Best Vacation Rentals In Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston has a 300-year history and offers a little bit of everything from coastal living, to museums and historic site tours. There is also a bustling food and drink scene as well as appealing weather. Condé Nast Traveler consistently ranks it as one of the best spots to visit in the United States including in 2022 when it was ranked the top small city.

Whether you're visiting for a couple's getaway, a family vacation, a bachelorette party, or another celebration, Charleston is ready to host you and your guests. The city, known for its stunning architecture and infamous southern hospitality, is a must-see destination. Hit the beach during your stay including Folly Beach, Sullivan's Island, and the Isle of Palms. Don't miss King Street, the city's lively retail and dining mecca (via Charleston SC).

The area has a lot of vacation rental opportunities too. If you're looking for the best vacation rentals in Charleston, there's a welcoming spot for your needs. Some are comfy and cozy while some are spacious and sophisticated. Some of the properties are newer, while others boast long histories. Whichever one you choose, you're sure to have a memorable time.

Pretty pink charmer

Dubbed "The Little Pink House on the Peninsula," this 550 square-foot property available on VRBO features one bedroom — a master suite loft. There's also a welcoming shiplapped living room, a super stylish kitchen, and a cozy deck. This spot is the perfect comfy setup for a couple's romantic retreat. Kick back with a cocktail on the second-floor porch off the master bedroom and toast your getaway.

The space is well-appointed with everything you need, including internet, plenty of seating, as well as a washer and dryer. House rules include no pets, no children, and no smoking. Past guests give the property a perfect 5-star rating and say it's a great spot for a long weekend and perfect for couples. It's also an ideal location for exploring the Charleston area and walking to upper King Street is just four blocks away. The pink house, which is available for both short and long-term stays, is a new construction property and costs an average of $354 a night.

Bright and inviting boho spot

Here's another pink vacation rental in Charleston but this one accommodates 14 guests and is fit for the whole family or a group. Known as The Boho Rosa House and available for rent on Airbnb, this renovated charmer has five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and seven baths. This colorful house features stunning green kitchen cabinetry with a unique retro-inspired pink fridge. The bold bathroom tile choices and the bright, sunny bedrooms, make this beauty a cheerful place to stay.

Whether you're hanging out in the modern living room, people-watching on the front porch, or barbecuing in the backyard, this home has so much to offer. When renting, you'll get the entire house as well as a private driveway and use of the outdoor space. It's close to King Street, as well as the historic district. The average price is $413 per night and with over 125 reviews and a nearly perfect rating, past guests definitely love this rental.

Glamping at its finest

If you've never stayed in an Airstream, now is your chance. This Funky Little Charmer in the Heart of Riverland Terrace known as Emma features one bedroom and one bath. The vacation rental, available on Airbnb, measures 8 feet wide by approximately 24 feet long but it has everything you need for a memorable vacation, including a full-size bed, a charming kitchenette, and an indoor dining spot. There is also an outside shared common area set up with a small grill, and seating. The tan and white décor is light and airy, making the tiny spot feel more spacious.

This gorgeous glamping rental experience is an average of $132 a night and is well-reviewed with over a 4.8 rating. Guests rave about the prime location, cozy vibe, and outstanding host. Reviewers call it a fun experience and say it's a great place to stay for a few days in the Charleston area, noting that it's only a 15-minute drive to either downtown or Folly Beach.

Modern yet historic downtown duplex

This recently renovated Airbnb rental in downtown Charleston features a private spot in a historic duplex. Located in a trendy location, the modern space has three bedrooms, a full bathroom, a roomy kitchen, and a comfy living room. The property features cute decor and is ready for entertaining. It offers multiple streaming options, lots of seating, and a dining table for up to six guests. The sleek decor makes the space highly functional while touches of greenery and plants add plenty of character.

The property, which rents for $220 a night has over 4.8 stars with more than 200 reviews. Guests appreciate how clean and quiet the property is, as well as its spaciousness, comfortable beds, and free on-site parking. They also praise the convenient location and the hospitality of the property host. Many reviewers stayed at the property for get-togethers including family weekends and bachelorette parties, and it's close to coffee shops and restaurants, shopping, and the beach. Many of these neighborhood areas, like King Street, are easy to walk to, while others, like the airport, are just a short drive away.

Cute and cozy in cedar

Charleston is full of delightful vacation rentals like this tiny house near downtown, which is available on VRBO. At 220 square feet, this one-bedroom, one-bath space, is situated near a cedar tree and is known as The Cedar House Rules. The property features outdoor charm and tons of curb appeal including cedar siding and an outdoor patio with benches. Rocking chairs and a hammock provide prime spots for kicking back and enjoying the weather. Inside the home, you'll enjoy the light and bright feel and neutral decor. The cozy yet airy tiny home features a full kitchen and a queen bed in the loft, as well as a futon in the living room.

This is definitely the vacation getaway where you have everything you need at your fingertips. The small house is big on amenities including a book collection for cozying up with a good story and a Bluetooth speaker to play your favorite tunes. There are also board games to enjoy time indoors as well as two cruiser bicycles to head out on a ride. A pair of chairs, beach towels, and a cooler are also provided should you plan to hit the beach. The property earns five stars from reviewers who praise the tiny house as a quiet, comfortable stay.

Stunning island cottage

This rustic, yet modern home known as the Cozy Island Cottage is a great fit for many visitors to Charleston. The property, which is available on VRBO, includes three bedrooms to sleep six guests. There is a full bathroom to share and spacious yet cozy common areas.

Conveniently located five miles from downtown and Folly Beach, the property has lots of charm from wood accents including paneled walls and a raw-edge countertop. These natural elements are perfectly contrasted by white cabinets and stainless steel appliances. The centerpiece of the downstairs is the unique spiral staircase leading up to the loft. 

Outside the property, guests can enjoy lots of open space. Relax on the private deck, cook a meal on the gas grill, or cool off in the outdoor shower. You can also pack up the provided chairs and the portable speaker and head to Folly Beach. Guests rate the property, which averages $236 a night, 4.8 stars, and say the cottage is conveniently-located, quiet, and a place they plan to stay at again.

Lux historic apartment

Settle into this historic apartment for a memorable getaway in Charleston. The property, which is available on Airbnb, has two bedrooms, one bath, and a ton of character. Whether you're sipping wine in the brick courtyard or reading in the living room, this space is a mix of yesterday and today. The rental is decorated in classic colors and features 12-foot ceilings, original fireplaces, and wood floors. It also has a fully equipped modern kitchen, air conditioning, and a washer and dryer for added convenience.

Within walking distance of King Street, the property is close to restaurants and shopping. There's one dedicated parking spot on-site and a cozy patio with a calming fountain. The apartment has over 300 reviews and has earned 4.8 stars. Guests praise the host for thinking of everything from toiletries in the bathroom to coffee creamers in the kitchen and even an Instant Pot for those that feel like cooking on vacation.

Bright and bold penthouse

This newly-renovated property in downtown Charleston is in a trendy neighborhood and can accommodate up to 10 guests. The three-bedroom, two-bath home, available on Airbnb, has a loft, four beds, and an air mattress. The modern, colorful decor includes an open green living space complete with a graphic accent wall. The blue color scheme in the bedrooms is serene while pops of color add charm. Walk to nearby King Street for shopping and dining or stay at your rental where you can relax on the private porch. There are two private parking spaces included as well. Amenities include a washer and dryer, keyless check-in, smart TVs, and Wi-Fi for modern convenience.

With nearly 60 reviews, the property has over a 4.9 rating and rents for an average $171 a night. Reviewers say they've stayed here for bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, family vacations, and other getaways. They rave about the location, communication with the host, and value for their stay, with many saying they plan to book the property again.

Tranquil courtyard suite

Soak in Charleston's outdoor living at this apartment courtyard suite with a tranquil garden and heated pool. The one-bedroom, one-bath property, available on Airbnb, boasts a zen vibe, perfect for a recharging stay. However, it's located just one block from the action of King Street, so it's also close to many popular restaurants and nightlife spots.

Guests have access to the shared patio, heated saltwater swimming pool, and courtyard. Don't miss the serene koi pond either. The grounds and amenities are both practical and pretty. This is the perfect space for a couple to rest and relax, and you'll definitely want to snap some selfies in or near the pool. The property includes an off-street parking spot with Tesla and EV charging. With nearly 400 reviews, the rental is well-rated with over 4.7 stars. It rents for an average of $213 a night and previous guests call the home cute and note that their stays were convenient, quiet, and clean.

Beautiful boho property

Feel the calm vibes in this boho home located in the Park Circle area of North Charleston. Available on Airbnb, the property has three bedrooms, and one bath, and accommodates six guests. From hardwood floors and soothing paint colors, with white, gray, and tan accents, this home features an inviting bohemian style. Sit in the hanging rattan chair in the living room to watch TV, sip your coffee on the front porch, and spend some time in the private backyard where you can barbecue. You can also go for a scenic ride on bicycles, which are provided. This newly renovated home is best for those that want to be in the middle of it all. It's a 12-minute drive to downtown and about half an hour from popular beaches like Sullivan's Island and Isle of Palms.

You won't have to worry about a thing while you're staying at this property. It has free parking and a washer and dryer for convenience. Plus, the included Wi-Fi and TV with streaming services keep you connected and entertained. If you're traveling with kids, they have a high chair, travel crib, and board games available too. This boho home rents for an average $107 a night. In 50 reviews, guests give the property nearly 5 stars and say the space is charming, quiet, and clean.

Hip walkable downtown location

Your home away from home in Charleston could be this downtown house that blends charming character with modern conveniences. The property, available on Airbnb, has three bedrooms and three and a half baths and can accommodate up to 10 guests. It's full of southern casual style and charm including exposed brick, plaster, and wood beams, as well as wood flooring. The property also features a fully stocked kitchen and smart TV with Netflix for enjoying dinner and a movie.

The historic district is just a five-minute drive away. However, if you'd like you can leave your car securely parked on the premises and walk around this neighborhood instead. The property has a walk score of 96 with tons of places just a reasonable stroll away. This in-the-heart-of-all property rents for an average of $450 a night and boasts more than 180 reviews and over 4.8 stars. Reviewers say the home is comfortable, beautiful, and well-appointed including a bathroom in each bedroom. 

Double piazza townhome

This two-story stylish townhome in downtown Charleston is ready for you to visit. Available for an average $215 a night on VRBO, the 881-square-foot property was built in 1852. It features two bedrooms, one bathroom, a kitchen, and double piazzas, or exterior porches, one upstairs and one downstairs.

The exterior of this home is painted a sunny yellow while the interior is a bright, inviting blue. Whether you are relaxing with a glass of wine on one of the piazzas, cooking in the full-sized kitchen, or relaxing in the cozy bedrooms, this home has lots of appeal. The property has keyless entry and there's free off-the-street parking for two cars. Plus, your pooch can vacation with you — the property accommodates small dogs under 40 pounds.

It's located in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, a revitalized area that's vibrant and growing. Explore the area by walking, including visiting local coffee shops and restaurants. Earning 4.8 stars, guests say they will definitely stay at this townhome again for its charm, convenience, and amenities like the full laundry and included internet.