Historic homes, gardens and waterfront views help make Charleston, SC, an amazing destination. The city offers plenty to see and do, but accommodations play a huge role in shaping Charleston getaways. The ideal hotel will provide easy access to the Lowcountry's finest sights while also feeling true to Charleston's charming atmosphere.
From beachfront to contemporary and historic hotels, there are many types of accommodations worth exploring in and around Charleston. Selecting the right place to stay depends on which attractions you hope to check out and what type of getaway you crave. To help you plan your adventure, we've highlighted several of the best hotels in Charleston, SC, along with need-to-know details about rooms, amenities, parking and more.
Best Luxury Hotels in Charleston, SC
Staying at one of the more highly regarded luxury hotels in Charleston, SC, can significantly enhance your visit by providing exceptional comfort and top-tier amenities. These prestigious accommodations offer an unparalleled experience, ensuring a memorable and relaxing stay in this charming city.
John Rutledge House Inn
- Address: 116 Broad St, Charleston, SC
- Parking: $18 per day
- AAA Diamond Rating: Four Diamond
- Offerings: Continental breakfast, afternoon tea, evening drink, turndown service
John Rutledge was famously a delegate for the Constitutional Convention and even served as the President of South Carolina. It would be an understatement to refer to him as an important historical figure, so it's easy to see the appeal of staying at his former home. The house was famously visited by George Washington and later, renovated to include stunning parquet floors imitating those found in German castles.
Today, the John Rutledge House Inn pampers each guest with a deluxe continental breakfast that can be enjoyed in the courtyard or piazza. This is followed by iced tea and appetizers in the afternoon and even port, sherry, or brandy for a nightcap. The rooms are beautiful, with many featuring canopy beds and period antiques. Soaring ceilings and an Italian marble gas fireplace add to the inherent elegance of this hotel.
Planters Inn
- Address: 112 N Market St, Charleston, SC
- Parking: Valet parking for $45 per night
- AAA Diamond Rating: Four Diamond
- Offerings: Onsite bar and restaurant, cookies in the lobby, turndown service
If you prefer to remain in the center of all the action, Charleston's Planters Inn may be your best bet. Built in 1844, this historic gem rests at the corner of Market & Meeting Street, making it an amazing fit for a walkable vacation. As the only Relais & Châteaux hotel in Charleston, the Planters Inn offers a luxury experience — so pampering can be expected.
Silk drapery, four-poster beds and travertine marble make it clear that elegance is a priority. Plush robes and Molton Brown bath products bring a spa-like experience to the bathrooms, while Italian linens support a wonderful night of sleep. Enjoy a slice of Ultimate Coconut Cake at the Peninsula or a classic cocktail in the lounge at Benne's. These indulgent details make this a top candidate for any list of Charleston's best hotels.
Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston, Autograph Collection
- Address: 55 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC
- Parking: Valet parking for $47 per night
- AAA Diamond Rating: Four Diamond
- Offerings: Wellness center, wine blending experience, wine bar, rooftop restaurant
Enjoy easy access to the City Market and other Charleston favorites while using the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston, Autograph Collection as a home base. This luxurious hotel makes an impression with its ornate styling; the headboard, in particular, makes guests feel like royalty. Beyond this, the distinctive artwork will have you gazing in awe.
The exclusive wine-blending experience is not to be missed; this winemaking journey allows guests to create their own amazing bottles of wine and is perfect for a memorable date night in Charleston. Continue the fine wine experience at the indoor-outdoor wine bar, where small plates and live music can be expected. Enjoy the epitome of rooftop dining at the sophisticated Élevé, which serves curated, coastal-inspired dishes.
Emeline
- Address: 181 Church St, Charleston, SC
- Parking: Valet parking for $20 per night
- AAA Diamond Rating: Four Diamond
- Offerings: Onsite bars and restaurants, wellness passports, bicycles, refreshment centers, fitness center
Conveniently situated on Charleston's iconic Church Street, the boutique hotel Emeline offers a modern twist on the concept of Southern hospitality. Cozy rooms and suites feature custom linens and provide access to spa robes, along with bath amenities from Makeready and Red Flower. Acclaimed Charleston artist Susan Gregory has created stunning accessories for the vanity.
Onsite restaurant Frannie & the Fox brings a wood-fired concept to the Charleston dining experience, featuring regional dishes with Italian flair. The restaurant has a hideaway known as The Den, where you can escape for a martini. Clerks Coffee Company offers a buzzing environment in the morning and trivia or open mic in the evening.
Best Family Hotels in Charleston, SC
Choosing to stay at a family-oriented hotel can benefit your trip by providing offerings that cater specifically to the needs of families. These hotels offer a range of amenities and services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for travelers of all ages and party sizes.
Hilton Club Liberty Place Charleston
- Address: 475 E Bay St, Charleston, SC
- Parking: Valet parking for $35 per night
- AAA Diamond Rating: Four Diamond
- Offerings: Onsite bar and restaurant, kitchens or kitchenettes, fitness center
Mere steps from Liberty Square, the Hilton Club Liberty Place Charleston has contemporary rooms and residential features that make longer stays extra comfortable and ideal for families. Rain showers and heated towel bars elevate the bathroom, while high thread counts make it easy to get a restful night's sleep. A Keurig coffee maker is provided, along with a kitchenette, although the suites add full kitchens and dining rooms.
Stop by the Muddle Cocktail Bar & Lounge to see talented mixologists at work or grab an acai bowl at the Beech Cafe and Marketplace, whose menu also features a kids menu. The fitness center has all the essential equipment and the courtyard provides a wonderful place to relax.
Residence at Sweetgrass at Wild Dunes Resort
- Address: 5804 Palmetto Dr, Isle of Palms, SC 29451
- Parking: $35 per night self-parking
- AAA Diamond Rating: Three Diamond
- Offerings: Cabanas, tennis courts, playgrounds, trails and fitness center
The Residence at Sweetgrass at Wild Dune Resort is one of the best options for a family-friendly hotel in Charleston. This condo complex in a gated community offers spacious studios and one to three-bedroom suites ranging from 300 to 4,000 square feet in living space. Families will love the on-site amenities that include playgrounds for kids, walking trails, bike rentals, resort pools and Turtle Cove, kid-friendly activity center with daily rotating activities that will keep the kids busy all day. Adults will love the golf courses, private shopping areas and the Spa at Sweetgrass, which offers a full spa menu and wellness classes.
Best Oceanfront Hotels in Charleston, SC
Finding oceanfront hotels in Charleston can elevate your trip by offering stunning views and immediate access to the beach. Staying at these hotels allows you to enjoy the beauty of the coastline and the convenience of beachside activities, ideal for those seeking a beach trip.
HarbourView Inn
- Address: 2 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC
- Parking: Valet parking is $40 per night or $50 per night for electric vehicles
- AAA Diamond Rating: Four Diamond
- Offerings: Rooftop terrace, complimentary breakfast, milk and cookies at night, tickets to the Charleston Museum
If you prefer a waterfront experience, you will adore Charleston's aptly named HarbourView Inn. Offering Southern-style accommodations, this intimate hotel delivers amazing views from its balconies and especially from the rooftop terrace. Prepare for indulgent waffle weave robes, Antica Farmacista bath products and even craft cocktail service.
The perfect day begins with a complimentary breakfast and continues with wine and cheese in the afternoon — and even milk and cookies to end the night in the coziest manner possible. The iconic waterfront park is easy to access, as are many other Charleston attractions. Personalize your stay with romantic red roses or a bottle of sparkling wine.
The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina
- Address: 20 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC
- Parking: First four hours $10.00 and $2.00 per hour thereafter with a $25.00 daily max.
- AAA Diamond Rating: Four Diamond
- Offerings: Full-service spa, waterfront pool, complimentary shuttle to downtown, on-site dining
The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina is an ideal oceanfront hotel for a Charleston trip, offering a luxurious and serene setting with stunning views of the harbor and easy access to the beach. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a full-service spa, a waterfront pool, and complimentary shuttle service to downtown Charleston. The resort also boasts several on-site dining options, providing a delightful culinary experience without having to leave the property.
The Beach Club offers a blend of comfort and elegance, alongside exceptional service and picturesque surroundings. The resort's convenient location allows for a relaxing beachside retreat while still being close to the vibrant attractions of Charleston. Its array of activities, such as paddleboarding, fishing charters and evening fire pits, makes it a perfect choice for both relaxation and adventure, ensuring a memorable stay for all visitors.
Best Affordable Hotels in Charleston, SC
Finding the best affordable hotels in Charleston, SC, can greatly enhance your visit by allowing you to enjoy the city's charm without breaking the bank. These budget-friendly accommodations provide comfort and convenience, ensuring a pleasant stay while leaving you with more resources to explore Charleston's attractions.
Cambria Hotel Charleston Riverview
- Address: 84 Ripley Point Dr, Charleston, SC
- Parking: Free
- AAA Diamond Rating: Three Diamond
- Offerings: Pool, exercise room, shuttle service
Providing easy access to the downtown district, the Cambria Hotel Charleston Riverview features contemporary vibes that make for a nice respite after spending long hours exploring historic attractions. Relax at the outdoor lounge, which features a pool and multiple fire pits. Enjoy craft beer or a cocktail at the Ripley Grill & Bar.
Shuttle service is available between Wednesday and Saturday, making it easier to explore Charleston during the evening. Free parking is a definite perk and one you won't find often in Charleston. Many rooms and suites include king beds. Other highlights include a Bluetooth mirror and a Keurig coffee maker.
Francis Marion Hotel
- Address: 387 King St, Charleston, SC
- Parking: Parking garage adjacent to hotel $2.00 per hour, with a maximum $18 a day
- AAA Diamond Rating: Three Diamond
- Offerings: Exercise room, spa, restaurant, full bar
Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, the Francis Marion Hotel offers easy access to the city's main attractions, including the Charleston Museum and Marion Square. Visitors can enjoy a range of amenities such as a fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi and on-site dining at the Swamp Fox Restaurant and Bar, serving Southern cuisine.
The hotel's comfortable rooms ensure a pleasant experience, while its central location allows visitors to explore Charleston's rich history and vibrant culture with ease. With its combination of value, convenience, and charm, the Francis Marion Hotel stands out as a top choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a genuine Charleston experience.
Plan Your Trip to Charleston with AAA
Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your trip to Charleston today. Dream up the perfect trip and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.
