12 Best Hotels to Stay in Charleston SC

What if I told you that choosing the right hotel could make or break your Charleston vacation, turning a good trip into an absolutely magical experience? The truth is, where you stay in this charming Southern city matters more than you might think, and finding the best hotels to stay in Charleston SC can transform your entire visit.

Charleston is a city where every street corner tells a story, every meal is a celebration, and every sunset over the harbor feels like a painting. But to truly soak in all this beauty and charm, you need the perfect home base. The right hotel doesn’t just give you a place to sleep – it becomes part of your Charleston story.

From historic inns that have welcomed guests for centuries to modern luxury resorts with world-class spas, Charleston offers accommodations that match every travel style and budget. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, the city’s hotels provide unique experiences that you’ll remember long after you check out.

The best hotels to stay in Charleston SC offer more than just comfortable beds and nice views. They connect you to the city’s rich history, introduce you to Southern hospitality at its finest, and often feature some of the area’s best restaurants and bars right on the property. Let’s explore the top accommodations that will make your Charleston visit absolutely unforgettable.

Historic Downtown Luxury Hotels

The heart of Charleston beats strongest in its historic downtown area, and this is where you’ll find some of the most prestigious and memorable places to stay. These best hotels to stay in Charleston SC put you right in the middle of all the action while surrounding you with luxury and history.

The Ocean House is a stunning new addition to Charleston’s luxury hotel scene. This beautiful property sits right on the harbor with incredible water views from every room. The hotel combines modern luxury with Charleston’s classic charm. You can watch dolphins play in the harbor from your balcony, then walk just a few minutes to reach Rainbow Row or the French Quarter. The rooftop bar offers some of the best sunset views in the city, making it perfect for romantic evenings.

Belmond Charleston Place stands tall as one of Charleston’s most famous luxury hotels. This grand hotel feels like a palace, with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and elegant furnishings throughout. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, many with views of the historic city or harbor. The hotel’s spa is world-class, offering relaxing treatments after long days of sightseeing. Plus, the shopping gallery connected to the hotel has high-end stores and boutiques.

The Spectator Hotel is a boutique gem that offers a more intimate luxury experience. This small hotel has only 41 rooms, which means you get personalized service and attention to detail. Each room is uniquely decorated with beautiful antiques and modern amenities. The location on State Street puts you within walking distance of everything downtown, but the hotel feels like a quiet retreat from the busy streets.

Charming Boutique Properties

For travelers who love unique character and personal touches, Charleston’s boutique hotels rank among the best hotels to stay in Charleston SC. These smaller properties offer distinctive experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

The Dewberry Charleston occupies a beautifully restored mid-century building that combines 1960s style with Southern elegance. The hotel’s design is stunning, with rich colors, beautiful artwork, and furniture that feels both retro and timeless. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with large windows that let in lots of natural light. The hotel’s restaurant serves excellent food, and the bar is a popular spot for both guests and locals.

Zero George Street consists of several historic buildings connected by beautiful courtyards and gardens. Staying here feels like visiting a wealthy friend’s Charleston home rather than a traditional hotel. Each room is different, decorated with antiques and local artwork. The courtyards are perfect for enjoying morning coffee or evening wine, surrounded by lush gardens and historic architecture.

The Restoration Hotel sits in the historic French Quarter and was once a 19th-century warehouse. The renovation kept many original features like exposed brick walls and wooden beams while adding modern luxury. The rooms feel cozy and sophisticated, and the location puts you steps away from art galleries, restaurants, and historic sites.

Family-Friendly Resort Options

Families looking for the best hotels to stay in Charleston SC will find several resorts that cater specifically to travelers with children. These properties offer space, activities, and amenities that make family vacations easier and more fun.

Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms gives families the perfect combination of beach vacation and Charleston exploration. The resort sits right on the ocean with beautiful beaches, multiple pools, and golf courses. Kids love the beach activities and pool games, while parents appreciate the spa and golf. The resort offers different types of accommodations, from hotel rooms to vacation rentals, so families can choose what works best for their group size and budget.

The resort provides shuttle service to downtown Charleston, making it easy to explore the historic city during your stay. You can spend mornings on the beach and afternoons touring plantations or walking through the French Quarter.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort is another excellent family choice, especially for families who love outdoor activities. The resort has an amazing beach, several golf courses, bike trails, and nature programs for kids. The Ocean House hotel on the property offers luxury accommodations with ocean views, while vacation rentals give families more space and kitchen facilities.

The resort’s kids’ programs include beach activities, nature walks, and arts and crafts, giving parents some time to relax or enjoy adult activities like spa treatments or golf.

Historic Inns with Character

Some of the most memorable best hotels to stay in Charleston SC are the historic inns that have been welcoming guests for generations. These properties offer authentic Charleston experiences with stories and character you won’t find in newer hotels.

The Inn at Middleton Place sits on the grounds of the famous Middleton Place plantation and gardens. Staying here feels like stepping back in time, with rooms overlooking the Ashley River and landscaped gardens. The inn is quiet and peaceful, perfect for romantic getaways or anyone who wants to escape the busy city. You can explore the plantation and gardens without dealing with crowds, and the inn’s restaurant serves excellent Lowcountry cuisine.

Wentworth Mansion is a grand Victorian mansion turned luxury inn. This impressive building has beautiful architecture, elegant rooms, and a fascinating history. The mansion was built in the 1880s and has been carefully restored to showcase its original grandeur. Each room is uniquely decorated with period antiques and modern amenities. The rooftop cupola offers amazing views of the city and harbor.

The John Rutledge House Inn occupies the former home of a signer of the U.S. Constitution. This historic property lets you sleep in the same building where important American history was made. The rooms are decorated with antiques and period pieces, and the courtyard garden provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Waterfront and Harbor Views

Charleston’s beautiful waterfront location means many of the best hotels to stay in Charleston SC offer stunning water views and easy access to harbor activities. These hotels make the most of Charleston’s coastal setting.

The Harbor View Inn sits right on Charleston Harbor with unobstructed water views from most rooms. You can watch boats come and go, see dolphins playing in the water, and enjoy beautiful sunrises over the harbor. The hotel’s location on Vendue Range puts you within walking distance of Waterfront Park, the aquarium, and many restaurants and shops.

French Quarter Inn offers luxury accommodations with some rooms featuring harbor views and others overlooking the historic French Quarter. The hotel provides champagne and cookies each evening, and the staff offers exceptional service. The location is perfect for exploring Charleston’s art galleries, antique shops, and historic sites on foot.

The Ryder Hotel Charleston is a newer property that focuses on modern design while celebrating Charleston’s maritime heritage. Many rooms have harbor views, and the hotel’s restaurant and bar offer waterfront dining. The property includes a fitness center and meeting spaces, making it popular with both leisure and business travelers.

Budget-Friendly Quality Options

Not all of the best hotels to stay in Charleston SC require a luxury budget. Several properties offer excellent value while maintaining quality and good locations.

Hampton Inn & Suites Historic District provides reliable accommodations right in the heart of Charleston. The hotel offers free breakfast, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool with city views. While it may not have the character of boutique properties, it delivers comfort and convenience at a reasonable price.

The location puts you within walking distance of major attractions, and the hotel provides maps and recommendations to help you explore the city. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with modern amenities and good WiFi for staying connected.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston Downtown offers another solid budget option with a great location. The hotel provides free breakfast, a fitness center, and parking (which can be expensive in downtown Charleston). The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about local attractions and restaurants.

Plantation and Resort Experiences

For travelers who want to experience Charleston’s plantation history and natural beauty, some best hotels to stay in Charleston SC offer unique plantation and resort settings outside the city center.

Inn & Club at Britain’s plantation provides a luxury resort experience on a former rice plantation. The property includes a golf course, spa, tennis courts, and beautiful grounds for walking or biking. The accommodations range from hotel rooms to villa rentals, and the restaurant serves excellent food using local ingredients.

The resort offers activities like kayaking, fishing, and nature tours, giving guests a chance to experience the Lowcountry’s natural environment. It’s about 30 minutes from downtown Charleston, providing a peaceful retreat while still allowing easy access to city attractions.

Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Hotel

When selecting among the best hotels to stay in Charleston SC, consider what matters most for your trip. If you want to walk everywhere and be in the heart of the action, choose a downtown hotel. For beach time and family activities, consider Isle of Palms or Kiawah Island resorts.

Think about your budget and what amenities are important to you. Some travelers prefer character and history over modern luxury, while others want the newest facilities and technology. Charleston offers both options at various price points.

Consider the time of year you’re visiting. Summer can be very hot and humid, making a hotel with a good pool or spa more valuable. Spring and fall offer the best weather for walking around the city and spending time outdoors.

Making Your Reservation

The best hotels to stay in Charleston SC fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall. Book your accommodations as early as possible, particularly if you’re visiting during popular events like the Spoleto Festival or holiday weekends.

Many hotels offer package deals that include dining credits, spa treatments, or activity vouchers. These packages can provide good value and help you experience more of what Charleston has to offer.

Don’t forget to ask about parking when you make your reservation. Downtown Charleston parking can be expensive and limited, so knowing your hotel’s parking situation ahead of time helps you plan better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best area to stay in Charleston for first-time visitors? A: Historic Downtown is ideal for first-time visitors. You can walk to major attractions, restaurants, and shops. The French Quarter and areas near Market Street offer the most convenience and Charleston atmosphere.

Q: Are Charleston hotels expensive? A: Charleston hotel prices vary widely. Luxury downtown hotels and resort properties can be quite expensive, especially during peak seasons. However, you can find good mid-range options and some budget-friendly hotels that still offer quality accommodations.

Q: Do I need a car if I stay in downtown Charleston? A: No, you don’t need a car for downtown Charleston. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. However, if you want to visit plantations, beaches, or other areas outside downtown, a car or tour transportation is helpful.

Q: What’s the best time to book Charleston hotels? A: Book as early as possible, especially for spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) visits. These are peak seasons with the best weather. Summer can be less expensive but very hot and humid.

Q: Do Charleston hotels offer free breakfast? A: Many mid-range and budget hotels offer complimentary breakfast. Luxury and boutique hotels typically don’t include breakfast but often have excellent on-site restaurants. Check when booking to avoid surprises.

Q: Are pets allowed in Charleston hotels? A: Many Charleston hotels are pet-friendly, but policies vary. Some charge pet fees or have size restrictions. Always call ahead to confirm pet policies and make arrangements for your furry travel companions.