First things first. You need to know that Charleston, SC is my favorite place in the world. To me it is: sunshine, warm and friendly people, amazing southern cuisine, a wonderful one of a kind market, and so much more.
In this post I am including my favorite restaurants, beaches, and top things to do while in Charleston. This post has been long over due and so I’m so glad it’s here.
As you already know, food is my ultimate favorite. I love everything food, even food documentaries – specifically those that include Anthony Bourdain. When he did a documentary on Charleston, I knew I had to go to Husk since most of the episode included Chef Chef Sean Broke, who is the genius behind the restaurant.
So of course our first stop in Charleston during my last visit was Husk. Me and my mom stopped for lunch before we hit the town to explore. And you know what, I wasn’t sure if it would meet my expectations that I got after watching Anthony’s documentary, but it did. My experience not only met those expectations, it blew them away. Can’t say I’m too surprised.
My lunch consisted of a smoked ham sandwich. I’m really not doing a good job of describing it, but lets just say it was not basic. It was not like anything I had ever tasted before. I can’t even describe the smokey taste.
My mom had their famous Shrimp and Grits. It was absolutely wonderful. Magic in your mouth. My mom’s only issue with her choice was that it wasn’t refillable.
So once we were all fueled up for some exploring, we walked out of Husk and started walking toward’s the market which is on King st. From what I remember it was about a 15 minute walk. Everything is so close together that you can get to most of the attractions by foot, or carriage. And yes they really do have carriages. This is one of my favorite things about Charleston because it adds to the already unique and historical town that it is. It makes it that much more charming.
One of the things you need to know about Charleston is that Charleston and straw hats go together like pb & j’s. So naturally I had to get one in the market. After trying six on, I found a decent fit.
And off we went to walk around the beautiful homes of Charleston and explore the cute clothing boutiques ( too many to count).
Below is a picture of the pineapple fountain. Not the best picture I could get. There were so many kids having a blast here.
The following day we went to Magnolias for lunch. I’m not sure if Magnolias is quite as famous as Husk, but I actually think it’s way better! If you want a modern spin on some southern comfort food, this is exactly what you are looking for. The service is excellent.
Other restaurants I recommend:
Hominy Grill (breakfast/brunch)
Hank’s Seafood (lunch/dinner)
Hyman’s Seafood (lunch/dinner)
Toast (breakfast/brunch
Bubba Gumps (lunch/dinner)
Things to do:
Go to the pineapple fountain
Go to rainbow row
Ride a carriage
Go on a ghost tour
Go kayaking with dolphins
Visit Belmond Charleston Hotel
Charleston Beaches:
And last, but not least, go to the beach. Their beaches are pretty different than the ones in North Carolina. I would describe them as more relaxing and peaceful. Oh, and if you love dogs, you need to go to Sullivan’s island from 8:30 -10:00 am. I promise you’ll be in heaven! During the summer you’ll find as many as 50 dogs roaming free in the mornings, some even coming up to you to say hi.
My favorites are Sullivan’s Island & Folly beach.
Here is a whole list:
Edge of America: Folly Beach
Poe and Paddle: Sullivan’s Island
Go Fish: Isle of Palms
Nature’s Paradise: Bull Island
Tea Time: Wadmalaw Island
Resort Ritz: Kiawah Island
I hope that after this post, you’re inspired to visit if you have never been. And if you have been I hope you’re inspired to visit again soon, since you know first hand how amazing and special this place is.
Love you guys! Keep being awesome.
Hi Jenn
Thanks for all the great info
You take such wonderful pictures
Aw Kim, Thank you! I really hope you two have a fabulous time. If I were to pick a must do on my list, it would be Magnolias- great service and even better food. I’d love to hear about your trip 🙂