Top Recommendations for Where to Stay in Charleston SC 2024

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by Albert

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Founded in 1670, Charleston is a port city in the state of South Carolina. It has a distinctive look that appeals to local and international tourists, and is known for its horse carriages that are still in operation, riding over the cobble-stoned streets lined with pastel-colored houses.

This city in the American South is also known for its districts of the French Quarter and Battery, the latter overlooking the Harbor. It just so happens that the American Civil War also started in Charleston at a place called Fort Sumter, which is open to visitors today.

Find out the best places to stay for your journey in Charleston.

Charleston Street View

Where to stay in Charleston as a family: Kiawah Island

Perfect for family vacations, Charleston’s Kiawah Island, located 25 miles south of Downtown Charlotte, and is an area of beautiful beaches, with resort options, golf, and the perfect balance of relaxation and activities of all sorts.

This peaceful residential area incorporates a state-of-the-art resort and shopping village by a preserved maritime area.

Wildlife by the sea is not like many other places. Alongside its 10 miles of beaches, this area is made up of preserved maritime forests, sand dunes, and marshes where travelers will be shocked with the beauty of whitetail deer, bobcats, sea birds, and sea turtles abound.

If you’re looking for a place where to stay in Charleston with your family, Kiawah Island is probably the best option.

1. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Resort

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Resort

A Forbes Five Star AAA Five-Diamond property, the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is an oceanfront hotel and spa-themed with typical Southern charm, exceptional comfort, and an array of possibilities for tourists to enjoy a great vacation.

This impressive resort has five golf courses, a tennis center, as well as a gym, swimming pools, restaurants, and everything needed for a luxury holiday with your family in one place.

2. Charleston Kiawah Island Andell Inn

Charleston Kiawah Island/Andell Inn

With a beautiful sight of the river, this elegantly casual property is 3 miles from Kiawah Park and 5 miles from the Golf Courses, making it the perfect place to stay in Charleston for tourists.

It offers straightforward rooms (with options for river views), with complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, mini fridges, coffee machines, and microwaves. The hotel has a saltwater pool, a hot breakfast buffet, and offers room upgrades that include kitchens and living room facilities.

3. Kiawah Island Golf Resort - Villas

Kiawah Island Golf Resort - Villas

Enjoy views of the maritime forest from a well-equipped villa located near the water. This villa resort also caters beyond its excellent golf courses, offering a pool resort for travelers to visit. This is a plus if you’re looking for a nice place where to stay in Charleston with your kids.

The villas are decorated with a timeless maritime style, divided by location within the property and the number of amenities included. There are pet-friendly villas and other options that vary in size, décor, and features.

Where to stay in Charleston as a couple: Folly Beach

Romantic, quaint, and remote, perfect for a romantic trip. A city on Folly Island, Folly Beach is a short drive south of Charleston. Its most recognizable feature is the Folly Beach Pier, which stretches 1,000 ft into the ocean. When it comes to where to stay in Charleston with your partner, this is one of the most fairy-tale like places you could choose.

The area, quaint and welcoming, is tourist-ready, filled with souvenir and surf boutiques. The local park has picnic areas – ideal for family vacations – and a pelican rookery. Discover wildlife, collect seashells, and delve into this peaceful oasis perfect for tourists in search of a welcoming area.

1. Beachside Boutique Inn

Beachside Boutique Inn

This charming inn has plenty of character, perfect for those seeking inspiring surroundings. It's located 4 minutes from Folly Beach Pier and 20 miles from Charleston International Airport, in an area with plenty of greenery.

The rooms' interiors are filled with color and unique motifs and details and are equipped with free Wi-Fi, cable, and private bathrooms. The hotels also offer cottages with kitchens and loft bedrooms.

Enjoy their complimentary continental breakfast or prepare your own in the communal kitchens and dining rooms.

2. Water’s Edge Inn – Adults Only

Water's Edge Inn

An elegant, refined Folly B&B, The Water’s Edge Inn is destined for adult travelers only. It’s conveniently placed 9 minutes by foot from the Fishing Pier at Folly Beach, and 4 miles from Morris Island Lighthouse.

The sophisticated rooms are well decorated and offer whirlpool tubs. Cozy and comfortable, they have fireplaces and a private balcony upon request.

The hotel also offers bikes for rent, while cocktails and canapés are served during happy hour.

If you want to surprise your partner with a long weekend and aren't sure where to stay in Charleston, this is the perfect place.

3. Tides Folly Beach

Tides Folly Beach

Beachfront, Tides Folly Beach is a perfect destination for a family holiday. With an outdoor pool, it provides an all-in experience for those seeking a day off exploring the Charleston area.

The hotel’s rooms come equipped with balconies, ocean views, and 32-inch cable TV. The proximity to the beach makes it easy for guests seeking kayaking experiences.

Their restaurant, BLU, serves excellent seafood dishes, as well as breakfast and a late-night menu. This property is also right by the nearest shopping center.

Where to stay in Charleston on a budget: Downtown

Charleston Downtown

Source: Leonel Heisenberg/ unslpash

If you’re looking for a cheap area where to stay in Charleston, the downtown area is the best location for visitors seeking proximity to the city’s best attractions – it's highly recommended if you’re a first-time visitor. Walk down King Street – the busy road where old and new Charleston meet, go on a shopping trip to the South’s chicest boutiques, or go antique-hunting on Lower King Street for unique souvenirs and plenty of history.

This area is also where local festivals and parades take place. You can take a guided tour – walking or by carriage – on the cobblestone streets. Discover Battery, an area south of the city where the sunsets are beautiful. Discover 1700s Georgian houses, Civil War relics, and take a tour of the South Carolina Aquarium.

Dining options in downtown Charleston include plenty of seafood options, as well as American grills and plenty of Southern food.

If you’re interested, Downtown Charlotte is also a place for nightlife. College of Charleston students hang out in this area, which is filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it a tad noisy for those seeking peaceful nights.

1. Residence Inn by Marriott Charleston Riverview

Residence Inn Charleston Riverview

Away from the noisy parts of Charleston and located by a marina, this informal all-suite hotel is 4 miles from the Charleston Port and 2.7 miles from the Historic Charleston City Market.

Modern, clean, and straightforward studios offer kitchens, coffee machines and pull-out sofas, flat-screen TVs, and Wi-Fi (complimentary). Travelers can opt for 1- and 2-bedroom suites, which have separate living rooms with fireplaces (upon demand).

This property also offers hot breakfast, parking, an outdoor saltwater pool, a hot tub, and a gym. It's definitely one of the best options for where to stay in Charleston if you're up for enjoying some peace and quiet.

2. Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District

Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District

A modern hotel, centrally located in Charleston’s historic district, the Hampton Inn is a 2-minute walk from the city’s Charleston Museum, and under two miles from Waterfront Park – perfect for discovery by foot.

This property’s rooms and suites have free Wi-Fi, desks, modern TVs, and coffee machines. Guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast at the hotel or in a grab-and-go bag, as well as the gym and outdoor pool.

This hotel also has a business center and paid parking.

3. Comfort Inn Downtown Charleston

Comfort Inn Downtown Charleston

A straightforward hotel located a mile from the College of Charleston and, convenient for tourists, 5 miles from Patriots Point Naval and the Maritime Museum.

The hotel’s rooms come equipped with Wi-Fi (free) and flat-screen TVs. It also offers in-room amenities such as microwave ovens, coffee machines and mini fridges. Guests can opt for extra upgrades, which include sofa-beds, or a suite with a pool and living room – all you can ask for if you’re looking for a versatile hotel option for where to stay in Charleston.

Parking and breakfast are complimentary, as are the outdoor pool, gym, and business center.

FAQs about Where to Stay in Charleston

  • Where to stay in Charleston as a family?

    Nearby Charleston, Kiawah Island, with its jaw-droppingly complete resorts and hotels, makes the perfect destination for family vacations.


  • Where to stay in Charleston as a couple?

    Folly Beach is a beautiful place with beautiful views and perfect for a vacation for couples. Nearby Charleston, it remains easy to access whilst offering the best feeling of being “away.”


  • Where to stay in Charleston on a budget?

    Downtown and Charleston’s Historic District are ideal for those seeking to visit the city and discover its history, museums and landmarks – most at walking distance.


  • Where to stay in Charleston as a family?
    Nearby Charleston, Kiawah Island, with its jaw-droppingly complete resorts and hotels, makes the perfect destination for family vacations.


  • Where to stay in Charleston as a couple?
    Folly Beach is a beautiful place with beautiful views and perfect for a vacation for couples. Nearby Charleston, it remains easy to access whilst offering the best feeling of being “away.”


  • Where to stay in Charleston on a budget?
    Downtown and Charleston’s Historic District are ideal for those seeking to visit the city and discover its history, museums and landmarks – most at walking distance.



If you’re wondering where to stay in Charleston, consider your options based on what you like to discover, as well as who’s traveling with you. The city and its surroundings have everything to offer to different travelers – all you need is to decide how you want it to be.

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Find Where to Stay in Charleston SC

5 star

4.6/5Outstanding101 Reviews
Charleston|0.52km from city center
Rarely leave reviews. This place deserves it. It was all so perfect for a couples weekend. Pool and deck was gorgeous with great views. The hotel is close to all downtown. Every sitting area throughout the hotel was done to perfection. You can spend a full weekend just in this hotel and it’s amenities if you wanted. The club room was an added bonus with great service. When they didn’t have the drink I wanted at the club bar, Dan went out and got it for me. 5 star service and hotel.
From$533
4.6/5Outstanding86 Reviews
Charleston|1.32km from city center
I stayed here on a girl's trip to Charleston and was also able to use American Express points which was a bonus. (It was a LOT of points but the nightly room rate was quite high so I expected that). The hotel is beautiful, quiet but cool vibe, very understated. My room, while small, was quiet, well appointed (gorgeous chandelier) and the bed was SO comfortable. One thing I thought strange was that there were no in room coffee or espresso options. They did have a morning coffee self service stand in the lobby which was fine. There were also no places to grab a quick bite to eat to take on the go which would have been convenient. Two of the mornings I was there I didn't have time to either order room service or go sit in the lounge to order breakfast so I ended up eating a granola bar that I had with me since I was meeting people for other activities. The service across the board was excellent. The views from the Citrus Club were beautiful although service there seemed to be way too slow and the whole key card/wait for entry didn't quite seem necessary as we had to wait twenty minutes to get up there and found it 50% full (maybe a staffing issue?). Regardless, it is a lovely hotel, a block off of King Street. I would definitely stay here again.
From$499
4.7/5Outstanding99 Reviews
Charleston|1.3km from city center
With a stay at Hotel Bennett, you'll be centrally located in Charleston, within a 5-minute drive of Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal and Charleston City Market. This luxury hotel is 0.1 mi (0.2 km) from College of Charleston and 0.9 mi (1.5 km) from South Carolina Aquarium.Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. You can take advantage of recreational amenities such as an outdoor pool and a fitness center. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a picnic area.Grab a bite at La Patisserie, one of the hotel's 3 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Need to unwind? Take a break with a tasty beverage at one of the 3 bars/lounges. Full breakfasts are served on weekdays from 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee.Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. This hotel has 6 meeting rooms available for events.Make yourself at home in one of the 179 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access is available. Private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
From$529
4.9/5Perfect43 Reviews
Charleston|0.93km from city center
Wentworth Mansion is centrally located in Charleston, a 3-minute walk from College of Charleston and 14 minutes by foot from Gibbes Museum of Art. This luxury hotel is 0.7 mi (1.2 km) from Medical University of South Carolina and 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Charleston City Market.Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge).Enjoy southern cuisine at Circa 1886, a fine-dining restaurant where you can enjoy drinks at the bar/lounge, take in the garden view, and even dine alfresco. You can also stay in and take advantage of the room service (during limited hours). Mingle with other guests at the complimentary reception, held daily. A complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast is served daily from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM.Featured amenities include a computer station, express check-in, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Charleston? This hotel has 250 square feet (23 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free valet parking is available onsite.Treat yourself to a stay in one of the 21 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring fireplaces and flat-screen televisions. Cable programming and iPod docking stations are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms have jetted bathtubs and designer toiletries. Conveniences include safes and desks, and housekeeping is provided daily.
From$475
4.1/5Very Good112 Reviews
Charleston|1.16km from city center
Staff at the front desk was a bit dismissive and parking costs $20/night. Breakfast not included but there’s a restaurant on site. Pros: - great location, close to attractions, restaurants, shops - Wifi works well - rooms are relatively clean however I found a few hairs here and there - rooms are spacious enough - Check-in is at 4pm officially but our room was ready at 2pm so we could check in - mini fridge in room - the hotel is nicely furnished and decorated - 24-hour fitness center - 2 complimentary bottles of water - Coffee machine in the room Cons: - staff at the front desk could’ve been friendlier - bed too soft and pillows too thick - A/C didn’t work properly—the room was either ice cold or hot
From$309

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Business travel

4/5Very Good104 Reviews
Charleston|1.41km from city center
We loved our stay at the Hampton Inn! Our only comments are the breakfast was okay (COVID restrictions limited the choices) and the hotel has a slight musty smell as it’s an older building. But you cannot ask for a better location and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Definitely recommend staying here!
From$226
4.1/5Very Good29 Reviews
Charleston|0.47km from city center
We had a great trip to Charleston and the stay at The Vendue was FABULOUS!!! It was our daughter’s birthday and they had a Happy Birthday note for her in our room with a treat which was awesome! The room was great and loved the openess and the gas fireplace!! Nicholas and Jessica were super helpful with dining reservations of 2 restaurants we wanted to go to. Alison gave a fabulous gallery tour of the artwork in the evening. And all the staff was always friendly and helpful with any needs. A great stay for sure!!
From$314
4.4/5Excellent102 Reviews
Charleston|10.13km from city center
The room was clean as expected. The fact that they no longer clean and replace the towels daily was great to us. But for the price we paid we had the worst breakfast. I realize there is no kitchen in this facility and all they are capable of serving is pre made food that is reheated. However they have control over the quality of products. The worst eggs, not enough fruit for all the guests, the sausage and potatoes were also just warm. We have been staying at this hotel for twenty years since the family circle tennis which now is Credit one tennis was moved here. This will absolutely be our last stay.
From$115
3.5/5104 Reviews
Charleston|2.43km from city center
There are more breakfasts and meals, but the hotel staff is very warm and thoughtful. After the breakfast meal is over, ask for it and come back to face the meal after the meal. My car key was lost on the hotel sofa, and the front desk ***o and Damelle found it and kept it for the customer. The front desk staff patiently helped you change rooms. Parking is not sufficient for the occupants. Late night, the hotel has to park at the surrounding banks and have to move in the morning.
From$118
4.8/5Outstanding100 Reviews
Charleston|0.47km from city center
With a stay at The Loutrel, you'll be centrally located in Charleston, steps from Charleston City Market and within a 5-minute walk of Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal. This upscale hotel is 0.3 mi (0.4 km) from Waterfront Park and 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from College of Charleston.Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as a 24-hour fitness center, or other amenities including complimentary wireless internet access and a communal living room.Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge. A complimentary English breakfast is served daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.Featured amenities include express check-in, a 24-hour front desk, and an elevator.Make yourself at home in one of the 50 guestrooms. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with showers feature hair dryers and bathrobes. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and coffee/tea makers.
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Breakfast

4.2/5Very Good100 Reviews
Charleston|1.88km from city center
Finally an updated Hilton property downtown Charleston that fits the budget for business trips. Location is ideal on Meeting & only 2 blocks from King St. Entire property is newly renovated which puts it above Hampton Inn and Embassy Suites in my book. Valet parking available. Staff was super friendly. I didn’t eat a meal on site so I cannot comment on food. Who wants to eat at a hotel when you’re in Charleston? :) Would definitely recommend this property.
From$219
4.4/5Excellent103 Reviews
Charleston|9.23km from city center
We really enjoyed our stay here. I loved the separate tub & shower. It was nice to having the tub to get my kids cleaned up and then the shower for us. Our room was really spacious and very clean. The hotel was quiet which was great. Everything was really clean, the toiletries smells great too so that’s always a plus. The only minor issues were that the fridge wasn’t very cold in the room, I had breastmilk I needed to store and ended up using a cooler with ice instead because the fridge wasn’t cold enough for it. If you’re just chilling waters or a few drinks, it’ll be fine though. The other minor thing was the TV would make a weird noise that sounded similar to an alarm on occasion. We would shut the tv off and then it would stop so not sure what that was about but it was great other than those minor issues.
From$139
4.5/5Excellent101 Reviews
Charleston|0.64km from city center
Loved our stay, below are a few things to improve upon: 1. Booked a King, hotel received reservation for a Queen. 2. No way to darken the room, light filtered in greatly from Plantation shutters and from the hallway light through the door.
From$324
4.6/5Outstanding102 Reviews
Charleston|0.51km from city center
Everything was wonderful. The room was clean and inviting the bed was comfortable. The staff was so friendly every single person we encountered. They were kind helpful. Everything was perfect in this stay. We love the proximity to everything downtown the comfort of the food, the snacks throughout the day in the parlor. could not have asked for a better experience. Looking forward to going again.
From$459
4.7/5Outstanding100 Reviews
Charleston|0.56km from city center
With a stay at HarbourView Inn in Charleston (Charleston Historic District), you'll be steps from Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal and Waterfront Park. This upscale hotel is 0.3 mi (0.4 km) from Charleston City Market and 0.8 mi (1.4 km) from College of Charleston.Enjoy recreation amenities such as bicycles to rent or take in the view from a rooftop terrace. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a fireplace in the lobby.Grab a bite from the snack bar/deli serving guests of HarbourView Inn. Mingle with other guests at the complimentary reception, held daily. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM.Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out.Make yourself at home in one of the 52 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Your Tempur-Pedic bed comes with premium bedding. Cable programming and iPod docking stations are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.
From$359

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Where to stay in Charleston SC