Charleston Girls Weekend: The Perfect 3 Day Charleston Itinerary

Planning a Charleston girls weekend? You’re in for a seriously good time. Between the pastel streets, the incredible food scene, and the beaches just a quick drive away, Charleston is the spot for a fun and easy getaway with your besties.

A girls weekend in Charleston is one of my favorite getaways. Being from North Carolina makes it a quick trip to escape and explore! Plus, Charleston always has tons of festivals going on so it’s a great spot to visit any time of the year.

In this article I’ve pulled together everything you need to know — from where to stay to what to do — so you can spend less time stressing and more time sipping frosé.

Why Choose Charleston For A Girls Weekend?

The better question is why not choose Charleston for a girls weekend! I love the southern charm of Charleston, how walkable the downtown area is, and I’ve always felt very safe when visiting.

• Walkable Downtown: Everything you need is packed into a charming, historic downtown area.
• Amazing Restaurants: Charleston is a foodie paradise — especially if you love seafood (hello Oysters!) or Southern cooking.
• Beach Access: Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms are all within 30 minutes.
• Picture-Perfect Scenery: Rainbow Row, the Battery, cobblestone streets… your Charleston girls weekend group photos are going to be next-level cute.
• Shopping + Spas: Whether you’re into boutique shopping, art galleries, or getting pampered, Charleston has you covered.

Where To Stay For A Charleston Girls Weekend

Downtown Charleston (Historic District) is the best place to stay for a girls trip. You’ll be able to walk to brunch, bars, and boutiques — no Uber required (except maybe to the beach).

We stayed at Hotel Bella Grace and it was fantastic! It’s a boutique hotel near Marion Square and a few blocks away from the French Quarter and Rainbow Row. Think open-air verandas and southern charm. They also have one of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had.

Snag a room here if you can! But book early, it’s a smaller boutique hotel and they sell out quickly.

Here are some additional great options:

• The Vendue: Artsy, unique, and home to a rooftop bar that’s perfect for sunset cocktails. Located in the charming French Quarter.
• Emeline: Boutique hotel vibes with a super Instagram-worthy courtyard. Steps from Charleston City Market.
• The Restoration: More of a luxury splurge, but every room feels like a dreamy apartment.
• Vacation Rental: If you have a big group, renting this cute historic house can actually save you money and give you more space to hang out!

TIP: Book early, especially if you’re going during spring or fall — Charleston fills up fast during wedding/bachelorette/festival season.

Charleston Itinerary Map

Use this map to plan your Charleston girls weekend itinerary! I’ve labeled items by activity type (noted by icon and color).

What To Do On Your Girls Weekend In Charleston

Can you do everything in Charleston in one weekend? No. Will you have a great list of things to do to choose from? Absolutely!

There’s such a wide variety of things to do in Charleston that you can build the perfect Charleston itinerary specifically curated to your interests.

Here’s my recommendation:

Friday: Arrival + Welcome Drinks

• Check into your hotel or vacation rental.
• Grab welcome drinks at The Rooftop at the Vendue or Citrus Club (at The Dewberry).
• Casual dinner at Leon’s Oyster Shop (don’t skip the frozen G&T and fried chicken).

Once you arrive in Charleston, check into your hotel or vacation rental and get settled.

Kick off the weekend with welcome drinks — The Rooftop at the Vendue and Citrus Club at The Dewberry both offer great views and even better cocktails. Even if you aren’t staying at Vendue you can still get a drink at their rooftop bar. It’s one of my favorite spots in Charleston to catch the sunset.

For dinner, keep things casual but delicious with a meal at Leon’s Oyster Shop. It’s a local favorite, and you definitely shouldn’t skip the frozen gin and tonic or the fried chicken.

Saturday: Brunch + Exploring

• Brunch: Start strong with biscuits and Bloody Marys at Poogan’s Porch or Millers All Day.
• Explore the Historic District: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride, join a walking tour of the hidden alleyways and historic sites in the Historic District, or take a food tour so you can sample all of the tasty southern treats Charleston offers.
• Shopping: King Street is packed with adorable boutiques, local shops, and national brands.
• Sunset Boat Ride: Watch sunset from the water aboard the Carolina Belle.
• Dinner: Go fancy with reservations at Husk or Fig (these are must-dos for food lovers).
• Nightlife: Hit up The Cocktail Club for craft drinks or Republic Garden & Lounge if you’re feeling like dancing.

Start your Saturday with a solid brunch — you can’t go wrong with biscuits and Bloody Marys at either Poogan’s Porch or Millers All Day. In my opinion, Charleston has some of the best brunch spots so you really can’t go wrong with any option.

After breakfast, spend some time exploring the Historic District. This is the best area of town to take a horse-drawn carriage ride, but if walking is more your speed Charleston also offers several fantastic walking tours of hidden alleyways and historic landmarks.

In the afternoon, head over to King Street for a little retail therapy — it’s lined with adorable boutiques, local shops, and well-known brands, so there’s something for everyone.

For an incredible view of Charleston, board the Carolina Belle for a sunset boat ride and enjoy the golden hour from the water.

And finally, for dinner, treat yourselves to a fancy meal at Husk or Fig — both are must-visits for food lovers. Cap off the night with drinks at The Cocktail Club, or if you’re in the mood to dance, head over to Republic Garden & Lounge.

TIP: Other iconic streets to explore in Charleston include Broad Street, Church Street, East Bay Street, Meeting Street, and Queen Street.

Sunday: Beach Day, Spa Day Or Visit A Plantation

• Beach Option: Pack up and head to Folly Beach for a laid-back morning. Grab brunch at Lost Dog Café on the way.
• Spa Option: Book massages or facials at The Spa at Charleston Place.
• Plantation Option: Walk through history at Boone Hall, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Middleton Place, and McLeod Plantation Historic Site.
• Farewell Lunch: End with a leisurely lunch at 167 Raw (the lobster roll is insane).

For your Sunday Charleston itinerary, you’ve got a few great ways to wind down the weekend depending on your vibe.

If you’re craving a beach day, pack up and head to Folly Beach for a relaxed morning by the ocean. On the way, stop at Lost Dog Café for a casual brunch — it’s a local staple.

Prefer something more pampering? Book a massage or facial at The Spa at Charleston Place and spend your morning in full relaxation mode.

For a more cultural or historical experience, consider visiting one of Charleston’s nearby plantations. Boone Hall, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Middleton Place, and McLeod Plantation Historic Site all offer beautiful grounds and powerful stories that give you a glimpse into the region’s past.

TIP: If your visiting Charleston in winter be sure to get tickets to the Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall! It’s one of my favorite events.

However you spend your final morning on your Charleston girls weekend, wrap up the trip with a leisurely farewell lunch at 167 Raw — the lobster roll alone is worth the stop!

Best Places To Eat In Charleston

Whether you’re craving fresh oysters, a hearty brunch, or a historic pub experience, Charleston’s diverse dining scene has something to satisfy every palate.

🍤 Henry’s On The Market

Established in 1932, Henry’s On The Market holds the title of Charleston’s oldest continuous restaurant.

Located at 54 North Market Street, this historic venue offers Southern seafood classics like shrimp cocktail and fried green tomatoes.

Beyond the food, Henry’s boasts a rooftop deck, live music, and multiple bars, including the cozy Whiskey Lounge.

🌊 Fleet Landing

Situated at 186 Concord Street, Fleet Landing is Charleston’s premier waterfront dining destination.

Housed in a 1940s retired naval building, it serves up fresh, local seafood with a Southern twist.

Signature dishes include oysters on the half shell and the innovative “Sm’oyster” dessert—a roasted oyster topped with chocolate, toasted marshmallow, and graham cracker crumble.

🍺 Blind Tiger Pub

Nestled in the French Quarter at 36-38 Broad Street, the Blind Tiger Pub offers a unique blend of history and hospitality.

Named after Prohibition-era speakeasies, this pub features a charming courtyard, upscale pub fare, and a wide selection of local spirits.

🦪 The Darling Oyster Bar

Located at 513 King Street, The Darling Oyster Bar is a vintage-inspired seafood haven.

With a 14-seat raw bar and a menu highlighting East Coast oysters, it’s a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. The ambiance, set in a restored 115-year-old storefront, adds to its charm.

🥞 The Best Brunch Spots In Charleston

Toast! All Day: With locations at 155 Meeting Street and 453 King Street, Toast! offers a delightful Southern brunch experience. Favorites include their signature breakfast dishes and beignets.

The Palmetto Cafe: Situated within The Charleston Place hotel, this cafe provides a sophisticated brunch setting. Enjoy Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits in their light-filled dining area.

Millers All Day: Located at 120 King Street, Millers is a breakfast lover’s paradise. They serve brunch favorites all day, including biscuits, waffles, and heirloom grain dishes.

What To Pack For Your Charleston Girls Trip

• Light dresses and sandals: Charleston is hot and humid most of the year.
• Comfy shoes: The cobblestones are no joke. Heals won’t work if you’re planning on walking around the downtown areas.
• Beachwear: If you’re planning to hit the beach, pack a swimsuit, towel, and sunhat.
• Nice outfits for dinner: People dress up a bit more in Charleston, especially downtown.
• Sunscreen and bug spray: Yes to both. Trust me.

Best Time To Visit Charleston

Charleston shines in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). The weather is warm but not too sticky, and you’ll catch the azaleas or fall festivals in full swing.

Summer is arguably the worst time to visit Charleston because it can be too hot and humid to enjoy walking around downtown. If you aren’t from the south, the one thing you really need to be prepared for is the humidity down here – in July and August it can feel like you’re walking in soup.

If you’re planning a Charleston girls weekend and want to experience the city’s vibrant local culture, I recommend timing your visit to coincide with 2nd Sunday on King Street and the Charleston Farmers Market.

2nd Sunday on King Street

When: Every second Sunday of the month, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Where: King Street, between Queen and Calhoun Streets.

During 2nd Sunday on King Street, the bustling shopping corridor is transformed into a pedestrian-only zone, giving you the chance to stroll freely without any vehicle traffic.

Local shops and restaurants spill out onto the street, turning the area into a lively open-air market filled with energy and charm. You’ll find live music, pop-up vendors, and plenty of unique food and drink options to sample as you explore.

Even better? It’s a pet-friendly event, so if you travel with your pets they are welcome to join in on the fun.

Charleston Farmers Market

When: Every Saturday from April 12 to November 22, 2025, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Where: Marion Square, 329 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403.

The Charleston Farmers Market offers a wide variety of fresh, local goods — from seasonal produce and herbs to fresh-cut flowers, eggs, milk, meats, cheeses, and homemade bread. It’s a one-stop shop if you love farm-to-table ingredients or browsing for unique finds.

Beyond the basics, you’ll also find artisanal food products and handcrafted art made by local creatives. Live music performances often add to the laid-back Charleston girls weekend vibe, making it a fun and relaxed way to spend a Saturday morning.

The market creates a vibrant community atmosphere that brings together both locals and visitors, offering a true taste of Charleston’s charm and creativity.

FAQs About Planning A Charleston Girls Weekend

Is Charleston good for bachelorette parties?
Absolutely! Charleston is one of the top bachelorette destinations in the U.S. Expect to see a few groups out on King Street if you’re there on a weekend.

Do you need a car?
Not if you’re sticking to downtown. For beach days or plantations, you might want to rent a car or grab an Uber.

Is Charleston expensive?
It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. Happy hours, sharing Airbnbs, and choosing a few casual meals can balance out the splurges on nice dinners and experiences.

How many days do you need for a girls trip?
A 3-day weekend in Charleston is perfect. Two nights is enough to see the highlights, eat amazing food, and squeeze in a little beach time.

Final Thoughts

Charleston nails the vibe for a perfect girls weekend — it’s beautiful, laid-back, and full of things to do whether you’re in the mood for adventure or just want to chill with a cocktail in hand. With a little planning (and a few good outfit choices), you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable time!