The Starlight Motor Inn is a true hidden gem — a perfect blend of 50s and 60s nostalgia with all the comforts you want today. From the moment I walked in, I felt like I’d hopped into a time machine. The place oozes retro cool — from its charming pool house with a shimmering, picture-perfect pool to its intimate 60s-style bar featuring live jazz that made me feel like I’d stumbled into a scene from a classic movie. Whether you’re a lover of mid-century style, great music, or just a unique spot to stay, The Starlight Motor Inn delivers an experience you won’t soon forget. I’d stay here again in a heartbeat!

The neighborhood might be a little sketchier than your typical tourist spot, but honestly, I felt completely comfortable and safe the whole time I was there. The motel itself is a peaceful, well-cared-for oasis — a perfect getaway from the world outside its gates. The only other critique would be the need for a hotel representative on site.

This place is the perfect location if you plan on seeing a concert at The Refinery and need to stay the night. It's less than a 10 minute drive or a cheap Uber. The bed felt amazing and I really needed some sleep. There is a mini fridge and a hot shower😀. As a solo female traveler, I felt safe. There is an ice machine downstairs, free water in the fridge, and coffee.

It's a motel, so there is no soundproofing. If someone is walking past your door, you're going to hear their entire conversation. That's literally the only con I can think of but there isn't much the Starlight can do about that

What a fantastic jem! This is a super cool property with an attached bar & lounge that is also, well, super cool!. My husband and I had lots of fun on karaoke and live band nights. The staff and management are great...full of great conversation.

I'm not a fan of the surrounding area...definitely not fit for a friendly neighborhood stroll. This is a "drive everywhere" location. Nevertheless, the property itself is safe, comfortable and walled off from unwanted visitors. You feel like you're in a mini resort in the middle of hustle and traffic.

We had a wonderful stay this weekend at the Starlight! The cute retro theme was my daughter’s favorite. The room was clean and the beds were super comfortable. The bathroom and shower were so nice! My daughter lost her wallet and keys by the pool on Friday night, but thankfully they were in the lost and found when we checked with the security guard! The Starlight staff go above and beyond, and we will be back soon for another stay!

Everything was wonderful!

Love the motel's mid-century character! Also like how the room is spotless and stocked very generously with coffee, toiletries and towels. And a direct bus line to town (where you can either walk to - or change to free shuttles - to the various historic points of interest).

Unfortunately, the area around the motel is a bit depressing, close to a freight rail that you can hear at night, and with very few dining options within walking distance. Fortunately, one of the few choices is a very good Jamaican joint! All said, I would still recommend this motel, for travelers like me who rely on public transportation.

For a casual trip in Charleston, I'm not sure why you'd stay anywhere else. The Starlight is fun, clean, within a quick ride or Uber from both downtown and the underrated Park Circle area, cheap and the AC blasts in the newly refreshed rooms. The Starlight has a delightful retro bar with friendly staff and a pool. What's not to like?

The property isn't staffless but they did seem scarce. Honestly, no real issues!

The Starlight was super cool, clean, newly furnished and appointed, easy to find, and extremely comfortable inn. It is an incredible value as well given the rates one would typically pay in the Charleston area. I have already recommended the Starlight Motor Inn to numerous friends and look forward to staying there again. It was an easy 5 mile drive into downtown where you've got access to numerous parking garages.

The only fault I found was the internet coverage was intermittent and interfered with watching TV--which I believe received its signal from the facility's WiFi signal. This should be an easy fix and didn't detract from the great stay I had.

This place was so well designed. The owners thought through every detail of the hotel and also, the customer's experience. The smell of the room was good (so rare with hotels and especially motels), the artwork on the walls was thoughtful in a design and fashion way. The bed was comfortable, and firm. The hotel lobby and bar upstairs were destinations in and of themselves. And the check in/out and communication with the office was very easy with no issues whatsoever. If we ever visit Charleston again, I would definitely stay here.

You have to have a car to get anywhere.

Cracking super authentic but modern motel. Attention to details and fab amenities. Super comfortable bed. Felt safe. Loved the little on-site bar and live music. uSB charging poets. Pool looked lush but didn’t use. All communication via text, but friendly tone and responsive. No problems with accessing the room

No on site food options. As a motel and we arrived late would have appreciated some food availability. Parking lot could do with a bit of grounds attention.

Loved the impeccable retro decor, the clean room and comfortable bed, the keurig coffee, the on-site bar with music (but the rooms are out of range of the noise, don't worry!) Staff, altho offsite, was friendly and prompt with messaging. Pool looked very inviting.

It was a bit far from Charleston itself, altho the drive to and parking in the city were fine. There are a few neighborhood places to eat but not many.