Charleston Beach Day and Mini Travel Guide

Charleston, South Carolina has been my family’s destination of choice for years. We visit 1-3 times a year – as often as possible, really. There is just something about the friendly people, beautiful weather, and all the history and charm that keeps us coming back for more each year. And just last month, we spent an entire week there for my sister’s wedding. It was magic.

There is so much to do and see in Charleston, so I also wanted to share our Charleston beach day and a mini travel guide for those of you who are planning an upcoming trip! 

charleston travel guide
charleston beach day

Charleston Travel Tips

We usually stay at Wild Dunes Resort, which is actually in Isle of Palms, right outside of Charleston. This is one of our favorite places to stay because you truly get the best of both worlds—the beach + downtown Charleston, which is only 20 minutes or so from the resort. This is also where my sister got married—the staff and the grounds are always top notch!

So, if you’re staying in Isle of Palms or somewhere on the outskirts of the city of Charleston, plan to rent a car or take frequent Uber rides. However, once you’re in Charleston, getting most places on foot is no problem at all. Another quick tip: Heels + cobblestone streets = super cute, but way more difficult than you’d think… Trust me. :/ Since most places in downtown Charleston are easy to walk to and filled with original cobblestone, you’ll probably want to dress accordingly and wear comfortable shoes.

charleston beach day

Charleston Packing Tips

Charleston can get pretty warm in the summer, y’all.  And we’re talking about the South, so I mean, HOT and HUMID! Plan to pack some breezy dresses, flowy tops, skirts, sneakers, a hat, sunscreen and bug spray! I repeat… Do not forget the bug spray! But, depending on the month you visit, the evenings can get cooler, so a light jacket or sweater is a good idea too!

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charleston travel guide
charleston travel guide

Charleston is truly a place I think everyone should visit at some point. So if you are ever there, be sure to check out some of the most popular, and some of my personal favorite, spots in Charleston! See below for a mini travel guide on where to eat and what to see.

  • Brown Dog Deli, 40 Broad St. – Great lunch spot!
  • Fleet Landing, 186 Concord St. – Great for happy hour or dinner!
  • Sugar Bakeshop, 59 ½ Cannon St. – This is where my sister got her wedding cake and cupcakes. YUM!
  • Blind Tiger Pub, 36-38 Broad St. – One of my favorite places to grab a drink! Such cool vibes here and the cutest courtyard!
  • King Street – Tons of shopping and places to eat here. Some of my favorite shops are Hampden, Skinny Dip, and Mac & Murphy.
  • Rainbow Row, 79-109 East Bay St – Probably one of the most photographed places in Charleston, but a must if you’ve never been. *Bonus: be sure to find the infamous pink door located at 126 Tradd St. if you’re looking for that super cute, Instagram-worthy shot!
  • Battery Park + Waterfront, 1 Vendue Range – Embrace the Southern way of living and sit back, and enjoy the beautiful park and pier waterfront. Be sure to find the infamous pineapple water fountain!
  • Charleston City Market, 188 Meeting St. – A cute market filled with locally made trinkets and treasures.
  • Boone Hall Plantation, 1235 Long Point Rd. – If you love history, make sure to visit one of the oldest working plantations in the country.
charleston
charleston travel guide
charleston travel guide

Charleston Beach Day and Mini Travel Guide

Have you been to Charleston or are you planning a trip there soon? This mini travel guide doesn’t nearly scratch the surface on what to do! Let me know some of your favorite places in the comments below!