Elegant Waterfront Arrival
Upon entering the signature restaurant, the immediate impression is one of sophisticated nautical design, evoking the feeling of being aboard a high-end
yacht. This distinct ambiance is complemented by breathtaking, unobstructed views of the water. Charleston, renowned for its exceptional hospitality and voted a top U.S. city for twelve consecutive years, welcomes a new contender in luxury accommodation: The Cooper. This establishment marks the city's first luxury riverfront hotel, boasting a private marina, an impressive infinity pool, a sprawling 7,000-square-foot spa, and four distinct culinary venues. The restaurant, aptly named The Crossing, presents a menu that artfully blends Mediterranean flavors with the essence of Lowcountry cuisine. Guests can savor delicate grilled octopus served over a creamy fava bean puree, alongside traditional Mediterranean dips like hummus and tzatziki, all enhanced by the visual spectacle of a gleaming open kitchen and the romantic backdrop of a sunset over the water.
Marine Adventures & Local Exploration
The hotel's deep connection to the water is more than just architectural; it extends to a fleet of luxury vessels docked at its private marina. This collection includes a prestigious Hinckley yacht and custom-built Scout boats, showcasing local craftsmanship. Guests have the unique opportunity to embark on a memorable two-hour private sunset cruise along the local waterways, enjoying charcuterie and Prosecco as the city lights begin to twinkle. For those who prefer terrestrial adventures, the hotel provides complimentary cruiser bikes and two house BMW cars for exploring the charming city. Beyond these offerings, a dedicated personal concierge service can arrange bespoke experiences. These range from engaging biscuit-making classes with local artisans to creative workshops with the hotel's in-house floral design team, and even personalized local shopping excursions guided by a professional stylist. The hotel's management, led by Lukus Grace, aims to deliver luxury without pretension, focusing on ensuring every guest feels valued and desires to return.
Luxurious Accommodations
Every room at The Cooper provides an exceptional experience, regardless of its orientation. The property features 166 guest rooms, each measuring between 360 and 413 square feet, alongside 25 spacious one-bedroom suites that begin at a generous 713 square feet. Whether choosing a room that overlooks the city or the water, guests will find accommodations exuding an upscale coastal charm. The interior design features a soothing neutral color palette, enhanced by tactile basket-weave textures. The mini-bar is thoughtfully stocked with a complimentary selection of non-alcoholic beverages, beers, ciders, wines, and snacks. Many of the rooms offer private balconies or patios, providing sweeping vistas of the harbor or Charleston's iconic skyline. The attention to detail is evident in every amenity, from the plush, absorbent Matouk towels and professional-grade Gama Professional hair dryers to the subtle, motion-activated floor lighting that illuminates the path to the bathroom after dark.
Exceptional Culinary Delights
The Cooper's signature dining establishment, The Crossing, is a 200-seat bistro designed by Meyer Davis, renowned for their work on notable properties like 1 Hotel South Beach. The restaurant features elegant teak wood floors, polished nickel accents, and captivating waterfront views throughout. Overseeing the open kitchen is Executive Chef Nick Dugan, previously of the Michelin-recommended Charleston eatery Sorelle. The dinner menu offers a diverse array of Mediterranean-inspired *mezze* plates, a robust selection of fresh seafood, generous shareable entrees, and decadent desserts. The bar program focuses on expertly crafted, customizable martinis, alongside a variety of other mixed drinks, including low- and no-alcohol options, and an extensive wine list available by the bottle and glass. For breakfast and lunch, guests can enjoy in-room dining options such as Mediterranean eggs Benedict served on spanakopita instead of an English muffin, and flavorful lamb meatball gyros. Bar Marti, the poolside bar, serves lighter fare and refreshing drinks perfect for a relaxing break. Anticipated additions include CurrentBurger, a modern take on a classic soda shop offering smashburgers and milkshakes, and Cooper Coffee & Wine, a European-inspired boulangerie for breakfast and lunch by the marina.
Rejuvenating Spa and Fitness
The hotel's 7,000-square-foot spa is a sanctuary of indulgence, featuring seven treatment rooms and seven private relaxation spaces. A highlight is the hydrothermal circuit, which includes a steam shower and a Sanarium low-temperature sauna, making it worthwhile to arrive early. For an enhanced wellness experience, guests can opt for a red light therapy session in the Novathor Bed for an additional fee. The Cooper Signature Massage offers a profound nervous system reset, leaving guests feeling deeply relaxed. Complementing the spa is a 24-hour fitness center designed for serious athletes. Equipped with an anti-gravity chair, Normatec compression boots, multiple massage guns, free weights, resistance machines, medicine balls, and cardio equipment, it caters to all training needs. The selection of state-of-the-art gear was curated with input from the head athletic trainer for the Atlanta Hawks, ensuring it reflects the latest in professional athlete equipment.
