What to Know About Golf Cart Rentals in Charleston

Golf carts are a practical way to explore Charleston's neighborhoods and historic districts

Palmetto Cart Rental of Charleston, LLC rents golf carts by the day, week, or longer to visitors and locals who want to move around the city without a car. The carts work well for getting to restaurants, shops, and waterfront areas in downtown Charleston and nearby neighborhoods like Folly Beach and Isle of Palms. You pick up the cart at their location, drive it yourself, and return it when your rental period ends.

Golf carts move at speeds up to 14 miles per hour and seat four to six people depending on the model. They run on electric batteries that charge overnight, so you'll need access to a charging outlet if you're renting for multiple days. The rental includes the cart, a charger, and basic insurance coverage, though you should confirm what's covered before you rent.

Key Takeaways

• Palmetto Cart Rental offers daily, weekly, and monthly rentals with pickup and return at their Charleston location.
• Carts seat four to six people and travel at speeds up to 14 miles per hour, making them suitable for neighborhood exploration but not highway driving.
• You'll need a valid driver's license to rent, and the company requires a credit card for the security deposit.
• Rental rates vary by season and length of rental, so calling ahead or checking their website gives you current pricing and availability.
• Carts run on rechargeable batteries and come with a charger, so overnight access to an outlet is necessary for multi-day rentals.

How to rent a cart from Palmetto Cart Rental

Contact Palmetto Cart Rental directly by phone or visit their location in Charleston to check availability and reserve a cart. You'll need a valid driver's license and a credit card to complete the rental. The company holds a security deposit on your card, which is released when you return the cart in good condition.

Pickup typically happens during business hours at their Charleston location. When you arrive, staff will show you how to operate the cart, explain the charging process, and review the rental agreement. Ask about their policy on where you can and cannot drive the cart—some areas of Charleston have restrictions on golf cart use, and the rental company can tell you which routes are permitted.

What golf carts cost and what's included

Rental rates depend on how long you rent and what season you're visiting. Daily rates are higher than weekly or monthly rates, so a week-long rental costs less per day than a single day. Peak season (spring and fall) typically costs more than summer or winter. Call the company directly for current pricing, since rates change throughout the year.

Your rental includes the cart, a battery charger, and basic insurance. Some renters add extra insurance for peace of mind. Fuel (electricity) is included—you charge the cart overnight using the provided charger. Confirm whether damage waivers, GPS units, or other add-ons are available and what they cost.

Where you can and cannot drive in Charleston

Golf carts are street-legal in certain Charleston neighborhoods and areas, but not everywhere in the city. Downtown Charleston, parts of the Historic District, and some residential neighborhoods permit golf cart traffic. Highway 17, the bridges connecting to the islands, and major commercial corridors do not allow golf carts.

Folly Beach and Isle of Palms have their own golf cart regulations—some streets allow them, others don't. Before you rent, ask Palmetto Cart Rental which routes are safe and legal for your planned activities. They know the local rules and can suggest the best neighborhoods for cart exploration, like King Street for shopping, the Battery for historic sites, or the waterfront for dining.

Charging and battery life

Golf carts run on rechargeable electric batteries that typically last 30 to 40 miles on a full charge, depending on terrain and driving habits. Hills and frequent acceleration drain the battery faster than steady driving on flat ground. If you're renting for multiple days, you'll charge the cart overnight at your hotel, vacation rental, or wherever you're staying.

The charger that comes with your rental plugs into a standard 110-volt outlet. Charging takes six to eight hours for a full battery. If you're staying somewhere without an outlet access, ask Palmetto Cart Rental about alternatives—some locations offer charging stations or can suggest nearby options. Running out of battery mid-trip is inconvenient, so plan your daily driving distance with the battery range in mind.

Insurance and damage responsibility

Palmetto Cart Rental includes basic insurance with every rental, but you should understand what it covers. Typically, basic coverage protects against theft and some types of damage, but you may be responsible for collision damage, mechanical damage from misuse, or damage from driving in restricted areas. Read the rental agreement carefully before you sign.

The security deposit held on your credit card covers damage beyond what insurance pays. If you return the cart with dents, broken lights, or interior damage, the company may charge you for repairs. Some renters purchase additional damage waiver insurance to avoid this risk—ask about the cost and what it covers when you call to reserve.

Best times to rent and seasonal considerations

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are peak seasons in Charleston, with warm weather and lower humidity than summer. Golf cart rentals are popular during these months, so book ahead if you're visiting then. Summer brings heat and afternoon thunderstorms, which can make cart driving uncomfortable. Winter is quieter and cheaper, though some days are too cold for comfortable open-air driving.

Holiday weeks and weekends fill up quickly, especially around Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. If you're planning a holiday trip, reserve your cart several weeks in advance. Off-season rentals (late June through August, and January through February) often have lower rates and better availability, which can make them worth considering if your schedule allows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special license to drive a golf cart in Charleston?

No, a valid driver's license is all you need. You don't need a golf cart-specific license or permit. Palmetto Cart Rental will ask to see your license when you pick up the cart to confirm you're legally able to drive.

Can I drive a golf cart to Folly Beach or Isle of Palms?

Yes, but only on streets where golf carts are permitted. The bridges and highways connecting Charleston to the islands don't allow golf carts, so you can't use one to get there. However, once you're on the islands, many neighborhoods allow cart traffic. Ask Palmetto Cart Rental which routes work for island exploration.

What happens if the battery dies while I'm driving?

Plan your trips to stay within the 30 to 40-mile range on a full charge. If the battery does run low, you can call Palmetto Cart Rental for assistance. Avoid driving in unfamiliar areas where you might get lost and drain the battery unexpectedly. Stick to neighborhoods you know or that the rental company recommends.

Can I rent a golf cart for just a few hours?

Palmetto Cart Rental typically rents by the day or longer, not by the hour. Call them directly to ask whether half-day or hourly rentals are available, as policies vary. If you only need a cart for a short time, you might find it more practical to use a taxi, rideshare, or walking tour instead.

Is there a minimum age to rent a golf cart?

Most rental companies require renters to be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license. Palmetto Cart Rental may have its own age policy, so confirm when you call. Passengers can be any age, but the driver must meet the rental company's requirements.