed Historic District
My second recommendation is to stay in the true historic area also sometimes called the French Quarter by tourists, but locals do not really refer to it as that. This is an intimate area where the original city of Charleston began.
It has all of the picturesque site that Charleston is known for! You will find the Charleston City Market, cobblestone streets, Rainbow Row, and many historic sites.
It is definitely more touristy, but there’s a reason for this – it’s incredibly charming! Highly recommend this area for your first visit to Charleston, SC.
Stay in this area if you are here for the historic tours & attractions and want to be in very close walking distance to all of them. Literally every street you turn on is oozing with charm and it’s a great place to get lost. You will find a classic Charleston experience that you’ll talk about for years to come.
Best Hotels in Charleston’s Historic District Neighborhood
Charleston is known for its amazing hotel accommodations and you will find some of the most charming boutique hotels in this area. It’s also where you can find the bulk of hotels in Charleston.
1. The Charleston Place
The Charleston Place is the most iconic hotel in Charleston that really put the city on the map from a tourism standpoint. It is classic luxury and will be undergoing renovations over the next few years as it becomes a bit more modern thanks to its new local owners.
You will love the spa and rooftop pool, club-level suites, amazing restaurants, and luxury retail stores.
2. The Spectator Hotel
The Spectator has a 1920’s theme that gives it so much character. You will love the speakeasy lobby bar and the personal butler service in the rooms! It is one of the most romantic hotels so would be perfect for a couples getaway or Charleston honeymoon. The hotel is located off of the city market so it’s in a great location, too.
3. The Loutrel
The Loutrel is one of the newest luxury boutique hotels in this area and has already won countless awards. When you walk in, the lobby feels like you have stepped on to a charming Charleston piazza (or porch). They have a great lobby bar, but also a fun rooftop putting you up close with the massive church steeples. The rooftop is a great venue to be used for weddings and other events. The rooms are beautiful and spacious with great views. You will also find large soaking tubs in some of the rooms!
4. Mills House Hotel
The Mills House Hotel has recently become a part of the Curio Collection of hotels and is receiving major updates. You will love the classic pink exterior and rooftop pool – making it perfect for a girls weekend! Also make reservation for dinner in the courtyard at Iron Rose.
5. Emeline
Emeline is conveniently located across the street from the Charleston City Market and the location could not be better. Recently renovated, this boutique hotel offers thoughtfully designed rooms with contemporary touches and amazing views of historic Charleston. I especially love their onsite restaurant, Frannie and the Fox set against a brick fireplace in their open air courtyard. Expect Italian options from their wood-fired oven and creative cocktails.
6. The Restoration
The Restoration is one of my favorite hotels in Charleston for its apartment style suites that are super spacious. It’s a great option if you are traveling with kids because you can have a living/kitchen area and separate bedrooms.
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. It is a really cool place to stay in town!
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 to The Restoration often when visiting us! It makes for a great family friendly option in Charleston.
7. The Palmetto
The Palmetto is one of the newest hotels to the scene in Charleston opening Spring 2023. It is located right on East Bay Street steps from some of the longest running restaurants in the city. You’ll be situated in Charleston’s famed historic district which is a short walk from the city market, waterfront, pineapple fountain, rainbow row, and the battery.
My clients stayed here recently for a babymoon and loved the hotel and location! They did note that they would have liked a gym onsite and the breakfast options were a bit limited for their preferences (but there are so many great cafes nearby).
Does this scream girls weekend or what??
👉 HOW TO BOOK WITH MY VIP PERKS: If you’re interested in access to my VIP perks like complimentary upgrades, daily breakfast for two, a $100 resort credit, and early check in/late check out, reach out to me here with your travel dates and I can help book your hotel. I’ll send you a quote with the best rates and fun perks available to you! As a travel advisor, I have relationships with hotels around the world that offer my clients these VIP perks at NO extra cost and I don’t charge fees to book a hotel only.
Best Restaurants in Charleston’s Historic District
These are my favorite restaurants and bars in Charleston’s historic district and french quarter.
- 167 Raw + Bar 167
- Bin 152 (wine bar)
- Basic Kitchen (vegan friendly)
- Sorelle (Italian)
- Costa (coastal Italian)
- Husk (amazing southern cuisine, by James Beard Winning chef, Sean Brock)
- SNOB (get the salmon salad at lunchtime)
- Miller’s All Day (breakfast)
- Magnolia’s (an iconic charleston restaurant, lowcountry cuisine)
- High Cotton
- Tempest
- Church and Union
- La Farfalle (italian, amazing pastas)
- Gingerline (new restaurant, peruvian style, trendy spot for cocktails)
- Fast and French
- The Peacock
Nearby Things to Do in Charleston’s Historic District
There are the top things to do in Charleston’s historic district. There is SO much history here so you can expect amazing museums and picturesque architecture in this part of town. It is everything that makes Charleston so charming! I highly recommend a Charleston walking tour in this region.
- Nathaniel Russell House
- Gibbes Museum of Art
- Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon (original custom house, one of 4 remaining structures where the US Constitution was ratified, George Washington attended parties here during his Southern Tour)
- Rainbow Row
- The Battery
- Waterfront Park
- Charleston City Market
- Walking Tours and Ghost Tours
- Shopping on Lower King Street
- Art Walk on First Fridays
Option 3: Cannonborough-Elliotborough Neighborhood in Charleston
The Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood is a hidden gem in Charleston. This area sits right off of King Street and is a more residential part of town.
Over the last several years, its landscape has changed dramatically with new restaurants, wine bars and locally owned shops.
If your travel style is more off the beaten path and you like to live like the locals, this is a great fit for you!
Best Place to Stay in Cannonborough-Elliotborough Neighborhood
Cannonborough-Elliotborough is the best neighborhood to stay in Charleston that feels like you are in a more residential area. There aren’t any major hotels in this region, but what you will find are quaint bed and breakfast type properties. This is the one that I recommend that I think you will love!
1. 86 Cannon
86 Cannon is the cutest historic inn located on Cannon Street just a few blocks from King Street. It’s in a great area and walking distance to some of my favorite places to eat and shop in Charleston.
The intimate inn is a bed and breakfast serving a great spread each morning and wine & cheese in the evenings. It’s adults only so it’s perfect for a romantic getaway to Charleston for couples.
Each of the 9 rooms are completely different with furnishing designed by local designer, B. Berry.
There’s plenty of great amenities like an onsite pool, lounge, and bikes to use. It’s the perfect home away from home.
Best Restaurants in Cannonborough-Elliotborough
There are tons of great restaurants in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood. Many of these are my absolute favorites in the whole city!
- Chez Nous
- Southbound
- Holey City Bagel
- R Kitchen
- Babas on Cannon
- Vern’s
- Malagon
- Chubby Fish
- The Grocery
- Eliottborough Mini Bar
- Estadio
- Xiao Bao Biscuit
- Sugar Bake Shop
- By The Way
Best Shops in Cannonborough-Elliotborough
There are several great locally owned boutiques for you to shop in the neighborhood.
- The Tiny Tassel
- Goldbug Collection
- Hermosa
- Taxidermy
- Philosophers and Fools
Option 4: Westside/Riverview Area – Budget Friendly + Water Views in Charleston
Another option that is more budget friendly is the Charleston Riverview area that is along the Ashley River. It’s not directly in the historic area, but is a short 5 minute drive and has many great features. For one, you can have water views from your hotel room.
It is located close to the Charleston Riverdogs, The Citadel, and the Medical University of South Carolina so it’s a perfect option if you are visiting for those reasons. It’s also close to several wedding venues: Segra Club, Rice Mill, and Yacht Club so it would be convenient if you’re in town for a wedding.
Best Hotels in Charleston Westside District
These are the two hotels that I recommend in Charleston’s westside area.
1. Charleston Marriott
The Charleston Marriott is a full service hotel located right next to the Charleston Riverdogs stadium. It has everything you would expect from the Marriott brand, plus a stunning rooftop deck to watch sunset over the Ashley River.
2. Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Waterfront
Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Waterfront is located right along the Ashley River and marina. You can’t stay any closer to the water than this. Relax on their rooftop lounge for sunset so you can get one of the best views in Charleston.
If you are a Hilton Rewards member you can earn and use points staying here.
Nearby Things to Do in Charleston’s Westside
There is plenty to do within a short walk of Charleston’s Westside neighborhood. Enjoy a night at the local baseball park, stroll through my favorite Hampton Park, have a spa day, or hop on a boat charter.
- Charleston Riverdogs Baseball
- Citadel Military College of South Carolina
- Medical University of South Carolina
- VA Hospital
- Hampton Park
- Woodhouse Day Spa at West Edge
- City Marina
- Boat Tours
- Casual Crabbing with Tia
- Charleston Half Marathon – held annually in January (start line is in this area)
Walkable Restaurants from Charleston’s Westside
These restaurants are within a short walk from the Westside of Charleston. There are lots of great spots for brunch in this part of town.
- Daps Breakfast and Imbibe (13 min walk)
- Bked Shop (donuts)
- Bon Bahn Mi (12 min walk)
- Fuel (pizza) (20 min walk)
- Xiao Bao Biscuit (amazing asian fusion) (20 min walk)
- Marina Variety Store (known for their breakfast)
- Honeysuckle Rose – Tasting menu, fine dining
🚘 Distance to Marion Square: 1.6 miles
🚘 Distance to Historic District: 2.2 miles
Option 5: Charleston Beach Resorts
Lastly, I am telling you all about Charleston’s beach resorts! If you aren’t staying on the peninsula or want to do a little of both, I definitely recommend staying at our area beach resorts.
You could easily spend a few night in the historic district combined with a few nights staying at the beach.
The two I recommend are based on the quailty of accommodation and amenities. Charleston does have several other beaches and hotels to choose from like Folly Beach.
1. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is one of the best beach resorts in South Carolina. It is a luxury 5-star hotel along 10 miles of coastline with renowned golf courses, spa, world-class amenities, and endless recreation activities.
The island is stunning not only from the beach, but its diverse ecosystem including the Kiawah River and marshes which house various wildlife. Enjoy biking around the island to see the birds, alligators, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Personally, I stayed at The Sanctuary for a few nights as a “mini-moon” after my wedding and before taking our big honeymoon to the Seychelles. During February it is so nice to enjoy the quiet and uncrowded nature of this area!
🚘 Distance from Downtown Charleston to Kiawah: 26 miles / 45 minute driving
2. Wild Dunes Resort
Wild Dunes Resort is located on Isle of Palms, about 15 miles north of Charleston. You can choose from all types of accommodations from vacation rentals, condos, and two luxury hotels.
The newest hotel is the Sweetgrass Inn and features contemporary guest rooms, large pool area with firepits, and an amazing spa! We stayed here while attending a gala one night and it was a lovely experience.
The spa is my favorite part – it has several treatment rooms, outdoor private veranda with cabanas and plunge pools. It’s a great place to relax all day with friends or as a couple. I’ve been a few times for girls days and everyone always LOVES it!
Or you can choose the original hotel, The Boardwalk Inn, a AAA Four Diamond property located right along the beach with adult and child pools, amazing restaurant Coastal Provisions, and lively boardwalk.
There are also several villas and homes around the resort to rent. We always stay for a week with my husbands family in a home which is so nice to have space, but also use the resort amenities!
🚘 Distance from Downtown Charleston: 16 miles, 30 minutes driving
Airbnbs in Downtown Charleston
Airbnb is only allowed to operate in a specific area of Charleston. You will find all of these clustered along King Street in the Elliotborogh-Cannonborough area. They are closest to upper King Street and Marion Square so typically in great locations.
🛏 I also recommend VRBO in Charleston.
Where NOT to Stay in Charleston, SC
Lastly, I want to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable visit to Charleston. While Charleston is a very safe place to visit, like any other destination there are some areas you do not want to stay.
There are a few areas in Charleston’s downtown that you should avoid. Visitors will not want to stay in the Eastside of downtown Charleston. You should avoid anything from Nassau Street to America Street between Line Street and Stuart Street.
You will not find accommodations in this area, but do make sure you don’t walk around this part of town. I’ve included this area on the map above for easy reference.
The Wrap Up: Best Places to Stay in Charleston
This was a very detailed guide for where to stay in Charleston! I hope it has given you all the answers to your questions without being too overwhelming. If not, please feel free to reach out and I’m happy to guide you in selecting a hotel according to your preferences, budget, and travel style.
You can email me here with your questions, travel dates, budget, and/or hotels you have in mind. I’ll respond ASAP and can provide the very best rates plus my VIP perks like resort credit, free breakfast and comp upgrades at many Charleston area hotels.
Before you go to Charleston
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