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Colorful historic buildings lining a street in Charleston, SC, with a horse-drawn carriage and pedestrians, showcasing the city's charm and coastal beauty.

Charleston, SC

Explore Charleston, SC

Charleston, SC

Charleston, SC: Southern Charm & Coastal Beauty

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city rich in history, charm, and coastal beauty. Known for its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, world-class cuisine, and warm hospitality, Charleston offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation. Whether you're strolling through the historic district, exploring beautiful plantations, or enjoying fresh seafood by the waterfront, Charleston is a must-visit destination for history buffs, foodies, and beach lovers alike.

Learn MoreColorful historic buildings lining a street in Charleston, SC, with a horse-drawn carriage and pedestrians, showcasing the city's charm and coastal beauty.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Charleston, SC

    Charleston has a warm coastal climate, making it a great year-round destination, but conditions vary:

    • March–May (Spring): Best for blooming gardens, warm weather, and food & wine festivals.
    • June–August (Summer): Great for beaches, harbor cruises, and lively nightlife but expect heat & humidity.
    • September–November (Fall): Ideal for cooler weather, oyster festivals, and fewer crowds.
    • December–February (Winter): A quiet season with mild temperatures and festive holiday charm.

    • The Battery & White Point Garden – A historic waterfront promenade with antebellum mansions and stunning harbor views.
    • Rainbow Row – A picturesque row of colorful historic homes, perfect for photos.
    • Charleston City Market – A historic open-air market offering local crafts, art, and sweetgrass baskets.
    • Fort Sumter National Monument – The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
    • Magnolia Plantation & Gardens – One of the most beautiful and historic plantations in the South.
    • Boone Hall Plantation – Famous for its oak-lined driveway and history of Gullah culture.
    • King Street Shopping District – A vibrant area filled with boutiques, antique shops, and fine dining.
    • Shem Creek Boardwalk – A scenic spot for dining, kayaking, and spotting dolphins.
    • Charleston Harbor & Waterfront Park – Home to the famous Pineapple Fountain and stunning harbor views.
    • Sullivan’s Island & Folly Beach – Two of Charleston’s best beaches for relaxation and water sports.

    • Shrimp & Grits – A classic Lowcountry dish made with creamy grits and fresh local shrimp.
    • She-Crab Soup – A rich and creamy soup featuring fresh crab meat and a touch of sherry.
    • Frogmore Stew (Lowcountry Boil) – A mix of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes boiled with spices.
    • Hush Puppies – Deep-fried cornmeal bites, often served with seafood.
    • Oysters on the Half Shell – Freshly shucked local oysters, best enjoyed in fall & winter.
    • Fried Green Tomatoes – A Southern favorite, crispy and served with pimento cheese or remoulade sauce.
    • Benne Wafers – Sesame seed cookies unique to Charleston, with a sweet and nutty flavor.
    • Pecan Pie – A classic Southern dessert, rich and sweet with toasted pecans.

    • Flights: Arrive at Charleston International Airport (CHS), just 12 miles from downtown.
    • Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring plantations, beaches, and nearby towns.
    • Walking: The historic district is best explored on foot.
    • Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA): Offers buses and free DASH trolleys downtown.
    • Bikes & Golf Carts: Available for rent in popular areas like Sullivan’s Island and King Street.
    • Rideshares & Taxis: Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Charleston.
    • Harbor & Riverboat Cruises: A fun way to see the city from the water.

    • For U.S. travelers: No passport or visa required.
    • For international travelers: A valid passport is required, and a visa may be necessary depending on your country.
    • Visitors from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries: May need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).

    • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD).
    • Credit cards are widely accepted, even in small businesses.
    • ATMs are available throughout Charleston, including in hotels, shopping districts, and the airport.
    • Currency exchange services are available at Charleston International Airport and major banks.

    • English is the primary language spoken.
    • Gullah is a unique creole language spoken by some descendants of enslaved Africans in the Lowcountry.
    • Most tourist attractions and restaurants have English-speaking staff.

    • Charleston is known for its Southern hospitality—greet people with a smile and be polite.
    • Tipping is customary (15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and for taxi/rideshare drivers).
    • Respect historical sites, especially those related to slavery and the Civil War.
    • Dress codes are more formal in fine dining restaurants—smart casual is recommended.
    • Beach rules: Leave no trace, respect dunes, and avoid loud music in family-friendly areas.

    • Restaurants: 18–20% tip is standard for good service.
    • Bars: $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the total bill.
    • Hotels: $2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
    • Taxis & Rideshares: 10–15% tip is appreciated.
    • Tour Guides & Excursions: $10–20 per person for great service.

    • For peak season (Spring & Fall): Book 3–6 months in advance for flights and hotels.
    • For summer beach vacations: Book at least 4–6 months ahead for the best selection.
    • For historic tours and ghost walks: Reserve at least 1–2 weeks ahead, especially on weekends.
    • For fine dining reservations: Book at least 2–4 weeks in advance for popular restaurants.

    • COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but check for any updates before traveling.
    • Some plantations require advance reservations, especially for guided tours.
    • Parking in the historic district is limited—consider using public transportation or rideshares.