Image by Amanda Click / TheDigitel

For a rooftop bar with an unbeatable view of the Ashley River, expansive lounge area, great drinks, friendly bartenders, fire pits, live music and phenomenal food, look no further than the Aqua Terrace.

If this bar sounds like a dream come true, that's because it is. Located on the roof of the Charleston Marriott's lobby, the Aqua Terrace is an oasis three stories above the hustle and bustle of Lockwood Boulevard. Chances are you've been driving past it for years on your way to RiverDogs games and never even knew it was there. I stumbled upon the spot just over two years ago have been keeping it my little secret -- until now.

The Aqua Terrace may be the best spot on the peninsula to enjoy breathtaking sunsets while sipping on a cold beverage. The bar serves up over 15 bottled beers, Sam Adams on draft and numerous specialty cocktails. Have a specific drink in mind? No problem, it's a full bar and the attentive staff will fix up whatever you fancy. If you're hungry, there is a bar menu featuring brick oven flatbread pizzas, cornmeal crusted calamari, fresh salads, and other light fare. If you're hankering for something hearty, order off the full menu from Saffire: Charleston's Oven, the noteworthy in-house restaurant.

Thursday and Friday nights are reserved for acoustic musical sets. Ranging from Spanish guitar players to local singer/songwriters, the mood is always right and the music is never overwhelming. I'd recommend swinging by on a Friday night around 10:15 p.m. to snag the best seats in town for watching the RiverDogs' fireworks show. 

Charleston locals and travelers from around the globe mix and mingle at the Aqua Terrace on a nightly basis. The views, the vibe and the crowd are unmatched in my opinion. 

Whenever you're ready to stop by, the Aqua Terrace is located at 170 Lockwood Boulevard in the Charleston Marriott hotel.