There are plenty of reasons to visit South Carolina: exploring the natural beauty of the Lowcountry, golfing on some of the best courses in the world, and enjoying southern cuisine are all at the top of the list. You can certainly find some affordable accommodations across the state, but if you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience, you’ll want to check out these five South Carolina hotels. Be warned, some of these higher-end accommodations at these establishments cost roughly $3,000 per night!
This post was updated on October 1, 2025 to clarify Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s environmental efforts, courses grassed with Paspalum, Emeline’s history, opening year of The Dunlin, and nightly rates.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
1000 Ocean Course Drive, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Price: $364 – $1,560
Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a paradise for golf lovers, having hosted the Ryder Cup, PGA Championship, and other top-level tournaments over the years. You can book a tee time at five different courses covered in different grasses (Bermudagrass and others). The Ocean Course is grassed with Paspalum for superior “puttability.”
If you’re looking for overnight accommodations, look no further than The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. This incredible establishment is known for its environmental initiatives, eager to showcase its commitment to sustainability.
Enjoy stunning views while staying just 50 yards from Kiawah Beach and relax after a day of golfing by the hotel’s multiple swimming pools. Visit the spa for a more indulgent experience and don’t forget the hotel’s many incredible dining options. At the end of your day, unwind in one of The Sanctuary’s guest rooms, which feature Frette Italian linens and marble walk-in showers.
Emeline
181 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401
Price: $749 – $1,614
Located on Church St. in downtown Charleston, Emeline is a South Carolina boutique hotel that offers southern hospitality with a modern twist. The owner’s goal was to create a home away from home with a welcoming presence.
Emeline is just that. The rooms are curated for comfort, with signature bath amenities by Red Flower and custom plush spa robes. Each floor includes a “refreshment nook” with fresh fruit and water and guests can enjoy morning coffee from 6-9:30 a.m. at Frannie and the Fox. A welcome cocktail is also included at check-in.
Montage Palmetto Bluff
477 Mount Pelia Road, Bluffton, SC 29910
Price: $800 – $2,075
Guests will stay in the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry when they book a room at Montage Palmetto Bluff. This resort includes a collection of cottages, guest rooms, suites, and village homes situated within a vast 20,000-acre coastal nature preserve. Regular nightly rates are usually $800–$1,800, with private cottages and homes typically fetch an even higher price tag.
There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the great outdoors, with family-friendly activities such as nature walks, kayaking, and dolphin-watching. Adults will also appreciate the luxurious spa and exquisite on-site dining overflowing with southern hospitality. Montage Palmetto Bluff has been praised by outlets such as Condé Nast Traveler, who called it the “good old-fashioned Southern getaway you didn’t know you needed.”
The Dunlin
6000 Kiawah River Dr, Johns Island, SC 29455
Price: $689 – $3,149
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature while staying in South Carolina, look no further than The Dunlin. This brand new (opened in 2024), beautiful hotel is located 20 miles from Charleston on Johns Island, along the banks of the Kiawah River. The hotel itself is named after a local shorebird, and you will likely see this and many other beautiful creatures during your stay.
Numerous paths take guests through the stunning marshland, or you can simply enjoy the view from your porch. You can also indulge in soulful southern food, visit The Aster Spa, or relax at The Cove – a swim club and riverfront oasis. The hotel offers some incredible experiences, from full moon kayaking and paddleboarding to river safaris in the salt marshes.
The Charleston Place
205 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Price: $795 – $3,575
As its name suggests, this beautiful hotel is located in the heart of historic Charleston, where luxury meets southern family-friendly charm. Each room features a host of amenities like plush bedding and exclusive products. However, if you’re looking for a truly high-end experience, book a stay at one of the Club rooms or suites on the seventh and eighth floors.
Guests who do so will have all-day access to the food and beverage service from the two-story Club Lounge, which includes a breakfast buffet, traditional afternoon tea, and after-dinner desserts and digestif. Rooms feature Carrara marble baths with a walk-in shower or soaking tub, fluffy robes, and slippers.
Of course, even if you don’t choose to stay in a Club room or suite, the hotel offers incredible dining experiences for all guests to enjoy. You can also visit the rooftop pool, fitness center, or spa for some self-care and rejuvenating treatments catering to both men and women. Kids can even get their nails done with a parent present.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©makasana photo / Shutterstock.com.