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Charleston Vacations: Endless Possibilities Between Cobblestone And Sand

South Carolina residents have long understood the allure of the sandy beaches and warm sea breezes found along the coast. There are many wonderful things to see and do along the way, but the two that stand out are the sights of the city and the relaxing oceanfront splendor of the Isle of Palms. Together, these two destinations represent fun and excitement to enjoy year-round.

Enjoying All That Charleston Can Offer

Charleston is one of the most famous cities of the south. It has an important historical role, a rich cultural legacy, and beautiful architecture. The streets are cobblestone and lined with live oaks, while stately pastel homes line either side. Charleston vacation rentals are set amidst this quaint, historic backdrop, allowing visitors to mingle with the residents and legends that parade through the streets of Charleston.

Known as the Holy City, Charleston's skyline is marked by many church steeples. These, like most other aspects of the city, are exquisitely preserved and generally remain in use today. Visitors can tour some of them, visit some of them, and see many of them via horse drawn carriage tours.

Cuisine Near Charleston Vacation Rentals

Apart from its architectural and historical elements, the city is well known for its unique dining options. It is a center of Southern nouveau cuisine, with chefs drawing inspiration from the city itself to create unique dishes found nowhere else. Visitors can enjoy simply wandering until an appetizing restaurant appears – few are unable to find something to pique interest. In addition, the Holy City is known for some of the best fried seafood in the south.

Golf At Isle of Palms Vacation Rentals

One of the major advantages of a vacation to Charleston is the easy access to beaches. The city itself is almost coastal, and many vacationers enjoy spending a few days in Charleston vacation rentals before heading out toward the coast, where Isle of Palms vacation rentals beckon. There are many activities that can be enjoyed on the Isle of Palms, but one of the most commonly enjoyed is golf.

Isle of Palms vacation rentals give access to some of the best courses on the east coast, including unique courses found only on the Isle. The island's proximity to other areas near the Holy City also makes it uniquely suited to enjoying a golf vacation: if a suitable course is not available next to Isle of Palms vacation rentals, then visitors can simply drive a short distance to another course which will be suitable.

The Wild Dunes Resort

The Wild Dunes Resort is a landmark among Isle of Palms vacation rentals. The resort itself is over 1,500 acres, and features some of the best golf and tennis nationwide. Its tennis program attracts professionals and amateurs from around the country, and the scenery has inspired writers and artists for hundreds of years.

Although Wild Dunes is a landmark, it is not the only place to enjoy on the island. There are many fishing piers and wildlife roosts to explore, including turtles who lay eggs right on the beach. There are also some 5,000 full time human residents who live beside the wildlife, giving Isle of Palms vacation rentals a community feel.  For this reason, many families prefer staying in a rented residence in the Isle to a hotel; although there are some amenities like room service which are unique to a hotel, most visitors tend to feel that the convenience of a freestanding home or condo outweighs the lack of room service.

Where To Visit First

One of the most common questions visitors consider is whether they should explore the city area first and then head out to the beach, or whether it is better to start at the beach and then move inland. The answer depends on what each traveler is looking for.

Travelers who are more enthusiastic about an active vacation seeing the sights and dislike idle time typically enjoy starting with the Isle of Palms and then moving to Charleston vacation rentals. The city certainly has a more active, bustling feel; the Isle tends to be quieter and more serene. There is plenty to do and see in both places, but it is generally better to end on a note of city hubbub for travelers who come seeking just that busy feeling.

The opposite is true for those who come seeking relaxation. Such travelers are advised to end their vacation on the shorefront, and perhaps consider spending as little as two nights in the city proper. Isle of Palms is a much quieter area, where the only things to consider are the wildlife and the beaches. These are much more conducive to relaxation, and will leave the traveler feeling calm and refreshed upon returning home.

About the Author

Chris Harmen is an author for CondoWorldResorts.com, an authority on Charleston vacation rentals, Isle of Palms vacation rentals, and other nearby locations.

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