The best resorts in South Carolina, from rustic mini hotels to beachfront boutique hotels and luxury resort spas
Kilometers of white sandy coastline have made South Carolina an ideal destination for beach vacations. Travel + Leisure magazine's annual World's Best Awards survey of its readers determined the top favorite resorts in South Carolina among travelers. Most are located on the famous sands at Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach and Kiawah Island. Take advantage of other vacationers' experiences and pick your next vacation spot among these best South Carolina resorts for 2023.
Winner: Post House, Mount Pleasant
This 7-room inn was one of the best newcomers in 2022 and has gained many fans in the year since. It's a great place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a rustic atmosphere. A waterfront tavern with seasonal specialties and classic cocktails is part of the resort. The Post House team can help you plan your experience: participate in Charleston walking and water tours, sports, boating, etc.
The Willcox, Aiken
Building on Aiken's tradition, The Willcox Hotel offers a sophisticated yet informal stay. Comfortable guest rooms will delight guests with luxurious furnishings inspired by historic Southern charm, featuring high ceilings, moldings, and chic four-poster beds. Staying at South Carolina resorts like Willcox, guests can enhance their stay with relaxation at the full-service spa, lounging by the pool, and fitness classes, for which in-room virtual exercise machines and yoga mats are available.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Kiawah Island
One of the most luxurious resorts on the South Carolina coast offers guests 255 guest rooms and suites with custom furnishings, fine bedding, and spacious balconies. Two pools (family and adults-only) await them just steps from their room. For a comfortable time at the beach, the hotel concierge will provide guests with umbrellas, lounge chairs, and towels. Also on-site is a fitness center with an indoor pool, a restaurant, and a fleet of Volvo cars for getting around town.
The Inn & Club at Harbour Town, Hilton Head Island
The 4-star hotel has prepared its guests with elegant furnishings, premium amenities, stylish décor, and personalized service that are designed to provide them with a memorable stay. The experience at this resort will include first-class dining, golf on the legendary championship courses, relaxation by the luxurious quiet pool, and activities at Harbor Town Marina: water sports, excursions, shopping, and dining.
Montage Palmetto Bluff: Bluffton, Bluffton
One of South Carolina's most beloved resorts among travelers sits on the banks of the May River, along which its collection of rooms, suites, rustic homes, and spacious cottages inspired by the Lowcountry's rich heritage are nestled. Guests can experience the resort's signature Southern hospitality at Bluff's restaurants, from classic Carolina cuisine at Octagon to Flame's wood-fired Neapolitan pizza prepared in a converted 1950s vintage fire truck.
The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, Charleston
The stunning award-winning resort has prepared a unique experience for its guests, from breathtaking tropical landscapes to luxurious accommodations with every amenity. Relax with a massage for two at the spa, play a game of bocce or street chess, watch a movie in the private theater, sunbathe by the pool, take a water tour to historic downtown Charleston, and end the evening with a drink on the beautiful veranda – a stay at this beach club will truly be memorable.
Wild Dunes Resort, Isle of Palms
A typical beach vacation with inspiring amenities and excellent access to the sands and water of the Isle of Palms beach offers one of South Carolina's most unique resorts with something for everyone. With sparkling pools, a spa inspired by the ocean air and dunes, stunning on-site restaurants, award-winning tennis and golf, and plenty of outdoor adventures, the experience will suit both families and romantic getaways.
Beach House Hilton Head Island, Hilton Head Island
A serene island atmosphere and live music reign at this gorgeous boutique resort on Coligny Beach. The perfect place to relax is created in rooms and suites with private patios so that nothing separates you from the sound of the waves and sand. Beach House hospitality creates endless recreational opportunities: restaurants and beach bars, bike rentals, surf camp, live concerts, sailing, yoga, etc.
The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, Hilton Head Island
One of Southern California's top-rated resorts is located on the Atlantic Ocean. Every detail of it aims to create a prosperous atmosphere, from soothing hues in the restaurants to the beach décor in the rooms. Guests can fill their day lounging by the three ocean-view pools with a cocktail in hand or on the beach, enjoying spa treatments, playing golf and tennis, touring Bluffton's charming historic districts, and savoring delicious meals at the resort's restaurants.
