Thinking about a Charleston family vacation?

Great choice! The Holy City is packed with beautiful beaches, historical sites and fun activities for the entire family. From outdoor adventures to interactive museums, a Charleston family vacation has something for everyone to enjoy!

But with so many fun things to do, planning your Charleston family vacation can seem overwhelming. To take some stress out of the process, we’ve consulted with some local experts, and this is their helpful guide for planning the ultimate family trip to Charleston this summer.

Activities and Attractions

Whether you’re traveling with teenagers, grade schoolers or toddlers, there are plenty of enjoyable things for your kids to see and do in the Lowcountry. From plantation tours to wildlife encounters, these activities will make your trip to the Holy City as memorable as possible.

Charles Towne Landing
First-time visitors shouldn’t miss Charles Towne Landing. The 664-acre park isn’t just the site of the first permanent English settlement in the Carolina colony; it’s also home to a nature preserve, an indoor interactive museum, beautiful gardens, self-guided history trails and more.

If your kids are old enough, consider renting bicycles from the park to take a peaceful ride under majestic oak trees draped in Spanish Moss. Kids of all ages will enjoy the Adventure, a replica 17th century trading vessel they can board and explore.

Visiting with little ones? They will love the Animal Forest, a wildlife sanctuary filled with animals that once inhabited the region. As an added bonus, admission is free for kids under the age of 5.

Water Fountains and Public Parks
Charleston summers can be brutal, with temperatures averaging mid to upper 80s and humidity that makes it feel even hotter. A great way to beat the heat is by splashing around in Charleston’s many water fountains or relaxing in shaded parks.

The Charleston Waterfront Park boasts numerous water fountains for the kids to play in, including the iconic Pineapple Fountain. While the kids are getting soaked, you might want to grab some gelato and sit on a bench to take in the gorgeous view of the harbor.

Searching for a less touristy option? Try Park West Recreation Complex in nearby Mount Pleasant for a fun playground with fountains or James Island County Park, which has its own splash pad and waterpark.

Nature and Wildlife Adventures
It may be hard to believe, but you don’t need to venture far outside of Charleston’s city center to experience its natural beauty and wildlife. The coastal city boasts many diverse natural landscapes, from magnificent beaches and tidal creeks to salt marshes and forests.

If your family loves outdoor adventures, consider touring a marsh in a kayak or taking an eco-tour out to Bull’s Island. These tours are great for families with older kids and offer a more unique way to experience Charleston’s local ecosystems.

Visiting with younger children? The South Carolina Aquarium is sure to be a hit for the entire family. The aquarium is home to more than 5,000 animals and features indoor and outdoor touch tanks.

Fort Sumter National Park
You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy Fort Sumter National Park. This famous sea fort is one of Charleston’s most popular attractions, and it provides an exceptional learning experience for the entire family.

Insider’s tip: book your tickets in advance! Because these tours are so popular, tickets sell out fast, and many visitors are forced to wait for the next boat. Also, the southern sun can be brutal in the summertime, but sunscreen and hats will help keep everyone comfortable.

Charleston Museums
Who says learning can’t be fun? Take the kids to one of Charleston’s many museums for a hands-on educational experience they won’t soon forget.

Parents with small children should not miss the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry (CML). With its many interactive exhibits and programs, youngsters will have a blast exploring all the themed areas.

If interactive museums are a hit with your kids, the North Charleston Fire Museum and Patriot’s Point Naval Museum are also worth a visit. Although neither are as toddler-friendly as CML, they both offer interactive exhibits that are fun for the entire family.

The Plantations
A trip to Charleston wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of its historic plantations. With their well-kept grounds, lush gardens and rich history, these storied locales can make you feel as though you have been transported back in time.

Each plantation offers a unique experience to visitors. At Boone Hall Plantation, visitors can go U-picking for seasonal crops and see firsthand why these enchanting grounds are the most photographed of any plantation. Or stop by Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and take a relaxing boat tour as you learn about the important role plantations played in our nation’s history.

Charleston Beaches
Charleston’s beautiful barrier islands offer miles of pristine beaches for locals and visitors to enjoy. From the romantic and secluded strands on Sullivan’s Island to the family-friendly shores of Isle of Palms, each of Charleston’s local beaches has its own unique charm.

If you’re traveling with kids, Isle of Palms is a great choice. IOP has many rules to keep beach-goers safe, as well as many recreational opportunities both on and off the water.

Folly Beach is great place to try your hand at watersports. Watch surfers catch waves near the north end of the island or walk along Folly Beach Pier, the second longest pier on the East Coast.

Looking for more information on Charleston’s most popular beaches? Check out this blog post that details the city’s most captivating beaches and their unique charms.

Family-Friendly Lodging

When it comes to choosing a place to stay for your Charleston family vacation, there are a few options to consider. Start by creating a budget and factor in whether you plan to rent a car while you’re in town.

For example, renting a car gives you the option of staying in more affordable hotels and vacation homes located just outside of downtown Charleston. If you’re not renting a car, you’ll want to explore all the fantastic lodging that are conveniently located on the peninsula.

No matter what you’re searching for, the Holy City has great options for every family and any budget. Here are a few suggestions to help you find the right fit for your vacation.

Beach Vacation Rentals
When rest and relaxation are a top priority, a beach vacation rental is the way to go. Families often feel cramped in hotels, but a charming beach cottage can provide a more spacious accommodation where you can unwind and enjoy the peace and quiet of coastal life.

From Isle of Palms to Folly Beach to Dewees Island, Charleston has a beach vacation rental for everyone. Browse the best beach rentals around Charleston and search for your ideal home-away-from-home based on your exact criteria.

Let’s be honest, we’re in the vacation rental business, so we always recommend staying on the beaches in one of our rental houses. Be we understand there are times, especially with smaller groups, where a hotel is in order and we have some favorites.

The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina
Beautiful views of the harbor, spacious rooms and easy shuttle access to downtown Charleston makes The Beach Club an excellent place for families to stay. Located across the harbor from Charleston in Mount Pleasant, this gorgeous hotel is just a quick shuttle or seasonal water taxi ride away from all the action. The resort is also home to Harborside, a waterfront hotel that offers different rooms and amenities.
Insider tip:  Check out Groupon before you book. The resort often has deals for both their Estuary Spa and their hotel lodging.

Holiday Inn on Meeting Street
Don’t want to pay exorbitant prices for a downtown Charleston hotel? The Holiday Inn on Meeting Street offers all the comfort, cleanliness and convenience — but without the fancy amenities that you might find at a luxury hotel like The Belmond Charleston Place.

This relatively new hotel is within walking distance of local restaurants and shopping opportunities on King Street. However, you can also take a quick Uber ride to additional restaurants further along the peninsula.

Restoration on King Street
Visiting with a big family but want to spend a few days living in luxury? The Restoration on King has everything you need to make your stay relaxing and enjoyable.

Located in Historic Charleston, this luxury spa hotel offers spacious suites equipped with a well-stocked kitchen, flat-screen TVs and large bathrooms. Roll-away beds and cribs are available upon request, and guests can rent a room with a terrace for additional space.

Kid-Friendly Places to Eat

It’s no secret that Charleston serves up some of the best Southern food in the country. But can the city’s impressive food scene be enjoyed by young children as well as adults?

Luckily, the answer is a resounding yes! Although some kids can be picky eaters, there are still plenty of restaurants that will please everyone in your party. For a family-friendly dining experience, check out these local eateries:

Bowen’s Island Restaurant
Known for its oysters, hushpuppies and amazing fried shrimp, this funky seafood shack is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. With its fresh seafood and spectacular view of the water, Bowen’s Island Restaurant may be the perfect place to grab a cold beer and eat a delicious meal with the family after a long day on Folly Beach. Bonus: this is the BEST place in town for oysters when they are in season.

Early Bird Diner
If you’re a fan of the Food Network, you may be familiar with Early Bird Diner and its famous chicken and waffles. However, it’s not just that one dish that makes locals flock to this popular American diner.

From shrimp and grits to homemade ice cream, the Early Bird Diner can do no wrong. Order anything off the ever-changing menu and expect your taste buds to be delighted.

With affordable prices and large portions, this classic Southern diner is ideal for families on a budget. Just be prepared to circle the parking lot a few times if you come during the lunch rush.

Triangle Char + Bar
Triangle Char + Bar is a convenient place for locals to enjoy savory burgers or stop by for a beer during happy hour. Whether you’re in the mood for a craft cocktail or a brisket taco that melts in your mouth, good food at Triangle is always a sure thing.

Lost Dog
If you’re staying on Folly Beach with the family, visiting Lost Dog Café is a must. This charming café serves breakfast all day and welcomes dogs to sit outside on the patio with their owners.

From the blackened salmon wrap to flavorful biscuits and gravy, Lost Dog never disappoints. Breakfast is served all day, so you don’t need to worry about missing out on those delicious cinnamon buns or poached eggs.

Fleet Landing Restaurant and Bar
Kids and adults should have no trouble finding something to enjoy at Fleet Landing. Located near the City Market in Historic Charleston, this casual restaurant boasts four menus: dinner, bar, brunch and dessert.

Dinnertime at Fleet Landing is usually noisy, but families with little ones may find this to their advantage. Take in the ocean view as you enjoy some specialty crab cakes or she-crab soup.

Smoky Oak Taproom
Craving some good BBQ? Smokey Oak Taproom on James Island is the place to roll up your sleeves and don a bib.

In addition to pulled pork, chicken, beef brisket, pork ribs and many tasty sides, Smokey Oak offers more than 45 craft beers. Combined with its laid-back attitude, Smokey Oak is the perfect dinner place for casual family gatherings.

Final Thoughts

There is never a bad time for a Charleston family vacation. You can save money — and a few headaches — by planning your trip to the Holy City in advance. This way, you can take advantage of deals and avoid tourist traps that can suck your vacation budget dry.

Ready to put your vacation plans into action? Book your Charleston family vacation today and get ready to start making lasting family memories!

We welcomed so many fabulous additions to our vacation rental program last year. In case you missed them, all of these new properties offer a variety of options from 1 bedroom condos to a 6 bedroom house. Many of these are oceanfront or have ocean views, and are on Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, and in the Wild Dunes Resort.

3302 Cameron Blvd., “Marsh Madness”

44 Intracoastal Court, “Coral Relief”

1693 East Ashley Avenue, “Aydlhaus”

807 West Ashley Avenue “Cabana Blue Seascape”

807 West Ashley Avenue “Cabana Blue Oasis”

9 Sandcrab Court, “Island Cottage”

114 Grand Pavilion “Boardwalk Bliss”

203G Port O’ Call, “Time and Tides”

Book your 2015 vacation rental today!

South Carolina legislators are pushing a new law through that will allow home owners the availability to rent their primary residences as vacation rentals for up to 72 days from the current 14, without effecting their primary status. This means that home owners may elect to have their properties work more efficiently for them and earn their keep in offsetting ownership costs without having to worry about losing their 4% ratio and additional tax breaks.

A similar law was proposed several years ago, but was not successful getting passed. Now the law is coasting through with unanimous approval for vacation homes.

The County Assessor estimates that just under 500 homes will benefit from this plan and that about $1 million a year will be lost in tax revenue, according to the Post and Courier. However, what is not being stated is how this incentive will boost home sales in vacation areas around the Lowcountry, which will, in turn, provide a return in tax revenue to the state.

So, who wins with this program? Just about everybody. Homeowners will be able to better offset expenses, while home sales will boost the economy, aiding restaurants, retail, construction, and every other facet that benefits from a strong home market.

Good job S.C. Lawmakers!

-Brian Caldwell  843.224.7948  bcaldwell@dunesproperties.com

Not only did the vacation-home market have its largest gain since the National Association of REALTORS® started tracking home sales in 2003, but the market also accounted for 13% of home sales in the U.S. last year. Additionally, nearly half of vacation sales last year were in the South.

In their 2014 Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey, the NAR shows vacation-home sales jumped 29.7% to an estimated 717,000 last year from 553,000 in 2012. This boost in vacation-home sales can be attributed to last year’s stock market gains and rising home values, which brought buyer’s more wealth and confidence in the housing market, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Vacation property sales

The combination of buyer’s confidence and rising wealth of high-income households is what The Wall Street Journal calls the “wealth affect,” where people are willing to spend more money because they feel more wealthy. Many households last year earned more income, with the top 60% of earners seeing a 2.3% rise in income, according the U.S. Census Bureau.

So, why were buyers purchasing vacation homes? The majority of buyers want to use the property for vacations or a family retreat, while a small percentage may use it as a primary residence in the future or plan to rent it to others. These are all great reasons to invest in a vacation home, and there isn’t a better place to look than Charleston. With gorgeous beach communities like Isle of Palms, Wild Dunes, Folly Beach, or Kiawah Island, there are plenty of great options for a vacation rental. Come stop by one of our offices and chat with our experienced real estate agents or vacation rental management team!

Some of us cherish our vacation time and use our paid time off up to the last second. Others may be too busy at work to use all of their paid time off, or simply don’t have the desire to go on vacation. For those of you that leave a few hours on the table each year, you’re not alone. It turns out that over 40% of Americans who receive PTO don’t take advantage of it, according to a new study conducted by Oxford Economics for the U.S. Travel Association.

Did you know that among some of the benefits of taking your vacation time include higher productivity, stronger workplace moral, greater employee retention, and significant health benefits? Taking your vacation time is good for you!  Get away for a little while and unwind with your families, relax on the beach, read a book, and stimulate the economy while you’re at it. In fact, take a look at the amount you would be contributing to the economy if you took time off work, or how significantly you could be harming the economy by squandering a portion of the paid time off:

• Americans left a total of $429 million in unused days last year, at an average of 3.2 PTO days
• The economy would benefit from more than $160 billion in total business sales if workers used all of their available PTO
• Spending the $160 billion available from this PTO would support 1.2 million jobs in industries ranging from retail to transportation
• Taking one additional day of PTO off each year would have a $73 billion impact on the economy

If you’re not already booking your flight and renting your vacation home, then you should consider it. Not only is it good for the economy, but it is of great value to you personally.  Besides, what better way to gather your thoughts for your next big sales meeting or conference than by spending a few days sipping a delicious beverage on the beach?  Call us 888.843.2322 to book a vacation rental today.

Watch Out For “Location, Location, Location” Tunnel Vision

When designing a vacation rental strategy, success is found with five (or more) main amenity points. It is common to hear, “location, location, location,” in the business, but the perception of view and location often improperly shadows the importance of offering other supporting & unique amenities.

Focus On 5 (or more) Main Points of Amenities & Features

We have found offering five (or more) main and unique amenities will provide most vacation home owners with a healthy calendar and a robust rental rate… no matter the location and size of the property. Real estate pricing often leads buyers, and even some inexperienced agents, to believe a large oceanfront home is the best bet for producing rental income. This is often incorrect.

Unexpected Results

One of my most prized vacation rental accounts was a small, but beautiful, 2 bedroom beach house. The property was in demand nearly year round as it had little competition due to the unique size. This allowed for a solid 10 month rental season and for a very attractive rental rate for the home owner… in some cases much higher production than a 3 or 4 bedroom property. The home featured special amenities such as a Netflix movie device, a decked out & comfortable porch, wireless internet, flat screen TVs, pet friendly access, and totally remodeled baths & kitchen. A free book exchange added a great touch and a cabinet of board, dice, and card games provided the extra details guests seek while searching for the next vacation.

Not Just Rental Price

This is what is often misunderstood by managers and even some home owners; guests desire more than a low price and a place near the beach. Guests wish for relaxation, ample options, and value added features… even if they will not use them. Marketing these features properly captures a guest during the search and validates value when considering an above average price.

Guiding our clients with affordable and powerful marketing ideas which transform a property into a vacation experience is another service we offer at dunes properties. We invite you to explore more about our program!

by Wes Walker
Vice President of Rentals
Dunes Properties of Charleston
(843) 513-1604

Related Reading for Vacation Rental Home Owners…

• View all tips for vacation rental owners

What Are “In-House” Services in Vacation Property Management?

I’m often asked by potential clients, “What ‘in-house’ services does your company provide?” This is a great indication a sales pitch has been provided by another vacation property management company. ‘In-house’ refers to services provided by staff or employees of the vacation management company such as cleaning, HVAC repair, handyman work, and many others. It is specific work completed by the staff of the company… and billed by the company to the home owner. These services are not provided by 3rd party, independent providers like outside cleaning companies and HVAC repair companies. The services operate and originate within the management company.

How “In-House” Services Could Be Problematic

When a home owner selects a property management company, the relationship shares the same responsibilities as that of a real estate agent. Those legal responsibilities are Obedience, Loyalty, Disclosure, Confidentiality, Accounting, and Reasonable Care as written in SC Real Estate License laws. We, as licensed professionals, have a fiduciary responsibility to represent our client’s best interest first.

How can management companies represent a client’s best interest if the company decides how much a service, provided within their company, should cost for their client, the home owner? It seems like an obvious conflict of interest and a lack of transparency and the fiduciary responsibility previously mentioned.

Remember, your vacation management company should be working for you… and not vice versa. You are hiring someone to represent your best interest as the client and home owner. At dunes properties, we do not staff maintenance personnel, HVAC repairmen, or cleaners. We coordinate 3rd party providers so prices can be negotiated lower for our clients. It is the correct way to offer vacation property management and offers transparency to clients.

Similarly Troubling…

Unfortunately, it has become commonplace for legacy management companies to charge their clients a percentage of invoices. In my opinion, it is a terrible practice and also seems to be a conflict of interest. How can a company represent a home owner’s best interest if the company orders service and then receives a percentage of “mark up” on the work performed? It is arguably a legal kick back. Always check your management agreement for counter-intuitive inclusions like invoice mark ups.

by Wes Walker
Vice President of Vacation Rentals
Dunes Properties of Charleston
(843) 513-1604

Related Reading for Vacation Rental Home Owners…

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Why Guests Vacation

What guides a guest to book a vacation rental? Most believe it is price or location or amenities. Yes, these are very important, but it is important to remember the vacation is not about a house or condo or even the bells and whistles. It is about an experience. It’s somewhere to spend time with friends and family… and most importantly, to enjoy some rest & relaxation.

Rest & Relaxation

It appears obvious when stated, but R&R is the #1 reason guests vacation… and it is often over looked by many in the vacation rental business. Even guests tend to forget this during the lengthy research. Everyone is focused on pools and taxes and all the minor details… so it’s important to never forget why guests vacation. It’s all about the R&R. Guests want the confirmation and the reminder of why they began the quest in the first place. Great photography capturing the look and feel finishes the picture.

Sleeping Arrangements

We are often asked by new vacation home owners, “What sleeping arrangements should we use in our vacation rental?” I think it’s one of the most important questions we’re asked.  Keeping a mix of larger beds (queens and kings) with a few single sleeping arrangements will provide the best rental interest across all seasons. Often, we will suggest using a double / twin hybrid bed set for a 3rd or 4th bedroom… or a queen with a single trundle hidden below. It works well for singles travelings or young adults/kids. It’s important to resist the urge to decorate a room for kids. This limits your options.

Big, Beautiful Bedding

Fluffy and inviting bedding is also a great investment. It solidifies the guest’s interest for a relaxing vacation. Bedding will need replacement frequently as it is expected to be well enjoyed, so plan to replace these items often. It’s better to continue taking high value reservations than to worry about the relatively minimal cost of bedding.

Furniture and Furnishing

Furniture is also a big selling point from a guest’s perspective. Properties decorated with a thrift store approach are quickly skipped by potential guests researching online. Investing in affordable, replaceable, and inviting furniture is another extremely important step to owning a successful vacation rental.

by Wes Walker
Vice President of Vacation Rentals
Dunes Properties of Charleston
(843) 513-1604

Related Reading for Vacation Rental Home Owners…

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The Most Costly Vacation Rental Furnishings

In the past, homeowners would fill their rental homes with low price furnishings. It was a great way to save a few bucks, right? Grab a few tables, dressers, bed sets, and wall pieces from a thrift store and voila… a full furnished vacation rental!

This is no longer a good idea. In fact, the thrift store approach is a very, very poor one and extremely costly for vacation home owners.

Today’s guests have an endless list of vacation options thanks to the web and growing vacation rental marketplace. While online, guests quickly compare properties’s furnishing. Poorly furnished properties are skipped… and quickly skipped.

Owners still using the “thrift store” approach often forget why people are thinking of vacationing. Guest want to rest and relax. Yes, the beach and water are a big part of the interest, but rest & relaxation are the keys to great vacations. Without a good presentation of a comfortably furnished property, “thrift store” properties are doomed to a wildly poor rental schedule.

What To Avoid – The Big Three

• Light Tan Woods – looks like it was just in a dorm room
• Everything Wicker –  color doesn’t matter but white is the worst
• Gold & Brass – this is more about hardware but gold/brass takes 20 years off your property

How costly is the “thrift store approach” in vacation rentals?

A strong example can be made for two side-by-side condominiums we managed years ago. The first condo was comfortable, colorful, and updated. The second was decorated by an owner with a thrift store preference. The first condo owner generated $30,000 more in a year than the second condo owner. The investment of a few thousand in good furniture generated 10x the return. Other hidden loss also includes the maintenance to repair and patch old furniture.

It is important to mention that furniture price is not the key. Affordable, comfortable, and replaceable is the best approach. Pricey and custom furniture is the same mistake as buying thrift.

by Wes Walker
Vice President of Vacation Rentals
Dunes Properties of Charleston
(843) 513-1604

Related Reading for Vacation Rental Home Owners…

• View all tips for vacation rental owners

The Importance of Professional Photography

Although this may seem like common sense, it is surprising how many legacy property management programs overlook this #1 in marketing a vacation rental home or condominium. The web has changed how customers absorb information. The importance of visual has not changed, but the speed in which a customers needs to experience the vacation home through photograph has changed dramatically.