Charleston, South Carolina, has a timeless charm that makes it feel like the perfect place for romance. Between the majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss, the colorful historic homes, and the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore, the city draws you in and keeps you captivated. Whether you’re strolling hand-in-hand through lush gardens, enjoying a candlelit dinner at a cozy restaurant, or simply soaking in the beauty of the sunset over the harbor, Charleston offers a blend of Southern charm and romance that’s hard to beat.
No matter if you’re a longtime local or in the market to buy a home in Charleston, SC, have your eyes on an apartment in the city, or interested in a rental house in the area, here are some of the most enchanting romantic things to do in Charleston for those who are looking to call it home.
1. Sail on the Charleston Harbor
Whether you opt for a private charter or a group sail, watching the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying the gentle sea breeze creates a perfect dreamy atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the romance of the city and even take advantage of quieter weekday cruises for additional seclusion.
A romantic cruise on a private charter
“There’s no better way to enjoy the beauty of Charleston than a romantic custom private charter aboard a Hinckley Picnic Boat. Imagine sitting back and relaxing when the captain brings you past the Battery, historic Sullivan’s Island, and under the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge,” explains Charleston Classic Yachts, offering unforgettable experiences on the water aboard their charters..
Owner Captain Dustin Ryan with an award-winning fleet of yachts at Charleston Sailing Charters adds, “A beautiful state-of-the-art sailing yacht with a professional uniformed crew will make you feel like you’re on an episode of below decks.” He continued, “Private charters can be both affordable and romantic including a fully catered dinner and drinks while on a two hour sunset sail circling around the Charleston Harbor.”
Unlock new memories with a boat tour
Charleston’s boat charters provide a range of unique experiences, allowing you to explore the city’s waterways in a way that suits your style. Whether you prefer a relaxing cruise or an adventurous outing, each tour offers a new perspective and lasting memories on the water.
With unforgettable sunsets and playful dolphins greeting you along the way you can tailor your experience for the perfect engagement, wedding, or private cruise. Escape to a romantic experience aboard, where Osprey Boat Charters believes that perfect getaways lead to lasting memories.
2. Find romance through the neighborhoods
Charleston’s charm isn’t just found in its waterfront views and fine dining—it’s woven into the very streets and neighborhoods that make up the city. Wandering through these historic districts offers a chance to step back in time, discover hidden gems and create unforgettable moments in the heart of the Holy City.
Historic District
There’s nothing quite as romantic as a leisurely walk through Charleston’s Historic District. Be sure to explore the beautifully preserved antebellum homes, hidden gardens, and picturesque alleyways.
“One of the most romantic things to do in Charleston is simply taking an evening stroll through the Historic District. Wandering hand in hand down the cobblestone streets, beneath the glow of gas lanterns, and past charming pastel homes on Rainbow Row feels like stepping into a storybook. A walk along the Battery at sunset, with views of the harbor and the salty breeze in the air, is the perfect way to slow down and soak in the city’s timeless charm,” shares local real estate photographer, Listings In Motion.
“Charleston is such a romantic city, states the writer behind travel blog Like The Yogurt. “My husband and I are spontaneous but finding a last minute restaurant can be hard to get into. Alternatively, we love date nights where we bike or moped around the peninsula sight-seeing past the picturesque streets of Church, Chalmers and Tradd while listening to old jazz music.”
Hampton Park
The peaceful retreat of Hampton Park showcases scenic walking paths, blooming gardens, and historic charm providing the perfect backdrop for a quiet, romantic thing to do. “I absolutely love the romance of Hampton Park, it reminds me of a Pierre-Auguste Renoir painting. There are 100-year-old camelias, sweeping oak trees, a beautiful water feature, a sweetheart bridge, gazebos and tons of tucked away areas for picnic blankets,” adds Junction Kitchen & Provisions, a brunch and lunch restaurant in the Park Circle neighborhood.
Cannonborough-Elliottborough
The Tiny Tassel, a women’s boutique featuring clothing and tassel jewelry suggests, “If you’re looking for a romantic thing to do in Charleston specifically in the morning, visit the Cannonborough-Elliottborough neighborhood and while on your morning stroll holding hands stop to grab a matcha latte from Bad Bunnies Coffee.”
3. Capture the moment
For a truly magical romantic thing to do, book a photoshoot capturing your experience in the charming streets of Charleston. Even if you’ve lived here for years, this romantic thing to do allows you to explore the Holy City’s most beautiful places while trying to secure the perfect shot.
“Charleston is a vibrant creative city for the perfect romantic getaway,” says Brie Scailes Photography, which specializes in documentary style wedding photos. “I would definitely add a funky photoshoot in a vacation home, hotel room, or bar to commemorate your trip with effortlessly cool images.”
4. Experience the love of art together
Exploring art together is a meaningful way to connect and share inspiration. Whether strolling through a gallery or admiring local street art, immersing yourselves in creativity sparks conversation and deepens your appreciation for love and romance in all its forms.
Artisan crafts
“Whether you are reminding someone how special they are or lighting a new spark, gallery artists feed on emotion and make exquisitely crafted works of art that can be cherished for years to come,” explains Charleston Crafts Cooperative Gallery, the city’s only exclusively local craft gallery located in the French Quarter neighborhood.
Sporting and wildlife art
With a romantic evening planned, add in a stop to King Street before your dinner reservation and explore one of the many fine art galleries such as The Sportsman’s Gallery displaying sporting and wildlife fine art from both local and nationwide artists.
Historic art
The long history of Charleston art starts with a tragic love story about Henrietta Johnstone, a pastel portraitist. Henrietta followed her husband to Charleston after being sent to minister at a church but he soon after passed away. With her being the surviving spouse, she was forced to use her art to provide for her children. Corrigan Gallery continues the stories of local artists and those of the Charleston Renaissance and their late night Friday art walks have become a date night for many as well as a great opportunity to find a date.
5. Dress to impress with community impact
When it comes to romantic things to do in Charleston, dressing the part is key to making the day feel special. Whether you’re exploring the city’s scenic spots or enjoying a cozy dinner, the right outfit can elevate your mood and make the moment even more memorable. From casual elegance to formal flair, dressing thoughtfully can reflect the charm of both the occasion and the city itself.
Whether you’re picking out a new dress for a night out or finding the perfect gift for someone special, make it meaningful by giving back to women in need when you start your shopping trip at My Sister’s Cottage.
For classic clothing options with influences from the 70’s and 80’s New York City fashion, Madison Mathews, might be your vibe. They create small batch artisan clothing and support female businesses while striving to cultivate an environment that values kindness, creativity, and having fun.
6. Dinner at a romantic restaurant
Charleston is home to some of the most renowned restaurants in the South, offering an array of intimate dining experiences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night out, spots like Husk and Circa 1886 offer a cozy and romantic ambiance. As a local, you can explore the city’s ever-evolving food scene and discover hidden gems that tourists might overlook.
Intimate dining
A romantic dinner is a timeless way to connect whether you prefer an intimate candlelit spot or something with stunning views. Enjoy a night filled with great food and even better company.
“Start with an intimate dinner at Southbound, the warm glow of candlelight and the rich aroma of open-flame cooking set the scene as you savor locally inspired dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients,” suggests Azaleas on Spring, a vacation rental just a short stroll away.
“If you are looking for a romantic date night or special girls’ night in Charleston, looking to avoid crowds, step back in time by making dinner reservations at the charming Post House Inn in Mount Pleasant’s Old Village neighborhood,” says Travel Filled. Get to the neighborhood early to stroll the charming oak lined streets and watch the sunset over the Charleston skyline from Pitt Street Bridge Park.”
Succeeding Naturally, a lifestyle blog suggests, “You should have dinner downtown at Halls Chophouse, showering you with southern charm. You and your loved one can take a quiet, private horse-drawn carriage ride to see beautiful views of the city, like the Charleston Harbor and the vibrant colors and architecture of historic homes on Rainbow Row.”
If your plans include getting outside of Charleston visit Freshfields Village on Kiawah Island. This small shopping village has something for everyone, including the very romantic FortyEight – Wine Bar & Kitchen with 48 wines by the glass everyday to enjoy in addition to a spectacular menu.”
Chez Nous
Hidden in a charming alley, Chez Nous offers an intimate dining experience with a daily-changing menu of French and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Perfect for a romantic night out, it’s a true Charleston gem.
“End the evening with an intimate meal at Chez Nous and then explore Waterfront Park, taking a minute to swing on the bench swings as the sun melts into the harbor after strolling hand in hand through the charming streets of Charleston, exploring local art galleries, where vibrant paintings set a dreamy tone,” says Robert Lange Studios, a local art gallery.
Taylor Grant Pilates, a pilates studio in Hampton Park adds, “My ideal date night in Charleston is to start my dinner at Chez Nous. It is the sweetest, most romantic restaurant in Charleston for two followed by a walk down to the battery. This would be the perfect Charleston night.”
Private dining, Gullah Geechee style
After running one of the most premiere Gullah Geechee restaurants in Charleston for over 20 years, the Lowcountry natives, Chef Charlotte Jenkins and her daughter Kesha created Gullah Cuisine. Visitors and locals alike now enjoy intimate private dining experiences at either the residence of the guests or chef. This romantic thing to do is true southern, lowcountry, and Gullah Geechee cuisine including dishes like the classic shrimp and grits, to Gullah Cuisine’s infamous Gullah Rice, and more, all made with fresh, local ingredients sourced in the Lowcountry.
Casual dining
Romance means something different to everyone. Luckily, Charleston has a little bit of everything especially if you’re after quality time with a loved one, but formal attire and white tablecloths aren’t your thing. Bumpa’s has a cozy atmosphere where you can lose track of time chatting, enjoying comfort food, and discovering new local brews.
In the small town of Adams Run situated in Charleston County, Friday nights at Station 17 Local Grill are all about love with the ultimate date night including wine, friends, family, and music.
Dinner without dessert?
Yoga teacher training academy, Anahata Yoga Academy says, “Head over to Annie O Love’s Cafe right next door for a slice of cheesecake and some cookies for an evening delight.”
7. Learn to cook like a chef instead
Learn to cook like the head chef by skipping the usual dinner date and step into the kitchen together with a hands-on culinary class in Charleston. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a complete beginner, learning to craft a delicious meal side by side adds fun, flavor, and romance to your evening. Plus, you’ll take home new skills recreating future date nights.
Downtown Charleston, Mercantile & Mash offers more than just being a great local breakfast and lunch spot but hosts monthly classes to take your culinary skills to the next level including revolving class specials such as wine and chocolate tasting or charcuterie during the month of love, February.
Nestled on James Island and five minutes from downtown Charleston, Carolina Cookery provides a unique and intimate experience. Whether you’re booking a private romantic dinner or participating in a hands-on cooking class, guests can savor delicious dishes while enjoying the cozy, charming atmosphere. It’s the perfect destination for food-lovers seeking a memorable, interactive experience together.
8. Finish with a nightcap
End your romantic evening in Charleston with the perfect nightcap, a cozy and intimate way to wind down together. Whether it’s sipping a craft cocktail at a stylish lounge, enjoying a glass of wine on a rooftop, or making a nightcap at home, this final touch adds warmth and charm to your night.
Dine and wine
In the heart of downtown Charleston, Bin 152 Wine Bar offers one of the largest by the glass selections in the country. When the sun sets, the bar is dimly lit by candlelights and stays open late seven days a week—perfect for a romantic evening enjoying wine, cheese, and charcuterie.
Also downtown is Wine & Company, a charming wine bar that offers a cozy ambiance and an exceptional wine selection. Let our evening unfold with a few glasses of wine while indulging in a charcuterie board or caviar.
Argentinian wines
Each moment is a celebration of romance and exceptional taste that can transport your night to the heart of Mendoza, Argentina, where the private vineyard of Angel Oak Wines is located. Experience the perfect pairing of local cuisine and exquisite wines like a glass of bold Malbec or refreshing Rosé that can be found at one of the city’s renowned restaurants, such as Marbled and Fin or Husk, while enjoying the intimate ambiance and impeccable flavors that make Charleston a destination for both love and fine dining.
For an oenophile who enjoys culture
“If you’re an oenophile looking for culture and a more relaxed romantic thing to do in Charleston, we recommend heading to Uptown Charleston,” Angela McCrae, founder of Uncorked & Cultured suggests. She continues, “Founded by two of the city’s top award-winning sommeliers, Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar has become a sought out romantic destination. Its dynamic combination of musical playlists with a cultural fusion of fine wine from around the world and bite-sized snacks–most notably their secret dusted house-made potato chips is a place of approachable staff and long-time friends sharing good wine, community, and the best music.”
Wind back up with a tour the city and libations
Plan a romantic evening that takes you through amazing historical locations and imbibe on decadent mixed drinks. Founded in Charleston, Cocktail City Tours creates custom and bespoke experiences with certified Charlestonian guides and historians including their historical prohibition tour, thrilling true crime tour, and much more.
9. Pairing fitness with romance
Reset from yesterday or change the dinner plans by working out with loved ones as it can be one of the most invigorating and romantic things to do in Charleston. Spice up your routine with fitness activities that offer a fun way to bond while staying active. No matter the activity, Charleston provides the perfect backdrop to share workouts and moments of connection. It’s a great way to get your adrenaline going and create lasting memories while keeping your heart in shape.
Bungee Fitness
If you and your loved ones are into an activity that peaks your adrenaline and lets you soar to new heights, Fly High Bungee fitness studio offers a thrilling date night experience. Combining fitness and adventure by sharing a fun night of bouncing, laughing, and flying through the air in a fun and energetic class is the perfect way to bond and make lasting memories.
Pilates
“If you’re looking for a great date idea aside from the typical dinner and drinks, I suggest booking a semi-private wellness service,” shares Momentum Movement Studios, a boutique fitness studio. “This type of service could include a Pilates session, a massage, or a sound bath providing the opportunity to spend quality time with someone you care for in a blissful self-caring way. Offering all three services plus more is, The Well Studios, located on the corner of Hampton Park in a charming, historic home in between the views of the park and surrounding coffee shops and restaurants.”
Yoga
Relax and reconnect through a peaceful yoga session as one of Charleston’s romantic things to do in offering a calming and intimate way to unwind together.
Take a refreshing step back from reality
Jolene Newman, owner of Modern Movement Yoga, a hot yoga studio adds, “Fitness is the perfect way to align your mind, breath, and movement with someone you love, all while embracing wellness together. This type of peaceful date offers a refreshing escape leaving you both feeling centered, energized, and closer than ever. There’s nothing sweeter than holding hands during Savasana with a lavender towel over your eyes.”
In a fast-paced world, continue to choose to slow down with your partner as one of the most romantic things you can do. Erica Lindquist, owner of Lowcountry Yoga, a boutique yoga studio in Mount Pleasant, SC says, “Feeling like you’re at home the moment you step inside of the yoga studio allows you to erase the outside world so that you can focus on one another. Explore the variety of yoga classes such as vinyasa flows, deep stretches, meditation, strength and restful yin for a guided journey into the heart.”
Owner Tymi Howard Bender shares, “For a romantic and soul-nourishing experience in Charleston, James Island Yoga is a must-visit. Nestled in the heart of James Island, this welcoming boutique studio makes you feel like family from the moment you walk in. With a mix of infrared heated and non-heated classes, workshops, and training, it offers something for everyone. Some of the area’s top instructors blend music with a modern approach to yoga while staying true to its roots, creating a space that’s both uplifting and deeply connected.”
A euphoric refresh
Reclaim your full power and feminine essence through the art of harmonious movement with a unique and intimate experience. Located in Seat Pleasant, SC, Slow & Wild Studios, a euphoric yoga and dance studio says, “With movement, deep embodiment, and playful exploration, yoga and dance combo classes unlock your fire whether you’re looking to spark new passion or rekindle long-lost desire, these experiences can infuse your relationship with fresh, magnetic energy.”
Romantic things to do in Charleston: Create lasting memories
Living in Charleston means you have access to its romance year-round. Whether it’s a sunset cruise, a quiet picnic, or an adventurous activity, these romantic things to do in Charleston will help you create lasting memories with your loved one, whether you’ve just moved in or have called the city home for years.
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