Shem Creek Inn: Your Charleston Escape Awaits!
Shem Creek Inn: My Charleston Escape…Or Was It A Near Miss? (A Frankly Honest Review)
Alright, alright, buckle up buttercups. You’re about to get the real Shem Creek Inn experience, straight from the trenches of my Charleston getaway. I’m talking messy hair, questionable decisions, and a whole heap of opinions – the kind you won't find in those slick hotel brochures. Oh, and I'll try to be helpful to boot. But no promises.
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First Impressions…and the Wheelchair Ramp of Doom (Accessibility, Access)
Okay, let's start with the elephant in the room (or, you know, the wheelchair ramp I almost didn't make it up). I needed accessible accommodations, and the website said they had them. Lies, all lies! Kidding (mostly). The ramp was… well, let’s just say it looked like it was designed by someone who’d never seen a wheelchair. Seriously, it was steep. But hey, at least it technically existed, right? I, thankfully, was able to awkwardly wobble my way up, but I shudder to think of anyone with actual mobility issues trying it. ( Accessibility, Facilities for disabled guests) So thumbs up, kind of. But honestly? Needs a serious overhaul, guys.
(Rant Alert: Accessibility) It's 2024! This isn't rocket science!
Inside the Fortress of Cleanliness (Cleanliness and Safety)
Once I’d conquered Everest (aka the ramp), I was greeted by… a lot of sanitizing. Like, a lot. They take their cleanliness seriously here, which, post-pandemic, I actually appreciated. There were hand sanitizer stations everywhere, and staff were constantly wiping things down. ( Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment). I even saw them sterilizing equipment… I'm assuming the coffee machine, but you never really know. This definitely made me feel safe. And the room? Spotless. Like, disturbingly so. Maybe they have some sort of ninja cleaner squad lurking in the shadows.
(Personal Touch: Cleanliness) The cleanliness was a huge plus for me. I'm a bit of a germaphobe, and I felt like I could breathe easy.
My Room: A Mixed Bag of Blessings (Available in all rooms)
Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of the room. Air conditioning? Check. ( Air conditioning ) Free Wi-Fi? Double check! ( Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, Internet access – wireless, Wi-Fi [free] ) The bed? Surprisingly comfy. I crashed after our long drive. ( Extra long bed, Linens ) The bathroom… well, it was functional. ( Additional toilet, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Toiletries, Towels ) Nice view, the blackout curtains were awesome, and the mini-bar was stocked, but the price of a simple bottle of water nearly made me choke. ( Blackout curtains, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Free bottled water, Mini bar, Mirror ) ( Additional toilet, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Toiletries, Towels )
(Confession: Rooms) I did, however, find a suspicious stain on the carpet. Don't judge, it was probably just juice!
Things to Do, or, How I Spent My Vacation…Mostly Eating (Things to do, ways to relax, Dining, drinking, and snacking)
Shem Creek itself is a major draw. Right on the waterfront, it's a hub of restaurants, bars, and…well, more restaurants. ( Bar, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Snack bar ) I’m a foodie, so this was a huge win for me. My diet plan went straight out the window.
I'll be honest, the inn is not exactly overflowing with activities on-site. They have a small gym ( Fitness center, Gym/fitness ) which I avoided because, well, vacation. And there’s an outdoor pool ( Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor] ) which, I did enjoy. The view was spectacular. I do recommend that you bring a book, your sense of adventure and an empty stomach.
But let's talk about the Shem Creek experience – the restaurant scene.
The Restaurant Odyssey: A Culinary Rollercoaster
There are several restaurants on the creek. I'm told. I remember. I tried them. I might have gotten lost in the culinary labyrinth.
- The One with the Shrimp and Grits: Classic Charleston. Divine. I could barely talk. I was in food heaven. ( A la carte in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant )
- The One with the Cocktails: It was delightful. The cocktails were dangerous. The view was amazing. I don't remember much.
- The One with the…well, I don’t remember: There were, so many choices which, to be fair, it was a little overwhelming.
(Observation: Food) The food scene is definitely the star of the show. Just pace yourself, or you’ll end up like me: slightly tipsy, overly full, and vowing to do a juice cleanse.
Spa Day Dreams (Spa, Spa/sauna, Massage)
Did I mention I needed to relax? I took a look at their options, but I wound up getting a massage somewhere off property.
(Wish-List: Spa) The lack of an on-site spa was a slight bummer. If they'd had a spa, I might never have left the hotel.
Services and Conveniences: The Good, the Bad, and the Slightly Confusing (Services and conveniences)
The front desk staff were friendly and helpful and the concierge was useful. ( Concierge, Front desk [24-hour], Luggage storage) There’s a basic convenience store ( Convenience store ) in the lobby for late-night snacks, which is a lifesaver. They had car parking ( Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site] ) and they offered a laundry service ( Laundry service ) and dry cleaning ( Dry cleaning )
The elevator ( Elevator ) was a godsend for my accessibility needs. ( Accessibility, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests )
The Verdict: Would I Return?
Honestly? Yes. ( Hotel chain, Non-smoking rooms ) Despite the hiccup with the accessibility, and the slight lack of on-site activities, Shem Creek Inn has a lot going for it. The location can't be beat, the food is amazing, and the cleanliness is a definite win. I would probably visit again.
Final Score: 7.5/10…and a strong recommendation to improve the accessibility ramp!
(Metadata Recap for the Google Bots)
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- Meta Description: Read a brutally honest review of Shem Creek Inn in Charleston. Find out about accessibility, food, amenities, and whether it's worth the hype!
(P.S.) If you go, definitely try the shrimp and grits. Just trust me. You'll thank me later.
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Hotel Plaza Kachigawa, Kasugai, Japan!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this ain't your perfectly-manicured travel brochure! This is SHEM CREEK, baby, and we're about to get delightfully messy with it. My trip to the Shem Creek Inn in Mount Pleasant, SC, is about to be… well, let's just say it's going to be an experience.
SHEM CREEK RUCKUS: A VERY UNSCHEDULED ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival… and Immediate Impatience
1 PM (ish): Arrive at Charleston International Airport (CHS). Okay, first hurdle… baggage claim. And of course, my suitcase is the last one to decide it's ready to join the party. Commence internal monologue of "Why me? Why always me?" followed by a sigh that could power a small town for a week. Finally, victorious! Find the rental car – a little red number named "Scarlett" (because, you know, South Carolina).
2:30 PM: Make the drive to Mount Pleasant. The scenery? Gorgeous. The traffic? Well, let's just say Scarlett and I had a "friendly" disagreement with a minivan over a lane merge. My blood pressure rose.
3:30 PM: Check into the Shem Creek Inn. Ooof! I was hoping for that breezy, "ahhh, vacation!" feeling but instead it was "Where's the room key? Wait, is that a seagull attacking a french fry?" Okay, first impressions: quaint. The waterfront view? Stunning. Immediately forgot about the traffic. The room is… well, let's call it "rustic charm." A small patch of the ceiling appeared to be missing paint (who knows, maybe the ghosts of pirates, or maybe just a leaky roof), but hey, the bed looks comfy and that view! Breathe in the ocean air. Breathe it in.
4 PM: Mandatory waterfront exploration! I mean, I'm practically obligated to walk the Shem Creek boardwalk. Stroll, people-watch, and snap a million photos. The smell of salt and fried food hits me like a warm hug (of the kind that makes you hungry). Did I mention the pelicans? They're majestic, I tell you. So majestic that I managed to almost fall in the creek while trying to get a photo of one. My clumsy self, this is how my "athletic" phase ends before it begins.
5 PM: Drinks at Tavern & Table. Oh, the magic of happy hour! Their "Shem Creek Sunset" cocktail is pure bliss, and the appetizers? Devine. This is where the vacay really starts. Watching the boats drift in and out.
7 PM: Dinner at one of the many waterside restaurants (still deciding! Maybe the Old Village Post House for something a little fancier, or maybe I'll just wander until hunger overpowers me and eat at the nearest place with a view). The decision fatigue! Anyway, whatever I pick, pretty sure I'll be ordering seafood. Can't avoid the inevitable.
9 PM: Stargazing on the dock. Assuming I can actually see any stars, given all the city lights. But even if not, the sound of the water and the cool air… pure therapy.
Day 2: Creek Capers and a Little Bit of Chaos
8 AM: Wake up to the sounds of the ocean and a vague sense of "what the heck did I eat last night?" Drink a coffee on the balcony, feeling like I own the world for a minute.
9 AM: Kayak adventure with Coastal Expeditions. This is where the real adventure starts! Or, at least, where I hope the adventure starts. I’m not exactly Mr. or Mrs. Outdoorsy. Actually, kayaking is a nightmare. I’m going to be clumsy. I'm going to get wet. I'm going to paddle in circles before remembering… well, I have no freaking clue, I can't think straight. But! The chance to explore the area from the water? Worth it. The guide's an absolute treasure.
12 PM: Casual Lunch. I've heard the Shrimp Tacos at Rooftop Bar are legendary, I'm going to find out. My stomach growls in anticipation. Did I mention I'm always hungry? It's a curse and a blessing.
2 PM: A bit of retail therapy. Seriously, every trip needs at least a touch of regretful spending. There's a charming little boutique up the road that looks perfect for impulse buys. And hey, I deserve a souvenir, right? Maybe a seashell.
4 PM: The ultimate, most crucial, and most anticipated event is getting a massage at the Inn. This is my moment of zen, my chance to melt into a puddle of pure relaxation. Oh, the bliss!
7 PM: Holy City Brewing - it's just my style. They have a great, wide selection of craft beers and a nice, laid-back atmosphere
8:30 PM: Take a long walk.
Day 3: Farewell (But I'll Be Back!)
9 AM: Enjoy a final breakfast with a view. Soak it all in. Another cup of coffee. The air is still cool.
10 AM: Last stroll along the boardwalk. One last deep breath of that salty air. One last photo of a pelican.
11 AM: Check out. Say goodbye (for now).
12 PM: The only thing left is to drive Scarlett back to Charleston International Airport, and… sigh. Reality. But Mount Pleasant, Shem Creek, you gave me a glimpse of paradise and a reminder to embrace the messiness of life. I'll be back, mark my words. This much is for sure.
Shem Creek Inn: FAQs - Because Life Doesn't Always Run Smoothly (Thank Goodness!)
Alright, alright, so you're thinking about Shem Creek Inn? Awesome! Or maybe... maybe a little hesitant? Look, I get it. Planning a trip is a minefield of questions. So, let’s get this show on the road. I'm gonna be brutally honest, because, well, that's kind of my thing. Think of me as your slightly-too-caffeinated friend who's already stayed there (and possibly had a few too many margaritas at the nearby Red's). Here goes...
1. Is Shem Creek Inn Actually ON Shem Creek? Because the website looks photoshopped. (Just kidding... mostly.)
Okay, first of all, *rude* to the website! But... I see your point. YES, it *is* on Shem Creek. Like, practically you can lean out your window and *almost* snag a shrimp boat. (Don't do that, obviously. Probably illegal and definitely frowned upon.) But seriously, the views? Spectacular. I stayed in Room 203 (more on that later…) and I swore I could hear the seagulls gossiping. The creek is alive, active, boats coming and going, people kayaking... It's not some static, posed postcard – it's *real*. Which means, sometimes, you get the smells of the sea, which can be... well, “evocative,” let's say. And sometimes, the noise of the live music from the restaurants wafts over, which can be a *blessing* or a curse, depending on your tolerance for slightly off-key covers of classic rock at 11 PM. (I leaned *blessing*, personally.)
2. The Reviews Mention Cockroaches. Should I be terrified? Like, packing-a- hazmat-suit terrified?
Okay, here's the lowdown. Charleston is humid. Charleston is sub-tropical. Charleston… has some insect friends. Yes, I read those reviews too. And honestly? I didn't see ANY creepy crawlies. Not one. Maybe I just got lucky. But look, I'm a city girl. I'm basically a cockroach *magnet*. If there had been any of those little speed demons I would have lost my mind. BUT. Prepare for the *possibility*. Pack some bug spray, maybe a strategically placed sticky trap (just in case, you know?). And perhaps, most importantly, don't leave any food out. Don't be THAT guest. Look, I’m sure the inn does what it can. It's not a sterile, hermetically sealed bubble. It’s on the water! Embrace the adventure, and the potential for a bit of… wildlife. (Just… keep the lights on when you enter the bathroom at night, okay?)
3. Is the breakfast any good? I *require* a good breakfast. It's a non-negotiable.
Breakfast... Ah, the most important meal of the day. Okay. So here's the deal. It's included. Yay! It's a continental breakfast, meaning, you're not gonna get a gourmet waffle bar with endless mimosas. (Bummer, right?) I remember… I think it was toast, bagels, some fruit, maybe the occasional muffin. Standard fare. But! They had *decent* coffee. And the best part? You can take it out to the little balcony and watch the creek wake up. Which, honestly, is worth a thousand subpar blueberry muffins. Plus, there are *tons* of amazing breakfast spots a short walk away. Like, seriously good, like, “I want to eat this every day” good. So, manage your breakfast expectations accordingly. It’s functional. It's not the *main event*. But it'll get you going.
4. Parking – Is it a nightmare? Because I heard Charleston parking is legendary for being a pain in the… neck.
Alright, parking. This is a *crucial* question. Yes, Charleston parking can be a beast. But at Shem Creek Inn? It's… decent. Not perfect. You *might* have to circle the lot a few times, especially during peak season. But unlike downtown, you’re *not* battling for space on a tiny cobblestone street. They have a dedicated lot, which is a huge win. Be prepared to walk a *little* bit, depending on where you park. But honestly, it's manageable. If you *hate* driving and parking, Uber or Lyft is your friend. I actually used the opportunity to… well, I’ll tell you later. Parking? Not a deal-breaker, but definitely something to be aware of.
5. What's the vibe? Is it romantic? Family-friendly? Or… something else entirely?
The vibe? It’s… relaxed. Think "laid-back coastal chic." It's not stuffy. It's not a mega-resort. It’s… *comfortable*. I saw couples, families, groups of friends. It's got a good mix. If you're expecting a silent, hushed atmosphere, you might be disappointed. It's on Shem Creek! There’s activity, there’s life. The pool area can get a bit lively during the day (which I'm not going to lie, *I loved*). I’d say it’s a good balance. And again, room 203. I loved the view, it made my morning. I swear I spent a solid hour just… staring at the creek. And, yes, I may have gotten a bit tipsy on the balcony one evening, watching the sunset and feeling like a mermaid. Pure bliss, I tell you!
6. Okay, spill the tea. Best rooms? Worst rooms? Because I'm picky. Like, *very* picky.
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. Room intel. This is *important*. I can only speak from firsthand experience, so here’s the lowdown on Room 203. I loved it. Absolutely loved it! Seriously, the view from the balcony? Money. You can see the whole creek, watch the boats, the sunset... it was magic. It's worth asking for a room with a view. Check the photos online, see if they fit what you’re looking for. Some rooms face away from the creek. Some face the parking lot (shudder). Read reviews *carefully*. Look for mentions of noise levels (from the restaurants or the pool which I mentioned before). Seriously, do your homework! This is your vacation. But, yeah, I'm a Room 203 girl. And I probably wouldn't choose a room next to the ice machine. Just a thought…!
7. Best things to do nearby? Easy Hotel Hunt
