Charleston’s southern hospitality, low country fare, and cultural attractions make it a favorite for a weekend getaway or family vacation. Impeccable service and complimentary gourmet breakfasts are no longer cutting edge in Charleston where hotels are outdoing each other to win the hearts and wallets of visitors from around the globe. Flight and Ferry’s editor tells you where to stay in Charleston, SC.
Charleston Luxury Trendy Hotels:
The Spectator Hotel, The Dewberry, The Restoration
Charleston Luxury Romantic Hotels:
Zero George Street, Wentworth Mansion, French Quarter Inn, Planters Inn
Charleston Luxury Family Hotels:
Beach Club Charleston Resort and Marina, Belmond Charleston Place, Mills House Wyndham, Harbourview Inn
Related Post: Fun Things to Do in Charleston With Kids
1. The Spectator Hotel
An award-winning 41-room hotel, The Spectator is inspired by the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Guests praise the over-the-top service (personal butlers!) and rave about the swanky Spectator Bar where the in-house mixologist serves up cocktails.
- Personal butlers assigned to each room
- Gourmet continental breakfast delivered to your door each morning
- Swanky lobby bar with Gatsby-like ambiance
- Within walking distance of shopping and restaurants
2. The Dewberry Charleston
This mid-century modern hotel is beautifully designed with the perfect mix of vintage and modern fixtures. Attentive service and a hip french brasserie make it a destination among Charleston’s in-the-know set. Guests are within walking distance of all the top shops on King Street.
- Within walking distance of shopping and restaurants
- The Citrus Club rooftop bar offers amazing views
- Valets will drive you to certain locations around the area for free
3. The Restoration
Newer to Charleston’s scene, The Restoration is a trendy, upscale hotel featuring 16 residences and hotel suites. Suites feature amenities from washers and dryers to full-sized kitchens. The rooftop restaurant and coffee shop are popular among guests.
- Complimentary breakfast delivered in a wicker picnic basket
- Rooftop restaurant and coffee shop on site
- Spacious rooms with apartment-like amenities
4. Zero George Street
Zero George is comprised of sixteen guest rooms and studios located in restored historic residences and two brick carriage houses. The property describes itself as “Southern chic” and guests will easily find relaxing spots to enjoy the intimate setting. Guests rave about top-notch service and attention to detail at every turn.
- Complimentary continental breakfast
- Relaxed, intimate setting with furnished outdoor piazzas and courtyards
- Impeccable service
5. Wentworth Mansion
This boutique 21-room hotel exudes the glamour and grandeur of the South. The hotel prides itself on the finest furnishings and amenities, including Italian crystal chandeliers and hand-carved marble fireplaces. Guests rave about the superb staff and fare at the on-site restaurant.
- Quiet location within walking distance of shopping and restaurants
- Wine and hors d’ouevres served every afternoon and daily breakfast in Circa 1886 included
- Spacious rooms and impeccable service
6. French Quarter Inn
This quiet 50-room hotel oozes Old World charm. Spacious rooms decorated in French-colonial decor offer a cozy respite from hours of walking around the historic port city. Guests rave about the complimentary champagne upon arrival and gourmet breakfast delivered to your room.
- Complimentary daily gourmet breakfast and wine and cheese evening reception
- Within walking distance of shopping and restaurants
- Impeccable service
7. Planters Inn
Southern hospitality abounds in this elegant hotel, which is part of the Relais and Chateaux luxury hotel collection. Planters Inn has 64 guestrooms, all appointed with four-poster beds and high end amenities. The Peninsula Grill in the Planters Inn is famous for its coconut cake.
- Elegant hotel with spacious rooms and high end amenities
- The Peninsula Grill on site restaurant is popular with guests
- Within walking distance of shopping and restaurants
8. The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina
Located across Charleston’s Harbor in Mt. Pleasant, this 92-room hotel is a resort property with decidedly less Old World charm compared to the boutique hotels in the historic district. For a minimal fee, a regular water taxi service takes guests to many stops along Charleston’s harbor including Waterfront Park and the Aquarium. A huge pool and kid activities make it a great option for families.
Related Post: Fun Things to Do in Charleston With Kids
- Spacious and well appointed rooms with balconies
- Large pool and children’s activities
- Conveniently located near water taxi to many Charleston attractions
9. Belmond Charleston Place
Located in the hear of the historic district, Belmond Charleston Place is the city’s largest luxury hotel with a total of 434 guest rooms, including 40 suites. Amenities include a rooftop pool, health club, and spa. The Shops at Belmond Charleston Place include Kate Spade, Louis Vuitton and Gucci.
- Spacious, luxurious rooms
- Amentities such as pool (heated year-round), health club and spa
- On-site restaurants and shopping
10. The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel
It’s hard to miss this full-service hotel and its stunning pink facade. The Mills House Wyndham offers many amenities you would expect in a luxury hotel, along with attentive service and attractions (i.e. pool) for the entire family. The location is close to restaurants and shopping, making it a convenient and popular choice.
- Walking distance to many restaurants and shopping
- Pool for the entire family to enjoy
- Large pool with shallow waters for young swimmers
- Conveniently located near water taxi to many attractions in Charleston
11. HarbourView Inn
Despite its location in the historic district, this modern hotel property overlooks the harbor and Waterfront Park and is within easy walking distance to restaurants and shops. Although there is no pool, kids can jump in the large fountain right outside the hotel’s front door.
Highlights
- Beautiful rooftop view of Charleston’s harbor
- Within steps to Waterfront Park and fountains
- Within walking distance of shopping and restaurants