Charleston is a city that invites exploration without the hassle of public transportation or navigating unfamiliar traffic. Its compact downtown, gorgeous beaches, and nearby islands make it ideal for private driver services that offer comfort, flexibility, and peace of mind. Whether you’re arriving at Charleston International Airport or heading out to the seaside, using a private transfer can save you time and stress—especially after a long flight or a busy day sightseeing. These services are perfect for travelers wanting a smooth, personalized experience, with some options catering to large groups, others for quick city arrivals, and even round-trip excursions to Kiawah or Seabrook Islands.
In this guide, we’ll look at seven of the best private driver services in Charleston, each with unique features, price points, and destinations. From airport pickups to island retreats, these options help you skip the long taxi lines, avoid rental car hassles, and start your trip on a relaxed note.
Quick Overview
We’ve included a range of private transfer options suitable for different needs. For quick airport arrivals and departures, consider the Charleston Airport (CHS) to Charleston city – Arrival Private Transfer, ideal for a hassle-free start to your trip. If you’re heading straight to Charleston’s beautiful beaches, the Folly Beach private transfer or its round-trip counterpart offers comfort and convenience. For larger groups or those planning island excursions, the Kiawah/Seabrook Islands round-trip transfer provides space and affordability. Lastly, for seamless city arrivals and departures, the Charleston airport to city round-trip rounds out the list with its reliable service.
Now, let’s explore each option in detail to help you decide which private driver service matches your travel plans.
1. Charleston AirportCHS to Isle of Palms/Sullivans Private Transfer
Starting with the basics, this private round-trip transfer takes you from Charleston Airport directly to your Isle of Palms or Sullivans Island hotel or address. It’s the straightforward choice if your main goal is to avoid waiting in long taxi queues or shared shuttles. The service promises door-to-door comfort, with your driver waiting for you at a specified time, holding a nameplate, and tracking your flight for a smooth pickup.
The cars are kept clean and professional, and the process is transparent — with no hidden charges. This service is perfect if you’re traveling in a group and want to start your beach stay without hassle. The approximate duration is 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it quick and easy to get from the airport to the coast.
What makes this stand out is the convenience of pre-booked, private transport combined with the simplicity of flight tracking. Although reviews are currently unavailable, the service’s emphasis on professionalism and comfort makes it a reliable option.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers who prioritize ease and direct service, especially if you’re heading straight to the islands and want to skip the usual taxi lines.
2. Charleston Airport (CHS) to Folly Beach – Arrival Private Transfer
If your first stop is Folly Beach, this private arrival transfer offers a comfortable, stress-free way to get there directly from Charleston Airport. For around $142, you’ll enjoy door-to-door service with a driver waiting at the airport, ready to whisk you to the seaside. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes, perfect for those eager to hit the sand after their flight.
This service emphasizes flight monitoring, ensuring your driver is ready when you land, even if your flight is delayed. The cars are clean, professional, and equipped to handle your luggage, providing a smooth start to your beach holiday. It’s especially valuable if you want to avoid crowded taxis or trying to organize transport upon arrival.
While there are no reviews yet, the focus on personalized service and reliable timing makes this a solid choice. It’s best suited for travelers who value convenience and want to maximize time relaxing rather than waiting around.
Bottom Line: Ideal for vacationers heading straight to Folly Beach, providing a quick, hassle-free transfer with flight tracking included.
3. Charleston Airport (CHS) to Folly Beach – Round-Trip Private Transfer
For those planning a longer stay or multiple trips to Folly Beach, this round-trip private transfer offers the convenience of pre-arranged pickups both ways. Priced at $284.48 per person, it ensures seamless transfers at both arrival and departure, so you don’t need to worry about taxis or ride-shares.
This service is especially suitable for groups of friends or families who want a reliable, private ride without the expense or hassle of renting a car. The duration is about 1 hour and 10 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery or chat with your driver.
While no reviews are available, the service’s focus on door-to-door comfort and flight tracking adds peace of mind. Keep in mind that for this kind of service, it’s best suited for travelers who prefer to avoid the unpredictability of ride-shares or rental cars during their entire stay.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to set their transportation in advance, offering the convenience of a round-trip service to avoid last-minute arrangements.
4. Charleston Airport (CHS) to Kiawah/Seabrook Islands – Roundtrip Private Transfer
If your Charleston visit includes exploring the luxury Kiawah or Seabrook Islands, this round-trip private transfer offers an effortless way to move between the airport and your accommodations. Designed for groups of eight or fewer, it balances affordability with comfort.
At $402.44 per person, this service is a cost-effective alternative to renting a car, especially since it includes space for sport equipment and helps you avoid long taxi or rideshare lines. The duration is about 1 hour 50 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the scenery. The service is especially appealing for active travelers who want to bring bikes, surfboards, or golf gear.
While reviews aren’t yet available, the emphasis on group capacity and cost savings makes it an appealing choice for families or small groups looking for a straightforward island transfer.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for larger groups heading to Kiawah or Seabrook, combining convenience, cost savings, and space for outdoor gear.
5. Charleston Airport (CHS) to Charleston city – Arrival Private Transfer
For travelers arriving at Charleston Airport and heading straight into downtown, this private transfer combines reliability with comfort. Priced at $129.52, the service includes meet and greet, luggage assistance, and flight monitoring, making it a hassle-free way to start your city stay.
The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, so you’ll be relaxing in your hotel or vacation rental shortly after landing. The driver waits for you at the arrivals hall, ensuring you avoid the long taxi lines that can sometimes pile up during busy travel times. All taxes and fees are included, so there are no surprises.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value timely service and prefer to avoid the chaos of on-the-spot transportation arrangements. The focus on professional drivers and comfort makes it ideal for business travelers or first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: A reliable, budget-friendly way to start your Charleston visit with minimal fuss and maximum comfort.
6. Charleston Airport (CHS) to Charleston city – Round-Trip Private Transfer
This round-trip service is tailored for those who want to avoid taxis or rideshares on both ends of their stay. For $259.13 per person, your driver will pick you up from Charleston Airport and drop you off at your hotel or address downtown, then be ready to return when your trip ends.
The approximately 1-hour journey ensures a smooth, comfortable ride with the convenience of pre-arranged scheduling. It’s suitable for groups of up to eight, making it perfect for families or friends traveling together. The service is also accommodating for service animals and infants, which broadens its appeal.
If you value reliable, on-time pickups and a stress-free arrival and departure, this option fits well. It’s a good alternative to renting a car, especially for those who don’t want to drive or deal with parking downtown.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking seamless, round-trip city transfers with comfort and reliability built-in.
7. Charleston city to Charleston Airport (CHS) – Departure Private Transfer
Finally, for your trip home, this private departure transfer ensures you leave Charleston without the worry of missing your flight. Starting at $129.56, your driver will pick you up at your hotel or address, assist with luggage, and get you to Charleston Airport with plenty of time.
The journey takes roughly 30 minutes, so you can sit back and relax before your flight. The driver waits with a nameplate, and the service includes flight tracking to accommodate any delays. This service is perfect if you prefer to plan your departure ahead and avoid the unpredictability of last-minute transportation.
It’s especially suitable for travelers with early flights or those who want to avoid the stress of last-minute arrangements. The emphasis on professionalism and timely service makes it a dependable choice for city departures.
Bottom Line: A solid, stress-free way to finish your Charleston trip with comfort and confidence.
How to Choose the Right Private Driver Service
When choosing between these options, consider your budget, schedule, and specific needs. If you’re arriving and want an inexpensive, reliable ride into downtown Charleston, the city arrival service is straightforward. For a beach getaway, the Folly Beach transfer offers a quick and simple way to start relaxing. Larger groups planning island visits will find the Kiawah/Seabrook Islands roundtrip ideal.
If you want to avoid rental cars altogether, round-trip services provide peace of mind. For those leaving Charleston, the city departure transfer offers a reliable way to get to the airport without stress.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred time and vehicle.
Final Thoughts
Charleston’s private driver services range from quick airport transfers to extensive island trips, each designed to take the stress out of your travel plans. For travelers prioritizing affordability and simplicity, the city transfers are hard to beat. For those heading to the coast or islands, options like the Folly Beach or Kiawah/Seabrook services offer convenience and the space for outdoor gear.
No matter your choice, using a private driver ensures a smooth start and finish to your Charleston trip. Consider your plans carefully, book early, and enjoy the comfort of a personalized ride through this charming city and its beautiful surroundings.