I have always adored Charleston and though I had not been back in 15 years, my recent visit was a reminder that I need to get there more regularly!  Charleston is absolutely gorgeous and gracious in every way.  At the Charleston Place Hotel, they say that looking out any window, you can see at least three church steeples. The homes and gardens are immaculate, classic, and painstakingly kept. The restaurant scene is incredible with delicious and creative menus and fantastic spots for libations on every street.

Our suite at the Charleston Place is one of a kind and highly recommended for families as the bedroom connects to a sitting room with a pullout sofa and also connects to a large foyer room with a pull down murphy bed.

All of the rooms have been gorgeously renovated and enjoy lots of light and a sense of cool calm.

We arrived in Charleston after the tragic shooting at Mother Emanuel Church and we were not sure what to expect. The city was in mourning but there was no anger. There was grace, reconciliation, song, and togetherness – the complete opposite of what the killer tried to incite. Charleston and its people showed it’s grace in a big way.  We were moved to be a part of it.

Dining in Charleston is beyond special!

Our trip favorites were dinners at FIG and at THE GROCERY and lunches at CRU CAFE and at MINERO.  I definitely suggest stopping in for a glass of wine and some cheese at Ohara and Flynns.

Other suggestions are Edmond Oats, The Ordinary (sister restaurant to FIG), Tratoria di Lucca and McCrady’s.

My foodie friend made the following additional suggestions but we ran out of room!

Try McIntosh, Fish and The Bar at Husk.

For very casual dining – Breakfast at Dixie Supply – It is a complete dive in an old gas station, not much ambiance, but a cult favorite.

Bowens Island –  You eat on paper plates, they are known for their shrimp and oysters.

On Sullivan’s Island, Poe’s Tavern is excellent for lunch – great burgers and fish tacos.

Another excellent choice in Charleston is the Planters Inn if you are seeking more boutique and do not need the full service options at Charleston Place such as the pool, fitness center, spa, and myriad of restaurants.

Planters Inn is gracious, charming and smaller with the excellent Peninsula Restaurant.

The Sanctuary at Kiawah is a gorgeous property, classic in style and perfectly up to date. Rooms and public areas are stunning and what you would expect at a 5 star resort.  Service, food, and beverages are excellent throughout.  It is the perfect family long weekend or holiday especially if combined with a few days in the city.

The island, though very developed with accommodations and beautiful homes, still maintains its lushness and natural habitat with a river, wildlife, native vegetation, and wonderfully wide open beaches for walking and cycling.

Besides the myriad of activities including paddle boarding, water slides, tennis, many come to Kiawah for world class golf.   Father’s day was especially lovely with 18 holes on the Ocean Course and a seafood dinner at the Atlantic Room.

Flags flying appropriately at half mass as everyone mourned those lost at the shooting at the Mother Emanuel church.