2024 Charleston, SC Vacation Guide: Discover the Best Restaurants, Hotels, and Things to Do

Charleston is a top vacation destination for good reason. It’s almost entirely walkable and jam-packed with award-winning restaurants, incredible shopping, history, culture, and friendly people. It’s beautiful, from the historic rainbow houses to the lush, lowcountry scenery. With four stunning beaches nearby, it’s always a good time of year in Charleston!

Wills surprise marriage proposal to Emma in historic downtown Charleston, SC 

WHERE TO STAY

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The Dewberry

Venture off island to The Hemingway for gourmet coffee, southern chicken biscuits and tasty ricotta toast. The elevated cafe offers a quality breakfast menu, full coffee bar and exquisite wine and beer menu. 

The Pinch

Right in the heart of King Street is a tiny little hotel aptly named The Pinch. The location can’t be beat, with the city’s best restaurants and shops literally outside your door, and the rooms are oversized and chic.    

RESTAURANTS

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Breakfast

Harken

Harken may have a line out the door, but it’s worth the wait! The bustling coffee shop in the historic district serves the best breakfast sandwich in town, delicious coffee, and enormous cookies.

Marina Variety Store

The Marina Variety Store is an institution and local favorite. Perched above the Ashley River and overlooking the marina, it’s an authentic, throwback diner and old-fashioned seafood restaurant. The no-frills ambiance is endearing, and the view is outstanding. If there’s a wait for a table, you can wander out to the docks to check out the boats.

Lunch

Basic Kitchen

Basic Kitchen has something for everyone! It is healthy yet incredibly delicious, and the back courtyard is a great place to relax after a day of shopping downtown. Don’t leave without trying the cauli wings appetizer!

Leon’s

Known for their fried chicken, oysters and lively ambiance, Leon’s draws a mix of foodie tourists and locals. It is located in an old garage, and the garage doors stay open most of the year. There are tasty salads, sandwiches, cocktails and even ice cream cones (with sprinkles!) for dessert! 

Lewis Barbeque

You can’t come to Charleston without hitting up at least one BBQ joint! Every local has their favorite, but most can agree that Lewis is incredible. Order your cut and sides indoors (served on an old school cafeteria tray with brown paper, naturally) and then head outside to eat under the trees at one of the casual picnic tables. Like most things in Charleston, it’s authentic with an extra dose of sophistication.

Dinner

Melfi’s

For a special occasion or a fancy night on the town, Melfi’s is the perfect date-night restaurant. Its traditional Italian menu is complemented by impeccable service in a romantic atmosphere. 

Chubby Fish

Chubby Fish doesn’t take reservations, so you’ll have to go early and plan to wait. The tiny corner restaurant is well worth it, though, with its eclectic and innovative offering of seafood dishes. It’s loud, fast, and good!

Rue De Jean

Rue De Jean is a Charleston staple. It is as reliable as it is tasty. The large french restaurant is excellent for groups or sitting at the bar! It’s where you take your visiting parents or grab a quick bite before a show at the Music Hall.

THINGS TO DO

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Shopping

King Street is known for its stores! There are local shops and big name brands all mixed in together. A few favorites are Marine Layer, Halfmoon Outfitters, Hampden Clothing, Finicky Filly and the Tiny Tassel.  

Visit Parks

Charleston Waterfront Park is where you will find the iconic- often photographed- pineapple fountain. Overlooking the Charleston Harbor, it’s a quiet place perfect for a picnic or lazy afternoon. Hampton Park offers 60 acres of gorgeously maintained nature, with a fitness trail, duck pond, gazebo and playground We love to go on weekends with bikes or scooters to explore, climb the ancient oak trees and feed the ducks. It is also next to The Citadel, which is fun to drive through!

Charleston Aquarium

Head downtown to the Charleston Aquarium for an incredible experience! From the touch tank to hands-on exhibits, it’s full of interactive fun for all ages. 

Patriot’s Point

A visit to the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum is both educational and exciting for kids and adults alike. Tour the enormous USS Yorktown aircraft carrier and more.