One of the best places in the world for a girlfriend getaway is my former home of Charleston, South Carolina. I lived there for four years, two of which were in a house with five other girls so you could say I’m something of an expert. The restaurants, bars, shopping and especially the beaches make for one unforgettable weekend. Here are the must-haves for a girls weekend in Charleston from someone who knows.
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Find a place to crash.
This time around, my friend and I shared an apartment on Beaufain Street, within walking distance of our college reunion and all the bars and restaurants of King Street. There are a handful of places you can rent downtown on sites like Airbnb, but I’m not sure if this is legal.
I would also recommend boutique properties like Vendue Inn and Zero George and the annex at NotSo Hostel. Make sure there’s plenty of room for your whole group and it’s also good to have a fridge to stock with champagne, bottled water, and Gatorade for recovery days.
Eat well.
You’re sure to eat well while in Charleston, with eateries on nearly every corner. For breakfast and brunch, I recommend the Marina Variety Store Restaurant, the Charleston Crepe Company tent at the Charleston Farmer’s Market, Lowcountry Bistro, 82 Queen, Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit, Ms. Rose’s Fine Food & Cocktails and Rutledge Cab Co.
Lunch can be a light affair, like bun bo hue from Co, dumplings and afternoon cocktails from Xiao Bao Biscuit, a sandwich from Mixson Market or a fish taco with all the fixings from The Taco Spot. For dinner, splurge on a fancy (or not-so-fancy) meal somewhere like 39 Rue De Jean, Husk (if you can get a reservation!), Fleet Landing, Virginia’s On King and Poogan’s Porch.
Look your best.
Since it had been a few years since I’d been to Charleston, I wanted to look my best for any old friends I ran into. I didn’t like most of the clothes in my closet so I rented an ensemble from Rent The Runway. It was my first experience with them and I would certainly do it again!
It’s great for bachelorette weekends, birthdays, weddings or just your basic girls weekend! They have outfits for all levels of dress, as well as handbags and accessories. Rent this outfit for yourself below!
Shop til you drop.
If you didn’t bring the right clothes or just want something new, Charleston has great shopping. King Street is known for its boutiques and chain stores both luxury (Louis Vuitton, Cynthia Rowley and the like) and budget. The Charleston City Market is where you can pick up all your souvenirs as well as local handicrafts like palmetto roses and baskets. There is also the Tanger Outlet Center Charleston, which has heavily discounted products from your favorite retailers.
Pop some bottles.
Staying in downtown Charleston gives you access to the many bars and clubs in the city, many of which are known for being ideal for girls nights out. Skip some of the kitschy Market Street spots in favor of the rooftop bars like Pavilion Bar and Rooftop Cocktail Bar and the up-and-coming places on Upper King Street. Stars also has a rooftop and The Cocktail Club and The Gin Joint create craft cocktails. Social is another favorite for its wine flights and delicious bites.
Get some beach time in.
Recover from heavy eating and big nights out by lounging at one of three area beaches: Folly, Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island. Bring your beach chairs and towels for sun and maybe even sneaky drinks before lunch at one of the local restaurants.
Sounds like a fun trip. I haven’t been to Charleston yet but would love to go the next time I reach the East Coast. Also, I love your map. I’ve been thinking of incorporating some into my “Things to Do” pages and like this example. Thanks for sharing.
This is a great article and you look super cute in your renttherunway outfit!! That is a never ending question around here that I get all the time from bachelorette groups I work with.. ‘Where should we go?” I would like to add to your list, maybe a girls yoga session on the beach with Serenity Tree Yoga. Just a thought ;) Again, thanks for the article and great tips.
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