Top Romantic Valentine's Day Date Ideas in Charleston, SC
Charleston, South Carolina, is undeniably one of the most romantic cities in the United States. With its cobblestone streets, charming historic homes, and picturesque waterfront views, the Holy City offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable Valentine's Day. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of creative and intimate ways to celebrate love in this enchanting city. Here are some top ideas for a romantic Valentine's Day date in Charleston that will make your heart skip a beat.
1. Sunset Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride through Historic Charleston
Nothing says romance like a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic streets of Charleston. This guided tour offers a unique way to experience the city’s charm, as you wind your way through beautiful gardens, antebellum homes, and iconic landmarks. Snuggle up under a blanket while your guide shares tales of Charleston’s rich history, or simply take in the beauty of the tree-lined streets and the elegance of the old architecture.
2. Private Dining Experience at The Raw Lab
For couples who love to cook (or just love to eat), booking a private dining experience together is a fun and intimate way to spend the evening. Enter the Raw Lab, a culinary adventure that is not your typical dining experience. “This is a fusion of an ancient service style (Omakase) that until recently was applied exclusively to Sushi…and a modern cuisine (American/European/Latin Raw Bar). Think of it as “Dinner & A Show” that runs about 3.5 hours and delivers a singular mix of food, wine, edu-tainment, music, atmosphere & theater.”
3. Wine Tasting at Deep Water Vineyard
Charleston's surrounding area is home to beautiful rural countryside, offering the perfect setting for a Valentine’s Day wine-tasting experience. Head to Deep Water Vineyard, located on Wadmalaw Island, for a private wine-tasting tour of their stunning vineyard and winery. Enjoy sampling a selection of local wines while taking in the serene surroundings of the Lowcountry landscape.
Tip: After the tasting, consider purchasing a bottle of your favorite wine and enjoy a sunset picnic on the vineyard grounds, or bring it back to your hotel or home to savor while watching the stars.
4. Sunset Cruise on the Charleston Harbor
There’s something magical about watching the sun dip below the horizon over the water, and the Charleston Harbor is the perfect spot to experience it. Book a private charter or join a group sail to enjoy the stunning views of the city’s skyline, the iconic Ravenel Bridge, and Fort Sumter. Some cruises even offer gourmet dinners, live music, and a glass of champagne to add to the celebration. One of our favorites is Zen Sailing, so be sure to check them out.
5. A Candlelit Dinner at Sorghum & Salt or Vern’s
Charleston is known for its exceptional culinary scene, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in a gourmet meal. For a tasting experience that’s unparalleled, book a reservation at Sorghum & Slt, a beloved Charleston institution serving inventive, seasonal dishes in a cozy, candle-lit setting. If you prefer Southern classics with a twist, Vern’s is the place to go, with its charming atmosphere and menu that highlights locally-sourced ingredients.
Both restaurants offer an intimate, romantic ambiance that will set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Tip: Book well in advance, as these popular spots often fill up quickly on Valentine’s Day!
6. Romantic Stroll through Waterfront Park
After dinner, take a romantic stroll through Waterfront Park to cap off the evening. With its iconic Pineapple Fountain and gorgeous views of the Charleston Harbor, this is a must visit for Love Day. Also, this might just be the best spot to enjoy a mini picnic by the water, so make sure to pack some goodies.
7. Stay at a Historic Boutique Hotel
For those looking to stay the night, consider booking a romantic stay at one of Charleston’s historic boutique hotels. From the elegant Hotel Bennet, offering 5 star luxurious rooms, to the charming Loutrel, which combines art, history, and modern amenities, these hotels are perfect for couples looking to staycation.
Charleston is full of romantic possibilities, and there’s no better place to celebrate love on Valentine’s Day. With its stunning beauty, rich history, and southern charm, Charleston is the perfect destination for an unforgettable romantic getaway.
Charleston is more than just a place to live; it's a lifestyle filled with charm, history, and endless inspiration. As someone who adores this city and has the privilege of helping others call it home, I’d love to connect with you! Whether you're exploring the idea of a real estate investment, need guidance on a design project, or simply want to learn more about all that Charleston has to offer, I’m here to help. Let’s chat and bring your vision to life in this incredible Lowcountry gem—reach out today!