Waterfront holiday rentals in Charleston

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Top-rated waterfront rentals in Charleston

Guests agree: these waterfront rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top guest favourite
A serene tidal creek is shown, bordered by lush green grasses and occasional trees, under a soft sky with scattered clouds. A glimpse of the moon is visible against the blue hues, suggesting a peaceful evening atmosphere.
Cottage in Mount Pleasant
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 512 reviews

The Boathouse

We call it the Boathouse, but it could just as easily be called the treehouse. It sits just feet from a tidal creek amidst giant live oak trees. A short dock is right outside the door, so bring your kayaks or other small craft. Although cozy, it offers everything a simple cottage should. Shem Creek is minutes away, as are the beaches. Patriot's Point and parks are a short walk away. This is the closest residential neighborhood to Charleston that you will find in Mt Pleasant. ST250324 BL20139655

Top guest favourite
A cozy screened-in terrace offers expansive views of the surrounding marshland, framed by large open windows. A small glass table with seating for four is positioned alongside a comfortable couch, inviting relaxation while enjoying the natural beauty at sunset.
Apartment in Charleston
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 245 reviews

Little Oak Love | 5 Minutes to Folly | Marsh Views

Little Oak Love is a serene escape just a mile from Folly Beach, nestled in a gated community. This top-floor, two-bedroom, two-bath condo offers stunning views from almost every room, and ultimate privacy. Sip your morning coffee or catch sunset views from the screened lanai or balcony. Enjoy access to the community pool, pavilion, gas grill & fire pit. Plus, you're only a 20-minute drive from historic Downtown Charleston. This condo is perfect for the ultimate Lowcountry vacation experience!

Top guest favourite
The exterior of the guest house features a mix of textured siding and an intricately designed balcony supported by stylish columns. Surrounded by greenery, it includes a circular window and a swing on the porch, inviting relaxation in a tranquil setting.
Guest suite in West Ashley
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 430 reviews

The Garden Folly Guest House

Our architect said, “this is NOT a garage, it’s a Garden Folly!” Our Guest House has a bird’s eye view of the rose covered pecan tree and a vista of the marsh and the Wappoo Creek. When we rebuilt our 1930's garage we saved all the beaded siding and pine floor. My husband enjoyed incorporating many design elements and creative ideas. It was quickly becoming the Taj Garage. We decided it was just the kind of property we enjoy when we travel, so, Voila! we decided to share it with you!

Top guest favourite
A spacious bedroom features a black metal bed frame adorned with white bedding. Two stylish chairs are positioned beside large windows offering views of the surrounding landscape. A wooden dresser and a woven area rug add elements of comfort and warmth to the room.
Guest house in West Ashley
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 231 reviews

Large Guesthouse with Private Dock & Marsh Views

This newly built carriage house is separate from the main house. The cottage is about 1,200 sqft so it very open and spacious and great views of marsh and our tidal creek. We have a separate work area with desk and a massive dinning table if you need more room to work or to gather with friends. Full kitchen, washer and dryer, massive shower, the list goes on. You may not want to leave! Feel free to go sit and have coffee or cocktails on the dock. PERMIT# OP2025-06925

Top guest favourite
A private balcony features two comfortable wicker chairs facing a small table, overlooking lush salt marshland. The blue sky is dotted with fluffy clouds, creating a serene backdrop for outdoor relaxation. The wooden flooring complements the natural surroundings, enhancing the tranquil setting.
Guest suite in James Island
5 out of 5 average rating, 162 reviews

Marsh view retreat near Folly Beach and Downtown

**Please review additional notes below about potential construction noise** Welcome to Lighthouse Lookout, a private-entry guest suite, offering a truly unique Charleston experience. Conveniently located on James Island, between Folly Beach and Downtown Charleston. The private balcony provides stunning views of the salt marsh and historic Morris Island Lighthouse. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the changing tides, abundant wildlife, and scenic sunrises.

Top guest favourite
A newly-built guest cottage is depicted, elevated on pilings and surrounded by lush greenery. Light-colored siding is complemented by green shutters. Steps lead up to a welcoming porch with a railing, providing access to the spacious entry and large windows that invite natural light.
Guest house in Hobcaw Point
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 242 reviews

Stunning Couples Cottage with Creek Dock!

You will fall in love with this stunning, newly-built guest cottage nestled under the canopy of a majestic 400-year-old live oak tree! Providing ultimate comfort, convenience and serenity, this is the perfect place to launch your Charleston adventure – 10 minutes to Shem Creek, & 15 minutes to Sullivan's Island or Downtown Charleston. PLUS, come enjoy our brand new dock on the creek! A picture-perfect spot to relax and enjoy the stunning Lowcountry scenery!

Superhost
A serene waterway is flanked by lush greenery and reflected clouds, creating a peaceful natural landscape. The calm waters mirror the sky, with a boat visible in the distance, indicating opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
Home in Johns Island
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 112 reviews

The River Girl, Private Dock, Great Outdoor Spaces

The River Girl is located on Johns Island, a beautiful 20 min drive to downtown Charleston, 20 min to Kiawah, & 20 to Folly Beach. We hope this place provides a comfy spot to rest your head at the end of a fun day exploring. We also want you to take advantage of the slow island life! Go crabbing off the dock and cook your supper! Read a book on the back deck & enjoy the breeze. Light a candle, & take a soak in the tub! Just enjoy yourself. Fully updated!

Top guest favourite
Home in Park Circle
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 406 reviews

✰ MARSH VIEW - CHARMING 3BR/2.5BA - BIKES/KAYAKS ✰

Welcome to your chic 3 bd/2.5ba home just a short walk from all things Park Circle. Enjoy sunset bike rides, 7 minute walks to the best restaurants/breweries and views of the marsh from your back porch. This stylish home comes equip with a fully stocked kitchen, bikes, kayaks, beach chairs, games, baby gear, work from home space, washer/dryer, 400Mbps WiFi, garage parking and more! Live like a local in Charleston's most coveted neighborhoods.

Top guest favourite
Treehouse in Johns Island
5 out of 5 average rating, 152 reviews

Waterfront Treehouse

Marsh and creekside Luxury Treehouse nestled among historic Grand Oaks. Private Elevated TreeHouse that has closeup views of trees and wildlife from every oversized window. Sit back and relax on the large deck watching the ebb and flow of the tide as fish jump, birds hunt and fiddler crabs defend their bank. (This property has been granted an exemption and does not accept pets or Service animals due to allergies.)

Guest favourite
A serene cottage sits beside a calm pond, reflecting the surrounding trees. The structure features a spacious porch with rocking chairs, framed by palm trees. Large windows and skylights invite natural light, enhancing the connection with the tranquil outdoor environment.
Cottage in Johns Island
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviews

Quiet Cottage | Waterfront | Fire Pit

Welcome to our scenic waterfront retreat on Johns Island.We are a handicap friendly cottage with large, flat doorways and no steps. This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-level home offers woods and garden views.There is a dock to Church Creek where you can fish, crab and kayak. The roads are great for walking and biking.. Families and couples will enjoy the serene beauty and wildlife at this comfortable, hidden gem.

Top guest favourite
A wooden dock extends over calm waters, leading to a covered gazebo. The sun shines brightly in a clear blue sky, reflecting off the serene surface of the water, with grass and marshland visible in the distance.
Townhouse in James Island
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 184 reviews

Waterfront Gem on James Island!

Secluded space on the water on James Island. Newly constructed space with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.  Upstairs unit with magnificent waterfront views.   Come enjoy the amazing sunrises and sunsets while looking over Clarks Sound towards Folly Beach.  Deep in the heart of James Island yet just a few minutes from James Island Youth Soccer Club and only 15min to both downtown and Folly Beach. 

Top guest favourite
A charming two-story house is set among lush landscaping, with a spacious lawn and shaded by large trees. A gravel driveway curves toward the home, while a detached garage is visible on the left, providing convenient parking options.
Guest house in Johns Island
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 287 reviews

Private waterfront apt in the oaks

Romantic get away for nature lovers. Private 2nd floor studio apartment over garage (guest parking), nestled among large live oaks overlooking tidal creek & dock on wooded property. Less than 30 minutes from downtown Charleston, Folly Beach, Kiawah. Shrimp, fish, crab or just enjoy the hammock on the dock. Or go for a paddle in one of the kayaks provided for a small fee.

Popular amenities for waterfront rentals in Charleston

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Quick stats about waterfront rentals in Charleston

  • Total holiday rentals

    Explore 270 holiday rentals in Charleston

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Charleston holiday rentals start at £8 per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 21,500 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly holiday rentals

    180 properties offer extra space & child-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly holiday rentals

    Find 80 rentals that welcome pets

  • Holiday rentals with a pool

    70 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    150 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wifi availability

    260 of Charleston holiday rentals include wifi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Kitchen, Wifi and Pool across Charleston rentals

  • 4.9 Average rating

    Charleston stays are highly rated by guests – averaging 4.9 out of 5!

  • Nearby attractions

    Charleston’s top spots include Waterfront Park, Angel Oak Tree and Middleton Place

Destinations to explore