Charleston, with its sweet tea, fragrant magnolias, white-steeple churches (more than 400), and yes, seersucker suits, has always been the belle of the southern ball. And even today, its impeccable manners, exquisite dress, graciousness, and a colorful history remain its calling card. Most visitors who walk Charleston’s cobblestone streets, ride its horse-drawn carriages (even the most jaded New Yorkers) have paused — even fleetingly — to imagine what it may be like to live in the Holy City. If only for a few days. These colorful, Old South-style yet modernized Airbnbs (some dog friendly) bring that musing to reality by enabling travelers to live like locals. Loaded with charm (and rocking-chair porches), following are just a few of our favorite Charleston (and nearby beachfront) Airbnbs.
Sunrise
(Accommodates: 8 guests)
Located within easy walking distance of historic King Street, this three-bedroom stunner was originally built in the 1850s. Completely renovated by its (architect) owners, the house now features a clean white Scandinavian interior design, while remaining true to its original brickwork, exposed beams, and wide pine floors. We especially love the private upstairs porch.
The Little Pink House on the Peninsula
(Accommodates: 2 guests)
Romantic and undoubtedly pink, this small house canopied under live oaks on residential Bogard Street, is perfect for couples. In true southern style, the house features not one, but two, porches, both west facing, making them perfect for sunset. The lofted primary suite spans the second floor, while the downstairs living space has an intimate living area, kitchenette, and half bath. The epitome of downtown Charleston living.
Brick House with Courtyard
(Accommodates: 6 guests)
Quintessential Charleston. This three-bedroom brick home, in the heart of downtown and just steps from King and Calhoun Streets was built in 1802. And has recently been renovated. Enjoy the entire house: first-floor living room, kitchen, dining area, laundry and half bath; and upstairs, the two bedrooms, one with a private balcony and outdoor seating. An outdoor paved courtyard with wrought-iron furniture and gate completes the Charleston vibe.
Historic Downtown Kitchen House
(Accommodates: 4 guests)
Modern meets authentic in this two-story, two-bedroom, two-bath apartment, near upper King Street. We love the exposed chimney on both floors, and the super southern back porch. A perfect set up for couples, there are notable restaurants nearby. Fuel, directly across the street, is ideal for cocktails and a casual dinner; Goulette, a French bistro is also nearby.
Tully Alley
(Accommodates: 4 guests)
This serene, one-bedroom cottage (a stand-alone pool house) comes with French doors leading to a koi pond, and a heated lap pool shrouded in bamboo. Intimate in its design, the cottage is best suited for one couple seeking a romantic getaway. We love the pine floors, natural light filtering through floor-to-ceiling windows, and the light-hued furniture and bedding.
Folly Beach
Ocean views are seemingly endless in this two-bedroom, two-bath Folly Beach home. Just steps from the sand, enjoy coffee on the deck (with a water view), and delight in the home’s chic, light-hued, coastal decor. Perfect for two couples or a small family.
Sea Fox Residence
(Accommodates: 7 guests)
If a stay on the water — between downtown Charleston and Folly Beach (both are within a 10-minute drive) is preferred, Sea Fox Residence, in the historic Sol Legare community, offers the perfect respite. The primary bedroom features east-, south- and west-facing windows overlooking the tidal marsh. And we love the slipper bathtub perfect for a starlight soak. Sip white wine on the back deck overlooking the river and shaded by live oaks. Practice yoga on the rooftop deck (stocked with yoga mats, Tibetan singing bowls, and essential oils), or simply hang in the cushy rooftop day bed.
Captain’s Quarters
(Accommodates: 4 guests) For a true Lowcountry experience, this two-bedroom cottage, set on a gravel road surrounded by live oaks in Johns Island, is all about coastal country living. Floors are antique heart pine, the primary bedroom comes with a four-post Lowcountry rice bed; wild turkeys roost in the trees, deer visit daily, and owls sound off around 5 p.m. Other special touches include gas lanterns, ceiling fans, a wrap-around porch with rocking chairs, crisp percale sheets, designer throws and pillows, fresh eggs from the chickens, and a Pawleys Island hammock in the trees. There is also a carefully curated collection of original art, sculpture, antiques, and books from southern artists. All within an easy drive to downtown Charleston and Folly Beach.
Feature image courtesy of Airbnb; Travel Curator may earn a commission from booking links on this page.
