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Charleston, South Carolina, is a city that effortlessly blends history, charm, and coastal beauty. Whether you’re wandering its cobblestone streets, indulging in fresh seafood by the water, or soaking up the sun on nearby beaches like Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island, Charleston offers something for every type of traveler. In this blog, we’re sharing two takes on the Holy City and its surrounding areas — from historic tours and culinary adventures in Mount Pleasant to relaxing beach days and scenic Lowcountry drives. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a bit of both, Charleston’s rich culture and laid-back vibe make it a destination you’ll want to visit again and again.

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The Same

The Family headed down to South Carolina to meet up with the DINKs in Charleston. Despite it being winter, the weather was beautiful, making it a perfect weekend to explore. They spent their time wandering through historic downtown, admiring festive holiday decorations, and soaking up the charm of the Lowcountry coast.

Welcome Center

The Charleston Visitor Center, located at 375 Meeting Street, is a fantastic starting point for any trip to Charleston. Housed in a historic former railroad depot, the welcome center offers maps, brochures, and expert advice from friendly staff who can help you plan your visit. You’ll find information on tours, historic sites, dining, and local events, as well as a small gift shop with Charleston-themed souvenirs. The center also serves as a hub for many trolley tours, making it a convenient spot to kick off your exploration of the city.

Explore Historic Downtown Charleston

Wander the cobblestone streets and take in the colorful historic homes along Rainbow Row. Don’t miss the Battery waterfront promenade, where you’ll get stunning views of the harbor and some of the city’s oldest antebellum mansions.

• King Street for Shopping and Nightlife: King Street is the heart of Charleston’s shopping and entertainment scene, offering everything from boutiques and antiques to craft cocktail bars and rooftop lounges. Whether you want to shop or sip, this street delivers.
• Charleston City Market: This historic market, operating since the 1800s, is a great spot to shop for local crafts, sweetgrass baskets, and Lowcountry cuisine. It’s a lively spot to soak up local culture and chat with artisans.
• Marion Square is a historic park in the heart of downtown Charleston, covering 6.5 acres. Originally the site of a military parade ground in the 18th century, today it serves as a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The square is home to monuments, fountains, and open green space, and often hosts farmers markets, festivals, and special events.
• The Battery & White Point Garden: The Battery, a waterfront promenade lined with grand antebellum mansions. White Point Garden, located at the southern tip, features Civil War cannons and shaded paths beneath live oaks.
• Waterfront Park & Pineapple Fountain: This peaceful park along the harbor, known for its iconic pineapple fountain, a symbol of Southern hospitality. It’s a great spot to relax, take photos, and soak up views of the Cooper River.
• Joe Riley Waterfront Park is one of Charleston’s most beloved green spaces, offering stunning views of Charleston Harbor. With picturesque gardens, shaded swings, and wide open lawns, it’s an ideal place to unwind after exploring the historic district.
• The Walled City Plaque in Charleston marks the spot where the original walled fortifications once stood, dating back to the late 1600s when Charleston was a fortified colonial settlement. This plaque, located near East Bay Street, helps visitors understand the city’s early history as one of the only walled cities in North America. It offers a glimpse into how Charleston defended itself against pirates, Native American attacks, and European rivals.
• Rainbow Row: Just a short stroll away, Rainbow Row is a collection of 13 pastel-colored historic homes along East Bay Street. This is one of Charleston’s most photographed streets and a must-see for anyone exploring the city.
• French Quarter & St. Philip’s Church: Wander into the French Quarter, home to art galleries, historic buildings, and St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, which boasts a distinctive steeple used by ships as a navigational aid.

The DINKs

The DINKs lived just 2-3 hours from Charleston for over 20 years, making frequent visits to the area. Their trips often included beach days at Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island, as well as excursions into downtown to soak in Charleston’s rich history and renowned culinary scene.

Relax On the Beach: Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island

These nearby barrier islands are perfect for a beach day with wide sandy shores, gentle waves, and plenty of spots for a casual seafood lunch. Sullivan’s Island also has historical charm, including Fort Moultrie, and Isle of Palms offers great family-friendly amenities.

Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant

If you want that perfect combo of waterfront views, local seafood, and laid-back Lowcountry vibes, Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant is the spot.

• Red’s Ice House – Classic, no-frills bar right on the water. Expect cold beers, fried seafood baskets, and lots of boat-watching. Super chill.
• Water’s Edge – A little more upscale, but still relaxed. Good for a nice dinner if you want something a little fancier without going over the top.
• The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene – A local gem (a bit hidden), with seriously fresh seafood and authentic Lowcountry vibes. Feels like a seafood shack your uncle would take you to — and that’s a good thing.

There’s a lot to do beyond just eating and drinking at the waterfront restaurants. If you want to really soak in the vibe (and maybe spot some dolphins while you’re at it.)

• Walk the Shem Creek Boardwalk: The boardwalk stretches out over the marsh and offers incredible views of the creek, shrimp boats, and even downtown Charleston in the distance.
• Kayak or Paddleboard on Shem Creek: There are several outfitters right along the creek where you can rent kayaks or paddleboards. Paddling out gives you a front-row seat to the wildlife (and yes, dolphins often swim alongside you if you’re lucky!). WARNING: Check the tide scheduled. We made the mistake of going as a king tide was going out and struggled in our inflatable kayak. (Those in real ones didn’t seem to struggle as much.)
• Watch for Dolphins + Other Wildlife: Besides dolphins, you might spot Pelicans dive-bombing for fish or Egrets and herons hanging out in the marsh. Best dolphin times: Around sunset when the creek is quieter.

Restaurants and Breweries

Charleston’s food scene is legendary, so whether you’re looking for lowcountry classics, upscale dining, or casual waterfront vibes, the city delivers. We mainly stick to low countries classics and loca breweries. Here are some of our favorits.

• Hyman’s Seafood is a Charleston staple, known for serving up fresh, flavorful seafood in a charming, historic setting. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s famous for dishes like their lowcountry boil, shrimp & grits, and she-crab soup, offering a true taste of the coast in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
• Bertha’s Kitchen: A Charleston institution, Bertha’s Kitchen serves up some of the best soul food in the city, with dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread that will make you feel right at home in this no-frills, family-run restaurant.
• Locals Sushi & Sports Pub: They serve a variety of fresh sushi rolls, as well as traditional Japanese fare. Their menu also includes a good selection of pub-style food, making it an ideal spot for those craving a little bit of everything. They often run half-price sushi deals during happy hour, typically in the afternoon to early evening. They also have a great list of craft beers on tap.
• Firefly Distillery: A relaxed, outdoor-friendly space with a cozy tasting room and plenty of room to roam. It’s set on a picturesque property with a large lawn, making it a great spot for hanging out with friends, enjoying live music, and sampling local spirits.
• Holy City Brewery: Known for its craft beers and welcoming vibe, Holy City Brewery offers a variety of unique brews and a relaxed atmosphere with a spacious taproom and outdoor seating perfect for enjoying a cold one with friends.
• Stone’s Throw Brewing (Goose Creek): Super laid-back and welcoming, with a strong focus on being a neighborhood spot. It’s very community-driven — think family-friendly, dog-friendly, and all about supporting local.

Visit the Angel Oak Tree

A short drive from downtown, this ancient live oak on Johns Island is over 400 years old and one of the most photographed natural sites in the area. Its sprawling branches and majestic presence make it a must-see.

Summary

Whether exploring Charleston as a couple or with family in tow, the Holy City never disappoints. For the DINKs, it’s a place filled with memories of spontaneous beach trips, foodie adventures, and uncovering historic gems. For the Family, it offered the perfect blend of coastal beauty, educational moments, and festive fun. No matter the season or the travel crew, Charleston’s Southern charm, rich history, and coastal magic make it a destination worth returning to again and again.