Where to Find the Best Ice Cream in Charleston, SC

Charleston is known for its beaches, historic streets, and nationally recognized food scene. But when summer temperatures settle into the 90s, sometimes the best meal of the day is simply a good scoop of ice cream.

Fortunately, Charleston has no shortage of great options. From small-batch ice cream shops and handcrafted gelato to creative seasonal flavors and waterfront dessert stops, there are plenty of places to cool off after a day downtown or an afternoon at the beach.

Whether you're a longtime local or new to the Lowcountry, these are eight ice cream shops worth knowing.

Off Track Ice Cream
6 Beaufain St, Charleston, SC 29401

Off Track has developed a loyal following by doing things a little differently. The shop focuses on small-batch ice cream made from scratch using local ingredients whenever possible.

Flavors rotate frequently and often feature creative combinations inspired by seasonal ingredients. The downtown location makes it a perfect stop after dinner or while exploring Charleston's historic district.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
501-A King St, Charleston, SC 29403

Jeni's has earned a national reputation, but its Charleston location feels right at home on King Street.

Known for unique flavor combinations like Brambleberry Crisp and Brown Butter Almond Brittle, Jeni's offers something beyond the traditional scoop shop experience. The quality of ingredients and attention to detail have helped make it a recognized name in artisanal ice cream.

Expect a line during summer weekends, but most visitors agree it's worth the wait.

Kilwins Charleston
55 Market St, Charleston, SC 29401

Located just steps from the Historic Charleston City Market, Kilwins combines ice cream, fudge, caramel apples, and handmade chocolates under one roof.

The shop's waffle cones are made fresh throughout the day, filling the street with an aroma that tends to attract visitors before they even see the storefront. Its central location makes it a popular stop while sightseeing downtown.

Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream & Sandwich Cafe
219 King St, Charleston, SC 29401

Sometimes the classics are classics for a reason.

Ye Ole Fashioned has been serving ice cream in the Charleston area for decades and remains a favorite among locals. The menu features traditional flavors, oversized sundaes, milkshakes, and banana splits that feel refreshingly nostalgic.

It's the kind of place that reminds people why simple ice cream done well never goes out of style.

Beardcat's Sweet Shop
2063 Middle St, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

Beardcat's has become a popular destination for both residents and visitors, serving handcrafted ice cream alongside cookies, pastries, coffee, and other desserts. Its location makes it an easy stop after a beach day in the area.

Carmella's Café and Dessert Bar
198 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401

While Carmella's is known primarily for its desserts and Italian pastries, its gelato deserves just as much attention.

Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the café offers a variety of gelato flavors that pair perfectly with an evening walk through downtown Charleston. The outdoor seating and late-night hours have made it a favorite stop after dinner.

Ben & Jerry's
104 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401

Some brands become classics for a reason.

The Charleston location offers all the familiar favorites right in the center of the historic district. A convenient stop for families exploring downtown and a reliable choice when everyone in the group wants something different.

Republic Ice Cream
297 Seven Farms Dr, Daniel Island, SC 29492

Republic Ice Cream has become a local favorite on Daniel Island thanks to its handcrafted approach and welcoming atmosphere.

The shop offers a variety of ice cream flavors, shakes, and frozen treats that appeal to both kids and adults. Located in one of Charleston's most desirable communities, it's the perfect stop after dinner, a waterfront walk, or an afternoon exploring the island.

The Sweet Side of Charleston

One of the reasons Charleston continues to attract visitors and new residents alike is the lifestyle. Great restaurants, beautiful beaches, walkable neighborhoods, and plenty of places to enjoy a summer evening all contribute to the city's appeal.

The ice cream scene is no exception.

Whether you're grabbing a scoop after a day at Folly Beach, cooling off while shopping on King Street, or finishing dinner with gelato in the French Quarter, Charleston offers plenty of ways to satisfy a sweet tooth during the summer months.

Sometimes the best way to experience a city is one scoop at a time.