You don’t necessarily have to go far, far away to have a memorable vacation: There are plenty of U.S. cities worth exploring. One option is Charleston, a top travel destination in the American South. The oldest and largest city in South Carolina, Charleston is known for its history, architecture, food, culture and hospitality. The city sits on a harbor at the nexus of three rivers, and it boasts a vibrant music and arts scene, along with numerous museums and family-friendly attractions.
Whether you’re trying to jet set ASAP or you’re looking to plan ahead based on the cheapest fares, take a look at these forthcoming flights between San Diego and Charleston, which we pulled from travel site Skyscanner.
We've also included top-rated hotels, restaurants and attractions in Charleston to get you started on planning your ideal getaway. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)
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Cheapest Charleston flights
Currently, the cheapest flights between San Diego and Charleston are if you leave on Sept. 4 and return from South Carolina on Sept. 6. Frontier Airlines currently has roundtrip, nonstop tickets for $251.
There are also deals to be had in August. If you fly out of San Diego on Aug. 24 and return from Charleston on Aug. 28, Frontier Airlines can get you there and back for $257 roundtrip.
Top Charleston hotels
To plan your stay, here are some of Charleston’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.
The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel (115 Meeting St.)
If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, consider The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel. The hotel has a 4.6-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $123.
This reconstruction of an 1853 hotel is close to Gibbes Museum of Art and Charleston County Courthouse and all that Meeting and King streets have to offer. Dining options include a restaurant and a bar/lounge flanked by an outdoor courtyard with patio tables.
The Market Pavilion Hotel (225 E. Bay St.)
There's also the 4.7-star rated The Market Pavilion Hotel. Rooms are currently set at $199/night.
Set in the heart of Charleston, this hotel is located right beside the open-air market, close to Waterfront Park, bars, restaurants and shops.
Belmond Charleston Place (205 Meeting St.)
A pricer alternative is Belmond Charleston Place. The 4.6-star hotel has rooms for $249/night.
"The staff was friendly and the rooms clean and comfortable. The seventh and eighth floors are club level and you can upgrade for a nightly fee," wrote visitor Joleen.
Local restaurant picks
Charleston has plenty of top-notch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.
The FIG (232 Meeting St.)
One of Charleston's most popular restaurants is The FIG, which has an average of 4.9 stars out of 40 reviews on Skyscanner. The restaurant works with local farmers, growers and purveyors to source products and incorporate seasonal offerings into the menus nightly.
"Fig is a great place to eat if you can get a reservation ahead of time," wrote visitor Wythe. "It is not a place to just walk in to get a quick bite. Menu changes daily, which makes it interesting."
Halls Chophouse (434 King St.)
Another popular dining destination is Halls Chophouse, with 4.9 stars from 31 reviews.
"Absolutely delicious," wrote reviewer Maria. "Everything tasted fresh. Staff was so friendly."
Slightly North of Broad (192 E. Bay St.)
Also worth considering is Slightly North of Broad, which uses locally sourced ingredients in its dishes.
"I had the sweet potato tamale, and my friend had beef carpaccio," wrote Joleen. "Both very good."
What to see and do in Charleston
Not sure what to do in Charleston besides eat and drink? Here are a few recommendations, provided by Skyscanner.
Downtown Charleston (King Street)
First up is Downtown Charleston.
The historic area of Downtown Charleston is an experience not soon forgotten by the thousands of tourists who visit there each year. The main feature is the historic row homes, many of which have been renovated and restored to their original Revolutionary War appearances.
"Downtown offers many options: shopping, great eating, sightseeing, etc.," wrote visitor Sarah. "Take a carriage tour or just walk the Battery and market."
The Battery
The Battery is another popular destination.
This iconic landmark was built as a defensive seawall and promenade.
"This is a waterfront park consisting of park benches under the oaks," wrote visitor Tracy. "Great for locals walking their dogs and for the walkers and joggers."
Charleston Waterfront Park (1 Vendue Range)
Finally, consider checking out Charleston Waterfront Park.
Stroll along the pier of Charleston Waterfront Park and behold the beauty of the Charleston Harbor.
"Great place to take a stroll, relax on the swings and admire the fabulous Charleston Harbor and Ravenel Bridge and let the kids run around," wrote Ellen.
This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
