Are you planning a trip to Charleston, South Carolina, and wondering how much money you’ll need per day? Charleston offers a unique blend of historic charm, Southern hospitality, and beautiful coastal views, making it a popular destination for travelers. Whether you’re staying in a luxury vacation rental or a cozy vacation home, the cost of your stay in the Lowcountry can vary widely depending on your preferences and what you plan to do.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend each day while enjoying everything this charming city offers.
Accommodation: Finding the Perfect Place to Stay
The first major expense for your Charleston vacation is accommodation. Charleston vacation rentals range from budget-friendly options to luxury vacation rentals, with prices varying based on location, amenities, and the time of year.
- Budget rentals. If you’re looking for something affordable, you caCurious about daily costs for a Charleston trip? YourPad breaks down what you’ll spend on dining, accommodation, and more in this charming Southern city.n find vacation rentals in the $100 to $200 per night range. These are typically smaller properties or rentals a bit further from downtown Charleston or the beaches.
- Mid-range rentals. For a more comfortable stay, consider spending between $200 and $400 per night. These properties are often well-located, with amenities like a private pool or proximity to popular attractions like Waterfront Park and the Charleston City Market.
- Luxury vacation rentals. If you’re planning a luxury vacation, expect to pay $400 or more per night. Luxury Isle of Palms vacation rentals, with ocean views or direct beach access, can go thousands of dollars per night or more, especially during peak seasons.
Food and Dining: Savoring Charleston’s Culinary Scene
Charleston is known for its vibrant food scene, so dining out is a must-do during your stay. Your dining preferences will determine how much you’ll spend on food.
- Breakfast. Grab a quick coffee and bagel for around $5 to $10 per person at
Holey City Bagels. If you prefer a sit-down breakfast at a local favorite like babas, budget around $15-$20 per person.
- Lunch. A casual spot in downtown Charleston like Toast! All Day might cost $10 to $20 per person. If you’re dining at one of the upscale historic Charleston restaurants, like Delaney’s Oyster House, expect to spend a bit more, around $25 to $30 per person.
- Dinner. Dinner costs can vary widely. A meal at a casual, family-friendly restaurant like Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar on Concord Street could be around $30 to $40 per person. For a fine dining experience at Hall’s Chophouse on King Street, budget $50 to $100 per person or more, depending on your choice of wine or cocktails.
Activities: Exploring Historic Charleston and Beyond
Charleston offers plenty of activities, from exploring historic sites to relaxing on the beach. Here’s what you can expect to spend on some of the city’s top attractions.
- Historic Charleston. Visiting historic sites like the Charleston City Market, Waterfront Park, and the Civil War history spots is often free or low-cost, with some museums or tours costing around $13 to $37 per person.
- Beach days. If you’re staying at a vacation rental on the Isle of Palms or other seaside destinations, you can enjoy a day at the beach for free. You can also rent beach equipment from the Isle of Palms Beach Chair Company or participate in watersports with surfboard and paddle board rentals from Sealand Sports, adding $20 to $40 per person to your daily budget.
- Family-friendly attractions. If you’re traveling with kids, consider visiting James Island County Park, where entry fees and activities typically add $10 to $30 per person to your daily spend. For a unique experience, check out The Epic Game Show Experience, a live, interactive event that brings popular game shows to life, with tickets usually costing around $35 per person.
Transportation: Getting Around the Charleston Area
How you choose to get around Charleston can also impact your daily budget. Some easy and fun ways to travel around Charleston and the barrier islands include:
- Rental cars. Renting a car can be convenient, especially if you plan to explore beyond downtown Charleston. Expect to spend $60 to $80 daily on a rental car, gas, and parking fees.
- Public transportation and ride shares. Charleston’s public transportation is limited, but ride shares like Uber and Lyft are widely available—budget around $11 to $14 for short trips around the city.
- Golf carts. If you’re staying in areas like Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island, renting a golf cart can be a fun and practical way to get around. Just Beachy offers golf cart rentals starting at around $125 a day, making it an affordable and convenient option for exploring the local beaches and neighborhoods.
- Free bus service. Charleston offers the DASH (Downtown Area Shuttle) service, which is free and an excellent way to explore downtown Charleston without spending a dime. The DASH buses connect key attractions, making it easy to navigate the historic district.
Shopping and Souvenirs: Bringing Charleston Home With You
No trip to Charleston is complete without a little retail therapy. Whether browsing the chic boutiques along King Street, picking up unique finds at the Historic Charleston City Market, or exploring local artisans at spots like Candlefish, you’ll want to budget for a few extras.
Depending on your taste, you might spend anywhere from $20 to $100 or more on local goods, handcrafted jewelry, sweetgrass baskets, or even some gourmet treats from Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit.
Budgeting for Your Charleston Vacation
So, how much money per day for a Charleston vacation? On average, you might expect to spend around $150 to $300 a day per person, depending on your accommodation, dining choices, and activities. A luxury vacation, including stays in high-end rentals and fine dining, could push that daily budget to $500 or more.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay, YourPad offers a variety of Charleston vacation rentals, including luxury vacation homes on the Isle of Palms and family-friendly properties close to downtown Charleston. Our properties are carefully selected to provide comfort and convenience, ensuring your Charleston vacation is memorable. Contact YourPad today to find the perfect rental for your next trip to Charleston!
