Summer in the Holy City is all about catching coastal breezes, cold drinks, and local culture. At The Palmetto Hotel, our boutique home in the heart of the historic French Quarter puts you steps away from the best of the season. Whether you want to cruise the historic harbor or shop for local artisan goods with a cocktail in hand, we have your perfect itinerary mapped out.
Set Sail – Lowcountry Water Adventures Not to Be Missed
Charleston is best experienced from the water, and this season offers spectacular ways to explore our tidal creeks, salt marshes, and historic harbor.
Public Sunset Cruises: For an energetic evening on the water, step aboard the Palmetto Breeze Catamaran. As the largest sailing catamaran north of Fort Lauderdale, it features a spacious wooden deck and a lively "barefoot" bar. It’s the ultimate way to cruise past Fort Sumter and the Ravenel Bridge as the sky turns to gold.
Naturalist-Guided Eco-Tours: Immerse yourself in local wildlife with Barrier Island Eco Tours. Departing from the Isle of Palms Marina, these naturalist-led boat excursions take you through winding salt marshes to the pristine Capers Island Heritage Preserve. You can spot bottlenose dolphins, pull up live crab traps, or book their seasonal Lowcountry Beachside Cookout to enjoy a true Lowcountry Boil with fresh local seafood right on the shore.
Luxury Yacht Rentals: For unparalleled exclusivity, treat yourself to a bespoke day on a private vessel. You can secure a premium charter via Charleston Yacht Charters to design a custom itinerary complete with private captains, champagne, and secluded swimming stops.
Shop Local, Sip for Less
Summer Saturdays at The Palmetto
After a sun-drenched morning on the water, escape the midday heat and head straight into our vibrant, botanical-inspired lobby.
Every Saturday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, we host our exclusive Summer Saturdays Pop-Up Series. We turn our eclectic space over to Charleston's finest local artists, makers, and independent brands.
Peruse handcrafted goods, local art, and regional fashion lines like Charleston's own jewelry brands like Snaffle Bit, Evergarden, NicoleGirard, and Liv Bella Vita or local artists and photographers like Sarah Laverone, Danielle Cather Cohen, and Amanda V.
The best part? When you support our featured local makers with a purchase, you unlock a $10 signature cocktail at the Lobby Bar. Sip on our custom, refreshing seasonal creations while chatting with the makers and artists who make our city so unique.
From Daytime Sun to Nighttime Fun
Evening Stage: Theater & Concerts
Once you toss off your boat shoes, get dressed up for a night of entertainment. Charleston's summer calendar is packed with incredible live performances:
Historic Theater: Walk over to America's oldest theater, The Historic Dock Street Theatre, which is hosting stunning live stage productions all summer long. Catch the beloved classic Little Women: The Broadway Musical running from July 14–26, or ease into late summer with The Wizard of Oz opening on August 26.
Live Music & Musicals: For high-energy entertainment, check out the upcoming schedule at the Charleston Music Hall. Highlights include the high-octane Blast from the Past: A Rock and Roll Musical on July 18. If you prefer an intimate, outdoor local vibe, head over to the legendary deck stage at The Charleston Pour House or Awendaw Green every Wednesday for the Barn Jam—be sure to bring your pup. They are pet-friendly!
