Welcome to Charleston
Discover the Value and Variety of a Charleston Vacation.

In April 1670, the British ship Carolina, accompanied by a single-sailed sloop, passed through what is today Charleston Harbor, slipped quietly into the mouth of the present-day Ashley River and dropped anchor five miles inland along its western shoreline. Three ships had set sail from England the year before on a perilous journey to Barbados and beyond—to their ultimate destination in the Province of Carolina, a vast territory in the New World that had been claimed for His Majesty Charles II, King of England. Two of the original ships were lost, one replaced by the sloop. Of the hundreds of people who embarked on this incredible journey, only 148 made it ashore to establish “Charles Towne,” the first permanent European settlement in the Carolinas.

As they set about building a fort in the wilderness to protect themselves from the Spanish and the unfriendly native inhabitants, these early settlers probably never imagined their brave actions set in motion a chain of events that changed the world. From the first primitive buildings they erected along the banks of the Ashley River arose a magnificent city that has inspired artists and musicians, scientists and engineers, thinkers and revolutionaries all to their greatness.

Today, while taking a stroll along Broad Street at dusk with the sea breeze rustling gently through the palm trees, visitors swear they can hear the “clop, clop, clop” of horse hooves on the cobblestones amid layers of echoing voices rising up from the centuries. Even for first-timers to the historic city, Charleston’s nagging familiarity—that sense of déjà vu—hangs in the air. This profound familiarity may come from books depicting the city’s heyday in the unfolding of American history, or perhaps from Dubose Heyward’s lyrical descriptions of Catfish Row in his best-selling novel, Porgy. Or maybe it is the array of starring roles the city has played in such memorable movies as The Patriot, The Notebook, Rich in Love and Cold Mountain; or the many television productions, including “North and South,” “Love and War” and the hit series “Army Wives.”

Yet the city’s familiarity seems more deeply rooted than any passing visual imprints left by books or movie screens. That’s because Charleston is the culmination of a multitude of influences: the blending of English, Scottish and Irish; French, Spanish, Dutch and German; African, Caribbean and Native American. So a little piece of every American’s past seems rooted in Charleston.

As the history of the “Holy City” unfolds for visitors, it soon becomes evident that Charleston is a place where the present mingles easily with the old-world charm and cultural sophistication of a bygone era… a modern metropolis draped in the rich and aesthetically pleasing cloak of yesteryear. Clearly, America’s most historic city is also a modern one, offering something of interest to every traveler passing through. In fact, the value and variety of experiences found in this authentic Southern city constantly earns it a place among the top vacation spots in the Southeast and across the U.S.

Visitors hoping to discover their past amid the city’s colorful centuries-old tapestry can begin their journeys at any number of tours and attractions throughout the city and its surrounding areas. Bus, boat, carriage and walking adventures offer the perfect foundation for insight into Charleston’s past. Of course, museums, historic homes, plantations and other historic sites also suggest even more possibilities for discovery.

In 1707, Charleston became the home of Henrietta Dering Johnston, America’s first professional woman artist. She was also the first artist in the Colonies to work primarily with pastels. Since those early days, art has been an integral part of Charleston’s rich culture. In recent years, the city has become one of the top art destinations in the nation, inviting visitors to shop the many art galleries offering paintings and fine art photography by artists of local, national and international renown.

An exploration of the city’s history reveals that in 1736 a group of local actors performed George Farquhar’s The Recruiting Officer at the New Theatre, the first building in the country designed solely for theatrical purposes. Today, the Dock Street Theatre, located on Church Street, occupies the remodeled New Theatre building. Through the years, the city’s residents remained loyal to the performing arts, supporting theatrical productions at the Dock Street Theatre, as well as at other venues throughout the city. Visitors are always invited to mingle with the locals at one of the many outstanding performances happening throughout the year. Performances also include opera, ballet and symphony featuring some of the best present-day actors and musicians.

Those who love to shop need to look no further than Charleston for the ultimate retail experience. The city and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of shopping opportunities, from downtown shops to outlet malls and beautiful waterfront centers, and a variety of shopping experiences in between. Gifts to take home abound, but the more serious shoppers especially love the quaint antiques shops, upscale home furnishings stores and high-fashion boutiques.

Visitors to Charleston can’t help themselves when it comes to sampling the extraordinary cuisine, a fare that rivals any in the nation but served up Lowcountry-style. Like the rest of Charleston’s culture, the type of food served in area restaurants resulted from the region’s unique combination of influences. So not only can visitors enjoy the region’s own style, but also any type of food imaginable in a myriad of dining venues.

After all that eating, visitors may be looking for some outside activity. The area is ideal for those craving the great outdoors. Charleston draws hunters, fly-fishermen and paddlers from all over the world to its vast expanses of uncut woodlands, wetlands and pristine waterways. Watersports opportunities also abound. And the avid golfer can literally play a different world-class course each day of his or her stay here.

The spectator sports season in Charleston is year-round, with the professional baseball season melting into professional soccer and then into professional ice hockey. And all three of the region’s beloved teams play in first-rate facilities, the kind spectators appreciate for their comfort, amenities and views of the games. For a relaxing afternoon in the sun, visitors can take advantage of one the many opportunities offered through its remarkable park system.

Is it any wonder that the value and variety found in Charleston often turn visitors into residents? The warm climate, friendly locals and innumerable lifestyle options, combined with the region’s many other assets, make Charleston one of the best places in the nation to live, work and play. During this trip to Charleston, maybe you’ll discover your next perfect life here.

Learn about how you can own a piece of history or invest in waterfront and vacation property in Charleston and the Lowcountry. Read our Real Estate section.

Charleston Crab House Restaurants Voted Best Seafood Restaurant by the Charleston Courier and News. With both waterfront and deck dining, it is reported that Charleston Crab House is the perfect family spot. Famous for fresh local fish & seafood, steaks, pastas, chicken, salads, cold beer, great wines and frozen tropical drinks. Daily specials. Southern seafood, sensible prices and a darn good time! Three locations; Historic District, James Island and Mount Pleasant.

Avocet Properties Whether you are interested in coming to the Lowcountry for a short stay or looking to make the Charleston area and its surrounding beaches your home, Avocet Properties is the best resource to satisfy your real estate needs. A broad and diverse collection of vacation rentals assures flexibility when planning your visit. Competent, caring, and experienced - some of the qualities that you can count on from our entire staff of dedicated professionals.

Pam Harrington Exclusives Offering three decades of personalized attention in the South Carolina lowcountry. Luxury real estate sales on Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Johns Island, Wadmalaw and the surrounding Charleston area. A leader in luxury real estate sales and vacation rentals for almost three decades. Seasonal vacation rentals or year-round luxury properties for South Carolina coastal living. Highly personalized service, a true commitment to patient, comprehensive representation is our priority.