It’s time to pop the champagne, watch the ball drop, and say hello to 2026. In the Holy City, there are plenty of celebrations to go around. Don’t know where to spend New Year’s in Charleston? 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 closed 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.
Don’t let the Folly Beach fun end there. Wake up to a fun-filled, Bill Murray inspired Polar Plunge! This beloved annual event rounds out the weekend of New Year’s festivities on Folly Beach.
The annual plunge will take place beachside at the Tides Hotel at noon and will include a costume contest at 11am, commemorative t-shirts, and, of course, a plunge into the “chilly” Atlantic. All attendees are encouraged to come in costume.
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 spectacular even.
8 pm – Midnight
Palms Ballroom at The Sweetgrass Inn
5757 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms
New Years Eve at The Ryder Hotel
No matter what time of the year, Charleston is always suited for a rooftop party. If you’re looking for a lively New Year’s Eve celebration, enjoy a night of celebrating under the stars and ring in the New Year at one of Charleston’s most scenic rooftops, Little Pine at the Ryder Hotel. Count down the clock and say cheers to 2026 at Little Pine’s New Year’s Eve Bash, Celebrate Under the Stars. Join us for a celebratory evening filled with live music, champagne, tasty bites, and delightful cocktails to start your new year off right.
9 pm – 1 am
The Ryder Hotel
237 Meeting 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
New Year’s Eve in the Heart of Downtown Charleston
If you’d enjoy ringing in the new year at the trendiest clubs along King Street’s famed Upper King Street, our friends at Republic Hospitality have you covered! From the opulent, ultra swanky interiors of Republic Garden & Lounge to the trendy “tequila meets sake” fusion destination of Mesu, if you want to celebrate VIP-style Republic Hospitality has just the spot for a fun-filled night of glitz and glamour for the 21 & over crowd.
Republic Garden & Lounge
Annual NYE party starting at 9pm
Tickets available via Eventbrite or at the door
Open bar and passed apps included in ticket price
Complimentary champagne toast at midnight
VIP Tables available – contact [email protected] for details
MESU
NYE kickoff Party starting at 10pm
$5 tickets available via Eventbrite or at the door
Complimentary salsa bar & midnight champagne toast
Lamar’s Sporting Club & Bourbon N Bubbles
A party-hoppers dream – celebrate with access to both of these popular nightspots for a memorable night where the fun never ends!
Annual NYE party starting at 9:30pm
Tickets available via Eventbrite or at the door
Open bar and passed apps included in ticket price
Complimentary champagne toast at midnight
VIP Tables available – contact [email protected] for details
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 2025, Charleston has the celebration. Pick your party and book your weekend before it’s too late!
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 an memorable backdrop with its deep history, breathtaking gardens, 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 your 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 8-18, 2026 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 17-18, 2026 Stay nearby at Follypalooza 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! – Sunday, February 1, 2026 Stay nearby at Sullivan’s Nest, and spend your getaway exploring the nearby beaches of Sullivans Island, plus Mt. Pleasant, Shem Creek, and historic downtown Charleston.
- 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. This year you can celebrate Opening Night at College of Charleston’s Cistern Yard, or wander the Culinary Village at The Citadel’s Johnson-Haygood Stadium – March 4-8, 2026 Stay at Palmetto Loft and explore Charleston’s charming French Quarter while enjoying unrivaled lowcountry cuisine.
- 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 26, 2026
For Athletes & Sports Fans
- 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. – Saturday March 28, 2026 Stay at Park’s Edge 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 The Longboard, where you’ll be close to the tennis action and still enjoy the beaches of Isle of Palms 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 King’s Court 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
- The Charleston Festival (Formerly the Festival of Houses & Gardens) – Your chance to step inside some of the city’s charming private homes and spectacular gardens. Luncheons, and lowcountry lifestyle events included. March 18 – April 11, 2026. 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 22 – June 7, 2026
- 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 7 2026 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 discover its historic charm, cultural richness, and coastal beauty, plus spend time on the water. With its warm, year round weather, inviting beaches, historic downtown, and unrivaled shopping & dining, 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 Kiawah 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.
Charleston, South Carolina, is a city steeped in history, culture, and southern charm. While the Holy City itself offers a plethora of attractions, there’s a world of adventure waiting in and around the coastal lowcountry, and even the mountains of the South Carolina Upstate. If your visit to Charleston is a month long or longer, why not take some time to explore some of the charming towns that are just a short drive away. There are a variety of day trips you can take, venturing to nearby small towns like Georgetown, Camden, Savannah, Beaufort, and Asheville NC. Each of these destinations offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, making them perfect for a day of exploration.
Georgetown, SC
Drive Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
Things to Do: Stroll Front Street along Georgetown’s historic waterfront, explore the Rice Museum, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
History: Located half-way between Myrtle Beach and Charleston, Georgetown boasts a rich maritime history and played a vital role in the rice and indigo trade during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather, but year-round access makes it a great destination anytime.
Camden, SC
Drive Time: Approximately 2 hours
Things to Do: Discover historic sites like the Kershaw-Cornwallis House, take a scenic walk along the river, tour the nearly century-old Springdale Race Course, dive into equine history and lore at The Steeplechase Museum, visit a working horse farm or experience the Carolina Cup Steeplechase held every spring.
History: A town with a storied equine heritage, Camden boasts the highest density of horses in all of South Carolina, with a thriving equestrian community. Camden is steeped in Revolutionary War history and served as a major British garrison during the war.
Best Time to Visit: Spring for the Carolina Cup horse race, or anytime to soak in its historic charm.
Savannah, GA
Drive Time: About 2 hours
Things to Do: Take a leisurely walk in Forsyth Park, explore the historic district, stroll the waterfront along the Savannah River and enjoy the sumptuous Southern cuisine.
History: Savannah is known for its well-preserved antebellum architecture, and it played a significant part in the Civil War.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early fall when the weather is mild and the city is in full bloom.
Beaufort, SC
Drive Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
Things to Do: Visit historic homes like the Thomas Hepworth House, tour the charming downtown, and explore the waterways of the Port Royale Sound.
History: Overlooking the Beaufort River and the Port Royale Sound, Beaufort is one of the oldest towns in South Carolina and played a role in the Reconstruction Era after the Civil War.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer for comfortable temperatures and lush lowcountry scenery.
Asheville, NC
Drive Time: Around 4 hours
Things to Do: Explore the Biltmore Estate, hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and enjoy the vibrant arts and music scene.
History: Asheville is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and has a rich Appalachian heritage and a robust music scene. Famously known for its reputation for those seeking an “artsy” lifestyle, the River Arts District and West Asheville are full of restaurants and vibrant street art.
Best Time to Visit: Fall for stunning foliage, but for the hiking enthusiasts Asheville offers something special year-round.
When to go
The best time to embark on these day trips depends on your preferences. Spring and early fall offer mild weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds, making them ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, each destination has its unique appeal, so you can plan your day trips based on your interests and the local events happening throughout the year.
Where to stay
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply experiencing the warm hospitality of these charming towns, the day trips from Charleston, SC, offer a delightful escape. If you’re considering spending a while in Charleston, SC, there’s no better choice than booking a longterm rental from our luxury portfolio. As you settle in to explore our charming city, you can rest assured that we’ll be there every step of the way to ensure every need is met. Whether you choose to stay on Folly Beach by the water or in the heart of downtown Charleston, you’ll have everything you need to make your space feel like home. Browse our long-term vacation rentals to find your ideal home away from home.
Did you know Charleston is considered one of the most romantic city in the US! From cozy sidewalk cafes perfect for mornings filled with coffees and pastries, to strolling hand-in-hand through gardens overflowing with camellias, jasmine and magnolias, and incredible restaurants for those whose “one & only” is also a foodie at heart, no other southern city offers such an endless array of activities filled with romantic possibilities.
You can discover all of Charleston’s best-kept secrets by downloading the Insider’s Guide to Charleston. This curated guide is bursting with restaurants, activities, and top destinations, and it includes some of our Top 5 favorite things to see and DO in Charleston, for any kind of vacation you can dream of.
Here are some of our favorite ways to experience Charleston when love is in the air.
Indulge in The Best Brunch
Voted the Second-Best Brunch Restaurant in the US, Charleston’s High Cotton serves up classy southern brunch in a soft, romantic atmosphere. Located in the French Quarter of Charleston, this elegant spot surprises and delights brunch go-ers daily. Our favorite offerings are the Chicken and Waffles and the Crabcake Benedict. Keep the celebration going by ordering a bottle of bubbly and the Mimosa Trio.
(Sight) See the Romance!
Spend your days exploring the historic city of Charleston! Book a private horse-drawn carriage tour and learn about the rich history of Charleston from a local. You’ll be an expert in no time. Fans of The Notebook will enjoy a trip to Cypress Gardens. The Gardens are the backdrop of the famous rowboat scene. Take one of the rowboats for a spin yourself while you’re there – it’s the perfect romantic photo op.
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A Day Trip for Two
After you’ve made the most of your time in the city, take a day trip to Sullivan’s Island for a beach day! This 2.5 mile beach sits along a charming coastal town with trendy eateries and fun boutique shops. Complete your day trip with cocktails at a new local favorite, The Longboard. At this beautiful escape, you’ll find unique cocktail creations with exotic flavors, and the freshest oysters in town. We recommend cooling down with the Passion Fruit Frosé, the Wadma-Law-Breaker, or the Sullivan’s 1040.
Date Night Every Night
A week away means a week of date nights! Charleston is known for its incredible food scene, and these places do not disappoint. We’ve hand-selected the most romantic and memorable Charleston dining to end every night on a high note. Looking for more? Browse our Insider’s Guide to Charleston to see more of our favorite restaurants in the Holy City.
Fine Dining
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- Circa 1886 Restaurant $$$$ | Contemporary American with a Michelin Star | 149 Wentworth St.
- Hall’s Chophouse $$$$ | Old School Steakhouse | 434 King St.
- Revival $$$$ | Modern Southern Eatery | 162 East Bay St.
- 82 Queen $$$$ | Refined Lowcountry Cuisine | 82 Queen St.
- Charleston Grill $$$$ | Upscale Southern-French Dishes | 224 King St.
Elevated Dining
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- Maison $$$$ | Chic French Bistro | 708 King St.
- The Ordinary $$$ | 1920s Bank Turned Upscale Seafood Restaurant | 544 King St.
- FIG $$$ | Neighborhood American Bistro | 232 Meeting St.
- The Grocery $$$ | New American Neighborhood Spot | 4 Cannon St.
- Butcher & Bee $$$ | Hip outpost offering a rotating menu of inventive, seasonal cuisine | 1085 Morrison Dr.
Casual Dining
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- Basic Kitchen $$ | Bright, Local Ingredients with Vegetarian and Vegan Options | 82 Wentworth St.
- Fuel $$ | Repurposed 1950s Gas Station with Refined Caribbean Eats | 211 Rutledge Ave
- Rodney Scott’s BBQ $$ | James Beard Award-Winning Lowcountry-style BBQ | 1011 King St.
- R Kitchen $$ | Snug Spot with an Open Kitchen Offering a Seasonal 5-Course Menu | 212 Rutledge Ave
- Tavern & Table $$ | Casual, Rustic-Chic Restaurant in Shem Creek | 100 Church St.
Nightlife
Rooftop Bars
What’s more romantic than seeing the twinkling lights of the city from above at one of Charleston’s famous rooftop bars? Delight in handcrafted cocktails, live entertainment, and beautiful views of Charleston skyline.
Dessert Bar
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After a delicious dinner in the city, stop by Carmella’s, a trendy dessert bar on East Bay Street —just a short walk from Waterfront Park. A local favorite, this spot is known for its cakes and cannolis, as well as its cocktail offerings. Our favorite pairings are the Espresso Martini and the Cannoli Cake or the Frosé and Lemon Blueberry Cake.
Natural Wine Tasting
If you haven’t tried natural wine yet, we highly recommend that you try Monarch Wine Merchants. Taste, sample, and shop at this neighborhood natural wine shop located King street, Charleston’s popular downtown shopping destination. From Orange Wine to Rosato, you’re sure to find a new favorite at Monarch.
Stay with the Best
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a month-long visit to the Holy City, you’ll find that our team at Luxury Simplified Retreats goes above and beyond to provide an unforgettable experience. Choose your dream vacation home from an impressive portfolio of high-end properties tucked alongside grand historic homes and some of the top historic sites located on the Charleston peninsula. Each property boasts its own unique character and features stylish furnishings and contemporary décor.
Browse our high-end accommodations and start start planning your romantic getaway today!
