Charleston and the surrounding areas offer a myriad of lifestyles and residences, from carefree cottages on Isle of Palms to elegant Single Houses on the historic peninsula. Situated at the northern reaches of the Carolina Lowcountry (which refers to the many islands, rivers and marshes that make up this part of the Carolinas), Charleston has been considered a world-class destination for travelers for decades. More recently, it has become a sought after destination as a place to call home.

If you’re looking for information about neighborhoods, subdivisions, schools please click here. For a quick introduction to the Charleston area, read on.

Introduction to Charleston
Charleston life centers around water. Exploring the waterways is an essential activity for those who truly embrace the Lowcountry lifestyle. Tennis and golf are popular, too and the mild climate makes them year-round sports. Charleston’s numerous parks and scenic, tree-lined streets provide ample space and a beautiful backdrop for walking, jogging and cycling. The annual Cooper River Bridge Run, attracting nearly 30,000 runners and walkers, is one of the most popular road races in the Southeast. Mayor Joe Riley’s longtime dream of creating a contiguous park around the entire peninsula is near to becoming a reality. Waterfront Park and Fountain Walk are key elements of Mayor Riley’s grand plan. Both are wonderful destinations for area residents.

You Are Here
Charleston offers many delightful areas from which to choose. You’ll find it useful to know how each area is referred to by its residents:

Downtown Charleston is: Downtown, The Peninsula, South of the Crosstown, South of Broad, Historic District
East of the Cooper is: East Cooper, Mt. Pleasant, Old Village, Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms and Daniel Island.
West of the Ashley is: West Ashley, James Island, Johns Island and Folly Beach.

Charleston Weather
Charleston has a warm climate. And the humidity makes the hot seem hotter. But don’t fret, beach breezes and a refreshing dip in the surf offer cooling relief, even on the hottest days. And the other three seasons are a delight. Many consider Spring the best time of year. As a gardener, it’s my favorite season. Azaleas bloom. Nights are barely chilly and the air is filled with the scent of jasmine, tea olive and wisteria. The Social Season (Winter to Northerners) is for enjoying Oyster Roasts with friends and family. Mostly cooler, the off-season weather offers up the occasional 70 degree days, perfect for a round of golf .

Average High Temperatures
January 55.9               July 88.1

February 58.8             August 87.0

March 65.4                  September 82.8

April 73.0                     October 75.0

May 79.6                       November 67.2

June 85.1                     December 59.7

Charleston Weather Links
-Charleston Weather - The Weather Channel
-Isle of Palms Weather - IOPWeather.com

-Isle of Palms Weather - MSN
-Mount Pleasant Weather - MSN

-Folly Beach Weather - MSN
-Kiawah Weather- MSN

-Charleston Area Tide Chart

Additional Links and Resources

Ann’s Favorites
- Isle of Palms Turtle Team
-Historic Charleston Foundation
-City of Isle of Palms

General Information
- Charleston CVB
- Charleston Post & Courier
- Charleston Metro Chamber

Charleston Festivals
-Spoleto Festival USA
- Piccolo Spoleto
- First Night Charleston

Museums
-Gibbes Museum of Art
-The Charleston Museum

Performing Arts
-Charleston Symphony Orchestra
-Charleston Ballet Theatre
-Charleston Stage at the Dock Street Theatre

Golf Courses
-Bulls Bay
-Charleston National
-Dunes West

-Patriots Point Golf Links
-Wild Dunes
-Rivertowne Country Club
-Legend Oaks Golf Club

The Links at Stono Ferry

Parks & Recreation
-Charleston County Parks
-Charleston RiverDogs (Minor League Baseball)
-The Battery (Minor League Soccer)