The Cooper
I recently spent a weekend at The Cooper with my best friend of 25 years. We both live within driving distance and have escaped to Charleston more times than we can count. So when The Cooper—the city's most anticipated luxury hotel opening—welcomed its first guests, it quickly found its way to the top of our list.
Opened in 2026, The Cooper is Charleston's newest luxury hotel and the city's only true waterfront luxury property. Located along the harbor just steps from the Historic District, it brings a more contemporary style of luxury to a destination long known for its historic inns and boutique hotels.
From a guest's perspective, our stay exceeded every expectation. From a luxury travel advisor's perspective, I was equally impressed. Before we had even checked out, we were already planning our return—because honestly, can you imagine ringing in New Year's Eve at The Cooper with fireworks lighting up Charleston Harbor?
So what makes The Cooper so special?
The experience begins long before you arrive. Shortly after your reservation is confirmed, you're introduced to a dedicated Guest Relations contact who helps personalize your stay, answer questions, and coordinate any special requests. It's a small touch that makes a noticeable difference.
By the time we arrived, the team was expecting us. Check-in was seamless, and within minutes we were settling into the hotel rather than standing at the front desk. It's exactly the kind of thoughtful hospitality that sets the tone for the rest of a stay.
Over the course of the weekend, we made it our mission to experience as much of the property as possible—from every dining venue to the spa, pool, coffee bar, and, of course, our guest room.
One of The Cooper's greatest differentiators is its location. It's the only luxury waterfront hotel in downtown Charleston, and the harbor becomes part of the experience. If your budget allows, I wholeheartedly recommend reserving a water-view room. Waking up to the sunrise over the harbor and watching boats drift by from your room is well worth the additional cost.
Every meal was memorable. We enjoyed lunch poolside at Bar Marti (twice!), cocktails in the lobby bar (which may have served the best olives I've had outside of Europe), dinner at The Crossing, room service, and breakfast each morning—which is complimentary when you book through a preferred travel advisor like Jessica Drew Travel.
The standout dishes? The lobster roll at Bar Marti and the "Taste of the Tide" crudo at The Crossing. Both are worth ordering.
One small moment perfectly captured the hotel's approach to service. I stopped to ask the concierge where the newly opened coffee and wine bar was. Rather than pointing me in the right direction, he personally walked me there. It's such a simple gesture, but one that feels increasingly rare. Those are the moments guests remember long after a trip ends.
The spa deserves its own mention. It's one of the most beautifully designed spas I've visited in recent years, and my massage was among the best I've had. In fact, the design throughout the entire hotel is so thoughtfully executed that I left wanting to redecorate my own home.
Can you tell I loved my stay?
For a hotel that has only recently opened, The Cooper has already established a remarkably polished operation and is setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Charleston. I have no doubt it will become one of the city's most sought-after places to stay.
If you're planning a trip to Charleston and are looking for a hotel that pairs exceptional service, thoughtful design, outstanding dining, and an unbeatable waterfront location, The Cooper should absolutely be on your shortlist.
Who is The Cooper good for? In my opinion, The Cooper is best suited for couples, girlfriends' getaways, and adults looking for a sophisticated Charleston escape. While the hotel does welcome children, I wouldn't necessarily describe it as a family-focused property.
Instead, The Cooper feels designed for guests who appreciate exceptional dining, beautiful design, a tranquil spa, and leisurely afternoons by the pool or overlooking the harbor. It's the kind of place where you linger over breakfast, enjoy a cocktail before dinner, and savor the experience as much as the destination itself.
If you're planning a romantic weekend, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for one of Charleston's most luxurious places to stay, The Cooper is an easy recommendation.
After experiencing The Cooper firsthand, it's a hotel I'll be recommending with complete confidence to clients looking for the very best of Charleston. If you're considering a stay, I'd be happy to help you plan it. Clients of Jessica Drew Travel receive exclusive preferred partner amenities, including complimentary daily breakfast, a hotel credit, and additional VIP benefits when available.
