Waterfront vacation rentals in Charleston

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Top-rated waterfront rentals in Charleston

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Top guest favorite

A view from a covered balcony features a wooden staircase leading to sandy beach access. The scene showcases the ocean, a fishing pier extending into the water, and coastal vegetation in the foreground. The sky is clear, complementing the serene beach atmosphere.

Condo in Isle of Palms

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 352 reviews

Relax and Unwind in a Stylish Beachfront Villa

Enjoy breathtaking beachfront sunrises and dining at a cozy table on your own covered balcony. The private pier and pool are only steps away from the ocean. View stunning sunsets and Sullivan's Island Lighthouse from the bedroom and entrance. Nautical decor, premium vinyl plank floors, and shiplap walls coalesce within this bright apartment retaining an ethos of southern charm. The gourmet kitchen is well-equipped with full-size appliances, ice-maker, filtered water dispenser, granite countertop, under-counter lighting and a convenient coffee bar with multiple brew options! The panoramic ocean views are the best available at Sea Cabins! Located on the 3rd floor, it's just 3 doors from the end of building C. Enjoy beautiful sunrises right from the living room, kitchen, or balcony, and sunset views of Sullivan's Island Lighthouse from the front door or bedroom window. You will have private access to the beach, community pool, and fishing pier. Island shopping, restaurants, groceries and entertainment are just steps away! It is conveniently located near Mt. Pleasant, Shem Creek, and historic downtown Charleston, giving you unlimited choices for dining, shopping, and entertainment. This home sleeps 4 with a queen size bed and a queen sleeper sofa with memory foam mattress. Enjoy your meals at the bar or on the balcony. Outdoor grilling facilities and picnic tables are also available. The pool-house features private bathrooms and a coin-operated laundry. Access by stairs only (no elevator). Full Absentee host The apartment is located in Isle of Palms, a city on the slender barrier island of the same name. It’s known for its beaches backed by condos and eateries. Sea turtles nest in the area. A nearby park includes a beach, picnic areas, and a playground. Dining, shopping, and entertainment within walking distance. Only a short drive to historic Charleston, SC! Please be aware that the property has a Ring video doorbell on the premises (at the front door). There are no cameras/surveillance devices inside the home or on the balcony.

Top guest favorite

A wooden dock extends through golden grass, leading towards a spacious multi-story house with balconies. Surrounding trees and natural foliage create a serene atmosphere, while warm sunlight bathes the scene in a soft glow. Blue skies and distant views of the landscape complete the tranquil setting.

Guest suite in Mt Pleasant

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 720 reviews

Charleston Harbor view, garage apt

Spacious apartment with high ceilings. The back porch has a fantastic view of Charleston harbor. The house is located in a quiet neighborhood, very close to downtown and also to beaches. Private dock, kayaks, bicycles (not fancy) and the possibility, weather and tides permitting, of a motorboat ride around the harbor. It is incredibly peaceful here; like being in the country, but it's in the middle of the city. Mt Pleasant Short Term Rental License #STR240286, MP Business License # 20122588

Top guest favorite

A living room area features a soft blue couch, a round coffee table, and a desk with a chair. Natural light enters through a door and window, illuminating the space. A world map hangs on the wall, with other decorative accents, creating a cozy environment.

Guest suite in Charleston

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 474 reviews

Adorable Guesthouse Between Folly & Downtown Chas!

Welcome to your home away from home! This guest house is private, with it's own entrance, and is attached to a main house. It sleeps 4, with 2 in the queen bed, 1 on the sofa, & 1 on the fold out mattress. We provide WiFi, toiletries, linens & towels, clothes iron, hair dryer, full kitchen, beach essentials, coffee & tea. Watch waterfowl while sitting by the serene backyard creek, or go on an adventure to Folly Beach or downtown in just a few minutes' drive. 6 minutes to MUSC. Backyard is shared

Top guest favorite

Guesthouse in Charleston

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 298 reviews

Salt of the Island Retreat w/ Pool on the Lake

Welcome to Salt of the Island Retreat! Tucked away on James Island and very conveniently located between Historic Downtown Charleston (10 minutes away) and Folly Beach (15 minutes away), this hidden gem is nestled on a 5 acre lake, immersed in a vibrant ecosystem! After visiting all of the eclectic charm that Charleston has to offer, head back to Salt of the Island Retreat and reconnect with nature. Enjoy the sunshine and a cold beverage poolside while you heal your soul with the simple things.

Top guest favorite

A serene tidal creek is shown, bordered by lush green grasses and occasional trees, under a soft sky with scattered clouds. A glimpse of the moon is visible against the blue hues, suggesting a peaceful evening atmosphere.

Cottage in Mount Pleasant

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 479 reviews

The Boathouse

We call it the Boathouse, but it could just as easily be called the treehouse. It sits just feet from a tidal creek amidst giant live oak trees. A short dock is right outside the door, so bring your kayaks or other small craft. Although cozy, it offers everything a simple cottage should. Shem Creek is minutes away, as are the beaches. Patriot's Point and parks are a short walk away. This is the closest residential neighborhood to Charleston that you will find in Mt Pleasant. ST240335 BL20139655

Top guest favorite

Condo in Isle of Palms

5 out of 5 average rating, 162 reviews

Oceanfront Sea Cabin 226 B - Discover Charleston!

Positioned right in the heart of 🌴 Isle of Palms 🌴 this charming 2nd floor condo is just steps from a private pier and sandy shore, with shopping, dining and entertainment close by. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean from a private balcony overlooking a community pool and beautiful natural dunes. Unwind and relax with breathtaking sunrises that paint the sky. 👉 Located just off the IOP Connector, making a trip to nearby Mount Pleasant or Downtown Charleston is easy and stress free!

Top guest favorite

A cozy living area features a comfortable gray sofa adorned with decorative cushions. A small white coffee table sits in front, complemented by a vibrant green potted plant. Light streams in through large windows, enhancing the neutral color palette of the space.

Condo in Isle of Palms

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 303 reviews

Ocean front on Isle of Palms

Escape to our beautifully renovated 3rd floor condo, the perfect retreat for a relaxing beach getaway. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee on your private balcony watching the waves roll in. The fully stocked kitchen has everything you need to prepare a delicious homemade meal, making your stay feel like home. The living room features a 65" smart TV for all your entertainment needs. With fantastic restaurants and a grocery store just a short walk away, everything you need is right at your fingertips.

Guest favorite

A scenic view of the ocean is presented, with a sandy beach visible in the distance. Palm trees frame the foreground, while a pool area and adjacent building are situated nearby. The boardwalk extends toward the water, enhancing the coastal atmosphere.

Condo in Isle of Palms

4.83 out of 5 average rating, 464 reviews

Oceanfront Top Floor ☼ Beautiful Panoramic View!

Cozy third floor condo with unbeatable ocean views. This unit is top floor, center building which means panoramic views of the beach and ocean. Great location in the heart of Isle of Palms, with easy access to shopping, dining and entertainment. Open floor plan with full kitchen. Views of the ocean from the balcony, living room, and even the kitchen. Enjoy a cup of coffee as the sun rises or savor a glass of wine and take in an amazing sunset while listening to the waves of the ocean.

Top guest favorite

The exterior of the guest house features a mix of textured siding and an intricately designed balcony supported by stylish columns. Surrounded by greenery, it includes a circular window and a swing on the porch, inviting relaxation in a tranquil setting.

Guest suite in West Ashley

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 400 reviews

The Garden Folly Guest House

Our architect said, “this is NOT a garage, it’s a Garden Folly!” Our Guest House has a bird’s eye view of the rose covered pecan tree and a vista of the marsh and the Wappoo Creek. When we rebuilt our 1930's garage we saved all the beaded siding and pine floor. My husband enjoyed incorporating many design elements and creative ideas. It was quickly becoming the Taj Garage. We decided it was just the kind of property we enjoy when we travel, so, Voila! we decided to share it with you!

Top guest favorite

The exterior of the carriage house is illuminated at night, showcasing its architectural features against the tranquil waters. Surrounding greenery and reflections of the buildings in the water create a serene atmosphere, complemented by the soft glow of outdoor lights.

Guesthouse in West Ashley

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 211 reviews

Large Guesthouse with Private Dock & Marsh Views

This newly built carriage house is separate from the main house. The cottage is about 1,200 sqft so it very open and spacious and great views of marsh and our tidal creek. We have a separate work area with desk and a massive dinning table if you need more room to work or to gather with friends. Full kitchen, washer and dryer, massive shower, the list goes on. You may not want to leave! Feel free to go sit and have coffee or cocktails on the dock. PERMIT# OP2024-04998

Top guest favorite

A private balcony features two comfortable wicker chairs facing a small table, overlooking lush salt marshland. The blue sky is dotted with fluffy clouds, creating a serene backdrop for outdoor relaxation. The wooden flooring complements the natural surroundings, enhancing the tranquil setting.

Guest suite in Charleston

5 out of 5 average rating, 140 reviews

Marsh view retreat near Folly Beach and Downtown

**Please review additional notes below about potential construction noise** Welcome to Lighthouse Lookout, a private-entry guest suite, offering a truly unique Charleston experience. Conveniently located on James Island, between Folly Beach and Downtown Charleston. The private balcony provides stunning views of the salt marsh and historic Morris Island Lighthouse. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the changing tides, abundant wildlife, and scenic sunrises.

Top guest favorite

A living area is presented with modern decor, featuring a dark sofa adorned with colorful pillows. A large area rug anchors the space, while a coffee table provides a central point. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors offer views of the outdoor balcony surrounded by trees.

Guest suite in West Ashley

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 298 reviews

Guest suite with balcony overlooking marsh

Our guest suite is a second-story suite overlooking old Live Oaks, marshland, and the Ashley River. It is fully furnished with simple modern decor and includes a full kitchen, a separate, private entrance, and a private balcony. The neighborhood is quiet and established and is approximately 6 miles from the historic downtown area of Charleston. We would love to welcome you to our home and to the stunning lowcountry of South Carolina! Permit #06163