Planning a vacation to NC or SC? Looking for the finest places to stay in The Carolinas? Well you are in luck!
I’ve traveled The Carolinas for work and pleasure over the last several years. I’ve had the opportunity to stay in just about every type of lodging the states have to offer. Ive stayed at everything from mountain retreats to oceanside resorts. I’ve stayed at tiny boutique hotels and small town B&Bs. I’ve even stayed at a spare campground or two.
To be able to best explore the cities, towns, and natural landscapes, it’s incumbent that I can find somewhere to call home for the night which has given me the excuse to try out more of these places than I could imagine having done otherwise. Armed with that experience, I feel confident we have just the right type of place for you to unwind, relax, and return back to each evening, no matter what travel experience it is you’re seeking.
From the best known cities of our two states to the tiniest hidden gems, these are some of our favorite places to stay in The Carolinas
Our favorite places to stay in the Carolinas: North Carolina
The Inn on Biltmore Estate
The Inn has a gorgeous, châteauesque-style based on the French Renaissance architecture of the estate itself. Enjoy the same luxury that has made the estate famous for centuries: Beyond the spa and wine options, you’ll also be able to take in the unique scenery of the Blue Ridge. During your stay, take a tour of the masterfully designed gardens or even take falconry lessons.
The Greystone Inn
The Greystone Inn is the perfect spot for adventurers who don’t want to sacrifice luxury. Located within a short drive of Asheville, guests can explore nearby waterfalls or book the inn’s private boat tour of the lake. The inn also sells takeaway picnics for guests who want to find their own scenic lunch spot. With calming views and adventures all around, this place is probably one of the most relaxing places to stay in the Carolinas.
Switzerland Inn
Located on the edge of Pisgah National Forest, the Switzerland Inn is a foreign escape in the middle of the Blue Ridge Parkway. To reach this resort, guests will have to traverse the Diamondback, one of the curviest roads in the state. But the mountain’s peak will reward them with breathtaking views and a small town that looks like it belongs in the Alps. Although not extravagant, it is quiet and has luxury amenities that rival the larger resorts on this list.
Lakeview at Fontana
Lakeview at Fontana is a return to nature without any of the usual discomforts. Located off the Great Smoky Mountains Expressway, this hotel is an amazing home base for mountain adventures. If hiking isn’t your thing, the hotel’s secluded treetop soaking cabanas provide a relaxing bath, a glass of wine and beautiful views of the nearby lake and mountain range.
Grand Bohemian Asheville
When it comes to artsy places to stay in The Carolinas, The Grand Bohemian Asheville takes the cake. This hotel achieves a totally unique luxury mountain vacation experience. While most mountain resorts will place you in nature, the Grand Bohemian elevates you above it. The hotel celebrates the beauty of the great outdoors through its rustic yet modern architecture. Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth the visit for its eclectic art gallery. Also…when visiting enjoy a meal or cocktail at The Red Stag. One of our favorites!
The Esmeralda Inn
The Esmeralda Inn is the perfect mountain getaway for those wanting to explore North Carolina’s famous Chimney Rock, Lake Lure or the Rocky Broad River. The Inn offers hotel-style rooms with astounding views of the nearby mountain, or guests can book one of the Inn’s three secluded cabin options, but with all that nature available, you probably won’t spend much time in your room anyway.
Old Edwards Inn and Spa
Located on the southern plateau of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Old Edwards Inn and Spa is an amazing place to stay in The Carolinas. Guests can stay in one of the lodge’s beautifully furnished suites or a luxurious cabin. Grab a drink at the Inn’s rooftop terrace bar and take in the serene mountain views, or hike to one of the nearby waterfalls. The nearby shops of historic downtown Highlands are also worth visiting during your stay.
Chetola Resort
Chetola Resort is the most family-oriented option on this list. While it provides romantic scenery and relaxing activities for couples, everyone will find something to do here. Kids can enjoy the resort’s paddle boats and pickle ball courts, and the older folks can test their aim at the resort’s archery and gun ranges. Outside the resorts, guests can explore the village of Blowing Rock or take a hike through the nearby mountain range.
The Swag
When it comes to places to stay in The Carolinas, it’s safe to say The Swag has one of the best views. It achieves a spectacular balance of luxury and rusticity. The entire property sits atop a mountain and has a variety of unique lodging options. While on the property, guests can take a stroll through the seasonal garden or go for a chilling swim in the pond. If guests want to venture away from their cabin, they can. It’s easy to explore the nearby mountains through the Swag’s exclusive entrance into Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The Lodge at River Run
The Lodge offers the quietness and rustic charm of a cabin with the comforts of a bed and breakfast. Hidden in Banner Elk, the log-cabin interior is warm and cozy, and the surrounding property is littered with relaxing hangout spots. There’s a hot tub, hammocks, fire pits, and even a hanging bed.
The Black Walnut
The Black Walnut is quite decadent for a bed and breakfast. Each room has a peculiar beauty that differentiates it from the others. Located in the Historic District of Montford, guests can start their day off with a three-course breakfast before exploring nearby shops or taking a drive through Blue Ridge. They also have pet-friendly rooms if you want to give your furry friend a taste of luxury.
Blue Ridge Village
Blue Ridge Village, near Beech Mountain, is a great jumping-off point for a skiing adventure. In the warmer months, it’s still an excellent place for hikes and mountain views. The village also has direct access to a lake that’s great for paddle boating and fishing. Guests at the village can expect an understated but luxurious stay and lots of nearby adventures.
The 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa
This has to be one of the most iconic places to stay in The Carolinas. Lake Lure Inn was known for its romantic scenery and intimate lodging well before Dirty Dancing was filmed there. Surrounded by mountains, the lake-front hotel is a timeless luxury. This hotel might be short of a few modern amenities. But, the rooms are still incredibly comfortable, and the property has a distinctive charm. It’s a great place to take your partner for a weekend getaway.
Cumberland Falls Bed and Breakfast Inn
The Cumberland Falls Bed & Breakfast Inn is the coziest option for those wanting to explore Asheville and the Biltmore Estate while still being surrounded by nature. Guests can expect colonial-style rooms, incredibly welcoming innkeepers and delicious home-cooked breakfasts. A beautiful garden surrounds the house. The property’s koi pond is a blissful place for reflection.
Half-Mile Farm
Half-Mile Farm, a luxury country inn owned and operated by Old Edwards, is a place where serenity is paramount. The inn, in the mountains of Highlands, NC, restricts lodging access to guests under the age of 18. They strictly enforce a noise policy. But ask any guest, and they’ll tell you how grateful they are for a quiet reprieve. This relaxing environment combined with breathtakingly landscaped grounds makes Half-Mile Farm the ultimate adult retreat.
Horton Hotel
Boone is known for being a quaint college town surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Horton Hotel, opened in February 2019 and located in the center of buzzing King Street in downtown Boone, offers guests exquisite views and fresh mountain air. The first of its kind in Boone, The Horton boasts a traditional historical exterior that preserves the hotel’s roots dating back to the 1920’s.
200 Main
Tucked in the heart of downtown Highlands, NC, 200 Main offers guests ideal accommodations for a weekend getaway in the mountains. Take a dip in their outdoor heated mineral pool, or relax with a glass of wine next to the fire pit. The hotel is located next to a handful of local shops, restaurants, and art galleries, allowing you to explore the city to its fullest extent.
The Inn at Crestwood
Built in 1949, The Inn at Crestwood is a quaint mountain-side accommodation located in Boone, NC. The inn offers guests a relaxing and luxurious stay in the lush mountainous area. You can dine onsite at their New American-style restaurant or spend a day decompressing at their upscale spa before venturing into the bustling downtown of Boone.
The Park on Main
The Park on Main is an upscale, rustic retreat where luxury meets comfort in Highlands. The pet-friendly resort is perfect for the hiker who likes to bring their furry friend along on outdoor adventures. The Park on Main is equipped with a dog park as well as relaxing rooms with views of the hotel’s garden terrace. Just three miles from Dry Falls waterfall and seven miles from Whiteside Mountain, you’ll be able to get your adventuring fill.
Pisgah Inn
The Pisgah Inn is located on the picturesque Mount Pisgah in the Blue Ridge Parkway. At 5,000 feet elevation, guests are guaranteed stunning views of the sweeping mountain scape. Hike along one of the many nature trails or indulge in a decadent dinner at the inn’s onsite restaurant. Relax on your porch with a warm cup of coffee and revel in the quiet, crisp mountain air.
Green Park Inn
The historic Green Park Inn has been providing its guests with excellent service and upscale accommodations for the last 126 years. The charming resort, situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is chock full of character, turn of the century style, and southern hospitality. Over the years the Green Park Inn has hosted many of history’s most notable figures including J.D. Rockefeller, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Calvin Coolidge.
McKinley Edwards Inn
The McKinley Edwards Inn is an upscale boutique hotel overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains in Bryson City, NC. Conveniently located near a plethora of restaurants, shops, and unique local attractions, the inn is the perfect spot for a family-friendly vacation. The Mckinley Edwards Inn offers pet friendly lodging, spacious accommodations, and stellar views of the rolling hills.
The Omni Grove Park Inn
For over a century, The Omni Grove Park Inn has been the perfect destination for travelers to rejuvenate, relax, and breathe clean mountain air. This resort sits atop Sunset Mountain, providing guests with breathtaking views, and is equipped with its own award-winning spa and several restaurants and bars on property to choose from.
The Lodge at River Run
The Lodge at River Run is an upscale bed and breakfast located in Banner Elk, NC, overlooking the picturesque Elk River. This hidden gem emphasizes serenity. Guests are pampered with comfortable king-size beds, fine linen, private paths, and an outside hot tub. Each night the lodge offers a complimentary wine and cheese reception. On special evenings, the hotel showcases live entertainment featuring local artists.
The Foundry
The Foundry is a unique retreat located in the heart of Asheville. The historic building was originally used as a steel factory, and though the hotel has since been renovated and refined, it maintains many important elements of its industrial origins. Indulge in The Foundry’s artisanal food and craft cocktails, with their restaurant Benne on Eagle, and enjoy the neighboring River Arts District.
Eseeola Lodge
Only open for the spring, summer, and fall seasons, this is one of the more sought after places to stay in The Carolinas and reservations can be hard to get. As a mainstay for generations of guests, the Eseeola Lodge is a unique mountain resort steeped in tradition. The Lodge is known for its high standards in hospitality, and provides great fun for the entire family. Whether you’re looking for an exciting night out or just family fun, you can find it all at Eseeola.
Mast Farm Inn
Known for its impeccable weddings and historic lodging, the award-winning Mast Farm Inn is a great destination to enjoy mesmerizing views and a scenic atmosphere. With a wide variety of amenities ranging from outdoor activities to fine dining and shopping, the Inn gives guests a great home away from home.
Beachwoods Resort
On the outskirts of the Outer Banks is Beachwoods Resort, located in Kitty Hawk, NC. Overlooking the Atlantic on one side and the Currituck Sound on the other, this resort is perfect for the outdoor vacationer. The resort offers watersports, horseback riding, beach volleyball, fishing and the largest outdoor pool in the Outer Banks.
Beau Rivage Golf & Resort
For the discerning golfers looking to experience a challenge with their vacation, Beau Rivage Golf & Resort might be the perfect solution. Offering a full 18-hole course with water obstacles, wooded areas, and hills, this is any golfer’s dream. Not only is this course just minutes away from Historic Wilmington, but you don’t even have to leave the resort for a fantastic meal—Veranda Bar & Grill offers an extensive selection of savory classics that will suit everyone in the family.
Hotel Ballast
Head upstream on Cape Fear and you’ll find another Wilmington Gem: Hotel Ballast. If you want a modern Wilmington experience, you truly can’t skip this hotel. With three restaurants, a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi, and concierge services, this truly is the all-inclusive vacation experience for any family, honeymooners, or business traveler.
Cedar Island Resort
Surrounded by water on all sides, the Cedar Island Resort is an untouched and natural beach perfect for nature-lovers. Mere steps away from the Pamlico Sound, the Cedar Island Bay, West Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t worry about getting a great meal if you can’t catch it yourself—Bay Breeze is open five days a week to cater to you.
AC Hotel Greenville
This eight-story downtown retreat features more than you could hope for: 196 guest rooms and suites, unique options for food and beverages, a rooftop garden and bar, speakeasy, TechnoGym, almost 29,000 square feet dedicated to meetings or other events, and a lovely private collection of art that features more than 100 works and 35 local artists. Conveniently located right in the electric heart of downtown Greenville, the hotel allows access to all the best local spots.
Atlantic Beach Resort
Located in beautiful Atlantic Beach, the Resort hosts a variety of amenities to make your stay relaxing. There’s plenty of amenities in the surrounding areas, including wild horses roaming the Rachel Carson Reserve and the nearby North Carolina Aquarium, which is sure to be a hit with younger vacationers.
Shell Island Resort
Shell Island Resort is a beachfront hotel located in Wrightsville Beach, NC. This resort offers quick access to all the amazing sights in Wilmington, NC. With suites featuring balcony views of the ocean and both indoor and outdoor pools, this resort is a must for anyone who is a lover of water.
Islander Inn
This beachfront hotel offers a breathtaking view of Ocean Isle Beach, NC. Islander Inn is just a five minute walk from the Ocean Isle Beach Pier and Arcade and a seven minute walk from the Museum of Coastal Carolina. Stay at Islander Inn and wake up to a view of Ocean Isle Beach every morning.
The Sanderling Resort
Well worth the drive every time, The Sanderling is a luxury, Four-Diamond rated resort that sits on the shores of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. With three pools, an award-winning spa, and oceanfront views, The Sanderling promises guests a tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte
The ultimate retreat in the city, this is one of the most luxurious places to stay in The Carolinas. The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte offers luxury lodging directly in the center of the city. If you choose to enjoy one of their suites, you’ll receive a spacious living room, parlor, and bedroom, access to a fitness room equipped with a Peloton Bike, formal dining for eight with a prep kitchen and wine cooler ensuite, an elevated honor bar, SFERRA fine Italian linens, and a large, full marble bathroom featuring an oversized garden bathtub and shower.
The Ivey’s
This Parisian-style luxury, boutique hotel located in Uptown Charlotte’s Fourth Ward offers comfortable accommodations, fine dining, and breakfast. Enjoy all-day snacks, and an evening cheese and charcuterie board accompanied with wine or champagne.
The Dunhill
the historic Dunhill Hotel, you’ll be able to enjoy sophisticated accommodations enhanced by gracious Southern hospitality and the hotel’s ideal location in the heart of Charlotte’s Uptown. One of our favorite offerings is the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art Package, with overnight accommodations, a welcome amenity from the Bechtler, two Bechtler Museum of Modern Art admission tickets, a special discount in the museum store, and a glass of wine for each guest at The Dunhill Hotel’s lobby bar.
Grand Bohemian Charlotte
One of Charlotte’s most anticipated openings of 2020, The Grand Bohemian boasts 254 guestrooms, all inspired by classical Argentinian style and art. True to the other Grand Bohemian collection hotels, the Charlotte version offers luxurious, modern accommodations, a spa, a private park and a rooftop bar.
Kimpton Tryon Park
The Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel considers itself part of the “New South” culture in Uptown Charlotte, where the buzzing energy of a major city blends with traditional hospitality. You can pop up to the rooftop, Merchant & Trade, for an expertly crafted cocktail set 19 stories above Romare Bearden Park, or lay your head to rest on luxe linens in one of their soothing guest rooms.
tryonparkhotel.com
Duke Mansion
Built in 1915, The Duke Mansion has been home and host to scores of leaders of the 20th century. James Buchanan Duke’s most lasting legacies, including Duke University, Duke Energy and the Duke Endowment, took shape at the home. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Mansion is operated as a nonprofit where all proceeds are used to preserve and protect this community treasure.
AC Hotel SouthPark
Immerse yourself in the sophisticated, European-inspired design of the new AC Hotel Charlotte SouthPark. Purposefully created to allow busy travelers to relax and connect with others, the new hotel is six miles from Charlotte’s city center and just over ten miles from Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The AC Lounge and rooftop bar concept, Cordial, offer options for dining and craft beverages.
marriott.com
The Omni Hotel
Centrally located in the heart of Charlotte’s walkable Uptown financial district, the Omni is the perfect destination for business and leisure travel. Linked to twelve city blocks via a sky bridge, the hotel is just moments from top attractions like the Discovery Place, Charlotte Convention Center, and the Epicentre.
Morehead Inn
Opened to the public as the Morehead Inn in 1984, the house quickly began to experience the acclaim and appreciation of its many visitors. An elegant Southern estate endowed with quiet elegance and fine antiques, the spacious, historic Dilworth home features intimate fireplaces, luxurious private rooms. and a four-bedroom carriage house.
Marriott Uptown
Set in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, this modern hotel offers chic guest rooms and suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with city skyline views, gleaming hardwood floors, an open-plan lobby with a coffee social hub, Coco and the Director, and all-day dining at Stoke Charlotte.
The Ballantyne Hotel
Located in the popular Charlotte neighborhood, The Ballantyne features resort-style amenities including spa, salon, pool, tennis offerings, and even a PGA golf course. Seated within Ballantyne’s thriving shopping, dining and retail community and only a short drive from Uptown and the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, this hotel offers stylish stay away from the hustle bustle.
21c Museum Hotel
Located in the historic Hill Building of downtown Durham, this hotel blends culture and luxury, creating a combination contemporary art museum and boutique hotel. Over 10,500 square feet of art-filled exhibition space, custom-furnished, high-ceilinged guest rooms, dinner and drinks via the Counting House restaurant… You may have a tough time finding a reason to leave the hotel.
The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel
Located in the historic R.J. Reynolds building of downtown Winston-Salem, Kimpton Cardinal Hotel promises traditional Southern hospitality with a modern pinch of playfulness. Sip a sweet tea in the lavish social living room, or let loose in the adult Rec Room, decked out with a basketball court, bowling alley, ping-pong table, high-top tables and even a twisty slide… yeah, we said twisty slide.
thecardinalhotel.com
The Carolina Inn
Located directly on the University of North Carolina’s campus, the Carolina Inn has been an iconic destination since 1924 for UNC alumni and visitors wanting to be near historic Franklin Street. All the bells and whistles have been added to the guestrooms, combining modern sophistication with traditional charm.
White Doe Inn
The White Doe Inn on Roanoke Island can be found at the intersection of luxury and history. The historic bed and breakfast, located along the shores of Shallowbag Bay, is known for its romantic atmosphere, elegant furnishings, and top-of-the-line cuisine. Indulge in an in-room massage or grab a craft beer at the Verandah Bistro.
Our favorite places to stay in the Carolians: South Carolina
The Westin Poinsett
Seated in the heart of downtown Greenville, South Carolina, this hotel is one of the best places to stay in The Carolinas. It offers time-tested accommodations, enduring historical events such as the Great Depression and the 1950’s motel industry boom. The original 1925 menu of the hotel’s restaurant can still be viewed on the website, and although the fare has evolved over time, the southern charm remains perfectly preserved.
Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort
Offering a wide expanse of villas, golf cottages, and more, Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort is the ideal vacation destination for that all-inclusive getaway you’ve been looking for. With more than three and a half miles of Atlantic Ocean shoreline, you’re more likely to run out of energy than things to do at this beautiful resort. There’s the Fripp Island Marina, Lowcountry Golf, and even Camp Fripp for the kids.
The Red Horse Inn
Located on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in South Carolina, the quaint Red Horse Inn encourages guests to indulge their senses with the natural beauty that surrounds them. Spend an evening luxuriating at the wine bar, which overlooks the picturesque Grand Terrace or cozy up to the outdoor fire pit and watch as their horses frolic in the nearby pasture.
Anderson Ocean Club and Spa
When it comes to finding the best places to stay in The Carolinas, look no further than The Anderson Ocean Club and Spa sits oceanfront at Myrtle Beach. The upscale resort offers its guests personalized spa treatments at their Awakening Spa, and also features indoor and outdoor pools, onsite dining, and a fitness room. Enjoy an adult beverage while watching the tides roll in at B-Bar, located directly on the pool deck.
Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort
Looking for the ultimate golf getaway? Well, look no further: The Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort is perfect for enthusiasts of the sport, offering guests a range of different golf experiences and courses. Litchfield Beach is renowned for its mouthwatering seafood, its serene coastal setting, and, of course, its proximity to Myrtle Beach.
Market Pavilion Hotel
The Market Pavilion Hotel is situated in the heart of downtown Charleston, just minutes from the waterfront. Inspired by 18th century decor, the hotel is on the forefront of modernity, history, and luxury. After dining at Grill 225, Charleston’s premier steakhouse, visit the rooftop Pavilion Bar for excellent views of the old city and specialty cocktails.
Wentworth Mansion
Designed in the late 1800s by architect Daniel G. Wayne, this mansion-turned-hotel exudes opulence. Over the years the Wentworth Mansion has undergone a plethora of modern renovations. Despite the upgrades, it has maintained many of its timeless architectural designs including Tiffany glass windows, inlaid floors, and the original staircase.
Hotel Bennett
Inspired by Southern culture and classic European design, Hotel Bennett is a hybrid of elegance and comfort. For the foodies, Hotel Bennett offers guests a surfeit of unique dining experiences. Take Camellias Champagne Bar, for instance. Dubbed the most “Instagrammable Restaurant in South Carolina,” by Food Network, Camellias features a considerable collection of champagne, paired expertly with caviar, ceviche, and tartare. The champagne bar alone makes it one of the coolest places to stay in the Carolinas
Belmond Charleston Place
Walking into the lobby of the Belmond Charleston Place is like taking a step back in time. The hotel evokes 17th-century nobility with its Georgian-inspired double staircase, Italian marble floors, and an elegant chandelier. Located in downtown Charleston, just minutes from upscale shops, dinning, and historic monuments, Belmond is the perfect place for your metropolitan getaway.
The Dewberry
This one is one of my favorite places to stay in The Carolinas. The Dewberry is a mid-century modern masterpiece that radiates southern sincerity. Prior to its inception, the historic building was used as Charleston’s Government Service Administration office. Today the five-star hotel maintains much of its original 1960s design, with the addition of thought-provoking artwork and modernized amenities.
The Vendue Hotel
We have spent a ton of time at The Vendue in Charleston. It is a premier art hotel and easily one of the most artistic places to stay in The Carolinas, dedicated to showcasing art in all its unique forms. Each year the hotel features two to three public exhibits meant to enchant and inspire. The boutique hotel offers an artisanal continental breakfast, milk and cookies at nighttime, three on-site restaurants, and of course, art in every corner, including unique, ever-changing pieces in each guest room.
The Bluffton Inn
The first and only hotel in Old Town features french doors, brick porches and breezy balconies, all to capture a sense of true Southern hospitality. Described as “elegant yet unpretentious,” the Old Town Bluffton Inn is a perfect retreat by the May River.
Hotel Trundle
If you’re looking for a boutique stay that’s also quintessentially Columbia, you’ll love this 41-room hotel. Located right downtown, Trundle is three historic buildings combined into one – the first of its kind in the area. Expect a unique blend of curated guest experiences and services, an eclectic, 20s-era Art Deco style, and dedication to supporting Columbia’s local artists, craftspeople, and business owners.
The Saint
Nestled in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, the newly opened Saint Hotel features 45 brand new design-forward guest rooms and suites, daily breakfast with bloody mary’s and mimosas, and an on-site restaurant, Envy, with a seasonally-rotating menu.
The Spectator Hotel
Have you ever fantasized about having your own personal butler? At the Spectator Hotel in Charleston, that dream becomes reality: Each guest is paired with a personal butler whose sole duty is to enhance and elevate your hotel experience. This makes it one of the more luxurious places to stay in The Carolinas. Visit their prohibition-style bar aptly titled “The Bar” for artisan cocktails, Gatsby-inspired decor, and a sophisticated take on traditional bar food.
Post House Inn
Post House Inn is a boutique, coastal retreat and tavern designed to be the perfect getaway for visitors and locals alike. Located a few minutes outside of downtown in the Old Village section of Mount Pleasant, this three-story, boutique-style hotel is fairly new, but the building itself is classic—it was originally built in 1896.
HarbourView Inn
Take a step into HarbourView Inn, located in Charleston, where you’ll be greeted with a speciality welcome cocktail, and of course, a good dose of Southern hospitality. This intimate waterfront inn boasts 360-degree views of the beloved city. HarbourView is equipped with a beautiful rooftop bar, bicycles for rent, and fresh baked cookies each evening.
French Quarter Inn
The French Quarter Inn is a hidden downtown Charleston gem. The boutique hotel is surrounded by pastel antebellum houses, Civil War history, and is just minutes from Charleston’s golden beaches. Kick off your stay with a complimentary flute of champagne before retiring to your luxurious suite.
Hotel Emeline
This one has to be a top ten places to stay in The Carolinas. It is a beautiful, historic inn nestled in the perfect downtown Charleston location. It has a unique blend of old-fashion Southern charm and modern luxuries. Expect thoughtful details, like soft-water room mist, custom plush spa robes, Crosley turntables, custom vinyl and a highly versatile dining or workspace. We especially love the outdoor courtyard and greenhouse.
Zero George
Classic meets contemporary at this premier boutique hotel in Charleston, South Carolina. With sixteen luxuriant guest rooms and studios in either restored historic residences or brick carriage houses, Zero George honors intimacy, personality, and history in their design. Bring a sunhat or light jacket depending on what time of year you’re going because the private garden courtyard surrounding each building is one of its most charming aspects.
Montage Palmetto Bluff
Justin Bieber agrees…this is one of the most picturesque places to stay in The Carolinas. Set within a striking 20,000-acre community between Hilton Head and Savannah, Montage Palmetto Bluff rests along the picturesque May River in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. The resort encompasses two villages featuring nine Southern dining choices, a marina, two idyllic villages, and a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
If you love golf this is on our list of best places to stay in The Carolinas. You can find this South Carolina luxury beach resort just 21 miles from downtown Charleston. The Sanctuary delivers Forbes 5-star service with 255 room options spanning from guest, king, or suites to Presidential Suites. Go experience a resort that has found the perfect balance of grace, elegance and Southern hospitality.
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
If you were hoping for a view of the coast during your South Carolinian getaway, gathering or business trip, you’ve come to the right place. You won’t even have to leave the resort to experience the beach, multiple restaurant options, zero-entry lagoon style pool, tropical gardens or spa.
The Inn & Club at Harbour Town
Enjoy the South Carolina Lowcountry with the best of service and elegant details at the boutique luxury Inn & Club. The famed Harbour Town Golf Links can be viewed with a meal and drink in hand. With sixty seamless guestrooms, a spacious suite, boutique pool and clubhouse, this is the perfect getaway.
Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina
Located in Mt. Pleasant, SC, this charming resort overlooks the water. Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina has nautical-themed rooms that make guests feel like they are at the beach, even when they are not. This resort is a four minute walk from Patriot’s Point and a nine minute walk from the water taxi, with access to Charleston’s Historic District.
Water’s Edge Inn
Water’s Edge Inn in Folly Beach is known for its comfortable rooms and afternoon happy hours. This villa is perfect for adults who want to relax and sip a drink after dipping into the ocean. Water’s Edge is located just minutes from downtown Charleston and a short walk from the Folly Beach Fishing Pier.
The Cottages On Charleston Harbor
The Cottages On Charleston Harbor will become your home away from home. These charming cottages offer full kitchens, outdoor pool, a hot tub, and an amazing view of the ocean. Located in Mt. Pleasant, the cottages are the perfect stay for families or couples on a romantic getaway.
Hotel Domestique
This upstate SC hotel has to be one of the coolest places to stay in The Carolinas. Part countryside auberge, part modern boutique hotel, Domestique is the definition of a retreat—it’s even located in a town called Traveler’s Rest. The destination is tucked at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the foothills of upstate South Carolina, allowing for some of the most stunning views in all of Carolina. The hotel’s unique blend of Old World style and contemporary design creates an atmosphere entirely cut off from daily routine (and daily stress).
The Restoration Hotel
Elegant yet easy going, The Restoration is the perfect way to experience Charleston’s vibrant, casually-chic history and culture. Each of The Restoration’s five modernized buildings celebrate the community of the New South through programming and local partnership, offering an engaging and dynamic experience of Charleston.
Planters Inn
Planters Inn is a landmark of tranquil, lowcountry courtyards and enchanted accommodations. Built in 1844, Planters Inn is an iconic respite safeguarding its timelessly fanciful sophistication through refined preservation and classically Southern hospitality.
The Loutrel
As one of the newest places to stay in The Carolinas, this hotel is perfectly nestled into Charleston’s historic district. The Loutrel is inspired by Charleston’s public and private gardens. Find respite in one of the 50 rooms and suites, and stop by their private downstairs dining room/lounge or the outstandingly spacious rooftop terrace.
The Rhett House Inn
Located in the historic district of Beaufort, South Carolina, this 1820s bed and breakfast is a locally-beloved romantic getaway. Ethereal canopies of mossy Oaks surround the charming plantation house, today home to sweet Southern cooking and old-classic delights.
Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston
Escape to Grand Bohemian’s rooftop secret garden or marvel at the array of uniquely beautiful and delightfully unusual art that distinguishes this Charleston boutique hotel. Unwind in the Grand Bohemian’s indulgent atmosphere while exploring a city of plentiful treasures.
Wild Dunes Resort
As a great oceanside resort, Wild Dunes gets one of my votes for best beachfront places to stay in The Carolinas. Nestled on the northern tip of Isle of Palms and just 30 minutes from historic Charleston, Wild Dunes resort is 1,600 acres of oceanfront attractions, ideal for personal respite and family fun alike. Select from a variety of accommodations including the Four Diamond rated Boardwalk Inn, The Village, family-friendly vacation rentals, condominiums or cottages.
86 Cannon
86 Cannon is traditional Charleston elegance with a classic European twist. The remarkably restored, three-story 1860s home boasts the chance to take in the beauty of the open-air piazzas, scour the seams of the in-house library and bar, and adopt the ambiance of mid-century luxury.
The Governor’s House Inn
Famous for its timeless splendor and elegant interiors, the Governor’s House Inn’s historical significance dates back to the Revolutionary War. It’s just a short walk from the iconic Battery and City Market, and when you return, enjoy free afternoon wine, tea, and cheese before retiring.
The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel
With oversized suites, luxe decor, and sweeping views of Charleston’s Historic District, ‘grand’ is in the name at this center city stay for good reason. It features beautiful, historic architecture, a pool and sun deck, sophisticated dinner options at Barbadoes, and drinks at First Shot Lounge.
Charleston Harbor Resort
A prime waterfront retreat, the Charleston Harbor Resort is a water-bug’s dream. Sit back poolside on their tropical pool deck. Enjoy Charleston’s only waterfront Tiki Bar and allow the little ones to enjoy the children’s programming. This resort is the perfect nautical getaway for the whole family.
Renaissance Charleston Historic District Hotel
This stylish stay showcases all of Charleston’s quirky and eclectic sensibilities. Complete with expansive art displays, a swanky rooftop lounge, dramatic local artwork, and elevated Southern eats, you won’t want to leave its walls.
renaissance-hotels.marriott.com
Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort
Get back on island time at Hilton Head Island’s waterfront resort. Part of the prestigious Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort community, the Omni offers bike trail-lined lagoons, sparkling pools, tennis courts, and championship golf courses– oh and, of course, beachfront views.
The Inn at Woodlands Mansion
Allow yourself to call this historic, casually refined Summerville mansion ‘home,’ this weekend. Once railroad baron Robert Parsons’ winter home in 1906, Woodlands Resort and Inn opened to the public as a luxury inn and dining room in May of 1995, offering all of its grandeur for your personal enjoyment.
woodlandsmansion.com
In conclusion, there are so many different wonderful places to stay in The Carolinas, and we’ve stayed at a lot of them. This list is the culmination of our favorite places to stay in The Carolinas and we hope it helps you plan your next visit to NC or SC.
