Rainbow Row Pastels houses with palm trees in front

#EscapeMore: Charleston, SC Travel Guide

A city where "historic meets hip”, Charleston, South Carolina is a gem of a place. Our founder, Melissa, likes to escape there to her country place in nearby Wadmalaw Island, SC. These trips and much-needed weekend getaways, and inspiration for the latest Fall CollectionLearn more about how we designed this season’s new arrivals. With products named after places such as Marion Square and Kiawah Island, this collection includes pastel prints reminiscent of the infamous Rainbow Row and darker colors to evoke the fall feeling in Charleston. 


Downtown Charleston 

Full of character and all things historic, downtown Charleston is a great place to sip, shop and see this charming city. 


Where to Stay

Courtesy of Inspirato

 

Less than a 5 minute walk from King Street, Hotel Emeline is a city landmark known for its historic value and prime location. If you're more of the homebody type and enjoy fun creature comforts, each suite has its own record player with access to a vinyl collection. Pour a glass of wine and groove! Or better yet, hit Frannie & The Fox downstairs in the lobby for a delicious craft cocktail and cozy vibe.


What to Do

As you find yourself on a tour of the city, you’ll notice there’s many unique shops and good eats to stumble upon, especially when you make your way to King Street. Gems such as Sewing Down South and Old Whaling Co. are perfect for home decor finds and fresh scented candles respectively. 

 

Courtesy of Grit & Grace 

Another must-see is Grit & Grace; a women-owned, sustainable company putting a unique twist on jewelry and beyond. They craft all of their oyster dishes right in Charleston at their studio and smaller original shop 478 King St. You can visit their larger flagship boutique at 125 King St for more treasures. After these visits, you'll confidently check "Christmas Shopping" off your to-do list! 

Where to Eat

Courtesy of Eater Carolinas

A restaurant and cocktail lounge with Oysters galore, Bar 167 is the perfect little escape! A bright white building with an Amalfi Coast flare, you'll spot this Mediterranean getaway from a mile away. Filled with European wines and colorful cocktails for a tasty dine-in experience. 

 

Courtesy of Jeni's Spendid Ice Cream

 

This nationally known brand can be found near the heart of King Street, with the occasional appearance of local musicians greeting you as you enter the shop. Jeni's Ice Cream is filled with a variety of fun flavors and pints to go! We recommend the fan favorite, Brambleberry Crisp. Our crew took a pit stop for ice cream after a morning photoshoot before driving home to Jacksonville Beach, FL. The perfect sweet treat to end a successful shoot!

Wadmalaw Island 

Courtesy of Cassina Real Estate Group

 

To #escape the city life for a much slower pace, Wadmalaw Island offers a rural feel and is just under 40 minutes outside of Charleston. Pack your day bag and hit the road! You’ll enjoy glorious old oaks along the way. If you love the movie The Notebook (or more recently Netflix’s Outer Banks), you’ll fall in love with peaceful Wadmalaw Island where time slows down in the best way possible. 

Pro tip: Stop at the Angel Oak en route for the nature’s most spectacular attraction!

What to Do

 

Hosting nine flavors of tea, the Charleston Tea Garden is a stop you won’t want to miss. Take a trolley ride through the tea gardens where you’ll make a pit stop at their State of The Art greenhouse. This Cap Sleeve Maxi Dress pictured in our new Resort print is arriving early November! This UPF 50+ fabric is lightweight and wrinkle-resistant making it perfect for traveling!

 

 

Amidst all of the farmland sits a stunning vineyard. Deep Water Vineyard is not only home to delicious wines, but also a friendly cow, Ida Claire. Sip your wine and be sure to grab a selfie, she’ll be happy you did! Stop by on a Saturday to enjoy live music and a rotating food truck, while relaxing on adirondack chairs under canopies of old oaks. Our Kiawah Island Cap Sleeve Maxi Dress pictured here is great for an easy throw on & go while on vacation. It's so easy to dress up with wedges & down with sandals! 

Where to Eat

 

There aren’t really restaurants or shops on Wadmalaw Island, though there is no shortage of charm. Hum Grocery offers a variety of sandwiches, classic chili dogs and BBQ! is the only answer (and a great one at that), offering a variety of sandwiches, classic chili dogs and BBQ! You’ll also find items from local farmers and vendors, including beautiful art pieces from the co-owner of HUM, Natalie Taylor Humphrey. Take it to go and picnic under the oaks at the water’s edge at nearby Cherry Point Marina. P.S. This Tiered Ruffle Dress is launching in November!  

Seasonal Activities

While it may traditionally be out of season to visit Charleston in the fall you can beat the crowds & enjoy exploring in cooler weather. Here are some fun, family friendly activities for your stay! 

Courtesy of Viator

 

For when you're feeling spooky, a ghost tour is an ideal activity to get in the Halloween spirit. With many to choose from, each provides a unique experience full of haunted history.  

 

Courtesy of Explore Charleston

 

If a horse drawn carriage ride during the holidays is more your speed, then Christmas time may be the way to go. Charleston hosts the Holiday Festival of Lights where you can drive through and admire the beautiful fixtures and indulge in the holiday spirit. Snap a picture with Santa and attend ornament making workshops - great for all ages!  

Whether you're looking to book a girls trip, an upcoming anniversary getaway, or fun for the whole family, then this city is a must! Rain or shine, high or low temps, you'll want to make sure to wear your sunscreen and pack your Cabana Life UPF 50+ sun safe styles! 'Tis the season of all things Fall! 

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