Beyond the Baseline: Charleston Pros Reveal Their Lowcountry Favorites

Prepare to unlock the essence of Charleston, South Carolina, through the eyes of the city’s very own Hologic WTA Tour pros. With the 52nd Credit One Charleston Open looming, we had the privilege of delving into the cherished haunts and well-kept secrets of three pros who proudly call Charleston home.

Join us as we traverse the cobbled streets and sun-kissed shores that weave the fabric of this historic city, guided by the discerning tastes and experiences of Emma Navarro, Shelby Rogers and Alison Riske-Amritraj.

Emma Navarro, Current World No. 20

Best Sunset Spot: The Battery

Caffeine Fix: Second State Coffee on Beaufain St.

Favorite Downtown Stroll: Tradd Street

Hidden Gem: Pitt Street Bridge in Old Village

Best Beach and Station: Sullivan’s Island Station 12!

Sweet Treat Craving: Ice cream sandwich from Bearded Cats on Sullivan’s Island!

Hometown Foods: Chicken cutlets at my parents’ house.

Restaurant Recommendations: Sorelle

Top Public Courts: Hazel Parker Playground

Local’s Only Secret: Holey City Bagels

Shelby Rogers, 2020 US Open Quarterfinalist

Best Sunset Spot: I would recommend a beach sunrise! Or sunset from Waterfront Park.

Caffeine Fix: I don’t drink coffee but Harken has a good matcha (and the best biscuits!).

Favorite Downtown Stroll: Anywhere near the Battery, of course. Chalmers Street is beautiful too! I used to walk through Longitude Lane in elementary school so it brings back a lot of memories!

Hidden Gem: Pitt Street Bridge

Best Beach and Station: Sullivan’s 16-18. Or if you have time visit Kiawah!

Sweet Treat Craving: Kaminsky’s. Or the coconut cake at Peninsula Grill.

Hometown Foods: Boiled peanuts and collard greens.

Restaurant Recommendations: Lewis BBQ, Fig, 167 Raw and Husk

Top Public Courts: LTP Daniel Island and Mt. Pleasant Recreation Center

Local’s Only Secret: Sermet’s Courtyard and R Kitchen

Day Off in Charleston Away From the Tournament: Spend time with my family and play with my niece.

Alison Riske-Amritraj, 3 Career WTA Tour Singles Titles

Best Sunset Spot: I’m biased but I say the Battery because it’s walking distance from our home and I don’t think it gets much better!

Caffeine Fix: Mudhouse – I love their oat milk latte.

Favorite Downtown Stroll: Anson Street. It’s really cozy and less traveled.

Hidden Gem: Zero George. For a special night that you’ll never forget. I dream about their courtyard!

Best Beach and Station: Sullivan’s – don’t ask me about the station number, haha! We usually get a parking spot wherever we can find one and go from there!

Sweet Treat Craving: Carmella’s or Heavy’s. Both for their key lime pie!

Hometown Foods: Indaco’s soppressata pizza.

Restaurant Recommendations: Darling Oyster Bar and Indaco. My very two favorites!

Top Public Courts: Hazel Parker Playground. It’s a stone’s throw from the water and nestled perfectly downtown. I love that it’s weathered – it reminds me of the courts I grew up on.

Local’s Only Secret: While reservations are hard to come by, you can likely get a seat anywhere if you show up at 4:45 pm for a 5:00 pm opening! You have to be committed in this city!

Exploring Charleston through the eyes of its WTA Tour pros unveils a tapestry of cherished spots and hidden treasures that define the city’s unique charm. Whether it’s savoring culinary delights, soaking in breathtaking sunsets, or enjoying a leisurely stroll, Charleston offers something special for everyone.

Beyond the Baseline guides are presented in partnership with Explore Charleston, the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.