Charleston, with its timeless beauty and captivating charm, holds a special place in my heart as one of my favorite places. After visiting as a kid on family vacations, and now as an adult with my own kids, I’ll never tire of visiting the Holy City.
Steeped in history, this coastal city effortlessly blends Southern elegance with a vibrant cultural scene, making it an irresistible destination for me. From the moment I set foot on its cobbled streets, I am transported back to my Southern roots, where pastel-hued houses line the waterfront and aromatic magnolia trees perfume the air. The allure of Charleston lies not only in its picturesque scenery but also in the warm hospitality of its residents and the plethora of experiences it offers. Whether I am strolling through the historic district or indulging in culinary delights, Charleston envelops me in its unique blend of sophistication, serenity, and sheer joy, making it a city I return to time and time again.
Restaurants in Charleston
The food scene in Charleston is bustling and even after visiting nearly a dozen times there are still new places popping up worth trying. Before you go, do some of your own research to see what will light up your taste buds, but do not miss Husk Restaurant, Lewis BBQ, or Miller’s All Day. These are all classic southern places that make me yearning for more each time.
Make a reservation at Husk as soon as you know you’re making a trip down to Charleston – you do not want to miss out on dining here. Husk has an ever-changing menu of locally sourced Southern food that’s served in the cutest Victorian-era home, making you feel like you’ve just come home to your fancy grandma’s house for some home cooked food.
This stylish spot with a vintage feel also takes reservations, and will fill up fast if you don’t plan ahead. Located conveniently in the heart of town, you can pop in for some Happy Hour oysters or drinks after an afternoon of shopping along King Street. Unpopular opinion, get the fried chicken sandwich with a side of hush puppies.
3. Lewis BBQ
Growing up in the South, I’ve had my fair share of BBQ and nothing, and I mean nothing beats Lewis BBQ. You can’t go wrong with anything you order on the menu, but be prepared to share. The portions are as big as the Southern drawl down in these parts of town, and you want to make sure you leave room for dessert.
A family-friendly brunch spot located in the quaintest part of Charleston. You can’t make a reservation, but a half hour wait will feel like nothing as you stroll around town. If you do have the kids in tow, I’d recommend getting there right at 8 AM to avoid any queue.
Poogan’s Porch is a must-visit restaurant for its historic charm, delectable Southern cuisine, and warm hospitality. The menu is filled with traditional Southern favorites like shrimp and grits and fried chicken, while providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere. A great spot to go for any meal, including brunch!
6. Chasing Sage
With a focus on sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, their menu showcases creative dishes that blend global flavors with Southern influences, providing a culinary adventure for your taste buds. It’s no surprise this place came highly recommended by our home exchange hosts, Chasing Sage. I love that the restaurant’s commitment to quality, creativity, and sustainability offers a more eco-conscious dining experience in Charleston.
7. Chubby Fish
Enticing for the seafood lover, Chubby Fish offers a wide array of fish, oysters, small plates, and big plates for sharing. While I have never been here myself, it’s constantly recommended by friends who frequent the area! Pro tip – no reservations available so go during a non-typical meal time to avoid a crowd.
Beaches worth visiting close to Charleston
- Sullivan’s Island
- Isle of Palms
- Folly Beach
Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, and Isle of Palms are considered the best beaches to visit when in Charleston, SC. Sullivan’s Island offers a serene and laid-back atmosphere with pristine sandy shores, perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. Parking here is also easy-to-find, and I recommend going as far east as possible (Station 28-30).
Folly Beach, known for its vibrant and bohemian vibe, is a haven for surfers and beach lovers seeking a more active experience with its consistent waves and lively beachfront atmosphere. Parking here can be a bit more tricky during the high season, but there are paid parking lots available with clear parking signs or meters.
Meanwhile, Isle of Palms entices visitors with its family-friendly appeal, featuring a wide stretch of sandy beach, gentle waves, and a range of amenities such as beachfront parks and watersports activities. All three beaches are easily accessible from Charleston and provide a variety of recreational opportunities, breathtaking coastal scenery, and a quintessential beach experience that complements a visit to the charming city.
Things to do or see in Charleston
- Kayak from Shem’s Creek and see dolphins in the marsh on a sunset ride
- Visit a plantation (Middleton Place or Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens)
- Shop King Street
- Shop historic trinkets on Meeting Street
- Walk South of Broad
- Make candles at Candlefish
- Stroll from the Pineapple Fountain to The Battery
- Go to the beach! (Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, or Isle of Palms)
Where to stay in or around Charleston
Downtown Charleston is vibrant and if you like a boutique hotel feel then there are several great options to choose from, including Mill House Charleston and The Charleston Place. My personal favorite spot to stay to enjoy both the beach and downtown Charleston is Mount Pleasant. We have stayed in several areas but recently did a home exchange there and enjoyed being in a neighborhood tucked away close to historical Mount Pleasant and walkable Shem’s Creek, and only a 10 minute drive to both downtown Charleston and some of the best beaches on Sullivan’s Island. Another great place we stayed that fit 6 adults and 1 child comfortably was this Airbnb.
If you are primarily going for the beach, rent a house on Isle of Palms. This is where families or bigger groups typically stay, and for good reason. It feels remote and separate from the hustle and bustle of downtown Charleston, but Charleston is still accessible (30-40 minutes) for a day or night out.
- Mount Pleasant
- Downtown Charleston
- Isle of Palms
Activities to do with little kids
- Stroller walk at Pitt Street Beach Walk
- Playgrounds Galore (Alhambra in Mount Pleasant, Colonial Lake Park in Charleston, and Smythe Park-Pirate Cove on Daniel Island)
- Water play at Splash Zone Park in Mount Pleasant or James Island – you have to pay a fee but worth it for a day if you’re craving the pool and don’t have access to one
- Horse Carriage Ride South of Broad
- Charleston Kid’s Museum – Pro tip: Every second Fridays it’s free after 3 pm, but check the website!
