Landing at CHS? Everything you need — from the terminal to the waterfront. Hotels, activities, car rentals, and local tips for Charleston, Kiawah Island, Folly Beach, and the Lowcountry.
From beachfront resorts to boutique stays — find the perfect accommodation for your Charleston & the Lowcountry trip.
Book the best-rated activities in Charleston & the Lowcountry.
A rental car is essential in Charleston & the Lowcountry. Compare rates from all major agencies.
Charleston has the widest spread between cheapest and most expensive parking of any airport in this network — $3.95/day at a nearby hotel lot against $21/day for valet. The economy lots are the sweet spot. CHS does take online reservations.
Plan your drive time from Charleston International Airport to popular destinations.
A lot of people first see Charleston & the Lowcountry on a trip through CHS. If that visit is turning into something more permanent, I can help — not as your local agent, but by connecting you with one I've vetted, and by handling the side of the move most people forget: selling where you are now.
Charleston International Airport (CHS) is the primary airport serving Charleston, SC. It's located about 12 miles northwest of historic downtown Charleston, roughly a 20-minute drive via I-26.
CHS is approximately 12 miles from the historic district and King Street, about 20 minutes by car. Rideshares are widely available, or you can rent a car at the terminal for exploring the beaches and islands.
CHS is served by American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Frontier, Allegiant, and Avelo. The airport has been expanding rapidly with 40+ nonstop routes to cities including New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Boston, and seasonal international flights.
The hourly garage at CHS is $1 per 20 minutes, capping at $15/day. Economy Lots A and B are $10/day with a shuttle to the terminal, and valet is $21/day. The cheapest option by a wide margin is the Embassy Suites lot at $3.95/day — but its shuttle only runs 5:30am to 10pm, so check that against your flight times. CHS does take online reservations, often below drive-up rates.
Depends on your itinerary. Downtown Charleston is very walkable and has pedicabs and a free DASH trolley. However, you'll need a car to reach the barrier islands (Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, Kiawah Island) and Lowcountry destinations. CHS has all major rental agencies on-site.
Spring (March–May) offers the best weather and is peak azalea and wedding season — beautiful but busy. Fall (September–November) is excellent with cooler temps and fewer crowds. Summer is hot and humid with occasional hurricanes but has the most beach activity. Winter is mild and crowd-free for a more affordable visit.