November 3, 2025
Consistently ranked among America’s most charming and romantic destinations, Charleston, South Carolina, blends Southern grace, coastal beauty, and timeless charm. Voted “America’s Most Romantic City” by Travel + Leisure, this Lowcountry gem has become a top retirement destination for active adults seeking culture, comfort, and connection. From cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture to soulful Lowcountry cuisine and ocean breezes, Charleston offers retirees an enchanting setting for their next chapter.
Beyond its postcard-perfect scenery, Charleston is also home to a growing number of 55+ and active adult communities designed for today’s retirees. Whether you crave waterfront living, golf and recreation, or proximity to historic downtown, you’ll find a lifestyle that fits your pace. Watch the sunrise from the Battery, tour the city by horse-drawn carriage, or kayak through scenic marshlands—the possibilities for relaxation and romance are endless.
Here are a few top retirement communities near Charleston, SC, that capture the spirit of this beloved coastal city:
Daniel Island
Frequently recognized among Where to Retire magazine’s “50 Best Master-Planned Communities in the U.S.,” Daniel Island is a 4,000-acre island town just 15 miles from downtown Charleston. This award-winning community features traditional neighborhoods, scenic parks, and a charming downtown district with shops and dining. Residents enjoy access to the private Daniel Island Club, featuring two championship golf courses by Tom Fazio and Rees Jones. With its harborfront setting, miles of waterways, and endless recreation, Daniel Island combines small-town living with a sophisticated coastal lifestyle.
K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Lakes of Cane Bay
Located in Summerville, just outside Charleston, K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Lakes of Cane Bay is a premier 55+ community surrounded by 300 acres of scenic lakes and wetlands. Designed for active adults, it offers kayaking, fishing, bird watching, and miles of lakeside trails. The community’s impressive clubhouse features fitness facilities, swimming pools, and courts for tennis, pickleball, and bocce ball. With year-round social events, clubs, and activities, residents enjoy a true sense of community and resort-style living in the heart of the Lowcountry.
Kiawah River Estates
Set along the Kiawah River just 20 miles from historic downtown Charleston, Kiawah River Estates offers gated waterfront living infused with Lowcountry charm. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities including a pool, tennis courts, and nearby access to world-class golf, boating, and fishing. With its peaceful natural setting and close proximity to Kiawah and Seabrook Islands, this established community is perfect for retirees seeking beauty, serenity, and easy access to Charleston’s rich cultural scene.
Point Hope
One of Charleston’s newest master-planned communities, Point Hope offers a fresh take on Lowcountry living with thoughtfully designed neighborhoods and a true live-work-play lifestyle. Residents enjoy walkable access to shops, restaurants, and schools, as well as miles of trails that connect to hundreds of acres of preserved natural spaces. Coastal contemporary homes feature modern touches and expansive porches that embrace outdoor living. Upcoming amenities like The Sanders House community center and Doolittle Park—complete with pools, tennis, and pickleball—will make Point Hope a destination for both families and retirees seeking a connected, active lifestyle just minutes from Charleston’s historic core.
Find Your Place in Charleston
Romantic, historic, and endlessly inviting, Charleston, South Carolina, is more than a destination—it’s a way of life. Whether you’re drawn to golf, water recreation, or a walkable coastal town steeped in history, retirement communities in Charleston offer something for every lifestyle. Discover your perfect match and start your next chapter in America’s most romantic city.
About the Author
With over 20 years of experience as a seasoned content creator, Robert Borges is the senior writer for Private Communities Registry (PCR), specializing in real estate trends and master-planned communities. He works closely with builders, developers, and real estate pros to create helpful content that guides homebuyers in finding the perfect community, ensuring they have the information needed to make confident, informed decisions.
