Search the best hotels in Charleston

Best Boutique Hotels in Charleston

Charleston on the coast of South Carolina is a city steeped in rich history and culture. Founded in 1670, it quickly became an important colonial port and is now the most populous city in the state. With its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and well-preserved architecture, Charleston is a beautiful city and the perfect destination for a cultural getaway. If you're looking for somewhere special to stay, then a boutique hotel is the ideal way to experience the city's unique character. To make your search a little easier, we've put together a list of the best boutique hotels in Charleston. From Georgian townhouses to historic mansions, each of these hotels offers a unique charm and décor for an unforgettable stay.

Andrew Pinckney Inn

Charleston (Ansonborough)

Charming boutique inn located in the heart of Charleston's historic district. Made up of several 300-year-old buildings, the 19th-century facade creates a strong sense of place, while chic rooms with West Indies touches offer modern comforts. Enjoy a rooftop solarium and the striking inner atrium.

  • Local markets - Nextdoor Charleston City Market - the nation's oldest market - has been in running for 200+ years. Browse over 100 local vendors
  • Local exploring - Located two blocks above Charleston's Historic Market, many of the city's main sites are walking distance
  • Great walks - The city is home to great green spaces. Make sure to visit Waterfront Park, Battery Park and White Point Gardens
  • Sights nearby - No trip to Charleston is complete without a guided historic homes walking tour
from AU$268 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Charlestonian

Charleston (Cannonborough)

Range of contemporary multi-room apartments in quiet Cannonborough neighbourhood. Spacious living, dining and kitchen areas designed for families or groups give way to cosy bedrooms; some have balconies. Upscale decor combines wood floors, bold tones and objets d'art creating a warm and homely feel.

  • Local exploring - Great base for extended stays in the city. After days exploring, relax in this comfortable and spacious environment
  • Groups - Friends or families travelling together will appreciate the communal areas for downtime
  • Local markets - It's walking distance to the Historic Charleston City Market which has been in operation for over 200 years
  • Full of character -
from AU$323 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Fulton Lane Inn

Charleston (King Street)

Quiet centrally-located boutique hotel tucked away behind King Street. Within a 19th-century structure, cosy rooms feature high ceilings, serene canopy beds, warming fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Enjoy in-room breakfasts, evening refreshments and the city on your doorstep. A great value hidden gem.

  • Value chic - Fab location means there's no need to hire transport to explore or go sightseeing; it's all on your doorstep. Worth every penny
  • Local exploring - Ideal location means that Charleston's Historic District, King Street and French Quarter sites are all around the corner
  • Families - The property's two-room suites are perfect for families travelling together. Look out for family-friendly packages too
  • Local markets - It's a five minute stroll to the city's renowned historic City Market; the oldest market in the country
from AU$368 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Restoration

Charleston (Harleston Village)

Old downtown hotel offers local elegance, hardwood floors and exposed brick. Fully equipped kitchens (with dryer and washing machine), comfortable double beds and modern bathrooms. Breakfast offered in picnic baskets, wine and cheese receptions, rooftop eatery and cookies with milk as a nightcap.

  • Sights nearby - Angel Oak - a live oak tree over 1,400 years old.
  • Local markets - Charleston Museum for local and natural history.
  • Swimming Pool - Rooftop pool
  • Views
from AU$414 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Loutrel

Charleston (French Quarter)

An historic hotel in Charleston's French Quarter. Stylish rooms are decorated in shades of baby blue and grey with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the views. There's a complimentary breakfast and a restaurant for light bites, plus a relaxed roof terrace. The perfect blend of elegance and comfort.

  • Local exploring - Step back in time and visit the grounds of Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, founded in 1676 along the Ashley River
  • Romantic Break - Exquisite rooms boasting Matouk linens, Deep Steep spa products, and stunning views
  • Great walks - Stroll down The Battery promenade past historic landmarks until reaching the Charleston peninsula that overlooks Fort Sumter
  • Local markets - Charleston City Market is around the corner with an extensive collection of artisan stalls selling handcrafted souvenirs
from AU$429 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Bella Grace

Charleston (Ansonborough)

Tasteful conversion of a centrally-located 1830s home into a design-led modern luxury boutique hotel. Grey, marble and monochrome tones give an on-trend feel to well-designed rooms and self-catered studios. Plus there's a gym, terrace and breakfast included, and a popular restaurant next door.

  • City Style - Sleek city bolthole with impressive credentials; the hotel's architect, interior designer and gallerist make an all-female team
  • Walking distance restaurants - Trendy Delaney Oyster House is in the same building but not part of the hotel. Tuck into cocktails & signature seafood platters
  • Local exploring - Tranquil base that's walking distance from the city's major sites, historic architecture and entertainment on King Street
  • Romantic Break - Grown-up understated luxury ideal for weekends away; rooms come with fluffy robes, impressive tech and delicious coffee
from AU$439 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Spectator

Charleston (French Quarter)

A boutique hotel in the centre of historic Charleston, evoking the style of the roaring twenties, complemented with Southern charm and hospitality. Stylish rooms and suites with an art deco vibe, some with balcony or terrace and gourmet breakfast delivered to your door. A chic city centre spot.

  • Local exploring - Right in the heart of the Historic District, with neo-classical architecture, cobblestone streets and antebellum mansions.
  • City Style - A sleek choice- this boutique hotel boasts cool 1920's speakeasy bar, crisp modern rooms and phenomanal service.
  • Local markets - The Historic Charleston City Market is just down the road.
  • Designer
from AU$445 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Zero George Street

Charleston (Ansonborough)

A boutique hotel set in three early 19th century townhouses with unique Southern charm, full of character. Exceptional food, great details, close to the historic centre.

  • Foodies - The Zero Cafe has earned glowing reviews for its locally sourced and seasonal cuisine
  • Traditional - The hotel features many original features including heart pine floors and high ceilings.
  • Cooking classes - Every Monday and Saturday classes are held in the Kitchen Carriage House
  • Sights nearby - Middleton Place: a National Historic Landmark
from AU$445 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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20 South Battery

Charleston (South of Broad)

Historic private mansion transformed into luxury B&B. Meticulously restored to its former glory, rooms are decorated with grand four-poster beds, impressive antiques and period artwork. Expect high-end bedding, deluxe bath products, smart TVs and homely touches. Intimate feel with an ideal location.

  • Local exploring - South Battery is a sought out location due to its sea views, waterfront promenade and proximity to the heart of town
  • City Style - Manages to combine the grandeur of Charleston's past with luxury amenities firmly in the present
  • Sights nearby - The heart of Charleston's historic district and all major sites are within walking distance
  • Great walks - The property is located just across from White Point Gardens
from AU$475 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Harbourview Inn

Charleston (French Quarter)

This townhouse mansion in the historic district on the Waterfront Park maintains the traditional interiors such as high ceiling reception, welcoming fireplace and art works. Rooms boast fine linens, four-poster beds, whirlpool baths and breakfast in-room. City exploring is accessible.

  • Luxury -
  • Local markets - The Old City Market.
  • Sights nearby - Waterfront Park.
  • Full of character -
from AU$475 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Planters Inn

Charleston (Ansonborough)

Prime location in the historic district, a 19th Century inn with classic interiors and fine dining at Peninsula Grill. Spacious rooms offer four-poster beds, private sitting rooms and bathrooms. Dine al fresco, or explore the city market for many other options. A historian's dream stay.

  • Local markets - Charleston City Market is a chance to meet Lowcountry artisans including more than 50 Gullah sweetgrass basket weavers.
  • Great walks - Middleton Place or Magnolia Gardens, previous plantation houses, offer some brilliant gardens.
  • Sights nearby - Confederate Museum.
  • Romantic -
from AU$508 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Emeline

Charleston (Ansonborough)

Brimming with playful charm, this beautifully converted historic hotel offers stylish rooms, lively dining options & a vibey courtyard terrace. Rooms have thoughtful amenities, embroidered linens, mid-century furniture & velvet headboards. A perfect boutique property in the heart of the action.

  • City Style - It's rare to find such a jewel of a hotel; a mix of history, character, soul & style - with all the modern touches guests expect
  • Romantic Break - A buzzing boutique option for a memorable weekend; eat & sleep well in carefully curated surroundings with magic atmosphere
  • Local exploring - The Charleston's historic quarter location means sites, museums, monuments - plus shopping & dining - are on the doorstep
  • Great walks - Walk across 10 acres in Charleston Waterfront Park, with it's prime location overlooking Charleston Harbor and the Cooper River
from AU$522 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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21 East Battery

Charleston (South of Broad)

Stunning B&B located within the grounds of a 19th-century waterfront mansion. Book either the cosy Carriage House or one of two rooms within the Quarters; all have kitchens and large living areas. Tasteful decor in classic style combines art, antiques and pine floors. Understated historic chic.

  • Museums - Located on the site of Edmonston-Alston House, a Greek Revival home built in 1825 and one of Charleston's fine house museums
  • Groups - Quarters is made up of two rooms, ideal for friends and couples travelling together. Carriage House can sleep up to four
  • City Style - Feels as though you're staying in an upmarket private house; enjoy the tranquil setting, privacy and rustic homely feel
  • Outstanding location - No other Charleston hotel offers immediate access and views onto The Battery, making this a prime address!
from AU$531 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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86 Cannon

Charleston (Cannonborough)

This boutique hotel is nestled within a 1860s residence in the heart of Charleston. Interiors blend mid-century elegance with classic French design and a touch of Southern style. With nightly wine and cheese served on the hotel verandah, this is a discerning city bolt-hole.

  • Local exploring - Set in a leafy area of Charleston, close to high-end boutiques and restaurants, this hotel is a luxury base for local exploring
  • Romantic Break - With beautifully appointed suites and two open-air terraces, this hotel makes an indulgent couples' getaway
  • City Style - Set in a heritage property in a stylish Charleston neighbourhood, this hotel has reams of local city charm
  • Great walks - Discover historic downtown Charleston on a guided walking tour; enquire at the hotel for more details
from AU$577 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston

Charleston (King Street)

Luxury hotel with all the trimmings located in historic downtown. Expect champagne on arrival, an art-filled atrium, funky rooftop with city views, fine-dining restaurant and upscale wine bar. Colourful rooms are compact but exceedingly comfortable with fluffy robes, smart TVs and modern artwork.

  • Roof terrace - Modelled on a secret garden, this fourth floor rooftop oasis boasts botanical cocktails, dining and historic city skyline views
  • Business meetings - In addition to ballroom and event spaces, there's art gallery cocktail receptions, wine-tastings and farm-to-table dining
  • Artworks - Visit the hotel's art gallery where contemporary artwork, sculptures and jewelry created by local artists is for sale
  • City Style - Luxurious pad in the heart of the action; enjoy both world-class amenities and enviable location
from AU$588 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Wentworth Mansion

Charleston (Harleston Village)

America’s Gilded Age mansion oozes Charleston history through its marble floors, vaulted high ceilings and antique furnishings. Large rooms with fireplaces are unique and with modern amenities and complimentary breakfast. Enjoy a range of spa treatments or head out to explore yester-year.

  • Great walks - This pet friendly hotel is the perfect place for all the family, and there are many parks to take your pooch for a walk.
  • Opulent -
  • Traditional -
  • Romantic -
from AU$769 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Pinch

Charleston (King Street)

A luxury boutique hotel in Charleston's heart crafted from two period buildings, which now offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Victorian elegance meets contemporary comforts — think stylish suites with full kitchens — plus a chic oyster bar. An urban oasis for discerning travellers.

  • City Style - Immerse yourself in Charleston's vibrant heart where Victorian elegance meets modern luxury for an unforgettable urban retreat
  • Foodies - Colombian-born chef Nicolas Quintero's restaurant is one of the town's 'it' spots with good reason
  • Walking distance restaurants - Many Charleston top restaurants are nearby including Lenoir, FIG, and Le Farfalle
  • Sights nearby - Explore Charleston's historic streets, just steps away, brimming with culture and charm
from AU$865 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia