These are places I would recommend to any of my visiting friends. There are too many options to name, so just because I haven't listed it doesn't mean it's not a great option. This city is full of fun things to do!
Map
Sections
5
The best pampering spot!
Restaurants
Beaches
Touristy things
Kid friendly options of fun things to do around town
The best pampering spot!
I think I have done almost all the things available and loved each and every one of them!
My absolute favorite place for facials. The owner is very passionate about what she does and has created an amazing atmosphere to help you relax. The more time you can spend here the better.
Tea Flower Skincare
2
Restaurants
Feel free to comment if you have questions on suggestions!
This is a must do if you are able to get reservations while here. This restaurant takes reservations and everyone comes in all at once for a seating. There is no menu, so if you are not an adventurous eater this may not be the place for you. The chefs choose your menu (they will accommodate food allergies) and serve it to the 15-20 people all at once. This is a smaller more intimate dining experience unlike anything else I've experienced. I have tried some food at dinners there that I would never have tried anywhere else but was so delicious. Truly this is an experience.
R Kitchen
Drinks at Husk is a must. The restaurant receives a lot of attention and has been great when I've gone, but the bar keeps drawing me back. I love how small it is and the exposed brick and the Charleston feel. You aren't always able to get a seat inside, but I recommend sitting at the bar if you are able. It is so fun and entertaining to watch the bartenders in the hustle and bustle creating some wonderful drinks. The Dragoon's punch is my personal favorite!
Husk
See if you can get reservations for Sunday's gospel brunch or for any celebratory meal before coming into town. Hall's is top notch for their customer service. If you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary they make sure to treat you extra special and it is such a nice treat. It is a high end steakhouse, so this is not an everyday destination, but I have always enjoyed every meal there. I would say if you end up there for dinner their Pepperjack corn is so dang good. On Sunday's they have gospel singers sing in the restaurant during brunch, and don't worry if you get seated upstairs the singers will make sure you aren't left out and will move to make sure everyone can enjoy it. They have an excellent burger and the steaks are great as well!
Halls Chophouse | Multi-location Steakhouse
If you want a feel good coffee, go to Bitty and Beau's! They hire people with disabilities that are so excited to work and serve you coffee. I personally don't drink coffee but have gotten a smoothie and it was such a heart warming experience that made me smile so big.
Bitty & Beau's Coffee | It's More Than a Cup of Coffee
Go grab dinner with a view of Shem Creek. Watch boats come and go, and maybe see some dolphins swim by!
Tavern & Table
One of our favorite spots to take our dog for outdoor breakfast or brunch.
Lost Dog Cafe
Great option for a good fried seafood dinner with a view. This restaurant has been in films and pretty sure it was in OBX too.
Bowens Island Restaurant - Folly Beach, Charleston, SC
Beaches
For the most laid back beach I would recommend going to Folly. If you swing through to Folly you gotta make a stop at Bert's Market for your beach beverages and snacks! They may doze but they never close….
Visit Folly Beach - Official Visitor's Site | Charleston's Beach ...
Best beach option with great food within walking distance. Hit up Poe's, Home Team, or really anywhere on Sullivans for the good food!
Sullivan's Island Beach
I would say I would consider this the most kid friendly of the beach options we have.
Isle of Palms Beach
Touristy things
Hop on a Ferry and see Charleston from a different point of view without having to rent your own boat.
Fort Sumter Tours
Go visit the Yorktown and go up to the flight deck to get an unbelievable view of the Ravenel Bridge.
USS Yorktown CV-10
Feeling active? Go walk or run the bridge for an incredible view of the city.
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
Check out a ghost tour while in town. Great way to hear some cool stories while visiting some iconic spots in Charleston.
Best Haunted Ghost Walking Tours in Charleston, SC
Prefer to suggest this one when it is not the peak of the hot season, for you and the horses. Great way to cover some territory and hearing some history at the same time.
Historic Charleston Carriage Tours & Rides
Beautiful historical place to visit and take a stroll on the water.
White Point Garden
Have a chance to see this beautiful tree, it is incredible to see in person.
Angel Oak Tree
A little bit of trek out of downtown Charleston, but you can go see one of the places where the Notebook had some iconic scenes and enjoy the beauty of the nature out there.
Cypress Gardens
Kid friendly options of fun things to do around town
While I don't have children I have lots of family who likes to visit.
The aquarium is such a fun place to stop with kiddos in tow. Even as a local the aquarium doesn't get old.
South Carolina Aquarium
Great rainy day activity for the little one's in your world. I would say this museum is most entertaining for those 10 and under.
Children's Museum of the Lowcountry
This is a great activity for the more adventurous tweens, older kids, or adult friends.