The Ultimate Charleston Bachelorette Party
A Charleston bachelorette party is perfect for the bride who loves food and some charm. Charleston has quickly become one of the most popular USA bachelorette party destinations, and there is something about its charm that makes it an ideal spot for brides. It’s known for its southern hospitality, and you can expect to be treated well by all the locals.
Charleston also has beautiful beaches, amazing food, fun bars, and endless Instagram-worthy photo spots. It’s a great location if you’re looking for somewhere that’s a little slower place than say…Vegas.
(If you want to take the stress out of planning your Charleston bachelorette party, here's my Ultimate Bachelorette Party Planner. It comes with 10 tabs, each pre-filled with lists, items, and formulas to make planning as organized as possible!)
Where To Stay
Downtown Charleston:
Downtown is the heart of the city and offers a variety of accommodations, from boutique hotels to vacation rentals. Staying downtown puts you in close proximity to all of the city's attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. Downtown is definitely the most convenient, central (and fun) spot to stay unless the majority of your Charleston bachelorette party is going to be spent at the beach.
Mount Pleasant:
Mount Pleasant is just across the Cooper River from downtown Charleston and offers a variety of accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals. Staying in Mount Pleasant gives you easy access to both downtown Charleston and the nearby beaches, and would be a more cost effective option than Downtown.
Isle of Palms:
This beachfront community is located about 20 minutes from downtown Charleston and offers a variety of beachfront accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals.
Folly Beach:
This laid-back beach town is located about 25 minutes from downtown Charleston and offers hotels or vacation rentals, perfect for any Charleston bachelorette party.
How To Get Around
Charleston is fairly walkable in the Downtown area. It's also easy to get around via RideShare or even by pedicab!
Where To Eat
Brunch
The Obstinate Daughter - This restaurant is located on Sullivan's Island and offers a variety of great brunch items that are great for sharing. Be sure to try the Smash and Fried Potatoes, The Rutledge pizza, and The Old Danger pizza. They have amazing cocktails too. Head here if you plan on spending time at the beach on Sullivan's Island. You can make reservations up to 2 weeks out, but they fill up fast!
S.N.O.B - This is a great spot for smaller groups and if your bride is looking for a classy brunch. Its menu changes regularly, but the French toast is delicious.
Poogan's Porch - This historic restaurant is located in downtown Charleston and is known for its classic southern brunch, including shrimp and grits, biscuits and gravy, and fried chicken and waffles.
Tavern and Table - If you’re headed to Shem Creek, definitely go to Tavern and Table for brunch/lunch. It’s a great spot on the water and offers lots of sharable options as well. Be sure to try the Crab and Artichoke Dip, Crispy Chicken Sandwich, and the Crab Cake BLT.
Leon’s Oyster Shop - Leon's is a Charleston staple with a menu featuring a variety of oysters, clams, shrimp, and other seafood dishes, as well as a selection of classic southern sides. The restaurant also has a great selection of craft cocktails, beer, and wine to pair with your meal. Leon’s offers a charming atmosphere, with a bright and airy dining room decorated with vintage fixtures and wallpaper + a great outdoor patio space.
A Quick Bite
Callie’s Hot Biscuit - This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for something quick. You can order ahead to skip the line, and it’s a cost-effective, yet delicious, option for breakfast. Known for their delicious, made-from-scratch biscuits, they offer a variety of biscuit flavors, from classic buttermilk and black pepper bacon to cinnamon and cheese and chive. They also offer a selection of sandwiches made with their signature biscuits.
Holey City Bagels - Located in Charleston’s Upper King Street district, Holey City Bagels is known for its freshly baked, New York-style bagels and coffee bar. Order ahead is sometimes not available, so be sure to plan accordingly. Their blueberry bagel is delicious.
Dinner
Church and Union - Church and Union is located in the heart of downtown Charleston. It’s a converted church with exposed brick walls and high ceilings and offers a great atmosphere for dinner before a night out. Be sure to try the pimento cheese croquettes and the seared scallops. There are plenty of delicious cocktails as well.
Indaco - Indaco is a popular Italian restaurant located on King Street, specializing in contemporary Italian cuisine, with a menu that features a variety of dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The Bianca Pizza is a must.
Bourbon 'n Bubbles - Bourbon 'n Bubbles - is a bar and lounge located in downtown Charleston. If your bride is a “Southern Charm” and/or "Southern Hospitality" fan - this is the perfect dinner spot. It specializes in bourbon and champagne (hence the name), offering an extensive selection of both, as well as a variety of craft cocktails and wines. The menu also features a variety of small plates and appetizers, including oysters, charcuterie, and artisanal cheeses - perfect for sharing. This is the perfect dinner spot before a night out on King Street.
Fleet Landing - Fleet Landing is a waterfront seafood restaurant located in the French Quarter district of downtown Charleston. It has beautiful views of the water and specializes in fresh, locally sourced seafood. It’s great for groups looking for something more casual.
Felix - The menu at Felix features a variety of classic French dishes from escargot and charcuterie boards to steak frites and bouillabaisse. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring a variety of French and domestic wines.
Where To Drink
Club/Bars
Republic - Another staple spot for a Charleston bachelorette party, especially if your bride is a “Southern Charm” and/or "Southern Hospitality" fan. Republic has more of a "club" vibe and offers bottle service, dancing, and an outdoor patio area. There is a dress code.
Uptown Social - There is often a long line, so be sure to get here on the earlier side. Uptown Social is a popular three-story bar on Upper King and includes a rooftop area. You can enjoy live music downstairs, and a DJ upstairs.
Cocktail Club - Cocktail Club is a speakeasy-type bar with delicious craft cocktails and a rooftop area as well. Located on Upper King Street and central to other bars/restaurants.
Blind Tiger Pub - If your bride loves history, be sure to go to add Blind Tiger Pub to your Charleston bachelorette party. Its alehouse dates back to the early 1800s and has a great outdoor area as well.
Rooftop Bars
Citrus Club - located on top of the Dewberry Hotel.
Vendue - located on the rooftop of the Vendue Hotel.
Pavilion Bar - located on the rooftop of the Market Pavilion Hotel.
Cocktails
Church and Union - You don't need to have dinner to enjoy delicious cocktails at Church and Union. This is perfect for a Charleston bachelorette party with a smaller group.
Prohibition - Jazz-themed bar and restaurant that offers great cocktails, live music, and a classic atmosphere.
The Bar @ Husk - Another great spot for a Charleston bachelorette party with a smaller group, serving delicious cocktails in a great setting.
Day Drinking/Breweries/Wineries
Red's Ice House (Shem Creek) - A perfect spot for day drinking if you're planning a day out in Shem Creek (which is recommended, especially during the Summer).
Saltwater Cowboys (Shem Creek) - Another great spot for day drinking in Shem Creek.
Palmetto Brewery - A popular brewery in Downtown Charleston.
Revelry Brewing Co - A great brewery that also offers food and rooftop seating with great views.
Charleston Sippin Tour - Charleston's Wine Tour that starts by taking you for pictures in front of Angel Oak Tree.
Low Tide Brewing (Johns Island) - Tons of great outdoor space as well as amazing food trucks.
What To Do
Shopping
King Street - There are plenty of cute shops and boutiques to explore along King Street.
Sip and Shop - A fun experience if your bride is looking for a mix of shopping and drinking.
Beaches
Sullivan's Island - If you're looking for a more "relaxing" vibe at the beach, be sure to check out Sullivan's Island. There are also a few bars and restaurants you can head to before or after your time on the beach.
Folly Beach - If you're planning to spend time at Folly Beach, you can definitely make a day of it. A block from the beach is a variety of great restaurants and bars.
Isle of Palms - One of the most popular beaches and arguably more lively than Sullivan's Island.
Exploring/Tours
Rainbow Row - For one of the most "Instagram-able" locations, be sure to see the Rainbow Row houses. You can also walk a few blocks to Waterfront Park and take pictures of the Pineapple Fountain.
Carriage Tour - A great way to see the city is by going on a carriage tour. You'll learn about the history of Charleston and how Charleston got its "charm".
Ghost Tour - If your bride loves history or you're looking to add a little "spookiness" to your Charleston bachelorette party, be sure to take a ghost tour. You'll learn all about the most haunted areas of Charleston.
Boat Ride - One of the most popular Charleston bachelorette party events is renting a boat with a captain for the day. Charleston also offers tiki boats. Both are especially great for Summer bachelorettes and a perfect way to beat the heat.
Sample Charleston Bachelorette Party Itinerary
If you're planning a Charleston bachelorette, here is a sample itinerary that gives you a little bit of everything.
Day 1
Arrive to Charleston
Activity: Walk around & take pictures at Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park, and the Pineapple Fountain
Dinner: Fleet Landing
Drinks: Blind Tiger Pug
Day 2
Brunch:
If you're day drinking in Shem Creek: Tavern & Table (call to book)
If you're doing a beach day: The Obstinate Daughter (reservations for 6 or less; call for parties of 7+)
Activity: The type of activity will depend on what type of day your group wants to have/what time of year your Charleston bachelorette party is:
Breweries: Palmetto Brewery or Revelry Brewing Co
Day Drinking: Shem Creek (Red's & Saltwater Cowboys)
Beach Day: Sullivan's Island or Isle of Palm
Cocktails: Citrus Club Rooftop (at the Dewberry Hotel)
Dinner: Church and Union (reservations)
Drinks: Bottle service @ Republic (bottle service reservations)
Day 3
Breakfast: To go order from Callie's Hot Biscuit (order ahead)
Activity: Boat Day
Dinner: Indaco (reservations for 6 or less; call for parties of 7+)
Drinks: Prohibition and/or Uptown Social
Have so much fun! ♥
*The Ultimate Bachelorette Party Planner
**This post is not affiliated with any of the mentioned establishments.