I had the pleasure recently of visiting one of my favorite vacation spots, Charleston, South Carolina. I love Charleston no matter the time of year and wanted to share my top recommendations and the how-tos of visiting the scenic city.
Whether you’re on vacation with your favorite guy or ganging up with your girls, Charleston provides a ton of great food spots, beautiful beaches, and so many tourist-accommodating attractions with a small-town feel. I’m rounding up a few of my go-tos anytime you visit America’s #1-Voted Small City 10-years counting.
Restaurants:
There’s no shortage of fantastic restaurants throughout the city. Fine dining to waterside pubs, there something for everyone. I’ve rounded up a few favorites, but that list grows with every visit.
Lunch:
Poogans Porch: Located downtown on Queen Street, this Charming Victorian Home has two levels of porches with great views, the best fried green tomatoes in town, and a little ghost story of its one. Serving brunch and dinner.
Ru Ru’s Taco & Tequila: A great spot if you’re craving Mexican Cuisine! Located on East Bay Street, they have both outdoor and indoor seating. I recommend the “Run Forest Run” and the “Long Duck Dog.” Yes, you’re going to love the names on the menu as much as you love the food! Don’t forget a spicy margarita!
Butcher & Bee: Check the online menu for current selections, but if they have the spicy avocado salad…get that! It’s absolutely delicious!
Dinner:
Husk: This place has some of the best southern food in town. Located in downtown Charleston, it’s a hotspot so make reservations well in advance!
FIg: A CLASSIC Charleston institution. Their menu provides seasonal favorites and the food is sourced locally. They’ve been open for 19 years and showcase food from winner chef James Beard.
Snacks:
Peace Pie: Carmella’s Cafe & Dessert bar. I bet you’ve never seen slices of cake this big…so go with an appetite or a friend or two. This is a great spot to stop after a long evening walk. Open till 12am with fabulous drink options as well!
Stays in Charleston:
The Charleston Place: This will probably always be my #1 recommendation. If you want to immerse yourself in all things Charleston and Southern, this is the spot for you! It is centrally located and steeped in elegance. Inside you’ll find five amazing restaurants on-site; tons of boutiques including Louis Vuitton, Tommy Bahama, and Kate spade; plus a world-class spa and salon.
John Rutledge House Inn: This nineteen-room bed and breakfast is both beautiful and charming. It’s the perfect place for couples looking for some peace and quiet while still staying central to downtown!
The Vendue: Charleston’s art hotel. If you love unique and artsy areas, you’ll love The Vendue. Located in the French Quarter area of Charleston. They offer art tours, rooftop views, and bikes for touring the city. The best part… dog-friendly rooms are available!
Ideas for Roaming Around Charleston:
- Take a walk or better yet, rent a bike and cruise along Battery Park. The sea wall extends 1/4 mile along East Battery, the sidewalks are extra wide, so plenty of room for bikes and pedestrians. You’ll be close to Rainbow Row, make sure to stop by and take a look at the 13 historic brightly colored homes. The perfect spot for photos
- Bike rentals are one of the best ways to tour Charleston at your own pace. Try @holyspokes
- Horse-drawn carriage tours are a MUST for first-time visitors. Learn all about the ‘Holy City’ on a 1 hour (about 2.5 miles) carriage tour. The tour guides are a wealth of knowledge, I learn a new thing every time! I recommend @oldsouthcarriagetourco.
- @ghostcitytours is perfect for anyone who wants to learn about the not-so-holy past of Charleston and Paranormal activity. Choose from family or adult tours and one of the many theme options!
Charleston Beaches:
Try Sullivan’s Island for a quieter setting. There are about a dozen restaurants including Mexican 1 Coastal Cantina and Poes Tavern. You’ll be able to see the Sullivan’s Island lighthouse from here too.
Isle of Palms: One of my favorite beach spots. Great for families, VRBO/Airbnb rentals. IOP is the perfect little town all on its own. Convenient parking for day trips with public restrooms, and plenty of restaurants. It’s about 20-30 minutes to downtown Charleston… crossing the Cooper River Bridge is pretty amazing.
Folly Beach is amazingly eclectic and the closest to downtown. One of the top destinations for surfers in SC and known for its fantastic pier. Folly Beach County Park offers beach rentals, public bathrooms, and a snack bar.
What are your must-haves when it comes to vacationing in Charleston? Do you prefer a week in the small city or a weekend getaway out on the town? Share with me below!
This is so timely, as you know!! We have planned a girl trip in the fall, and I am gathering lots of info! I’ll continue to watch for fashion inspo for the trip!
Thanks for always posting such great content – you are great at what you do!
I’m so happy to hear this!! You’re going to have so much fun.