The Ryder Hotel

In a way it’s an unusual fit for Charleston, with its midcentury inspiration and its slightly hedonistic, bohemian atmosphere. But in other ways, the Ryder Hotel is as Charleston as it gets, down to its embrace of the quasi-tropical accents that are this seaside town’s signature. The original structure dates back to 1958, and it’s only now, after a very thorough restoration, that it properly represents the glamour of the era of its founding.

Rooms are stylish, decorated mostly in white and light wood, and carefully balance visual minimalism with the warmth contributed by organic materials. They’re somehow both urbanely sophisticated and so beachy you’ll be surprised to find you’re a half-mile from the waterfront rather than flip-flop distance from the surf.

The Ryder’s wellness program is small-scale and personalized; in-room spa treatments are available, and they’ll even install a Peloton bike for some en-suite exercise. There’s also a swimming pool, which is actually something of a rarity in Charleston hotels — as well as a poolside café and bar called Little Palm, which offers colorful drinks and light bites by day and transforms into something a little swankier and more substantial at night.