For generations, Charleston’s charms have been defined by its delectable cuisine, remarkably well-preserved 18th-century architecture, and network of lush garden squares. There’s so much Spanish moss–draped allure in the historic city that you can easily forget you’re in a major port town. But the opening of a resplendent hotel is recasting the waterfront as an essential part of any itinerary.

Commanding a prominent stretch of Charleston Harbor, the Cooper—named for the nearby Cooper River—replaces the former Ports Authority building with a five-star urban resort. Owned by Charleston local Ben Navarro, cofounder of Beemok Hospitality Collection, the 191-room Southern escape is within walking distance of some of the city’s other leading attractions and is strategically sited adjacent to the company’s equally transformative redevelopment project, Union Pier.

This arrangement is what gives the Cooper its most impressive feature: the city’s first private marina tied to a hotel. “It finally allows our community and our guests to connect with the waterfront in ways that have never been possible before,” says Lukus Grace, the property’s managing director. “People will be able to experience the beauty of the harbor up close.” And he means close: It’s where the hotel will dock a fleet of luxury cruising vessels—including a 105-foot 1920s-era yacht, a Hinckley yacht, and two Scout boats—available for charter.

Back on dry land, the rooms, imagined by New York City’s Champalimaud Design, evoke the effortless elegance of a well-appointed sloop. Antique brass accents, shiplap paneling, and neutral colors make these spaces a calming counterpoint to the hotel’s buzzy energy. That’s especially true of the serene Presidential Suite, which offers over 1,400 square feet of space, enviable views of the harbor from its private terrace, and direct access to the rooftop infinity pool.

But Navarro and company have made a big investment outside the rooms, too. The lower level hosts a 7,000-square-foot spa and fitness complex designed to keep your workouts on track. “We intentionally built spaces to help people stick with their routine—including yoga and stretch, dedicated recovery rooms with cryo-loungers, a zero-gravity bed, compression sleeves, a red-light-therapy room, and a Sanarium sauna,” Grace adds.

Such thoughtfulness is the hallmark of the Lowcountry’s distinctly welcoming hospitality—friendly charm mixed with European refinement. You can even taste that approach at the hotel’s restaurant, the Crossing, where executive chef Nick Dugan will prepare Mediterranean fare and a rotating selection of crudos made from the hyperlocal catch. It’s a refreshing strategy for a city hotel: No matter where you turn, every touchpoint serves as a reminder that the best experiences you can have here may be just beyond the threshold. From $950 per night

Making a Splash

The Cooper isn’t the only Lowcountry hotel finding novel ways to engage with South Carolina’s waters.

The Dewberry

The Dewberry partners with private boating club Barton & Gray, allowing guests to reserve a classic Hinckley Talaria for bespoke excursions to nearby barrier islands. The hotel’s concierge arranges onboard catering and amenities, and each charter includes a U.S. Coast Guard–licensed crew.

The Charleston Place

The Charleston Place proposes a unique souvenir: Spend a morning learning how to catch Carolina blue crabs in the Ashley River with native Charlestonian Tia Clark, a 10th-generation Gullah Geechee, and she’ll even clean them up for you to take home.

Zero George

Zero George brings its tranquil vibes to the water in partnership with Soothe Sailing, which provides an afternoon of silent reflection, breathwork, and meditation during a cruise through Charleston Harbor.

The Dunlin

Just 20 miles from Charleston, the Dunlin resort is set amid a lacework of lagoons, channels, and tidal canals that connect to the Kiawah River. If you want to spot a dolphin, take the guided Coastal Safari.