The beautiful waterfront city of Charleston is the oldest and largest city in South Carolina and is a popular tourist destination because of its wide variety of things to do and see. From the historic downtown area and shopping district to the picturesque waterfront and nearby beaches, this charming city has something for every age, taste and budget. And one of the best ways to see Charleston is to stay at one of the area’s many resorts. Whether you’re looking for something family friendly or want to be in the lap of luxury, these resorts will give you everything you need for the perfect vacation and then some.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Kiawah Island Golf Resort was named the #1 Best Resort in Charleston by U.S. News and World Report in 2018. And as soon as you step foot on this gorgeous property, you’ll know why. Situated oceanfront on the pristine beaches of Kiawah Island, the resort combines the best of natural beauty with modern convenience and luxury. In addition to the lapping waves of the ocean, a walk through the property also reveals small lagoons and natural marshlands. Guests can choose to stay in one of three different types of accommodations – a guest room at The Sanctuary Hotel, a resort villa or an entire private home, and can enjoy a host of amenities like a five-star spa, an award-winning tennis complex, three swimming pools and a whopping five championship golf courses.
Wild Dunes Resort
The Wild Dunes Resort is located on the Isle of Palms, just a short drive from downtown Charleston. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family or bringing the whole clan in for a reunion, you’ll find an accommodation here to fit your needs. The AAA Four-Diamond Boardwalk Inn is located right on the beach and within walking distance to the boardwalk, and offers bright and airy guest rooms and suites. While the Village at Wild Dunes offers a variety of one, two and three bedroom suites, as well as penthouses, all of which are decorated with casual elegance. No matter where you stay in the resort, you can take advantage of its many offerings including beach and bicycle rentals, swimming pools, golf, tennis, a fitness center and even full, multi-course dinners delivered straight to your door.
Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina
Located just outside of the city of Charleston, in Mount Pleasant, is the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina. This beautiful, nautical-themed resort amazing waterfront views of the Charleston Harbor, as well as the downtown city skyline in the background. Guest rooms are decorated with brightly colored décor and feature coffeemakers, refrigerators and 42” flat screen televisions. While the resort itself offers multiple swimming pools, a 30,000 square foot party deck with cabanas, fire pits and games, a marina store, full-service spa and fitness center, free trolley rides downtown and a variety of dining options on-site. The marina also includes more than 450 slips to anchor your boat, as well as a Water Taxi that will take you from the resort to Waterfront Park and Aquarium Wharf.
Belmond Charleston Place
The elegant Belmond Charleston Place combines the serenity and luxury of a spa resort with the convenience of a downtown hotel. From the ornate fountain out front and grand staircase in the lobby to the plush beds and Italian marble bathrooms, you’ll feel pampered from the moment you arrive. During your visit, you can enjoy a relaxing treatment at the on-site spa, have your hair and make-up done at the Elysium Salon and enjoy a gourmet snack or full meal at one of the hotel’s five on-site restaurants and lounges. During the warmer weather, you’ll definitely want to check out the rooftop saltwater pool that overlooks the city and order some of their infamous truffle fries delivered straight to you poolside.
The Dewberry Charleston
The Dewberry in Charleston is an experience unlike anything else. It’s housed in a historic Federal building from 1964 and is the creation of founder, John Dewberry. When designing the hotel, he aimed for a vision of “Southern Reimagined,” which is evident in the property’s unique mix of historic and contemporary touches. The immaculately designed guest rooms feature armoires that were custom designed by a local artist, Irish linen bedding, plush bathrobes and seasonal in-room refreshment bars that are curated by the hotel’s chef. On the property, guests can enjoy botanical treatments featuring local ingredients at the spa, access to the personal concierge team, bicycles for rent and even use of the hotel’s house cars.
Wentworth Mansion
The Wentworth Mansion is every bit as grand as the name implies. Although it’s exquisitely decorated with crystal chandeliers, Tiffany stained glass and hand-carved marble accents, it’s also warm and welcoming with its unique set of amenities that includes a full breakfast, afternoon wine and hors-d’oeuvres, port, sherry and brandy served in the evenings, and night turndown service with housemade chocolates. The home’s 21 guest rooms also feature luxurious touches like fireplaces, oversized whirlpool tubs, fresh flowers and the morning newspaper at your door. The Spa at Wentworth Mansion offers a variety of massages, facials and other spa treatments in a rustic, relaxing atmosphere. And Circa 1886, the on-site restaurant named for the home’s history, serves up lighter, healthier versions of traditional Lowcountry cuisine.
