Is it better to stay in downtown Charleston or beach?

It is generally recommended that on your first visit - especially a short one - it is best to try to stay in the Historic District of Charleston. This is the heart of Chareston and you will feel immersed in the culture.

Is it worth staying in downtown Charleston?

It makes sense to be based Downtown, if you can afford it – this is where most of the action is. It has the best restaurants and bars, the most luxurious hotels and B&Bs, and the most historic streets and mansions – all the ingredients that make Charleston such a compelling destination.

How far is downtown Charleston from the beach?

What is the closest beach to Charleston? Sullivan's Island. To be fair, though, the difference is statistically insignificant: the drive from downtown Charleston to Sullivan's Island is about 20 minutes, or 9.5 miles. The drive from downtown to Folly Beach, the next closest, is about 21 minutes, or 11.5 miles.

What is the difference between downtown and historic district in Charleston?

Look at a map. Generally the peninsula is where you want to be. It's considered "downtown." The Historic District comprises areas of the peninsula where historic buildings are concentrated - below Calhoun Street, and certain areas north of Calhoun Street.

How do I get from downtown Charleston to the beach?

The best way to get from Charleston to Folly Beach without a car is to line 31 bus which takes 42 min and costs $7 - $10.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO CHARLESTON

Can you walk around downtown Charleston?

Downtown Charleston, South Carolina, is compact and pedestrian-friendly. You won't need a car if you're planning a short weekend trip and aren't leaving the core, which is packed with restaurants, shops and historic sites. Free shuttles loop around the city on three routes.

What is the best area to stay in Charleston SC?

The French Quarter is the best area to stay in Charleston, SC for first-time visitors who want to be steps from Rainbow Row, the most picturesque streets, and the top sights. Marion Square is ideal for those focusing on shopping and dining at the top restaurants.

Why is downtown Charleston so expensive?

Why is the historic district so expensive in Charleston, SC? Real estate prices reflect supply and demand in Charleston as elsewhere. Charleston is a lovely city, great climate, access to beaches, excellent food and bev reputation, lively cultural scene, and three-hundred-plus years of history.

How far is Charleston Historic District from the beach?

Yes, the driving distance between Charleston Historic District to Folly Beach is 11 miles. It takes approximately 17 min to drive from Charleston Historic District to Folly Beach. Where can I stay near Folly Beach? There are 1370+ hotels available in Folly Beach.

What is the most popular part of Charleston?

How many days do you need in Charleston?

There's so much to do in the city that spending 3 days is recommended to get the full Charleston experience. From historic sites to restaurants and more, we've got you covered so you can start planning the best Charleston vacation.

Which beach should I go to in Charleston?

Whether you're looking for a night out along the waterfront or just a lazy day on the sand, Folly Beach is a standout choice for outdoor fun in Charleston.

Can you Uber from downtown Charleston to Folly Beach?

There are buses from Charleston to the farther end of Folly, and then you can call Lyft or Uber for the last few miles.

Is it safe to walk around downtown Charleston at night?

So as long as you stay on the busy main streets and avoid the side roads and dark parking areas behind the buildings you should be ok.

Is it safe to walk in downtown Charleston SC?

Safety in the Holy City

Charleston is not New York nor is it Mayberry. The Downtown area of Charleston is a thriving center of tourism and commerce and thus very safe to walk around. There are how ever some tips that all visitors should take into consideration while visiting this wonderful city.

What is the most walkable area of Charleston?

Radcliffeborough is considered to be the most walkable neighborhood in Charleston. It is bordered by MUSC and Upper King Street making it a favorite for college students and professors. It is very convenient to the College of Charleston and to MUSC, the medical college. In fact, most residents to either walk or bike.

Why is Folly Beach so popular?

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Folly River, visitors enjoy six miles of wide beaches, surfing, fishing, biking, kayaking, boating, eco-tours, and sea wildlife including several endangered species. The sunsets on Folly are legendary, so make sure you have plenty of space on your camera or smart phone …

How much is an Uber from Charleston to Folly Beach?

According to the Moovit app, there is a Bus 31 (19 minute ride) for $7-$10, Taxi for $5-$7, or Uber for $17-$23 - all go from Charleston Historic District to Folly Beach.

Is Charleston a good beach town?

The best beaches in Charleston SC offer smooth sand, blue skies, and great year-round weather. So, combine these great beaches with the best city in the US and you get the ideal coastal vacation destination, Charleston SC. Our Atlantic Ocean coastline offers miles of the best Charleston SC beaches.

What is the most beautiful street in Charleston?

Possibly one of the most photographed Charleston streets, Rainbow Row is actually located on East Bay Street. This strip of architectural delight stretches from no. 79 to no. 107 East Bay Street.

Which part of Charleston is downtown?

Located on the Charleston Peninsula, downtown Charleston consists of the Cannonborough/Elliottborough, Radcliffeborough, Mazyck-Wraggborough, King Street Historic District, Harleston Village, Ansonborough, the French Quarter, and South of Broad neighborhoods.

What to wear in downtown Charleston?

Wondering what to wear in Charleston during the day? Many Charlestonians opt to dress up (or casually chic) during the day. While we don't recommend wearing cutoffs and flip-flops unless you're at the beach, you don't necessarily need to wear a suit and bowtie either. You'll want to dress for the season.

What is the best month to visit Charleston SC?

The best time to visit Charleston, SC is from mid-March through May and from September through November, when temperatures are moderate.

Is Savannah or Charleston better?

While you'll be very close to the coast whether you visit Charleston or Savannah, Charleston's many palm trees and general atmosphere feel much more coastal than Savannah's. In Savannah, you can easily forget that you're near the beach, but in Charleston, you definitely won't!

Is it better to stay in Mount Pleasant or Charleston?

If you can't afford a hotel in the Charleston Historic District, Mount Pleasant is your best option. Its suburban so avoid traffic until 9 am weekdays. It's also halfway to Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island if you want to walk the beach.