Landing at CHS? Everything you need — from the terminal to the cobblestones. Hotels, dining, tours, car rentals, and local tips for Charleston, Kiawah, Isle of Palms, and the Lowcountry.
From historic district carriage houses to barrier island beach resorts — find the perfect stay in the Lowcountry.
History, food, water, and ghosts — Charleston has it all. Book the best-rated experiences in the Lowcountry.
Downtown is walkable, but you'll want wheels for the beaches and plantations. Rental desks are inside the terminal past baggage claim.
Plan your drive time from Charleston International to popular Lowcountry destinations.
Charleston is one of the fastest-growing metros in the Southeast. With Boeing, Volvo, and a booming tech scene driving job growth, the Lowcountry real estate market offers strong appreciation and rental income potential. Whether you\'re looking for a downtown investment property, a beach rental on Isle of Palms, or a primary residence, our network of local professionals can help.
Charleston International Airport (CHS) is the primary airport serving Charleston, the Lowcountry, and the South Carolina coast. It\'s located about 12 miles northwest of historic downtown Charleston, accessible via I-26.
CHS is approximately 12 miles from the Historic District, about a 20 minute drive. An Uber or Lyft typically costs $15–$25. CARTA bus Route 11 also connects the airport to downtown, though the ride takes about 50 minutes.
CHS is served by Alaska, American, Breeze Airways (focus city), Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country, and United. Breeze offers unique nonstop routes to smaller cities. Over 90 daily flights operate from CHS with nonstop routes that have tripled in recent years.
It depends. The Historic District is very walkable, and ride-sharing is readily available. However, if you plan to visit the beaches (Isle of Palms, Folly, Sullivan\'s Island), plantations, or Kiawah/Seabrook, a rental car is strongly recommended. Rental desks are inside the CHS terminal past baggage claim.
March through May and September through November offer the best weather — warm but not oppressively hot, with lower humidity. Spring brings the Spoleto Festival, blooming gardens, and azaleas. Summer (June–August) is hot and humid but has the most beach activity. Fall is ideal for food festivals and fewer crowds.
Yes. A $348 million parking garage expansion is underway, with the first half expected to open in summer 2026 and full completion by mid-2027. The airport set a record 6.34 million passengers in 2025 and has an approved 20-year master plan that includes an additional concourse and up to 11 new gates.