Capture Vacation Memories at The Most Picturesque Spots In Charleston

Some of the best photography circulating through the world today has been captured in our beloved Holy City. In fact, it may have been a stunning photo of Charleston that prompted you to book a flight, pack your suitcase and head for our photogenic city. We’ve compiled a list of some of Charleston’s most beautiful places. Grab the family, your special sweetie or your selfie stick to capture vacation pictures that will last a lifetime.

Riley Waterfront Park

Riley Waterfront Park in downtown Charleston is breathtaking. Not only does it offer the perfect view of multiple historic landmarks, such as Fort Sumter and the USS Yorktown, but when the sun starts to set, you’ll be reaching for your camera to capture a shot worth framing.

Morris Island Lighthouse

First illuminated in 1876, the Morris Island Lighthouse is best viewed from the northern tip of Folly Beach where the lighthouse rises from the Atlantic Ocean. If you arrive at a quiet time of day and submerge your feet in the sand, your patience will be rewarded with the perfect calm picture of this historic structure. If you’re lucky, some dolphins may even pose for your shot.

Angel Oak

Located on beautiful Johns Island, the Angel Oak is one of the most respected historical sites in all of Charleston. Estimated to be around 400 years old, this tree stands at 65 feet tall and is known for its majestic spread of branches. It’s the perfect example of Mother Nature’s incredible work. Get there early to capture the perfect photo as this public park gets crowded with spectators as the day goes on.

Ravenel Bridge

Any trip to Charleston should include a walk along the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge while looking out over the beautiful Charleston harbor. You can see every facet of Charleston while suspended 180 feet above the Cooper River. The way the city and the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier light up at night makes this view one of the best money can buy – and yet walking the bridge is free.

Cistern Yard

Dropped into the heart of historic downtown Charleston is the College of Charleston. A central – and most iconic spot – on campus is the Cistern Yard. Oak trees trace the entire yard and the background features historic Randolph Hall built in 1829. If you arrive around noon, the sun will be shining right into the yard, making the perfect photo opportunity.

Pitt Street Bridge

This historic Mount Pleasant structure has gone through many renovations and expansions. No longer functioning as a bridge for transportation, this long walkway serves as a fishing pier and sightseeing opportunity. With views of the Ravenel Bridge and the downtown peninsula, you can capture many amazing photos from this spot. We would recommend visiting at sunset, but sunrise offers its own astounding experience.

Azalea Park

This Summerville destination is well worth putting on your to-do list. This park includes a renowned garden that offers a spectacular display of flowers every spring. A series of pathways wind around the park, giving you plenty of opportunities to snap pictures of the ponds, sculptures and trees.

Visiting Charleston Just Got Way Easier!

TourPass includes all the top tours and attractions & historic sites. Save up to 40% or more on admissions + skip the lines

Charleston FAQ's

Best Places to Stay and Hotels in Charleston?

Choosing a hotel and where to stay in Charleston all depends on your budget and goals. Do you want to stay Downtown, at the beach or in the outer areas such as North Charleston where you have to drive to get everywhere? For more help on deciding: https://travelerofcharleston.com/articles/hotels/

What Beach in Charleston is Best?

Charleston has 3 main public beaches which are: Folly, Isle of Palms and Sullivans. Each beach has it’s own atmosphere. The most common beach that people visit is Folly Beach and then Isle of Palms followed by Sullivans Island. For more info on Charleston’s beaches visit: https://travelerofcharleston.com/guide-charlestons-beaches/

What are some historical things to do in Charleston?

Charleston, SC is full of historical things to do. Everything from museums, to public sites and free landmark sites such as Rainbow Row and the Battery can be seen. For more info on Charleston’s top historical sites visit: https://travelerofcharleston.com/places-to-learn-about-charleston-sc-history/

What to do with the family and kids in Charleston?

There are many things that will keep the kids and family entertained and educated in Charleston. There are historic sites such as Fort Sumter, a Children’s Museum, Aquarium and the USS Yorktown…a WWII era aircraft carrier you can tour. For more info visit: https://travelerofcharleston.com/charleston-family-fun-activities/

Are you a Charleston First Time Visitor? Checkout the guide

There’s so many things you could do in Charleston it can be overwhelming. We recommend that first time visitors, checkout the ultimate first-time visitor guide here: https://travelerofcharleston.com/charleston-first-time-visitors-guide/

Charleston things to do in the Spring season?

Spring in Charleston, SC is an amazing time of year to visit. The flowers are blooming and the weather is mild and sunny. For more info, check-out our spring guide to Charleston here: https://travelerofcharleston.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-springtime-in-charleston/

Charleston things to do in the Summer season?

Summer in Charleston is a great time to visit. There’s plenty of things to keep you busy and visiting the beach will probably….or should be on your short-list. Also water-based activities and tours are popular. Checkout this summer guide to Charleston for more info:

Our 10 Favorite Summer Activities in Charleston

Charleston things to do in the Fall season?

Fall is one of the best times to visit. The weather cools down a bit and the skies are typically blue and clear. In addition there are many great events, festivals and the large crowds of summer have gone back to school or work. For more info on visiting in the fall, checkout this article: https://travelerofcharleston.com/charleston-12-things-to-do-fall/

What should I not miss in Charleston?

There are so many great things to do that it’s difficult to narrow the list down. This article does a great job with figuring out the must do things to do in Charleston

7 Can’t Miss Reasons to Visit Charleston, SC Now

How many days do I need in Charleston?

The consensus is a minimum of 3-days is needed to settle in and experience Charleston. For instance, many people take 2 days exploring downtown and another day visiting sites outside of downtown such as the plantations, Angel Oak Tree or beaches. Checkout this page for a list of tours and attractions:

Charleston’s Top Tours & Attractions | Things to do

Is Charleston a walkable city? Do I need a car?

Downtown Charleston was made for walking and for sure one of the best way to soak up and experience the history first-hand. This article goes over getting around Charleston with and without a car as well:

Getting Around Charleston, SC

Is Savannah or Charleston better?

We’re of course partial to Charleston, but here’s the truth. There are many similarities however there are some differences in our opinion:

Both cities are historic and beautiful.
Both cities are extremely walkable. Savannah, with it’s park-like squares maybe more walkable than Charleston.
Charleston has a more established and food scene with many more options.
Charleston has better hotels and shopping.
Both cities have equally good tours.
Charleston has better beach options. Savannah has Tybee which is great, however it’s 1 beach vibe versus Charleston which has 3 beaches with different vibes. Checkout this Charleston beach guide article: https://travelerofcharleston.com/guide-charlestons-beaches/
In Savannah you can walk with alcoholic beverages on the street. This is not allowed in Charleston. This can be good or bad depending on your stance.
Savannah is more affordable.
TourPass offers all-inclusive passes in both cities: https://tourpass.com