When it comes to planning a family vacation, one of the most crucial decisions is choosing the right accommodations. Charleston, South Carolina, is a popular destination for families, offering a rich history, stunning architecture, and plenty of kid-friendly activities. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect place to stay that meets the needs of both kids and adults. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Charleston, SC for families, taking into account factors such as location, amenities, and kid-friendly activities.
Why Choose Charleston for Your Family Vacation?
Charleston is an ideal destination for families, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and fun. From exploring the historic district to visiting the South Carolina Aquarium, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy together. Additionally, Charleston’s warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for families, with many hotels and resorts catering specifically to families with kids.
What to Look for in a Family-Friendly Accommodation
When searching for the perfect place to stay in Charleston, there are several key factors to consider. These include:
- Location: Is the accommodation located in a safe and convenient area, with easy access to kid-friendly attractions?
- Amenities: Does the hotel or resort offer amenities such as a pool, game room, or kids’ club to keep kids entertained?
- Room layout: Are the rooms spacious and comfortable, with enough beds and amenities for the whole family?
- Kid-friendly activities: Are there activities and services available specifically for kids, such as babysitting services or kids’ programs?
In the following sections, we’ll explore the top places to stay in Charleston, SC for families, taking into account these essential factors and more.
Best Places to Stay in Charleston, SC for Families
Charleston, South Carolina is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality. When planning a family vacation to Charleston, finding the right accommodations can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Charleston for families, considering factors such as location, amenities, and kid-friendly activities.
Top Neighborhoods for Families
Before diving into specific hotels and resorts, let’s take a look at the top neighborhoods for families in Charleston: (See Also: Best Places To Stay Nice)
- Historic Downtown Charleston: This charming neighborhood offers easy access to popular attractions, restaurants, and shops. However, it can be quite busy and noisy, so it’s essential to choose a hotel that caters to families.
- West Ashley: Located just west of downtown, West Ashley is a more laid-back neighborhood with plenty of family-friendly restaurants and parks.
- Mount Pleasant: This suburban neighborhood is situated just east of Charleston and offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of parks, beaches, and outdoor activities.
- Isle of Palms: This barrier island is a popular spot for families, with its beautiful beaches, water sports, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Folly Beach: Another popular beach destination, Folly Beach is known for its laid-back surfer vibe and family-friendly atmosphere.
Best Hotels for Families in Charleston
Here are some of the top hotels for families in Charleston, considering factors such as amenities, location, and kid-friendly activities:
Hotel | Neighborhood | Amenities |
---|---|---|
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort | Kiawah Island | Private beach, kids’ club, water sports, golf courses |
Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District | Historic Downtown Charleston | Indoor pool, free breakfast, 24-hour fitness center |
Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Historic District | Historic Downtown Charleston | Indoor pool, free breakfast, evening reception |
Wild Dunes Resort | Isle of Palms | Private beach, golf courses, tennis courts, kids’ programs |
Homewood Suites by Hilton Charleston-Mt. Pleasant | Mount Pleasant | Indoor pool, free breakfast, kitchen suites |
Belmond Charleston Place | Historic Downtown Charleston | Rooftop pool, fitness center, kids’ amenities |
Resorts for Families in Charleston
If you’re looking for a more extensive range of amenities and activities, consider staying at a resort that caters specifically to families:
- Wild Dunes Resort: Located on Isle of Palms, this resort offers a private beach, golf courses, tennis courts, and kids’ programs.
- The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort: This resort features a private beach, kids’ club, water sports, and golf courses, making it an ideal destination for families.
- Seabrook Island Resort: Situated on Seabrook Island, this resort offers a private beach, golf courses, tennis courts, and kids’ programs, as well as a nature center and horseback riding stables.
Vacation Rentals for Families in Charleston
Vacation rentals can be a great option for families, offering more space and amenities than traditional hotels. Here are some popular options:
- Charleston Beach House Rentals: Offers a range of beach houses and condos on Folly Beach and Isle of Palms.
- Kiawah Island Vacation Rentals: Provides a variety of vacation rentals, from condos to beach houses, on Kiawah Island.
- Charleston Historic District Vacation Rentals: Offers a range of vacation rentals, from apartments to houses, in the Historic Downtown Charleston area.
Things to Do with Kids in Charleston
Charleston is a city that’s rich in history and culture, but it’s also a great destination for families, with plenty of kid-friendly activities and attractions:
- South Carolina Aquarium: Features a variety of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, and fish of all kinds.
- Charleston Children’s Museum: Offers interactive exhibits and play areas focused on art, science, and imagination.
- James Island County Park: Features a playground, picnic areas, and a dog park, as well as a lake and walking trails.
- Folly Beach Pier: A popular spot for fishing, walking, and taking in the ocean views.
- Boone Hall Plantation: Offers a petting zoo, playground, and picnic areas, as well as a historic plantation house and gardens.
Tips for Visiting Charleston with Kids
Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning your family vacation to Charleston: (See Also: Best Places To Stay At In Colorado)
- Plan ahead: Book your accommodations and popular attractions in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
- Choose kid-friendly restaurants: Many Charleston restaurants are kid-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead and ask about their policies.
- Pack accordingly: Charleston can be hot and humid in the summer, so be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and comfortable clothing.
- Take breaks: Charleston is a city that’s rich in history and culture, but it can also be overwhelming for kids. Be sure to take breaks and schedule downtime into your itinerary.
- Explore beyond downtown: While downtown Charleston is a must-see, there are plenty of other neighborhoods and attractions worth exploring, such as Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, and Folly Beach.
Recap
In conclusion, Charleston, South Carolina is a fantastic destination for families, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality. When planning your family vacation, consider staying in neighborhoods such as Historic Downtown Charleston, West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, or Folly Beach. Look for hotels and resorts that cater specifically to families, offering amenities such as pools, kids’ clubs, and game rooms. Don’t forget to explore the many kid-friendly attractions and activities that Charleston has to offer, from the South Carolina Aquarium to the Charleston Children’s Museum. With a little planning and preparation, your family vacation to Charleston is sure to be a memorable one.
Remember to book your accommodations and popular attractions in advance, choose kid-friendly restaurants, pack accordingly, take breaks, and explore beyond downtown Charleston. With its unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation, Charleston is a city that’s sure to delight kids of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Charleston for families?
Some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Charleston for families include Downtown Charleston, West Ashley, James Island, and Mount Pleasant. These areas offer a range of accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals, and are close to family-friendly attractions and activities.
Are there any family-friendly hotels in Charleston that offer amenities like pools and kids’ clubs?
Yes, there are several family-friendly hotels in Charleston that offer amenities like pools and kids’ clubs. Some popular options include the Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Historic District, and the Belmond Charleston Place. These hotels often have game rooms, kid-friendly dining options, and other amenities that cater to families.
What are some popular family-friendly activities to do in Charleston?
Charleston is a city that offers a wide range of activities that are suitable for families. Some popular options include visiting the South Carolina Aquarium, taking a stroll through the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and exploring the Charleston City Market. Families can also take a pirate-themed cruise or a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Seychelles)
Are there any vacation rentals in Charleston that can accommodate large families?
Yes, there are many vacation rentals in Charleston that can accommodate large families. These rentals can range from spacious homes to condos and apartments, and often offer amenities like full kitchens, laundry facilities, and private outdoor spaces. Websites like VRBO, Airbnb, and HomeAway offer a wide range of options for families of all sizes.
What is the best time of year to visit Charleston with kids?
The best time to visit Charleston with kids is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and there are many family-friendly events and festivals taking place. The summer months can be hot and humid, but there are still many outdoor activities and water parks that are perfect for kids. The winter months are a great time to visit if you’re looking for smaller crowds and lower prices on accommodations.