Plan the ultimate girls’ trip to Charleston, SC with this fun and meaningful guide! Discover unique things to do, top places to eat, where to stay, and sample weekend itineraries for an unforgettable getaway.
Girls’ Trip!
We’ve been to Charleston so many times… and it just never disappoints!
It’s a favorite for family vacations and spring break escapes, but to be honest…you simply cannot go wrong planning a girls trip to Charleston, SC.
This past February, I went with my daughter and a few friends and we had the BEST time!
From shopping and sunshine to photo ops and food, it checked all the boxes for a fun, refreshing, and unforgettable weekend.
10 Fun & Unique Things to Do in Charleston, SC
If you’re planning a girls weekend in Charleston, here’s everything you need, plus our personal picks for where to stay, what to eat, and exactly how to spend your days!
This post contains affiliate links which means I could earn a small commission, if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, read my full Disclosure HERE.
1. Shop ’til You Drop on King Street
Charleston has some of the best shopping in the South! From local boutiques to national brands, you’ll find everything from designer shoes to sweet souvenirs.
It’s stylish, walkable, and full of charm.
Some of our personal favorites: LoveShack Fancy, Hill House, Madison Matthews, Lake, and Roller Rabbit!
2. Take a Tour or Class Together
We personally always gravitate to a local food tour, but it’s your girls’ trip….do what you love!
Check out these fun tours: eco kayak tour, dolphin-watching and sightseeing cruise, or even a cooking class.
So many options to laugh, learn, and make memories.
3. Afternoon Tea at Hotel Bennett
If you’re feeling fancy, make a reservation for afternoon tea at Camellia’s. It’s pink, it’s posh, and it’s perfect for a girls day out. Make sure you book ahead- it fills up fast!
And if you can’t squeeze in tea time but you’re 21 or older, just pop in for a glass of champagne- no reservations neededl. It’s just as stunning and such a fun little detour before dinner or a night out.
4. Plan a Beach Day
If you have the time (and the weather cooperates), a beach day is such a fun addition to your girls weekend in Charleston. Head to Folly Beach for a laid-back vibe, cute surf shops, and plenty of spots to grab tacos or ice cream.
Or check out Sullivan’s Island for a quieter, more relaxed feel. It’s perfect for reading, sunbathing, or a long walk with your toes in the sand. Isle of Palms is another nearby option with more space to spread out and great beachfront dining.
Don’t want to deal with traffic or don’t have a car?
Shem Creek is a great alternative. You’ll still get those gorgeous water views, plus boardwalk strolls, kayaking, and waterside restaurants to choose from. It’s the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon without ever leaving town.
5. Sip at Zachary’s Daiquiris
This place is pure Instagram goals!
Even if you’re not 21, they offer fun virgin drinks and the absolute CUTEST little shop tucked inside the restaurant (featured at the top of this post.)
Grab your drink, snap a pic, and soak in the vibe. Zachary’s Daiquiris is a new, fun spot you can’t miss!
6. Photo Ops Everywhere
Charleston is hands-down one of the most photogenic places you’ll visit.
Rainbow Row, the iconic pineapple fountain, College of Charleston, the waterfront, the Angel Oak Tree… just bring the cute outfits and you’re all set.
If you’re planning to post your favorites, these fun and thoughtful Charleston Instagram captions might come in handy too.
7. Catch a Show or Concert
There’s always something happening in Charleston.
We’ve seen concerts and even caught Dancing With the Stars Live one spring! Check Charleston Music Hall, The Credit One Stadium, or Gaillard Center to see what’s on during your visit.
8. Pamper Yourselves
Build in a little bliss. Here are a few favorite spots to relax, recharge, and feel good:
- Spa Day:
- Coffee Shops We Love:
- Bookstore Breaks:
9. Don’t Skip Brunch
I’m a sucker for a good brunch with the girls! Some of our favorites?
- Miller’s All Day – our absolute fave. Playful, delicious, and everything a brunch spot should be.
- Poogan’s Porch – cozy and classic with major southern charm.
- Toast! – a local staple that never disappoints.
- The Darling Oyster Bar – upscale brunch with fun cocktails.
10. Play Tourist for a Day
Do all the touristy things!
After all, you are in Charleston!
Wander the Charleston City Market, pose at the Pineapple Fountain, stroll the Battery, and take a boat to Fort Sumter or Patriots Point. Visit a historic plantation or the legendary Angel Oak Tree.
Charleston’s history is rich and absolutely worth experiencing. If you’re visiting with younger ones in tow, here’s a full list of things to do in Charleston with kids to help you plan a family-friendly day too.
Where to Eat in Charleston, SC
You’re going to want more meals than you have time for…just saying.
- Poogan’s Porch – A charming southern classic and so cozy.
- Frankie & The Fox – Trendy, delicious, and perfect for dinner with friends.
- Rudy Royale – We ate here and loved it! Great food, cocktails, and atmosphere.
- Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit – You cannot skip this one. Worth the wait!
- SNOB (Slightly North of Broad) – Elegant but not stuffy. One of the best in Charleston.
- Husk – We’ve eaten here in Savannah and it’s unforgettable. Be sure to make a reservation.
- High Cotton – Southern food done right, with live jazz if you’re lucky.
- Miller’s All Day – This is our fave brunch spot! The menu is creative, the vibe is fun, and the food? So good you’ll be dreaming about it after you leave.
Where to Stay for a Girls’ Weekend in Charleston
Budget-Friendly:
Try The Meeting Street Inn – Charming, walkable, and wallet-friendly!
Mid-Level Favorite:
Courtyard Charleston Historic District – this is where we stayed and it was perfect! Walkable to King Street, the waterfront, and so many restaurants.
Luxury Pick:
Hotel Bennett is the ultimate splurge. Between the beautiful rooms, rooftop bar, and afternoon tea at Camellia’s, this is the Charleston dream.
Sample 2-Day Charleston Girls’ Trip Itinerary
Day One
- Arrive and settle in
- Grab brunch/ lunch at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit
- Shop on King Street
- Grab a daiquiri and a photo at Zachary’s
- Dinner at Rudy Royale
- Walk the waterfront or pop into Charleston City Market
Day Two
- Brunch at Miller’s All Day
- Try a food tour or eco kayak tour
- Explore Rainbow Row and the Pineapple Fountain
- Afternoon tea at Camellia’s or sip at the Champagne Bar
- Dinner at Frankie & The Fox
- Optional: catch a show or live music
Sample 3-Day Girls’ Trip Itinerary in Charleston
Day One
- Check in and brunch at Poogan’s Porch
- Photo ops and shopping on King Street
- Afternoon daiquiris at Zachary’s
- Dinner at SNOB
- Evening waterfront walk
Day Two
- Spa treatments at Woodhouse Day Spa or coffee at Clerks
- Beach day or Shem Creek boardwalk and lunch
- Afternoon tea at Hotel Bennett
- Dinner at High Cotton
- Check out a local concert or show
Day Three
- Brunch at Toast!
- Explore Angel Oak Tree or Patriots Point
- One last photo walk or boutique stop before heading home
Love a weekend getaway? Me too!! Some of my other personal favorite long weekends are Wilmington, NC, Savannah, GA, and Richmond, VA!
Meaningful Moments: More Than Just Travel
Time with your girlfriends is precious.
Life moves fast.
We’re all juggling work, family, obligations, and a to-do list that never seems to shrink. That’s why a girls’ trip like this, whether it’s a full weekend away or even just a night or two, is so special.
These little escapes are about more than just checking boxes on a list of things to do in Charleston, SC.
They’re about belly laughs and real conversations. Slowing down long enough to be fully present. Reconnecting with old friends or growing even closer to someone you love.
Maybe it’s your best friend from college or your sister who’s always been your built-in support system. Maybe it’s a mother-daughter getaway…always a good idea if you ask me.
However it looks for you, these kinds of trips fill your soul in ways everyday life just can’t.
And that’s the magic of meaningful travel. It’s not just about where you go… it’s who you’re with and how you spend that time together.
Savor your getaway before, during, and after with these fun travel journal ideas and prompts!
