Charleston Travel Guide

Zach and I are so excited to finally share some of the amazing spots we discovered in Charleston + some more! We had the best time exploring this charming city, from cobblestone streets to beautiful waterfront views. We’ve rounded up our favorite restaurants, activities, and hidden gems that made our trip unforgettable—and we can’t wait for you to see them all!

Our Favorite Restaurants

We tried so many amazing spots during our weekend in Charleston, but I wanted to share just a few of our absolute favorites—places we’re still dreaming about!

We absolutely loved Vintage Coffee Café—it was the perfect way to start our day. Tucked under dreamy oak trees with a laid-back, charming vibe, this spot is known for its incredible coffee and fresh, locally sourced breakfast options. We had some of the best lattes we’ve ever tasted (seriously!) and couldn’t get enough of their avocado toast and house-made pastries. The outdoor seating and cozy atmosphere made it feel like such a peaceful morning escape. It’s definitely a must-visit if you’re a coffee lover or just looking for a cute, relaxing brunch spot in Charleston!

167 Raw completely stole our hearts—and our appetites. Known for their insanely fresh seafood and cool, upscale-casual vibe, this place totally lived up to the hype. We went for dinner, but honestly, it would be amazing for lunch too. The oysters were out-of-this-world fresh, and the lobster roll? Chef’s kiss. Everything we tried was flavorful and beautifully prepared, and the service made the whole experience even better. If you love seafood (or even if you’re on the fence), this spot is a must.

We wrapped things up at Off Track Ice Cream, and it was just as sweet and special as it sounds. The inside is absolutely stunning—bright, modern, and full of fun little details that make it feel like a trendy little ice cream oasis. They offer both traditional and plant-based options, and every flavor we tried was rich, creamy, and completely delicious. With plenty of seating and such a fun atmosphere, it was the perfect way to end a day of exploring.

These were just a few of our favorites from our weekend trip—Charleston is packed with amazing places to eat, sip, and treat yourself. We’re already dreaming about going back to try more!

Our Favorite Activities

One of the best ways to soak in the charm of Charleston is just walking or biking around Broad Street. We spent a morning slowly exploring—taking in the historic homes, the beautiful old churches, and those picture-perfect side streets that feel like stepping back in time. There’s so much to see along Broad, from antique shops to quiet little corners full of Southern charm. It’s the kind of street where every turn feels like a photo op, and we loved getting lost in it.

Another highlight was boutique hopping on King Street! This area is a dream for shopping lovers, with everything from well-known stores to local gems. One of my favorite stops was LoveShackFancy — the prettiest boutique in the most famous pink building, draped in fresh flowers and full of dreamy pieces. Every storefront felt like it had its own little personality, and we had the best time window shopping, grabbing iced coffees, and popping into our favorite spots.

And of course, we had to catch a sunrise at The Battery — and let me just say, it was magical. The soft glow over the water, the palm trees swaying, and the historic homes lining the street made it feel so peaceful and timeless. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet walk to start your day, and the history all around you just adds to the magic. Definitely one of those moments we’ll remember forever.

More Charleston Favorites

I shared these Charleston travel recs in last week’s newsletter as exclusive content, but they were just too good not to add here too! Some of our absolute favorite spots from our trip + more—full of charm, flavor, and Southern magic!

Breakfast

1. The Harbinger Café & Bakery – A cozy, plant-filled café serving creative toasts and dreamy baked goods with a warm, local charm
2. Clerk’s Coffee Company – A stylish coffee shop inside the Emeline Hotel with sleek vibes and expertly crafted espresso
3. Second State Coffee – A minimalist haven known for its high-quality brews and peaceful, modern workspace feel
4. Harken Café – A whimsical, cottagecore-inspired café with artisan bites and stunning attention to detail.
   The Daily
5. Brown’s Court Bakery – A bright, modern market café perfect for fresh pastries, coffee, and people-watching
6. Vintage Coffee Café – A quaint neighborhood bakery in a historic home offering some of Charleston’s best pastries

Lunch/Dinner

1. 167 Raw – A lively, upscale seafood bar known for its lobster rolls, oysters, and vibrant, coastal energy
2. The Obstinate Daughter – A charming Sullivan’s Island favorite serving coastal Italian-inspired dishes with a Southern twist
3. Leon’s Oyster Shop – A laid-back, retro spot with fried chicken, oysters, and rosé on tap—yes, it’s as fun as it sounds
4. Frannie & The Fox – A wood-fired Italian restaurant inside Hotel Emeline with chic vibes and shareable plates perfect for date night
5. Basic Kitchen – A fresh, feel-good spot offering clean, colorful dishes with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients
6. Husk – A renowned Southern dining destination redefining traditional dishes with locally sourced, elevated flair
7. The Darling Oyster Bar – A beautifully designed seafood spot on King Street known for its raw bar and vintage Charleston charm
8. Post House – A cozy, coastal tavern-meets-inn in Mount Pleasant with elevated comfort food and relaxed elegance
9. Malagón Mercado & Tapería – A hidden gem serving authentic Spanish tapas and wine in an intimate, market-style setting
10. Chubby Fish – A local favorite with a rotating menu of sustainable seafood dishes that are creative, bold, and unforgettable

Desserts

1. Off Track Ice Cream – A modern scoop shop serving insanely creamy, locally sourced ice cream with vegan options that wow
2. Sugar Bakeshop – A charming little bakery with nostalgic Southern treats and the prettiest garden courtyard
3. Carmella’s Dessert Bar – An indulgent late-night spot blending Italian desserts, cocktails, and coffee in a glamorous setting
4. BeardCat’s Sweet Shop – A quirky, colorful spot under The Obstinate Daughter with gelato, baked goods, and beachy vibes
5. Brown’s Court Bakery – A cozy neighborhood bakery known for its flaky croissants, fresh breads, and historic home charm

Activities

1. Explore Sullivan’s Island & Isle of Palms
2. Sunrise Walks at The Battery
3. Boutique Shopping on King Street
4. Candle Making at Candlefish
5. Rooftop Cocktails at The Citrus Club
6. Charleston Farmers Market (Saturdays at Marion Square)
7. Bike Rides Through South of Broad

If you found this helpful, share it with a friend who’s dreaming of a Charleston getaway, and be sure to follow along for more travel tips, hidden gems, and aesthetic city guides. Until next time—happy travels!