Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in South Carolina (Currently Open)

South Carolina knows how to do hospitality. From historic downtown inns to luxurious beachfront resorts, the Palmetto State offers accommodations with character, comfort, and a strong sense of place. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, you’ll find unforgettable stays that speak to the region’s charm, heritage, and scenic variety. Here are 15 of the most iconic hotels and getaways in South Carolina, all currently open and ready for your next getaway.

1. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort – Kiawah Island

Located just 21 miles from Charleston, this resort hotel epitomizes coastal luxury. Kiawah Island Golf Resort

• Set on Kiawah Island’s oceanfront with sweeping views of marshland and sea.

• Features Forbes Five-Star service, making it a standout for a high-end getaway.

• Ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape or travellers wanting a resort with both nature and refinement.
  Expect amenities like spa treatments, fine dining, and the kind of calm you don’t always find in bigger city hotels.

2. Montage Palmetto Bluff – Bluffton/Lowcountry

Nestled along the May River in the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, this resort offers a serene escape. Montage Hotels & Resorts

• Offers cottages, suites and homes with Southern-style design, set against stunning natural scenery.

• Dining and wellness are strong features—good for a multi-night stay where you unwind and soak it all in.

• Great for families and couples alike. Kids can explore outdoor paths, adults can enjoy spa time and riverside views.

3. Hotel Bennett – Charleston, SC

In historic downtown Charleston, this hotel blends European-inspired architecture with Southern hospitality. Hotel Bennett

• Located on King Street – perfect for exploring shops, restaurants and historic streets.

• Children, couples, families all feel welcome; the rooftop pool and chic vibe make it aspirational.

• If you want a stylish city base while exploring Charleston’s rich history, this one delivers.

4. The Charleston Place – Charleston, SC

A landmark hotel with opulent touches and a central location in Charleston’s historic district. Wikipedia+1

• Rooms, architecture and service evoke a sense of grandeur.

• Great for travellers who want full amenities (spa, restaurants, luxury lobby) and walkability to city sights.

• Excellent choice for a special-occasion stay or when you want to combine sightseeing and pampering.

5. The Dunlin (Auberge Resorts Collection) – Johns Island / Kiawah River

For a nature-immersed stay with luxury touches, this new retreat is noteworthy. Auberge Collection

• Surrounded by marsh flats, oak trees and quiet pathways.

• A bit removed from the typical tourist hustle – ideal for relaxing, unplugging and reconnecting with the environment.

• Excellent pick for couples or those seeking a calm but elevated getaway.

6. The Restoration – Charleston, SC

For travellers who prefer boutique over big resort, this hotel offers style and locality. Tripadvisor+1

• Located in Charleston; easy access to history, culture and city life.

• Chic rooms and thoughtful amenities make it a modern choice with Southern roots.

• Suitable for solo travellers, couples, or friends exploring Charleston together.

7. Zero George Street – Charleston, SC

Another standout boutique stay in Charleston—with a difference. Telegraph

• Historic architecture meets refined design.

• Great for those who appreciate unique stays with character rather than standard hotel chains.

• Ideal for slower-paced stays: morning porch coffee, afternoon wandering, evening cocktails.

8. French Quarter Inn – Charleston, SC

A comfortable, upscale stay in the heart of Charleston’s historic district. Tripadvisor

• One of the more approachable luxury options in Charleston.

• Great value, excellent location, high service.

• Families and couples alike will appreciate the combination of convenience and hospitality.

9. Hotel Hartness – Greenville / Upstate SC

Heading inland to the Upstate, this newer hotel offers luxury within a region increasingly celebrated for its outdoor access and charm. hotelhartness.com

• Boutique-style hotel with spa, fine dining and modern design.

• Good for travellers who want to explore South Carolina beyond the coast: hikes, trails, local culinary scenes.

• A balanced choice for families and adults alike—comfortable, stylish, and regionally distinct.

10. The Spectator Hotel – Charleston, SC

A luxurious stay influenced by the Roaring Twenties and old-Southern elegance. luxuryhotel.world

• Boutique luxury with strong character.

• Ideal for couples seeking a romantic city stay, or history-loving travellers wanting an elevated hotel experience.

• Convenient for exploring Charleston’s restaurants, bars and waterfront.

11. The Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection – Charleston, SC

A historic hotel with modern upgrades—classic meets contemporary. Wikipedia

• On a site dating to the mid-1800s; retains heritage while offering updated amenities.

• Great pick for travellers who appreciate staying in hotels with a story and legacy.

• Good for couples or small families with interest in staying in the heart of Charleston’s historic district.

12. Wild Dunes Resort – Isle of Palms, SC

For beach-front resort stays with full amenities, this is a top option in the coastal region. Luxury Link

• On Isle of Palms, beachfront access, pool/lodging combo and resort atmosphere.

• Perfect for families who want sun, sand, seaside restaurants and resort features.

• Also great for couples seeking a warm beach stay with comfort and style.

13. Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort – Hilton Head Island

Heading further down the coast for getaway variety, this resort offers oceanfront luxury and family-friendly features. Tripadvisor

• Oceanfront location, resort amenities and ease of beach access.

• Excellent for longer stays, family vacations or multiple-generations trips interested in beach and resort mix.

• Pair with biking, golf, water sport activities and local restaurants to round out the experience.

14. The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa – Hilton Head Island, SC

Another strong choice in the island-coast region, blending wellness and beach vacation vibes. Tripadvisor

• Beachfront resort setting plus spa/wellness focus.

• Good for couples or adults looking for a bit more relaxation, but still family-equipped and amenable.

• Offers a getaway feel while remaining accessible and comfortable.

15. Marriott’s Grande Ocean – Myrtle Beach, SC

For a more accessible coastal getaway—not as boutique or historic as some of the others but still iconic in its own right. Tripadvisor

• Two-bedroom villas, ocean views, resort-style amenities.

• Ideal for families seeking a beach stay with more space and convenience.

• Good option if your travel group involves kids or multiple families wanting comfort and ease.

How to Choose the Right Hotel or Getaway for You

When deciding which of these iconic hotels and getaways in South Carolina to book, consider the following factors:

1. Region & setting:

• Coastal (Charleston, Hilton Head, Isle of Palms) for beach, sun, maritime atmosphere.

• Inland/upstate (Greenville and beyond) for hills, trails, quieter stays.
  2. Style & vibe:

• Historic boutique (Zero George, Mills House) if you love heritage.

• Full resort (Omni Hilton Head, Westin) if you want large-scale amenities and family focus.
  3. Travel group & purpose:

• Romantic pair: Boutique luxury in Charleston or Kiawah Island.

• Family: Resort on an island or beachfront with villas and kids activities.

• Exploration & nature: Upstate hotel paired with hiking or outdoors.
  4. Unique features:

• Spa & wellness (Westin, Hartness)

• Historic architecture (Charleston Place, Mills House)

• Scenic natural environment (Montage Palmetto Bluff, Dunlin)
  5. Stay length & budget:

• Short city stay: Boutique in Charleston.

• Longer vacation: Resort with amenities and location you want to spend days in.

Why These Hotels Matter & Offer Evergreen Appeal

These stays are more than just places to sleep—they’re part of the South Carolina travel story. They combine:

• History and heritage: Many of the hotels sit in historic buildings or locations.

• Regional atmosphere: You feel “in” South Carolina—not just anywhere.

• Luxury & comfort: Not always ultra-high end, but a clear step above average.

• Searchable & shareable: People look up “best hotels South Carolina,” “luxury resorts Charleston,” “family beach resort Hilton Head” – these options match those search terms.

• Travel-friendly variety: From beach to city to nature, you’ll find options for diverse interests and geographies.

Final Thoughts: Pack Your Bags and Pick Your Stay

If you’re thinking “where should I stay in South Carolina?” you have excellent choices. Whether you prioritize beach views, historic architecture, resort amenities, nature escapes or city glamour, there is a hotel or getaway here that will elevate your trip.