The 8 Best Charleston Resorts on the Beach | Right on the Sand
We sorted through countless options and uncovered the best beachfront resorts in Charleston SC, each offering something that, in one way or another, feels just a little special.
Whether it’s nearly perfect ocean views, an abundance of top-tier amenities, or a location that’s practically a gateway to Charleston’s historic charm, these Charleston resorts on the beach bring a whole lot to the table.
Table of Contents
Methodology
To determine the best beachfront resorts in Charleston SC, we sifted through reviews from Google, TripAdvisor, and Expedia, paying close attention to real guest experiences.
In the meantime, we evaluated the vibe, overall comfort, dining choices, and recreational activities to determine which Charleston beach resorts truly stand out.
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The 8 Best Beach Resorts in Charleston SC
8. Seaside Inn – Most Affordable
Key Highlights:
- Immediate access to Isle of Palms Beach
- Rooftop pool overlooking the coastline
- Among the more affordable Charleston resorts on the beach
Settled right against the soft sands of Isle of Palms, Seaside Inn is, in some respects, the ultimate budget-friendly stay for those who still want direct access to ocean breezes.
The ambiance is lighthearted and unfussy, catering to guests who prefer an easygoing, sun-soaked retreat. The rooms, in a way, mix functionality with beachside charm, offering simple comforts with either ocean or city-facing balconies.
With the shoreline literally just a short walk away, guests can slip into the laid-back coastal scene without much effort. Likewise, the rooftop pool and complimentary breakfast make mornings a little easier.
While it lacks the extravagance of high-end resorts, its affordability and position right on the beach make it a solid option, making it the best resort in Charleston SC on the beach for those on a budget.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
7. The Palms Oceanfront Hotel
Key Highlights:
- Positioned right on Isle of Palms Beach
- Modern rooms with a coastal-chic aesthetic
- Outdoor pool with oceanfront views
The Palms Oceanfront Hotel, sitting right on Isle of Palms, has this way of blending affordability with a bit of stylish comfort. It’s the kind of place where you wake up to the gentle hush of the waves and step outside to a bright, sandy stretch.
The rooms, revamped with modern coastal aesthetics, have a refreshingly light and breezy feel, some even featuring private balconies for a closer view of the surf.
Although there’s no in-house restaurant, plenty of local seafood spots are within a quick walk. Guests also get access to an outdoor pool and direct beach access, making it an easy choice for a getaway that, in a way, feels both peaceful and conveniently located.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
6. Water’s Edge Inn
Key Highlights:
- Charming boutique-style inn just steps from Folly Beach
- Luxury rooms with private balconies and marsh views
- Complimentary evening happy hour with wine and hors d’oeuvres
Water’s Edge Inn is, in some respects, the perfect mix of coastal charm and laid-back luxury, offering guests a quiet retreat that still keeps them close to the energy of Folly Beach, making it one of the best Charleston beach resorts for those looking for an intimate property.
Unlike larger resorts that might feel a bit more commercialized, this intimate inn provides a cozy, personalized experience where every detail seems carefully thought out. From the moment you arrive, the salty air, swaying palms, and warm hospitality set the stage for a stay that feels both indulgent and refreshingly unpretentious.
The accommodations lean toward the elegant yet comfortable side, with plush bedding, spa-inspired bathrooms, and private balconies that overlook the serene Lowcountry marshlands.
One of the standout features here is the complimentary evening happy hour, where guests can unwind with a glass of wine and light hors d’oeuvres as the sun sets over the water. Though the beach is just a short walk away, the inn’s relaxed atmosphere makes it tempting to simply lounge in a rocking chair on the porch and let the day slip by.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
5. Wild Dunes Resort – Best-Seller
Key Highlights:
- Expansive beachfront property covering 1,600 acres
- Multiple pools, golf courses, and tennis facilities
- Full-service spa and on-site dining options
Wild Dunes Resort is, without a doubt, one of the most well-loved resorts in Charleston SC on the beach.
Sitting across 1,600 acres on Isle of Palms, it’s the kind of place that offers, well, a little bit of everything. Guests can choose from traditional hotel-style rooms, upscale vacation homes, and fully loaded beachfront villas.
This resort is practically a playground for beach lovers, featuring multiple pools, championship golf courses, and even tennis courts for those who like to stay active.
A top-tier spa and on-site dining round out the experience, making it an easy pick for families, couples, and anyone looking for a well-rounded stay, which makes it one of the best beach resorts in Charleston SC for every type of traveler.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
4. Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina
Key Highlights:
- Waterfront resort with breathtaking views of Charleston’s skyline
- Full-service marina with yacht rentals and fishing excursions
- Multiple pools, private beach access, and an award-winning spa
Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina is, in many ways, the ultimate coastal getaway, blending resort-style luxury with the undeniable charm of Charleston’s waterfront.
This resort offers a front-row seat to sweeping harbor views with a private beach while still keeping guests just minutes from the heart of downtown. The atmosphere here tends to feel both relaxing and lively, striking a balance between upscale indulgence and classic Southern hospitality.
The rooms and suites are designed with a distinctly nautical touch, featuring crisp linens, warm wood accents, and balconies that overlook either the marina or the Charleston skyline.
The resort’s pools—including a tropical-style pool with a swim-up bar—are ideal for unwinding, while the private beach area provides an extra layer of exclusivity. Guests who prefer a bit more adventure might find themselves booking a deep-sea fishing excursion or a sunset yacht cruise from the marina.
Meanwhile, the onsite restaurants serve up fresh seafood and craft cocktails, making every meal feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re here for a romantic escape, a family trip, or simply to soak up Charleston’s coastal beauty, this resort delivers an experience that is as unforgettable as the scenery itself, making it one of the best Charleston beach resorts out there.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
3. Regatta Inn
Key Highlights:
- Adults-only escape with ocean and marsh views
- Complimentary gourmet breakfast and evening wine service
- Secluded, intimate setting steps from Folly Beach
Regatta Inn is the kind of place that, in some respects, feels almost like a secret hideaway for those who appreciate quiet luxury. Tucked along the edge of Folly Beach, this adults-only retreat leans into a more refined, slow-paced atmosphere.
The rooms, dressed in soft coastal tones, open to private balconies that offer either a front-row seat to the ocean or calming views of the marshlands.
Guests can start the day with a thoughtfully prepared gourmet breakfast and wind down in the evening with complimentary wine and appetizers.
Unlike larger resorts, this inn prioritizes tranquility, making it a great option for those looking to trade in the usual hustle and bustle for something a little more peaceful.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
2. Tides Folly Beach – Top Value Pick
Key Highlights:
- Every single room offers a full ocean view
- Heated outdoor pool and beachfront bar
- Located in the heart of Folly Beach’s vibrant scene
Tides Folly Beach is, without a doubt, one of the most practical picks for travelers looking for a full-service Charleston beach resort without the jaw-dropping price tag.
Unlike some beachfront resorts that only offer a few ocean-view rooms, every single room here guarantees a view of the waves rolling in. The rooms themselves are sleek and modern, but the real highlight is, of course, the proximity to the beach.
The resort has a heated outdoor pool for days when the ocean is a little too chilly, plus an on-site bar and restaurant serving up fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
Positioned right in the middle of Folly Beach’s energetic boardwalk area, it’s a fantastic option for those who enjoy having entertainment, dining, and nightlife practically at their doorstep.
For the price, we think Tides Folly Beach is one of the best beach resorts in Charleston SC.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
1. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort – Most Luxurious
Key Highlights:
- Five-star beachfront retreat with a classic Southern feel
- Multiple pools, an award-winning spa, and world-class dining
- Access to Kiawah Island’s famed championship golf courses
When it comes to pure indulgence, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort sits at the top of the list as the best Charleston resort on the beach
This grand, five-star resort sprawls across Kiawah Island, offering a mix of timeless elegance and beachfront luxury.
The rooms exude a kind of old-world charm, with classic Southern décor, luxurious linens, and, of course, balconies offering sweeping ocean views.
Guests have their pick of pools, including an oceanfront infinity pool, while the world-renowned spa offers treatments that feel practically custom-made for relaxation.
With championship golf courses nearby and multiple fine-dining restaurants on-site, this resort is, in short, the gold standard for a high-end coastal escape.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
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