Charleston has no shortage of beautiful hotels, but The Cooper brings something different to the city.
Set directly on Charleston Harbor, The Cooper is the only luxury waterfront hotel on the Charleston peninsula — with downtown Charleston, great restaurants and shopping all within easy reach.
It feels more modern and resort-like than many of Charleston’s traditional boutique hotels, which is exactly why I think it fills a nice gap in the city.
Why We Love The Cooper
The Cooper combines contemporary luxury with a fresh, modern design that feels distinct from Charleston’s more traditional hotels. But the biggest draw for me is the setting.
You’re directly on Charleston Harbor, with a rooftop infinity pool looking over the water and a private marina that gives you the option to experience Charleston from the water, not just on foot.
The hotel also has a 7,000-square-foot spa and wellness area, a 24-hour fitness center and four different dining concepts — enough that the hotel feels like part of the trip rather than just somewhere to sleep.
5 Reasons to Visit The Cooper
1. It’s an Easy Weekend Away
Charleston is easy to reach from many major U.S. cities, which makes The Cooper a great option when you want a trip that feels like a vacation without losing an entire day getting there and you can stay 2-3 nights.
2. It Works for Couples + Families
I can see The Cooper working for a few different trips.
Couples have Charleston’s restaurants, the spa, rooftop pool, shopping and waterfront setting.
Families get a pool, plenty to explore outside the hotel and the ability to get out on the water — which helps break up the sightseeing, especially with kids.
I’d send: Couples, families, girls’ weekends and anyone looking for an easy luxury long weekend.
3. You’re Right on Charleston Harbor
This is what separates The Cooper from the other luxury hotels in Charleston.
The hotel sits directly on the harbor, and the water is very much part of the experience. The rooftop infinity pool overlooks Charleston Harbor, and hotel guests have access to the private marina. You can spend the morning exploring Charleston and come back to the pool for the afternoon. This helps with visits to the south during the summer.
4. You Can Walk to Historic Charleston
The Cooper is adjacent to Waterfront Park, putting you within easy reach of Charleston’s Historic District, shopping and restaurants.
5. Get Out on the Water
This might be my favorite part. The hotel’s private marina offers boating experiences aboard a custom Hinckley, including private cruises around Charleston’s waterways. Sunset cruise, fishing, an afternoon on the harbor.
Don’t Skip: The Pool + Spa
The rooftop infinity pool is going to be a big reason I’d choose The Cooper over a more traditional Charleston hotel.
You’re looking straight over Charleston Harbor, and Bar Marti is right beside the pool for drinks and casual bites. Bar Marti is reserved for hotel guests.
The wellness setup is also much more substantial than I’d expect from a city hotel. Spa is 7,000-square-feet and includes seven treatment rooms, hydrotherapy, sauna experiences and dedicated relaxation + recovery spaces.
Where to Eat at The Cooper
There are three true dining options at The Cooper – but I wouldn’t eat every meal at the hotel, because – well – you’re in Charleston.
The Crossing is the signature restaurant, with coastal Mediterranean food influenced by the Lowcountry and views over the harbor. There’s also CurrentBurger for something casual, Cooper Coffee & Wine, and rooftop Bar Marti by the pool.
Good to Know
LOCATION: Charleston, South Carolina
GETTING THERE: Fly into Charleston International Airport (CHS).
HOW LONG: I think 2–3 nights works perfectly for a quick Charleston trip.
BEST FOR: Couples, families, girls’ trips and quick long weekends.
Why Book The Cooper With Us?
You can certainly book The Cooper yourself. But if you’re already booking a luxury hotel, there are often additional benefits available when booking through us — at no additional fee.
As a Virtuoso Partner agency, our clients booking eligible rates typically receive benefits such as:
- Complimentary breakfast for 2 guests per bedroom
- Hotel or resort credits
- Priority for room upgrades, when available
- VIP recognition with the hotel team
