Charleston is a fun blend of modern attractions and timeless southern hospitality and tradition. Visitors to this waterfront city have no shortage of accommodations to choose from — but certain spots stand out above others. Check out these ten boutique hotel properties that have either stood the test of time or changed the hospitality game by bringing fresh life into a charming city known for its cobblestone streets, pastel-painted houses, and colorful history.
The Best Boutique Hotels in Charleston, South Carolina
Many of these historic inns have been renovated to offer modern amenities but still feel as elegant and refined as they did back in the 1800s. Walk along the Battery promenade and Waterfront Park, which both overlook Charleston Harbor, to get the best of both worlds, soaking in a sense of history and seeing sights of the sparkling water. Also worth it, stroll along “Rainbow Row” and admire the pastel-colored historic homes located on East Bay Street, just along the Battery. Check out Matador’s guide to Charleston Airbnbs for more lodging options in the city.
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We hope you love these Charleston hotels! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
The Mills House
- Address: 115 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
- Starting from: $373 per night
Even though this property dates back to 1853, it doesn’t look a day over 129. The Mills House has stood the test of time in Charleston as a beloved pink landmark, one of the city’s leading icons due to its commitment to Southern hospitality. It’s located in the center of downtown on the corner of Queen and Meeting Streets, meaning easy access to local attractions and shopping and dining options from its cozy guest rooms and on-site common spaces. The hotel just underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation, upgrading the guest experience inside and out. Relax on the rooftop pool and outdoor terrace. Or, dine at one of two restaurants, The Black Door Café and Iron Rose.
Hotel Emeline
- Address: 181 Church Street, Charleston, SC 29401
- Starting from: $469 per night
The Emeline Hotel, a Makeready property, is tucked away in Charleston’s picturesque historic district, just steps away from numerous beloved local attractions. This pet-friendly property blends traditional Southern hospitality with the modern comforts travelers have come to appreciate in today’s fast-paced world. Guests will experience a warm and welcoming atmosphere immediately upon arrival. Sip a glass of wine on the rooftop terrace and admire its impressive views, or check out the greenhouse. There’s also a fitness center and bicycles to borrow for an outdoor adventure. After a day out, each room feels like a comfortable place to escape the bustle of the city and promises a restful night’s sleep.
The Ryder Hotel
- Address: 237 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
- Starting from: $374 per night
The Ryder Hotel isn’t just a hotel to rest your head and catch some shuteye — it’s an entire experience itself. This boutique property is also a Makeready property, sharing amenities with Hotel Emeline. It’s located in the longstanding and lively Cannonborough-Elliotborough district of Charleston and features an on-site coffee shop, an activated pool, and a tropical bar boasting welcoming social vibes. The aesthetic pays homage to the area’s scenic coastal beauty, feeling elegant but also relaxed and approachable. Hand-crafted furniture creates a relaxed bohemian feeling, and warm colors make the space breezy and light. Its bold, minimalist aesthetic boasts an atmosphere that straddles a balance of stylish and upscale but laid back, meaning it’s a great spot for younger travelers seeking a vibrant space to set as their home base in the city.
The Vendue and The Enclave at The Vendue
- Address: 19 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC 29401
- Starting from: $372 per night
The Vendue isn’t any ordinary hotel — it was Charleston’s first arts hotel, ushering in a unique new kind of hospitality to the city, blending impressive design elements with exceptional services. Immediately upon arrival, guests will be welcomed by a dedicated “Guest Experience Manager” (GEM) who will lead them to their room with a glass of chilled bubbly and serve as a personal sort of butler-like concierge personnel for the duration of their visit.
There are two overnight stay experiences at The Vendue. First, is 19 Vendue, which has a contemporary feel blended with a Perisian flair, and a spirited atmosphere. There’s also The Enclave, which feels like an elegant and timeless place celebrating local art, and featuring a more traditional aesthetic. Dine at Revival, the hotel’s signature restaurant, or hang out upstairs, on what’s consistently voted the best top rooftop in Charleston — a great place to enjoy any meal or catch a golden sunset.
The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina
- Address: 20 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464
- Starting from: $350 per night
Feeling like a nice mix of perfectly personalized but not too intimate, with 92 guest rooms and plenty of shared spaces, this seaside property blends old-world class with contemporary charm. Visitors can admire the gorgeous sights of the water and sink into a luxurious atmosphere of architecture and design. Spend time suntanning or cooling down at the harborside pool, which has a view of the WWII aircraft carrier and the famous Arthur Ravenel Bridge. Or, relax on the grand wraparound porch and people and boat watch the marina with a cocktail or cup of coffee.
Rooms are decorated with a coastal palette and classy, nautical-themed design touches. Be sure to take advantage of the private beach, the spa, and the seasonal games and activities hosted on-site, like ice skating in the winter. There are multiple dining venues, including the Bridge Bar — the only rooftop bar overlooking the entire Charleston skyline, the sandy Reel Bar with its impressive display of antique tackle gear, and the classic Beach Club Tiki Bar, which sits poolside and hosts light fare and drinks. Or, dine at Charleston Harbor Fish House, which has some of the town’s best, freshest seafood.
The Pinch
- Address: 40 George Street, Charleston, SC 29401
- Starting from: $399 per night
This storybook property is hidden away on the bustling corner of King and George streets in the heart of Charleston, feeling like a picturesque re-imagination of the meaning behind the description of “historic chic.” Restored Victorian charm blends with a bohemian feeling to create an airy and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy contemporary comfort and amenities in the two dozen distinct rooms and suites that are bookable for long-term stays — and outfitted more like upscale apartments than hotel rooms with fully equipped kitchens and washers and dryer units. Indulge in a spa treatment at the spa, sunbathe on the courtyard terrace, or dine at one of the two on-site restaurants helmed by James Beard Award-winning Chef Jason Stanhope — The Quinte and Lowland.
Zero George
- Address: 0 George Street, Charleston, South Carolina 29401
- Starting from: $679 per night
This elegant hotel is housed in a sanctuary of scattered, lovingly restored early 1800s buildings, including sixteen guest rooms and suites and two brick carriage houses that circle around a private garden courtyard. The property emits a sense of “Southern sophistication” and relaxation, perfect for a romantic escape. Enjoy the serenity of the outdoor courtyard, or dine at The Restaurant at Zero George, which serves seasonal flavors using locally sourced provisions. Get active, and explore further by borrowing a bike on-site and riding around Charleston’s charming streets. No detail is too small to make a guest feel perfectly pampered at this picturesque property.
Hotel Bella Grace
- Address: 117 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
- Starting from: $348 per night
This historic property combines nearly 200 years of storied tradition with modern style and grace. As a restored 19th-century mansion outfitted with completely contemporary design touches, it’s tucked into the heart of the historic Ansonborough neighborhood, offering a cozy spot to set as a home base on a trip to Charleston. Spend time relaxing in one of the 50 spacious, airy, and bright guest rooms and suites, some of which feature private balcony perches. Fitness fans can make use of the well-equipped on-site gym center. Dine at the property’s restaurant, the Delaney Oyster House, a seafood-focused eatery and raw bar located in a lovingly restored historic structure known as The Delaney House. It’s walkable to a myriad of local shops, restaurants, and attractions and a perfect place to retire to after a day of adventures in this coastal city.
86 Cannon Historic Inn
Photo: 86 Cannon Charleston
Photo: 86 Cannon Charleston
Photo: 86 Cannon Charleston
Photo: 86 Cannon Charleston
- Address: 86 Cannon St, Charleston, SC 29403
- Starting from: $717 per night
This timeless adults-only retreat is a fully restored 1860s single house, having been transformed into a modern, luxurious boutique inn exuding a sense of Southern sophistication and midcentury, French-inspired design. Start the day with a hosted breakfast and end the evening with a nightly wine and cheese reception, both of which are included in the price of an overnight stay. Guests can sit on their private balconies from their bright, upscale rooms and people on watch the streets below — or sit outside in the peaceful garden and relax in the sunshine. There’s also a cozy library on the third floor, with a selection of books and an honor bar stocked with snacks, beer, and wine.
Planters Inn, a Relais & Chateaux property
- Address: 112 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401
- Starting from: $646 per night
The historic 64-room Planters Inn has stood the test of time since 1844, having always held court as one of the best locations of all Charleston hotels right downtown — but today, it has been lovingly restored to host guests amongst an atmosphere of modern luxury and elegance. Vaulted ten-foot ceilings, dozens of cozy crackling fireplaces, and an impressive collection of authentic antiques make the property feel refined and elevated. Each guest room is adorned with a four-poster bed and oversized closets to accommodate the wardrobe of business and leisure travelers alike. Relax in the enchanting hidden courtyard, lit by the entrancing flicker of dozens of bobbling lanterns, and dine on-site at Peninsula Grill, which is known to be one of the most romantic restaurants in the city and serves freshly sourced traditional southern dishes with an elegant touch. 