Hostels in Charleston, USA

Charleston is a historic town on the coast of South Carolina, with the ideal combination of small-town hospitality and big city culture. It has survived the Civil War, as well as countless earthquakes and hurricanes, and still has buildings dating back to America's founding. Most of the city is walkable from your Charleston hostel, especially down King Street, the main thoroughfare. That is where you will find the best shopping, restaurants, and people watching. There are many beaches nearby, most accessible by the CARTA bus or a short drive. Folly Beach has more of a hippie surfer vibe, while the Isle of Palms is known for big beach houses and nice restaurants. Sullivan's Island is somewhere in between, with laid-back bars.

While Charleston hostels may not be plentiful, but they have their own charm. Most hostels in Charleston are in historic homes, which add to their appeal, and are located not far from the historic district, in up-and-coming neighborhoods like Cannonborough and Elliotborough. Dorm beds are the standard, but private rooms are also available. Some Charleston hostels even include free breakfast, wireless internet, and bicycle rentals. They are also a short walk from the city's nightlife, from Upper King down to the Market.

There is one major airport in Charleston, located in North Charleston, and can be reached by car or bus. It takes about twenty minutes to get into the city, depending on traffic. Once you are in the city, you can walk most places, or take a rickshaw or taxi for a reasonable price to access your Charleston hostel.

Be sure to book your Charleston hostel far in advance before big events like the Spoleto Festival, Southeastern Wildlife Expo, Charleston Food and Wine Festival, the Cooper River Bridge Run, Charleston Fashion Week, and the college graduations in May.