From Orlando, FL to Charleston, SC

Orlando to Charleston Road Trip — Your Summer Itinerary

A road trip from sunny Orlando to historic Charleston blends Florida’s relaxed energy, Atlantic-coast views, coastal towns, and Southern charm. This Orlando to Charleston road trip itinerary turns a drive into an adventure with curated stops, scenic detours, and a perfect finish at The Restoration Hotel Charleston.

Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a loved one, this route delivers variety — from beach towns to marshland drives — before ending in the cobblestone-streets and warm hospitality of Charleston.

Why Drive From Orlando to Charleston

  • The driving distance from Orlando to Charleston is roughly 380 miles (about 6 hrs drive) when taken directly. Travelmath+1

  • Spreading the drive over 1–2 days lets you enjoy small towns, coastal detours, and scenic stops instead of a hectic road-dash.

  • You get to experience both Florida’s and the Lowcountry’s coastal charms — perfect for a summer escape.

Suggested 2–Day Itinerary: Orlando → Charleston

Day 1: Depart Orlando → Coastal Detours & Overnight Stop

  • Begin early in Orlando, grab breakfast, and hit the road heading northeast.

  • Optionally detour toward Florida’s Atlantic Coast — consider a stop in St. Augustine for a dose of history or even Daytona Beach for coastal vibes.

  • As you continue north, you may explore nature parks, coastal inlets, or coastal Georgia towns (depending on route preference).

  • Wrap up Day 1 with a stay in a coastal or historic town along the path — rest up before the final leg.

Day 2: Coastal Drive → Arrival in Charleston & Hotel Check-In

  • After morning coffee and a relaxed start, continue north toward South Carolina.

  • As you cross the state line, notice the landscape shift — pine forests, marshes, coastal inlets, and eventually the drawbridges and waterways near Charleston.

  • Aim to arrive mid-afternoon or early evening. Check in at The Restoration Hotel Charleston, unpack, and enjoy a gentle first evening stroll or dinner downtown.

Must-See Stops & Optional Detours En Route

This road trip gains magic when you take the scenic paths and coastal shortcuts instead of rushing. Here are a few worth considering:

  • Historic downtown St. Augustine, FL — the nation’s oldest city (cobblestone lanes, rich heritage, colorful architecture)

  • Daytona Beach — for oceanfront energy, boardwalk vibes, or a quick beach break

  • Coastal-Georgia towns or marshland overlooks — depending on your route choice

  • A coastal or marshland ferry/bridge route toward South Carolina to set the tone for Lowcountry arrival

Each of these detours turns driving time into mini-adventures, giving you glimpses of coastal culture, history, and nature before Charleston arrives.

Why The Restoration Hotel Charleston Is the Perfect Road-Trip Finish

After hours on the road, you don’t just need a hotel — you need a home base. At The Restoration Hotel Charleston, you get:

  • Apartment-style suites with real kitchens, living/dining areas, and private bedrooms — perfect for unloading, relaxing, or cooking after travel.

  • Boutique-hotel service with downtown location — walkable access to Charleston’s historic district, restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

  • Calm, welcoming ambiance that transforms arrival into comfort, not just a quick night’s stay.

Relax or Explore: First Night Options

If you arrive in the evening, you’ll want something low-effort and memorable:

  • Head up to The Watch Rooftop (the hotel’s rooftop dining/bar) for cocktails and southern plates with skyline views — a lovely contrast after a day on the road.

  • Or settle into your suite, cook a simple meal, and unwind quietly — your home away from home awaits.

What to Do Over the Weekend in Charleston

Once you’re rested, Charleston offers an ideal reward for the drive:

  • Walk historic downtown streets — cobblestones, pastel homes, and southern charm.

  • Explore local restaurants serving Lowcountry cuisine, seafood, and seasonal southern dishes.

  • Browse boutiques, galleries, and artisan shops along King Street and nearby lanes.

  • Consider a waterfront stroll or carriage ride to soak in the city’s history and coastal vibe.

  • For beach lovers — a short drive away, Charleston’s surrounding barrier islands offer surf, sand, and coastal escape.

Lear more about Charleston and what it has to offer.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Orlando → Charleston Road Trip

  • Start early to avoid Florida and Georgia midday heat and traffic.

  • Bring a cooler with water and snacks for comfort between stops.

  • Pack layers — the weather can shift from Florida’s warmth to Charleston’s coastal breeze.

  • Leave buffer time for detours — coastal roads and bridges may slow you down (but are worth the views).

  • Book your hotel ahead — summer in Charleston fills up fast, especially on weekends.

Your Orlando to Charleston Road Trip Starts Now

From Florida’s sunny roads to South Carolina’s marsh-lined arrival, this Orlando to Charleston road trip offers a perfect blend of coastal charm, history, and southern hospitality.

If you’re ready to trade the highway for cobblestones, ocean breezes, and city charm — plan your route, hit the road, and finish strong with a stay at The Restoration Hotel Charleston.

Book your stay now and turn this road trip into a southern summer memory.