Discover CharlestonWhat Is Your Charleston Lifestyle?

Living in Charleston isn’t so much about a location as it is about a lifestyle. Just like life in any other historic, American city on the east coast, we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of day-to-day activities, work, school, errands etc. and forget just how special this place really is. But, just like other cities, Charleston provides a wealth of activities and amenities that offer something for every varied lifestyle.

Because our real estate clients come from all over the United States and abroad we often start their home search with a simple question:

“What kind of Charlestonian are you?”

Starting with this simple question allows us to explore their interests, and in turn to decide what area of Charleston may be the perfect fit. Here is a glimpse into some of the lifestyle amenities in areas around Charleston.

URBAN: For those who desire downtown living, Charleston provides the ultimate pedestrian lifestyle. With 7.6 square miles of “walkable” streets in the central, downtown district, many of which are along Charleston’s breathtaking harbor, you can easily walk anywhere. This compact, historic area is highly sought after by those who want to have easy access to the waterfront, world-class shopping on King Street, and 5-star dining at restaurants and café’s tucked among the cobblestoned streets. Whether in a stylishpied-à-terre or a modern downtown loft this is a sophisticated Charleston lifestyle.

HISTORIC: For those with a desire to immerse themselves in a Charleston lifestyle that celebrates the rich traditions of Charleston architecture there is a varied array of choices. Steeped in the southern charm of “seersucker and bowties”, this is a lifestyle slower by choice. From elegant, centuries-old mansions in historic downtown areas like South of Broad or the French Quarter, to ancient plantation homes, with sweeping grounds and drives lined with live oaks, Charleston and it’s surrounding waterways provide a lifestyle rich in American history.

BEACH: Charleston Harbor sits as the gateway between the Ashley and Cooper Rivers and the mighty, Atlantic Ocean. Sprinkled on either side are the barrier islands of Kiawah, Seabrook, Sullivan’s and Isle of Palms with miles of sand and surf and expansive beachfront homes. Even Folly Beach, with its main street motto “The Edge of America” offers a laidback way of life and a place to share a “cooler of cold ones” and a friendly game of bocce ball. For those who desire a beach lifestyle, there is plenty to choose from and each island has its own distinctive vibe.

SEA ISLAND: Drive over the James Island Bridge and the Charleston landscape gives way to expanses of marsh and tidal creeks and a quiet lifestyle ready-made for the nature lover. Marsh grass and plough mud are the backdrop to life on James Island, Johns Island, Wadmalaw and Edisto. Egrets, storks, and herons wade in tidal waters amid a maze of creeks that wind their way to the coast. Fishing, crabbing, and kayaking mark the laid back lifestyle provided on these beautiful Sea Islands.

GOLF: Golf? Oh yes, Charleston is simply known as a golfer’s paradise. Its semi-tropical climate, with typically mild winters, warm summers and average high temperatures of 57°F to 89°F means golfers can be on the course every day of the year. The Charleston area is home to nearly 20 courses within a 30-mile radius, including the famed Ocean’s Course at Kiawah Island, which has hosted the Ryder Cup, the World Cup of Golf and the PGA Championship. From a villa overlooking the course to a home with access to many nearby courses, this is the place golfer’s dream of. This lifestyle is rich with resort amenities that round out the days of world-class golf, with tennis, dining and social events.

VILLAGE & COTTAGE: There is a certain nostalgic feel that comes along with life in a lowcountry cottage. These are days spent on deep front porches with a tall glass of sweet tea and a chat with the neighbors. This is Old Mt. Pleasant, with its iconic Pitt Street Pharmacy. Here, and in nearby I’On, the lifestyle has an old-fashioned feel with white picket fences covered in Carolina jasmine, nights filled with fireflies and 4^th of July parades. You can load up the car with your chairs and umbrellas and head to the beach, but leave the sand behind at the end of the day and meet the neighbors back at the house for a bar-b-que.

NOTE: From popular landmarks, to local areas and home prices, our “Discover Charleston Guide ” is the best place to start exploring Charleston for yourself.