Charleston SC is known as a premier tourist destination with world-class restaurants, a compelling history and fabulous beaches, but for locals it’s just a vibrant place to live, work and raise a family. Whether you were born and raised in Charleston or just got lucky enough to land in Charleston, this city offers many neighborhoods that still have a small-town vibe. These are streets where neighbors gather for barbecues, kids stand together at the bus stop, and your car is always full of sand after an afternoon at the beach. Here’s a look at some of my favorite neighborhoods that have that quintessential lowland charm.
Charleston Peninsula
Pineapple Fountain – Downtown Charleston, SC
Grimball Gates
Grimball Gates it has the typical Lowcountry appeal. Located on Johns Island, the neighborhood is easily accessible via the Seabrook Islands and Kiawah Island. Grimball Gates is the ideal neighborhood if you enjoy a laid back lifestyle.
The Charleston neighborhood is a gated community with over 90 acres of conservation area. Grimball offers boating, kayaking, crabbing and fishing. The nature reserve offers, among other things, beautiful hiking trails.
Downtown Charleston
By far the most prestigious neighborhood in historic downtown Charleston is south of Broad Street. Here you will find charming 19th-century houses that have been beautifully restored. Living south of the Broad not only offers beautiful homes and surroundings, but you can also walk to the best of Charleston just steps from your front door. Where you’ll bump elbows with Charleston’s highest social elite. The homes themselves in this neighborhood are historical works of art, steeped in Charleston history and culture. Wraparound porches offer stunning views of the Holy City skyline, Charleston Harbor and even Fort Sumter.
Located south of Broad, The Battery is the colorful and quaint street you’ve Instagrammed thousands of times in Charleston. Personally, I wouldn’t necessarily live here (you’d always have tourists in front of the door!), but it’s a dream street. And it would be a fantastic place to stay on a Charleston vacation.
Mount Pleasant Where to Stay in Charleston for Families
Beautiful, breezy and busy, Mount Pleasant is an amazing area and a great place to stay in Charleston. A peaceful escape from the bustling tourist crowds of downtown, Mount Pleasant is a residential neighborhood right on the Cooper River.
There is so much to see and do here that the whole family will love it. It’s a fantastic place to stay in Charleston, but also a worthwhile day trip.