vivian

We are planning to spend 2 nights in Charleston SC enroute to Florida in late January, and were thinking of stopping in Beaufort. Any suggestions as to whether we should spend a night there, or just plan a day trip. We would appreciate lodging and restaurant suggestions.

Carol

January is not the BEST weather in Charleston, but there are still so many things to do here. However our weather is still warmer than many other places (you didn't say where you were coming from). Two nites in Charleston and 1 in Savannah (I would recommend Savannah - with a drive-thru of Beaufort). Lots of great restaurants in all of these cities and lodging suggestions would definitely depend upon your price range!

Do a search on all 3 cities on Fodor's and there are many replies to previous similar questions. have fun!

danna

the Jan. issue of Gourmet has an article on Charleston with restaurant suggestions.

I like McCrady's, Garibaldi's...not mentioned in article.

Charleston Place is best hotel, great location, otherwise, I suggest a B&B- there are many in historic homes. I don't see much reason to spend a night in Beaufort.

Cindy

Spent only a night in Beaufort (SC, I assume you mean--there's a Beaufort NC too...)on a trip to Charleston area, and I was sorry we didn't stay longer. Of course, I was there in the Spring, so I don't know if your experiences will be as good as mine, But I would love to go back. Had a wonderful time just walking around (with a good guidebook) looking at all the historic houses. Restaurants (don't remember name--maybe "Plums"?) also excellent, but some were pricey--nice to sit on the waterfront in the evening if the weather is nice(many restaurants have entrances on both the main street and the water)
The place to stay is apparently the Rhett House Inn, but it was booked when we went so we stayed at the Craven Street Inn just across the street. Equally lovely building, wonderful young inkeepers, very welcoming, great breakfast. A nice place to relax and just hand out for a couple of days

SueB

Charleston can be very nice in January. The average temps are around 60 degrees and often they get warmer (although sometimes colder). Beaufort is beautiful but not tons to do. The Beaufort Inn is my favorite hotel.