Charleston with Kids: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Travel Guide
The Best Family Friendly Travel Guide to Charleston
Charleston has always been one of my favorite cities in the world—but seeing it through my toddler’s eyes makes me fall in love with it all over again, every day. We live here now but even before we did, we would visit, and fall in love with how young-family-friendly this city is! From stroller-friendly cobblestone strolls to buttery biscuits and breezy beach days, Charleston is the kind of place that makes traveling with kids feel easy! It’s charming, fam-friendly, and surprisingly easy to explore with littles in tow.
So if you’re planning a family trip to Charleston, here’s your go-to guide for where to stay, what to eat, what to pack, and how to make the most of a trip to Charleston with kids.
Where to Stay with Kids in Charleston
Staying at the beach in Isle of Palms is my favorite home base with little ones. You get the best of both worlds: easy beach access, spacious accommodations, and resort-style amenities plus you’re just 25–30 minutes from downtown Charleston.
I recommend the Sweetgrass Inn at Wild Dunes Resort. It’s beachfront, stroller-friendly, and has everything you need onsite—pools, playgrounds, bike rentals, and restaurants. Whether you’re traveling with babies or toddlers, having space to roam and easy beach access makes all the difference. There’s nothing better than spending the morning downtown and the afternoon back at the beach with sand toys and virgin pina coladas!
Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Charleston
South Carolina Aquarium
Located right on the Charleston Harbor, this aquarium is the perfect indoor escape for a hot or rainy day! It’s beautifully designed and super manageable in size for younger kids. The sea turtle hospital is a highlight, and there are plenty of interactive touch tanks, fish tunnels, and viewing windows that keep little ones engaged.
Charleston Waterfront Park
A must on any trip to Charleston! Stroll along the palm-lined promenade, take in views of the Ravenel Bridge, and let the kids splash in the Pineapple Fountain! Jetset Tip: Head to Sorelle Mercato for a coffee before walking over! My favorite spot – but don’t go too late in the morning, it gets crowded!
Sullivan’s Island Beach Day
Even if you’re staying at Wild Dunes, a morning or afternoon exploring Sullivan’s Island is always fun. The beach here is wide, clean, and has gentle waves—ideal for toddlers. Parking is free, and there are great local eateries nearby like Poe’s Tavern and The Co-Op for casual meals and frozen treats.
Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
One of our favorite spots in Charleston with little ones! This hands-on kids museum is designed for children 0–10 and has themed play zones like a mini kid grocery store (SO CUTE), water play area, garden room, art studio, and castle building room. There’s even a dedicated closed off baby + toddler section for crawlers and early walkers. It’s air-conditioned, somewhat stroller-friendly, and gives kids the freedom to explore in a safe, creative space!!!
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
A peaceful, scenic outing with plenty of space for kids to explore. Walk the gardens, say hi to the animals at the petting zoo, and take a nature tram ride through the grounds. It’s stroller-friendly and offers a fun blend of outdoor adventure and history. Perfect for a slower-paced morning or afternoon.
Where to Eat with Kids in Charleston
Charleston’s food scene is incredible—and the good news is, lots of spots are family-friendly!! Here are all of the best places to eat with kids in Charleston.
Leon’s Oyster Shop – Casual, delicious fried chicken and oysters. Sit on the patio and you’ll feel right at home with your stroller and a baby in tow.
Islander 71 on Isle of Palms has yard games, kid-friendly trivia nights, live entertainment and a full kids menu featuring mac & cheese, grilled cheese, chicken tenders, fries, etc!
Basic Kitchen – Healthy comfort food with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Great for picky eaters and parents alike.
HomeTeam BBQ – Laid-back, loud enough to let toddlers be toddlers, and the BBQ is our favorite!!!!
Coastal Crust (Wild Dunes) – Wood-fired pizza that hits the spot after a beach day.
Rancho Lewis – This tex-mex spot is one of the most family-friendly restaurants in Charleston, and is located right next to Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co – where they share a big patio and lawn outside that kids and toddlers love to run around on!
Family Travel Tips for Charleston
- Rent a car. Charleston is spread out, and if you’re staying at the beach, you’ll want the flexibility to drive downtown, visit other islands, and carry around all your kids’ stuff with ease.
- Make dinner reservations ahead of time! Charleston is a FOODIE CITY!!! The food is SO good but the best restaurants book up fast, and you’ll want early tables that fit your little one’s bedtime routine. Use Resy to snag reservations ahead of your trip.
- Pack a lightweight stroller for exploring downtown and restaurants. This is the one we use!
- Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray—Charleston is beautiful but buggy, especially near the water! I like this natural bug spray – and these bug stickers that we put on my little ones.
- Dine early. You’ll beat the crowds and the wait times, and it works better for young kids anyway.
Charleston Outfits for Kids
the oyster polo! so perfect for Charleston
and how cute is this sunsuit for a little Charleston girlie?!
FAQs: Charleston with Kids
Is Charleston good for toddlers?
Yes! With its walkable streets, interactive attractions, beaches, and low-key pace, Charleston is incredibly toddler-friendly.
Is Charleston good for a trip with a baby?
Yes! Charleston is extremely baby-friendly and a great family vacation destination – whether for a weekend getaway or longer!
Where should I stay near the beach in Charleston with kids?
Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms is an ideal home base—beach access, family amenities, and a short drive to downtown.
Another great option is the Sanctuary at Kiawah – especially if you or your partner likes to golf! This beach is expansive and beautiful – it’s more quiet and ‘adult’ than Wild Dunes – so I would say Kiawah is great if you have a baby, but as they get older, Wild Dunes is a better option. Wild Dunes is also a bit closer to Charleston downtown.
If you’re choosing to stay downtown, Hotel Bennett has the largest rooms, and a rooftop pool! Another I’d recommend is the Pinch – it’s a boutique hotel that’s great with a baby!
What’s the best time of year to visit Charleston with family?
Spring and fall are the sweet spots—warm weather, fewer crowds, and lots of outdoor events. Summer is great for beach time, just pack for heat and humidity.
How do I book a babysitter when traveling to Charleston with young children?
DM me @jetsetchristina and I would be happy to help connect you to a sitter!
Charleston is one of those places that makes family travel feel effortless. From sunrise beach walks to toddler-approved fun days and unforgettable family meals, this city blends coastal charm with relaxation in a way that works fabulously for families. Whether you’re soaking up the sun (and the splash pad) at Wild Dunes or walking under the Spanish moss downtown, Charleston with kids is always a good idea!
Pin this guide for later and comment below with your favorite Charleston spot or where you’re headed next!
Related Posts:
[Jetset Baby Travel Favorites]
[What to Pack When Traveling with a Toddler on a Beach Vacation]
