Whether you are looking for a winter getaway filled with the shimmer and sparkle of Charleston decked out for the holidays, or a peek into the festivities along the beach, we have created a Charleston itinerary that has something for everyone. From a holiday boat parade along the Charleston Harbor to artists & tastemakers at the Holiday Market at Marion Square, or the time honored traditions of Gullah Christmas stories on the Battery, you’ll discover all the magic that comes with spending December in Charleston.
Day 1: Historic Downtown Charleston & Holiday Kick-Off
Morning: Begin your day with breakfast at Millers All Day, a popular spot known for its Southern brunch options and located on King Street, tucked alongside Charleston’s famous shopping and dining corridor.
Afternoon: Enjoy a “Holiday “Sleigh Ride” carriage tour” by Old South Carriage Co. through Charleston’s historic streets adorned with holiday decorations, complete with caroling and festive treats.
Evening: Experience “Aquarium Aglow” at the South Carolina Aquarium, where unique lighting effects transform exhibits into a festive winter wonderland
Day 2: Middleton Place for the Holidays and Candlelight on the Battery
Morning: Relax over a leisurely breakfast at Chef John Currence’s “Big Bad Breakfast,” serving iconic Southern breakfast staples like custom-created meats, southern-style grits, fresh biscuits and preserves, locally roasted coffee
Afternoon: Plan a drive to Middleton Place for a step back in time to experience the beauty of the lowcountry at this beloved historic home, decorated for the Holidays.
Evening: Head to Charleston’s iconic South of Broad neighborhood. Streets lined with Revolutionary War mansions, hidden gardens, courtyards surrounded by intricate Phillip-Simmons ironwork, all decked out for the holidays in the glow of gas lanterns. Here you can experience “Christmas on the Battery: Carols, Candlelight, and Gullah Christmas Stories” at the Edmondston-Alston House. Tour the festively decorated house by candlelight and hear the Charleston Caroling Company. Warm up in the courtyard with wine or hot cider where a local storyteller will perform Gullah Christmas stories.
Day 3: Illumination Charleston & Dock Street Theater
Morning: Head to Marion Square for Charleston’s Holiday Market, held on Saturday mornings, to shop for local crafts and gifts. Add a stop to attend the Charleston Tree Lighting ceremony Dec 05, 2024 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM, to welcome the holiday season at Bennett Hotel overlooking in the square.
Afternoon: December 6-7, tour Charleston’s historic homes decorated for the holidays with Illumination Charleston, https://www.southernlivingilluminationcharleston.com/ which includes exclusive access to the 2024 Southern Living Idea House.
Evening: Conclude with dinner at Husk, where Lowcountry ingredients shine, followed by “A Christmas Carol,” at Dock Street Theatre for an iconic holiday performance.
Day 4: Folly Beach & Holiday Festival of Lights
Morning: Head to Folly Beach and enjoy brunch at Lost Dog Café, a cozy spot with a laid-back surfers vibe, and serves breakfast all day featuring huge breakfast burritos, bagel sandwiches and some really good coffee.
Afternoon: Take a stroll along the beach in search of shark’s teeth and capture some winter beach views, or head to Center Street to explore the local boutiques and surf shops.
Evening: Load the family in the car and visit the “Holiday Festival of Lights,” at James Island County Park and experience the holiday magic of millions of twinkling lights, a sand sculpture, and interactive light displays.
Day 5: Beach walks on Isle of Palms and a Holiday Boat Parade
Morning: Start your day at Sea Biscuit Café for breakfast favorites that the locals love.
Afternoon: Spend the day unwinding on Isle of Palms beach or take a scenic walk along the coastline.
Evening: On December 14th you’ll want to pack hot chocolate and a blanket and head to the Charleston Harbor for the “Holiday Parade of Boats”, where festively decorated boats illuminate the water as they glide past the historic Charleston waterfront.
After that? End your Charleston holiday with dinner at “The Ordinary” in downtown Charleston, renowned for fresh, local seafood. Consider a stop at the “Sippin’ Santa pop-up Bar” at Prohibition Charleston for holiday-themed cocktails before heading home.
Its prime location on the Atlantic coast makes Charleston, South Carolina, a haven of pristine ecosystems just waiting to be explored. There’s nothing quite like taking in the downtown sites and getting out on the open water and see dolphins all in the same day. Charleston is a versatile destination that offers up miles of coastal nature alongside the all the history and charm of the downtown historic Charleston peninsula. When you’re here with a heart for the great outdoors, there are a few stops you won’t want to miss along the way to navigate Charleston and make the most of every minute you’re here. From boating out into the Atlantic for a deep sea fishing excursion and exploring Charleston’s inner waterways, there’s an array of things to do for the nature lover, and at the end of each adventure-filled day you’ll be searching for the best places to eat, stay, and relax.
The Ultimate 3-Day Nature and Wildlife Itinerary for Charleston, SC
Day 1: Sandlapper Water Tours
Operating out of the Charleston Maritime Center, Sandlapper Water Tours is a well-loved Charleston Harbor tour company that aims to customize cruises to the many visitors that make their way to Charleston each year. Hop aboard the Palmetto for an unforgettable experience at sea. This 45-foot catamaran can host up to 49 passengers at a time, and you can book it for everything from a nature tour complete with a naturalist onboard, to a sunset cruise or ghost tour. In addition, you can count on pelicans, herons, crabs, and playful dolphins being a common sight during your tour aboard this vessel, sure to deliver an insider’s view of these thriving waterways, so many creatures call home.
Charleston Maritime Center
10 Wharfside St Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 849-8687
Day 1: Dine along the Waterfront
Fleet Landing
186 Concord Street Charleston, SC
Charleston’s Best Waterfront Restaurant has a view that is a distinctive destination unto itself. Housed in a 1940s retired naval building on the east side of the Charleston peninsula, Fleet Landing Restaurant features classic and contemporary Southern seafood fare in a setting that celebrates the area’s waterfront heritage. Locally-owned, this locally-loved waterfront restaurant with jaw-dropping views overlooking Charleston Harbor, features a menu loaded with regional seafood and a commitment to freshness, quality, and sustainability.
Day 2: Angler Management
For those visitors who equate a wildlife adventure with a hook and line, Angler Management is a one-for-all solution. Providing options for customized nature tours and fishing charters, guests can personalize them based on their age and ability. Experience these beautiful waterways through the eyes of a local fishing expert. You can decide between opportunities to fish inshore, nearshore, or take to the waters with an eye on the sharks. Follow up your fishing excursions with a dolphin-spotting cruise or bird-watching tour to top off your outdoor experience. Regardless of whichever route you go, it’s sure to be a day you won’t soon forget!
1581 Kentwood Circle
Charleston, South Carolina 29412
(843) 259-1489
Day 2: Dine at the beach
Rita’s Seaside Grill
2 Center Street, Folly Beach SC
Just steps away from Folly Beach & The Pier, with American fare, from burgers to seafood, served with drinks in a casual setting, you can dine indoors or alfresco at Rita’s Seaside Grill. You’ll love to gather with family and friends on the inviting dog-friendly patio, home to live music and outdoor flatscreen TVs to watch the big games.
Day 3: Audubon Swamp Garden
Those looking for a wildlife encounter unlike any other will want to make their way towards Audubon Swamp Garden. This cypress swamp that lies on the Magnolia Plantation sprawls over 60-acres and is home to some of Charleston’s most exotic animals and plant species. Well-integrated walking paths make for a smooth meander through these lush lands as heron, waterfowl, and egrets’ nest nearby. Take time to enjoy the wide variety of turtles that rest on rocks rising out of black water surrounding miniature islands. Tupelo Gum trees provide a scenic backdrop of this truly unique place that aims to keep nature in its most pristine condition.
Magnolia Plantation/Audubon Swamp Garden
3550 Ashley River Rd. Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 571-1266
Day 3: Dine downtown along a cobblestone street
Sorelle
88 Broad Street, Charleston SC
Inspired by Italy’s all-day cafes, abundant markets and rich culinary traditions, Southern Italy meets Southern hospitality at Sorelle. Sorelle is a dining destination like no other on Charleston’s storied Broad Street.
Let the Adventure Continue with Luxury Simplified Retreats
The beauty of Charleston continues well beyond its natural wonders and when you’re here, be sure to let the team at Luxury Simplified Retreats help you find a luxurious getaway that speaks to a spirit of exploration. Our team of experts brings passion into the vacation rental search and is dedicated to helping you find that beachfront retreat or urban residence that speaks to a personalized sense of style. Contact us today to start planning!
With a spring event season stretching from January all the way through to June, there’s a lot to see and do in Charleston, SC. Visitors flock to the area from around the world, not only to experience these top tier events for themselves, but to experience them in the unparalleled setting that is uniquely the Holy City. This historic city makes for a unique backdrop with its deep history, breathtaking and diverse architecture, and seemingly endless southern charm. Though the festivals draw crowds to the city, it’s the city itself that keeps them coming back year after year. Here are some of Charleston’s top festivals – so mark you calendar now!
For Foodies
- Charleston Restaurant Week – A week of discounted dining at some of the areas top restaurants, from local favorites to acclaimed high-end restaurants. – January 11-21, 2024 Stay in the heart of everything at King St. Commons.
- Taste of Folly An exhibition of the diverse culinary fare found on Folly Beach SC. You can even cheer on your favorite server in the “Server Olympics.” – Jan 19-20 Stay beachfront at The View or The Vista and walk to the festivities!
- Lowcountry Oyster Festival Named among the “top 20 events in the Southeast” with highlights including the “Oyster Shucking” & “Oyster Eating” contests, live music, and a variety of local favorite restaurants that bring food trucks and pop-up eateries. Guaranteed to be a shucking good time! – February 4, 2024 Stay at Palmetto Loft and experience downtown living just across the bridge from Mount Pleasant and Boone Hall Plantation.
- Charleston Wine + Food Festival A non-profit event, attendees include local and international chefs, farmers, beverage professionals, artists and experts serving up dazzling, inspiring cuisine, now held in the breathtaking Riverfront Park overlooking the Cooper River – March 6-10, 2024 Stay at Sullivan’s Nest and enjoy a chance to spend your getaway enjoying lowcountry cuisine plus the nearby beaches of Sullivan’s Island
- Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival This unique event celebrates Mount Pleasant’s local fishing and shrimping industries. With a parade of boats, ceremonial blessing of the fleet, live music, art exhibition, and more this is an event for the whole family. – Apr 28
For Athletes & Sports Fans
- Kids Run & Wonderfest – Heading to Charleston for the Cooper River Bridge Run and bringing the family along? This family friendly pre-race festival includes face-painting, petting zoo, doggie fashion show, jump castles, live music and MORE! Sure to be fun for kiddos of all ages. – Apr 6
- Cooper River Bridge Run The race is on! Run, jog, or walk your way across the iconic Arthur J Ravenel bridge. Celebrate your hard work at the post-race party in Marion Square. – Apr 6, 2024 Stay at Casabalza and you’ll find a comfortable place to relax and lace up your shoes just down the street from the starting line.
- Credit One Charleston Open of the nations largest women-only tennis tournaments, it draws professional tennis players and sports fans from around the world to Charleston’s Daniel Island. – Mar 30 – Apr 7, 2024 Stay at Sawyer’s Landing where you’ll be close to the tennis action and still enjoy the beaches of Sullivan’s Island after the competition on the courts winds down.
For Wildlife Enthusiasts
- Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) With 500+ artists, exhibitors, and wildlife experts drawing more than 40,000 attendees to the area, this is one of Charleston’s TOP events each year. Sporting dog demos, birds of prey demos, and culinary demos are among the main attractions. – Feb 16-18 Stay nearby at Park’s Edge and walk to the events held at Marion Square.
For History Buffs
- Charleston International Antiques Show A showcase of 17th to mid–century modern English, European, and American period furnishings, fine art on display, architectural elements, garden furniture, vintage jewelry, silver and more. – Mar 16-18
- Festival of Houses & Gardens Your chance to step inside some of the city’s charming private homes and spectacular gardens. Luncheons, musical performances, and lowcountry lifestyle events included. – Mar 15-Apr 21 Stay in the historic French Quarter at Maison Des Fleurs, just steps from many of the featured homes and Charleston’s famed harbor.
For Arts Lovers
- Piccolo Spoleto A whirlwind 500 event in 17 days showcasing performing, literary, and visual arts featuring local and regional artists from the Southeast. – May 24 – Jun 9 2024
- Spoleto Festival USA Internationally recognized as America’s premier performing arts festival, Charleston hosts renowned and emerging artists in the performing, literary, and visual arts spaces. – May 22-Jun 9 2024 Bring your friends for all the fun and stay at The Coach House.
Stay in Luxury
Plan a trip to Charleston, SC where you can spend time on the water, plus discover its historic charm, cultural richness, and coastal beauty. With its historic downtown, captivating museums, warm, year round weather, and inviting beaches, Charleston beckons travelers to experience the very best of the South Carolina lowcountry. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking relaxation by the sea, book a stay at any of our luxury vacation homes in the heart of Downtown Charleston or on Folly Beach, Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island and be that much closer to having your toes in the sand. With our portfolio of luxury vacation rentals centrally located near all of your favorite festivals and events, we’ve got your perfect place to stay. Plus, the team at Luxury Simplified Retreats goes above and beyond to offer guests an outstanding experience with beautiful beach rentals and unparalleled concierge services. Browse our Experience Packages to consider making your trip especially unique, then sit back, relax, and leave all of the planning to us.
It’s time to pop the champagne, watch the ball drop, and say hello to 2024. In the Holy City, there are plenty of celebrations to go around. Don’t know where to spend New Year’s in Charleson? No worries! With an array of festive options to choose from, it is no secret that Charleston is one of the top cities to spend your New Year’s Eve. Whether you’re looking for a low key beachfront party or yearning to break out your black tie, the lowcountry offers every type of New Year’s celebration. Here are our picks for the top 5 New Year’s Eve parties in Charleston:
New Years Eve at the Aquarium Aglow
The countdown is on for this family-friendly, annual NYE event held at the South Carolina Aquarium designed for the early bird that doesn’t what to wait until midnight to ring in the new year. In addition to the full Aquarium Aglow experience, there will be a DJ keeping the party vibe hyped, plus stilt walker, face painting and fun for the entire family.
5:50-9:30pm
South Carolina Aquarium
100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston
Folly Beach Flip Flop Drop and Fireworks
Watching a ball drop to ring in the new year is so 1990’s, why not enjoy a flip flop drop instead? The town of Folly Beach rings in the new year with a street party on Center Street and the annual Flip-flop Drop. Center Street will be close to traffic as revelers enjoy local restaurants and family-friendly festivities. The fun culminates when the huge, sparkly flip-flops descend to mark the stroke of midnight and the beginning of the new year.
The Duney Drop Celebration
This New Year’s Eve family event at Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms offers a magical experience for the entire family. Tickets for adults include a 3-hour bar, non-alcoholic beverages, appetizers, desserts, and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Children and teens will have their own celebratory experience that includes appetizers, desserts and a complimentary sparkling cider toast. Purchase your tickets early and don’t miss this
No matter what time of the year, Charleston is always suited for a rooftop party. If you’re looking for a low key, yet lively New Year’s Eve celebration, ring in the new year at Revelry Rooftop, one of Charleston’s spotlight local breweries. Enjoy great company, live music and a fabulous selection of homemade brews all day and all night.
8 pm – Midnight
Palms Ballroom at The Sweetgrass Inn
5757 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms
New Years Eve at The Watch
Enjoy a night of celebrating under the stars and ring in the New Year at one of Charleston’s most scenic rooftops, complete with a live DJ and champagne toast at the stroke of midnight. Located on Wentworth Street atop the Restoration Hotel, The Watch delivers views overlooking Charleston’s famed historic district. Grab your friends and spend an evening raising a toast to the new year!
9 pm – Midnight
The Watch at The Restoration Hotel
75 Wentworth Street
New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise
Looking for a New Year’s eve experience that will have you saying “Ahoy” to the New Year? Why not ring in the new year in style with an incredible dinner and sweeping views of the historic Charleston skyline. Cruise the Charleston Harbor aboard the elegantly decorated Spirit of the Carolina while enjoying live entertainment provided by Jay Miley.
6:30pm – Midnight
The Spirit of the Carolina
Patriots Point
40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant
Stay in Luxury
Book a stay at any of our luxury vacation homes in the heart of Downtown Charleston or on Folly Beach, Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island and you’ll be close to the festivities no matter where you plan to ring in the New Year. The team at Luxury Simplified Retreats goes above and beyond to offer guests an outstanding experience with beautiful beach rentals and unparalleled concierge services. Browse our Experience Packages to consider making your trip especially unique, then sit back, relax, and leave all of the planning to us. Plus, if you’re staying in one of our luxury vacation homes, New Year’s Eve can be just as fun spent at home. Whichever way you want to spend your last night of 2023, Charleston has the celebration. Pick your party and book your weekend at one of our available vacation homes now, before it’s too late!