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Mount Pleasant Offers Lodging with a South Carolina Coastal Flavor

Bob Gillespie Bob Gillespie
Bob is a former sports writer at Columbia’s The State newspaper. He enjoys golf at South Carolina’s 350-plus courses, and after a round, sampling craft beers from the Palmetto State’s breweries.
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When travelers hit the road to a vacation destination, there tend to be two schools of thought: either stay in one of the brand-name accommodations where you know exactly what to expect, or check into a place with more of a local flavor. In Mount Pleasant, there’s no shortage of both.

First, the luxury and near-luxury chains. Whichever hotel group is your favorite, chances are you’ll find a location here. Marriott offers three choices: Residence Inn, Courtyard by Marriott and Springhill Suites, each with its particular amenities.

Those who prefer separate bedroom and relaxing areas may opt for Springhill Suites or Homewood Suites. Also offering room or suite options are Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Hampton Inn & Suites on nearby Isle of Palms and Hampton Inn & Suites located adjacent to Patriots Point’s naval museum. Yet another national hotel is Wyndham Garden Inn.

Now for a look at something different — make that several somethings different.

If you want a condominium-style place with gorgeous views of Charleston Harbor, including outdoor seating practically on the beach, The Cottages on Charleston Harbor is ideal. Its accommodations include 10 two-bedroom, three-bath cottages with kitchen, living room and screened-in porch. Nine of the cottages offer views of Fort Sumter, downtown Charleston and more. Besides having easy access to Mount Pleasant and Charleston, you'll also enjoy daily housekeeping, a continental breakfast, afternoon snacks in the clubhouse and free parking.

The waterfront Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina offers a similar experience but with a more a traditional hotel feel. The views of the harbor and the downtown Charleston’s skyline are just as beautiful — and the sunsets over the harbor aren’t too shabby either.

Closer to the center of things in Mount Pleasant is Shem Creek Inn, billed as a dockside hideaway with a laid-back vibe. Guests can paddleboard on Shem Creek, enjoy great seafood at nearby restaurants and watch dolphins frolicking in the creek’s waters. Along with 51 rooms and suites, all with private balconies, you also have the "ultimate escape” option: staying aboard the Inn’s 55-foot private yacht moored in the creek. It’s available for day trips, too.

Less creek but more boutique is The Inn at I’on , a member of the Ascend Hotel Collection. It provides you with easy access to Mount Pleasant and/or downtown Charleston, and local restaurants are within easy walking distance.

Equally enticing are the many Vrbo lodging choices and the more traditional B&Bs.

Bob Gillespie
Bob is a former sports writer at Columbia’s The State newspaper. He enjoys golf at South Carolina’s 350-plus courses, and after a round, sampling craft beers from the Palmetto State’s breweries.