The Best Hotels in Charleston for Ultimate Relaxation

Why it made the list

Morning walks on the beach will invigorate the senses. From there, enjoy a warm seashell massage or truffle pedicure at the Sand & Sea Day Spa, followed by an afternoon spent lounging poolside or on the Atlantic coast. Stay at the Boardwalk Inn for a modern room dressed in cool coastal colors.

For travelers envisioning easy access to the Atlantic Ocean Read More

Why it made the list

Imagine this: you’re 30 minutes away from the hustle and bustle (and traffic) of downtown Charleston, sleeping in the middle of one of America’s oldest landscaped gardens, with native flora and fauna all around you. Strolls through Middleton Place’s exquisite gardens will help you slow down and savor life’s simple moments, and dips in the riverside pool will cool you down on the hottest of days. Though the hotel doesn’t house a full spa, a treatment room and in-house professional are available, if you’re craving a massage.

Architecture lovers, nature fanatics, and those seeking an o Read More

Why it made the list

An air of calmness fills this boutique hotel, with its dimly lit hallways, signature scent, and fresh, impeccably tailored guest suites. That vibe is wonderfully amplified in The Dewberry Spa, where cypress-lined walls infuse the space with a smooth, peppery aroma and a dreamy relaxation room offers velvet chaises and throws for pre- and post-treatment lounging. End the day with a long bath in your deep soaking tub (available in some rooms).

What was once a vacant Federal office building is now The De Read More

Why it made the list

Start your day of self-care off with breakfast in bed, surrounded—in some rooms—by an original marble mantle, a crystal chandelier, electric fireplace, soaring ceilings, and plush furnishings. Next, head to one of the best day spas on the peninsula—the Spa at Wentworth Mansion. Tucked in the 19th-century mansion’s former carriage house, exposed brick, gurgling fountains, and clean treatment rooms welcome utter relaxation. Finally, watch the sun set from the inn’s cupola as you sip on a fine glass of wine.

Mansion, indeed! Built as a private home in 1865, this hulki Read More

Why it made the list

Your room itself invites relaxation, with luxe throw pillows, comfy upholstered chairs and sofas, and a calming palette of blues, grays, and other neutral hues. Sit among amethyst crystals—thought to be a natural stress reducer—at the Amethyst Spa & Nail Bar, where massages, facials, and nail treatments delight then watch the sun go gown over the Holy City skyline from the tucked-away Indigo Serenity Pool.

The Restoration is a sleek, swank, and new-South-styled bout Read More

Why it made the list

Recently renovated guest suites are ripe with velvet seating and soothing hues. You can easily spend the better part of a day at The Spa at Belmond Charleston Place. After your lavender body scrub or deep-tissue massage, sit in the dry sauna (women) or steam room (men), then float away in the mineral-water pool. Stock up on Tata Harper skincare products to continue the pampering even after you check out.

For more than three decades, Belmond Charleston Place has be Read More

Why it made the list

As its name suggests, The Sanctuary Hotel is a true retreat. Kiawah Island itself is remote, with wildlife and marsh views around every turn. Add in a luxurious suite with a roomy marble walk-in shower, deep soaking tub, Italian linens, and view of the Atlantic and relaxation is sure to kick in. Head to 12-room The Sanctuary Spa for a morning of pampering; afterward, sip spirits by the adults-only pool or take a long walk on the beach.

Golf fanatics will be in heaven at Kiawah Island Golf Resort Read More