Charleston SC - stay in city or island/beach?

[City Mary]

We're a group of 3 and want to see lots of the city, stroll, go to shops, sightsee, dine out. We'd also like to spend lots of time by the water.
We won't be sure how to mix it up until we get there. Would it be wise to rent at Folly Beach or Sullivan Island and travel into the city? Or preferable to stay in/near the historic district and travel out to the beach when we want? I'm leaning towards the former. It might not be hot enough to want to swim - we're travelling in 2 weeks! In May. Thanks!

 

[City Mary]

p.s. After my initial search: finding a 2 bedroom in the historic district may be out of my price range! Thoughts on what is a little less expensive but still charming/not an airport hotel?

 

[City Mary]

I'm going next week. We decided to splurge a bit and stay in the downtown historic district. At first I wanted to rent on Folly Beach but decided to visit there instead and I think it's just as expensive.