Trying to decide between The Dewberry, Hotel Bennett, and The Charleston Place is a tough choice!
If you’re searching for the best luxury hotels in Charleston, these three are consistently at the top of the list. But while they’re all beautiful, they each offer a very different experience.
As a Charleston local who has also worked in the hospitality industry, I’ve spent a lot of time at each of these properties both personally and professionally. I’ve experienced them as a guest and from behind the scenes, which gives me a unique perspective on what each property does best and who it’s really right for.
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Charleston, you really can’t go wrong with these three hotels. However, the right choice comes down to your travel style and what kind of stay you want to have. As a travel advisor, I’m often helping my clients decide between these luxury stays and here’s how I think about them:
- The Dewberry feels design-forward, boutique, and a little more tucked away
- Hotel Bennett feels grand, elegant, and European-inspired luxury
- The Charleston Place feels lively, more traditional luxury (but with modern details) and right in the center of everything
If you’re deciding between them, I’ll walk you through the vibe, rooms, location, and who each hotel is best for so you can confidently choose the one that fits your trip. And if you decide to book, reach out so I can add VIP status to your stay including free breakfast, $100 hotel credit and free upgrades at any of these hotels! You can also book yourself on our client portal (just sign up to get access).
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Quick Comparison Snapshot
If you just want the quick answer, here’s how they compare:
The Dewberry Charleston
- Vibe: Boutique, design-forward, elevated
- Location: Just off Marion Square, slightly quieter
- Best for: Couples, return visitors, design lovers
- Standout: Interiors + Citrus Club rooftop
Hotel Bennett
- Vibe: Grand, classic, polished
- Location: Right on Marion Square / King Street
- Best for: First-time visitors, girls trips, celebrations
- Standout: Rooftop pool + Camellias pink bar
The Charleston Place
- Vibe: Traditional, full-service, refined (think Four Seasons)
- Location: Prime spot in the Historic District
- Best for: Families, couples, first-time visits
- Standout: Central location + full amenities
| Feature / Amenity | The Dewberry | Hotel Bennett | The Charleston Place |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Rooms | 153 | 179 | 433 |
| Meeting/Event Space | 2 smaller boutique event spaces(150-200 guests) | Flexible meeting spaces, 12,000 sq ft of indoor and outdoor event space | 40,000+ sq ft of meeting & event space |
| Dining Options | Citrus Club, The Living Room | Camellias, Gabrielle, La Pâtisserie | Palmetto Cafe, Charleston Place x Chef Daniel Humm pop-up, Meeting at Market, retail dining options |
| Bars | Citrus Club rooftop, The Living Room | Camellias bar, Fiat Luxe Rooftop | Thoroughbred Club, Meeting at Market |
| Spa/Wellness | Spa & small fitness center, partner with local gym, rooftop pilates on Saturday | Spa & fitness center | Spa & fitness center |
| Pool | No Pool | Rooftop pool (great for sun & views) | Large indoor pool (but rooftop with lots of light) |
| Rooftop / Outdoor Space | Rooftop terrace & bar | Rooftop pool & terrace | Outdoor courtyard areas, no rooftop space (yet) |
| Retail | Boutique shop onsite | Small boutiques along King St. | Ground floor luxury retail (Louis Vuitton, Sézane) |
| Vibe / Feel | Boutique, intimate, design-driven | Quiet luxury, elegant, slightly social | Full-service, classic luxury, vibrant with retail & community feel |
| Best For | Couples, design lovers, intimate stays | Girls trips, mother-daughter weekends, celebrations (anniversary, honeymoon, etc) | Families, first-time visitors, couples, full-service luxury seekers |
If you want a more detailed look at each hotel, keep reading.
How to Book Your Luxury Hotel in Charleston
Before we break it down further, keep this in mind!
If you’re booking one of these hotels, do yourself a favor and book through me or your travel advisor.
At The Dewberry Charleston, Hotel Bennett, and The Charleston Place, I’m able to offer exclusive perks you won’t get booking on your own and it costs you NOTHING extra. It’s a win-win for both of us!
Depending on the property and availability, this can include:
- Complimentary breakfast (can save you $100/day)
- Room upgrades
- Hotel credits (often $100+)
- Early check-in & late check-out
- VIP status during your stay
It’s the same rate you’ll find online, but with added benefits and personalized support to make your trip even better.
If you’re planning a Charleston trip, I’d love to help you choose the right hotel and make sure you’re taken care of from start to finish. Email me with your dates and desired hotel(s) and I’ll send you a quote with our preferred rates!
✅ You can also browse my client hotel portal to book yourself with access to these perks (just sign up for access and then you can browse over 9,000+ hotels worldwide with my exclusive perks included!). It’s free to use 🙂
The Dewberry Charleston Review
TripAdvisor Reviews | Expedia | Booking.com
As a local, I looove this hotel and find myself coming back here again and again.
The Dewberry Charleston is one of the most unique luxury hotels in Charleston. It feels more boutique, more design-forward, and a little more tucked away compared to other hotels in the city.
If you’re looking for a hotel that feels elevated but not overly traditional, this is always one I recommend.
The Vibe at The Dewberry Charleston
The Dewberry has a completely different feel from most Charleston hotels.
You’ll experience a space that is calm, refined, and intentionally designed. It leans mid-century modern with warm tones, clean lines, and thoughtful details throughout.
It feels quieter and more intimate than other luxury hotels in Charleston, which I love for a romantic or slower-paced trip.
Style & Design at The Dewberry Charleston
This is where The Dewberry really stands out.
The design is polished but understated. You won’t find the ornate, classic Southern style here, but instead, you’ll experience rich wood, curated décor, and a more modern aesthetic that still feels true to Charleston.
What I love most is the attention to detail. The hotel has its own signature scent, and you’ll notice it the moment you walk in. There’s also a signature tea and even the floral print inside the armoires in the rooms is custom and thoughtful.
It’s one of those places where every detail has clearly been considered and you can feel that throughout your stay. Design lovers will appreciate it here!
Rooms at The Dewberry Charleston
The rooms feel light, calm, and very intentional.
Many have large windows with beautiful natural light, and the design carries through with clean lines and warm finishes. They’re not overly large, but they feel elevated and well thought out.
My favorite room is the Charleston Flat. I actually stayed in one on my wedding night, which was truly such a treat!
These rooms sit on the corners of the hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows and incredible views. The bathrooms are also much larger, with soaking tubs that feel perfect after a long day exploring Charleston.
If you’re celebrating something or just want a more elevated stay, this is absolutely the room I would book (or if you book through me, I might be able to get you a complimentary upgrade!).
I have also stayed in their Signature King room which is their most standard option. The rooms are equally beautiful, but I will say on the smaller side so it’s ideal if you’re traveling as a couple or solo!
Amenities at The Dewberry Charleston
The Dewberry offers a strong lineup of amenities, especially for a boutique hotel:
- Full-service spa
- Fitness center
- Citrus Club rooftop (one of the best views in Charleston)
- Excellent food and beverage options
I’m a huge fan of the spa and visit multiple times throughout the year as a local. It’s one of my favorite places in Charleston to truly relax and reset. It’s dark, moody and feels peaceful and the treatments are always incredible.
The Citrus Club alone is a major draw. It’s one of my favorite spots in the city for a drink with a view.
And the Living Room has the chicest and coziest bar in town. It feel so swanky and is the perfect spot for pre-dinner cocktails.
Location of The Dewberry Charleston
The Dewberry sits just off Marion Square, near Upper King Street.
You’re within walking distance to some of the best restaurants and shopping in Charleston, but you’re slightly removed from the busiest, most tourist-heavy areas. It’s literally across the street from Hotel Bennett so less than a 5 minute walk.
I always think of this location as a sweet spot—it feels local but still very convenient.
Who The Dewberry Charleston is Best for
- Couples
- Design lovers
- Repeat visitors to Charleston
- Girls Trips
- Anyone wanting a quieter, more boutique hotel experience
What I Personally Love about The Dewberry Charleston
As a local, this is one of the hotels I find myself recommending again and again for couples especially.
It feels a little more elevated and intentional than other options and I love that it’s not overly busy or crowded. It’s the kind of place where you can truly slow down and enjoy your time in Charleston.
We have a little tradition of having champagne in the lobby bar, The Living Room, on Christmas Eve. It’s always so festive, cozy, and fun, and it’s something I look forward to every year.
If you’re visiting Charleston at Christmas, this is such a special place to stay or even just stop in. It really captures that elevated, festive atmosphere without feeling over the top.
Planning Your Stay?
If you’re considering The Dewberry Charleston, Hotel Bennett, or The Charleston Place, I’m always happy to help you choose the right fit. I don’t charge any fees for hotel only bookings!
I can also add perks like complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, and hotel credits at no extra cost. Message me here to start planning or browse my client hotel portal to book on your own with access to my exclusive perks (just request access once and you can use it anywhere!)
Hotel Bennett Charleston Review
TripAdvisor Reviews | Expedia | Booking.com
Hotel Bennett is one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Charleston. It sits right on Marion Square and offers a more grand, classic experience while still feeling fresh and modern. It’s the newest hotel of the three!
If you’re looking for a hotel that feels elevated, polished, and right in the center of everything, this is one of the best places to stay in Charleston.
The Vibe at Hotel Bennett
Hotel Bennett feels like a grand Southern hotel, but not overly formal or stuffy by any means.
You’ll experience a sense of quiet luxury here. It’s refined, elegant, and thoughtfully done in a way that feels effortless rather than over the top.
There’s a bit more energy than The Dewberry, but it still feels calm and elevated. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in, enjoy the space, and really feel taken care of with 5 star service.
Style & Design at Hotel Bennett
The design leans classic and European-inspired, with more ornate details, soft color palettes, and a polished, timeless feel.
It feels more traditional than The Dewberry, but still very current if that makes sense. Everything is beautifully maintained and intentional without feeling too formal.
If you’re drawn to a more classic luxury hotel aesthetic, you’ll really love it here.
Rooms at Hotel Bennett
The rooms at Hotel Bennett feel spacious, comfortable, and very polished.
You’ll experience a more traditional design style with soft tones, elegant finishes, and a layout that feels easy to settle into.
They’re a bit more classic in design, but very well done and ideal if you want something that feels luxurious and comfortable without being overly trendy. I love the added book cases that give it an at-home feel.
One of the things I love is that some of the rooms here offer balconies which is nice if you appreciate a little fresh air or spot to sip morning coffee!
They also have a some club level rooms where you can enjoy a private space for refreshments throughout the day.
Amenities at Hotel Bennett
Hotel Bennett really stands out when it comes to amenities.
- Rooftop pool (one of the best hotel pools in Charleston)
- Fitness center
- Spa
- Camellias bar
- Gabrielle restaurant
- High tea experience
- La Pâtisserie (French café)
- Fiat Luxe – rooftop bar & lounge
- Club Level (for a fee)
- Concierge Service
If having a pool is important to you, this is the hotel I recommend in Charleston. The rooftop pool is beautiful and such a nice escape, especially in the warmer months. Though, I will say it is not a large pool by any means.
La Pâtisserie is another highlight. It’s their French café and it truly feels like a little escape. You can grab some of the best coffee and pastries in Charleston and for a moment, you’ll feel transported straight to France!
I also love dining at Gabrielle especially on the outdoor patio if it’s a nice day! It sits right on Marion Square so you have great people watching and it’s just a nice place to enjoy Charleston.
Location of Hotel Bennett
Hotel Bennett is in a prime location right on Marion Square at the top of King Street.
You’re steps from shopping, restaurants, the farmers market, and some of the best areas to explore in Charleston.
It’s one of the most convenient locations in the city, especially if it’s your first time visiting and you want to be able to walk everywhere.
Who Hotel Bennett is Best for
- First-time visitors to Charleston
- Girls trips
- Mother-daughter trips
- Celebrations and special occasions
- Anyone who wants a central location with full amenities
What I Personally Love about Hotel Bennett
Hotel Bennett is one I often recommend for more social, celebratory trips.
I love meeting friends at Camellias for a glass of rosé or champagne—it always feels fun and a little special without trying too hard. Their high tea is also one of my favorite things to do in Charleston, especially for a girls trip or mother-daughter weekend.
And I always find myself stopping into La Pâtisserie, even when I’m not staying at the hotel. It’s one of those spots that feels like a little treat every time.
If a pool is high on your list, this really is the best hotel in Charleston for it. The rooftop setup is hard to beat and adds a completely different layer to your stay.
⭐️ Book with My VIP Perks
When you book The Dewberry Charleston, Hotel Bennett, or The Charleston Place through me, you’ll receive VIP perks like daily breakfast, upgrades, and exclusive hotel credits at no extra cost (yes, really!)
It’s the same rate, with a more elevated experience! Email me with your dates and hotel choices to receive a quote with our preferred rates. Or browse and book on your own with my exclusive client hotel portal (request access and you can book any hotel, any time!)
The Charleston Place Review
TripAdvisor Reviews | Expedia | Booking.com
The Charleston Place is one of Charleston’s most iconic luxury hotels as well. Known as a cornerstone of the city’s hotel scene, it’s recently been reimagined by its new local owners. The entire property—from rooms to spa to dining—has received a modern refresh while still keeping that traditional Four Seasons–style luxury feel.
With over 400 rooms and suites, it’s large, full-service, and designed to accommodate a wide range of travelers. Club-level rooms and suites offer an elevated experience with extra perks and access to exclusive spaces.
If you’re looking for a hotel with history, scale, and classic elegance right in the historic district, this is a top pick.
The Vibe at The Charleston Place
The Charleston Place is polished, full-service, and full of energy. It feels more traditional than The Dewberry or Hotel Bennett, but the recent updates have brought a modern, thoughtful touch throughout the hotel.
The bottom floor is filled with luxury retail, including shops like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Sézane, which adds a vibrant, community feel. Walking through the lobby and retail space makes the hotel feel lively and connected to the city, rather than just a stand-alone property.
It’s the kind of hotel where you can experience classic Charleston luxury while enjoying modern comforts. Perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who wants a reliable, elevated experience.
Style & Design at The Charleston Place
The design blends classic Charleston elegance with contemporary updates.
- Rooms and suites have been reimagined with modern touches, while maintaining that traditional luxury feel
- Club-level rooms offer extra perks and access to exclusive lounges
- The spa has been refreshed to feel sleek and inviting
- Dining spaces have been updated but still feel refined
It’s a beautiful balance: the hotel feels modern and fresh without losing the timeless charm that makes it a Charleston icon!
Rooms at The Charleston Place
Rooms are spacious, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed.
- Classic layouts with updated furnishings
- Modern amenities and luxurious touches
- Large bathrooms and functional spaces perfect for families or longer stays
- Club-level rooms and suites offer exclusive benefits for a more elevated experience
With over 400 rooms and plenty of suites, this is a large hotel that still manages to feel polished and well-maintained.
Amenities at The Charleston Place
The Charleston Place truly shines when it comes to amenities:
- Large indoor pool (perfect for year-round use)
- Spa and fitness center
- Ample meeting and event spaces
- Club-level experiences with access to private lounges
- On-site dining: Palmetto Cafe for brunch, Charleston Place x Chef Daniel Humm pop-up restaurant for dinner, Meeting at Market for casual pub fare, plus a coffee shop
- Bottom floor retail with luxury shops like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Johnnie-O and Sézane
I love the spa here especially if you’re looking to go with a few other people. I went with my in-laws for a girls day and it was so lovely. There’s room in the relaxation room for more people and conversation compared to The Dewberry which we enjoyed. And I have to say the facial here was amazing. The aesthetician recommend so many products which I actually have purchased again and again since!
The hotel functions as a more full-service hub where you can do almost everything without leaving the property. Families and visitors who want convenience and variety will especially appreciate this.
Location of The Charleston Place
Located in the heart of the Historic District, this hotel can’t be beat for first-time visitors. It steps from King Street shopping, restaurants, and historic sights. You’ll be in walking distance to major attractions like The Battery, Rainbow Row and the Charleston City Market
It’s the perfect base for exploring Charleston, especially if you want to be in the center of the action!
Who The Charleston Place is Best for
- Families
- First-time visitors to Charleston
- Travelers who want a traditional, full-service luxury hotel with modern updates
- Anyone who prioritizes location, convenience, and a larger property with lots of amenities
- Travelers looking for club-level rooms or suites for extra perks
What I Personally Love about The Charleston Place
This is a hotel that really started it all in Charleston!
I have so many childhood memories of the lobby train display during the holidays and seeing it still feels magical every Christmas. They also host so many festive activities during the holidays, making it one of my favorite places to visit at that time of year.
The indoor pool is large and perfect for all seasons and the bottom floor retail makes it feel like a mini shopping destination in itself. I also love grabbing brunch at the Palmetto Cafe or casual drinks at Meeting at Market.
If you want a classic, full-service luxury stay with modern touches, a central location, and the option of club-level rooms or suites, this hotel delivers in spades!
Check rates for your dates here.
Location Comparison: How Close Are These Charleston Hotels?
One of the best things about Charleston is how walkable it is and the good news is that all three of these hotels are very close to each other.
You really can’t go wrong with location, but here’s how they compare:
The Dewberry Charleston + Hotel Bennett
These two are right next to each other on Marion Square.
- About a 1-minute walk between them
- Located at the top of King Street (Upper King area)
- Surrounded by some of Charleston’s best restaurants, bars, and shopping
This area feels a little more local, a little more lively, and great if you want to be near Charleston’s food scene.
The Charleston Place
- About a 10 minute walk from Dewberry and Bennett
- Located further down King Street in the Historic District near Market Street
This area feels more central to Charleston’s main tourist sights:
- Charleston City Market
- Waterfront Park
- The Battery
- Rainbow Row
- Cobblestone Streets
- Historic homes and landmarks
What This Means for Your Trip
All three hotels are within easy walking distance of each other, so you’re never far from anything.
The biggest difference isn’t distance. It’s the feel of the neighborhood:
- Dewberry + Bennett: Slightly more local, food-focused, and lively
- Charleston Place: More central to historic Charleston sights and tourist attractions
My Take as a Local
Personally, I love both areas for different reasons.
Upper King (Dewberry + Bennett) feels a bit more like where I’d spend a night out with great restaurants, energy, and a slightly more local feel.
The Historic District (Charleston Place) feels more classic Charleston which is perfect if it’s your first visit and you want to be right in the middle of everything.
But truly, you’re only a few minutes walk between all three, which makes Charleston such an easy city to explore no matter where you stay!
✅ Browse and book hotels on your own with my exclusive client hotel portal (request access and you can book any hotel, any time!)
Final Thoughts: How to Choose The Dewberry, Hotel Bennett, or The Charleston Place
You really can’t go wrong with The Dewberry Charleston, Hotel Bennett, or The Charleston Place. They’re all some of the very best hotels in Charleston and each offers a completely different experience.
It really comes down to how you want your trip to feel.
If you’re dreaming of something more intimate and design-forward, you’ll love The Dewberry. If you want that quiet luxury with a bit of energy and a rooftop pool, Hotel Bennett is such a fun choice. And if you’re looking for a classic, full-service stay right in the heart of everything, The Charleston Place is hard to beat.
As a local, these are three hotels I recommend again and again to my clients and friends! And, I find myself going back to each of these for different reasons.
Whichever you choose, you’re setting yourself up for a really special stay in Charleston!
💡Booking Tip
If you decide on The Dewberry Charleston, Hotel Bennett, or The Charleston Place, I always recommend booking through a travel advisor (like myself!)
You’ll receive VIP perks like complimentary breakfast for 2, complimentary room upgrades, hotel credits, and VIP treatment—at no extra cost. I can also help recommend Charleston restaurants and things to do during your visit. Plus, I do not charge any fees for hotel only bookings!
If you want help choosing or booking, I’m always happy to help make your stay even more special. Send me an email or use the inquiry form with your dates and hotel(s). Or browse and book on your own with my exclusive client hotel portal (request access and you can book any hotel, any time!)
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