Charleston Bachelorette Party Guide
If you’re considering a bachelorette party in Charleston, you’re in for an unforgettable trip!
Charleston, South Carolina is the land of pastel architecture, rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Add these elements together, and you have the recipe for a perfect bachelorette party. That’s right, Charleston is one of the best bachelorette destinations in the country, and it’s easy to see why. This charming southern city has everything you need for an incredible trip with your closest friends.
Read on for our ultimate guide to planning the best bachelorette getaway in Charleston!
Table of Contents
Where to Stay
Where you stay sets the scene for your bachelorette trip. But don’t worry, because Charleston has lots of charming accommodation options to choose from. You can stay in the heart of downtown, in a boutique hotel in the French Quarter, or in a seaside cottage by one of the neighboring beach towns. Here are our recommendations for where to stay during your Charleston bachelorette trip.
Historic Downtown Charleston
If you want to be right in the center of the action, you may want to stay in historic downtown Charleston, also known as The Peninsula. Staying in the heart of Charleston’s Historic District puts you in close proximity to the city’s main attractions, shops, restaurants, and nightlife. You’ll find charming boutique hotels, historic inns, and upscale accommodations that radiate Southern charm. For a luxurious stay, you can’t go wrong with Charleson Place, an independent upscale hotel located right in the center of the city’s historic district. Other great options in the historic district include The Spectator Hotel, The Dewberry Charleston, and Zero George Street. Plus, Charleston is one of the most walkable cities in America, which makes it easy to get around and explore without a car.
The French Quarter
The French Quarter is an iconic neighborhood within Charleston’s historic district. Located between the Cooper River, Broad Street, Meeting Street, and Market Street, this charming area is known for cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and European-inspired architecture. If you want to stay in the French Quarter, you’ll feel right at home at the French Quarter Inn, a gorgeous boutique hotel right off Market Street, or The Vendue, Charleston’s art hotel.
The Beach
Maybe you don’t want to stay in the city for your bachelorette party, and that’s ok! One great thing about Charleston is its proximity to the beach. Check out nearby beach towns like Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Edisto Beach for a seaside escape that’s still within a short drive of downtown Charleston.
These recommendations are just the start! There are also plenty of Airbnb properties and vacation rentals available throughout the city and nearby beach towns. You can also check out the city’s directory of hotels to discover even more options.
Bachelorette Party Activities in Charleston
One of the best things about Charleston is the wealth of unique activities! You can take in the city’s rich history, stroll through streets of pastel-colored buildings, relax at the beach, take a party cruise, and so much more. Here are some of the best bachelorette activities in this southern city!
Discover the City’s History
Charleston boasts a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1670. While you’re visiting the city, make sure to spend some time discovering the city’s history for yourself! Charleston is famous for its architecture, so make sure you take some time to wander through the famous historic district and French Quarter. You’ll see gorgeous buildings in various architectural styles including Colonial, Georgian, Federal, Classical Revival, Gothic Revival, Italianate, Victorian, and Art Deco. While taking in the architecture, don’t miss Rainbow Row, a series of brightly-colored houses along the waterfront. These colorful buildings are one of the most photographed spots in the city, so don’t forget your camera! If you’re a true history buff, you and your friends can also visit a few of the many historical sites and landmarks throughout the city including Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Fort Sumter National Monument, and the Aiken-Rhett House Museum.
Party with the Cocktail Boys
During your bachelorette getaway, you may want to throw a private party for you and your friends. Well, no party is complete without the Cocktail Boys! These southern gentlemen know how to throw a party, and will make any brunch, game night, or house party one to remember! As your personal party hosts, bartenders, butlers, Spotify DJs, game organizers, and photo-takers, the Cocktail Boys take care of every detail so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy quality time with your besties. Learn more about the Cocktail Boys.
Head to the Beach
Charleston is ideally located just a short drive away from some of the best beaches on the Atlantic coast. When you want to escape the city and spend a day relaxing in the sun, head to Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island Beach, Kiawah Island, or Edisto Beach.
Take a Party Cruise
Take the party to the water with a party cruise! Enjoy scenic views of Charleston Harbor while dancing, vibing, and sipping on drinks with your friends. Charleston Party Cat is Charleston’s favorite party cruise and will show you and your friends a good time. Their cruises include a state-of-the-art sound system, an awesome host, and an unforgettable cruise around Historic Charleston.
Ride in a Horse-Drawn Carriage
Explore the Historic District in style by taking an iconic horse-drawn carriage tour. Board the carriage and ride through the city’s charming streets while enjoying beautiful views and fascinating stories. Check out Palmetto Carriage Works or the Old South Carriage Co.
Go Shopping
With so many unique boutiques, local artisan shops, and well-known brands, Charleston is a dream shopping spree destination. If shopping is your thing, book a tour with Sip n’ Shop Charleston. This fun excursion takes you on a 2-hour guided walking tour of the best shops in Charleston. Sip on wine throughout the tour, and get ready to pick out some treasures to take back home with you!
Where to Eat in Charleston
Charleston is renowned for its food scene! From classic Lowcountry cooking to fresh seafood, the city’s food scene is unmatched. Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Charleston!
Restaurants
When you’re in Lowcountry, you’ll definitely want to try local dishes that include traditional ingredients like oysters, rice, okra, crabs, and grits. Many restaurants in Charleston offer their unique twists on these classic meals, using locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors. For southern cooking, head to Husk, The Obstinate Daughter, or Poogan’s Porch. If you’re in the mood for other types of cuisine, don’t worry! There are lots of options to choose from in Charleston. Try some Italian at Frannie & The Fox or hit up Mex 1 Coastal Cantina on Sullivan’s Island for a beach bar experience!
Coffee Shops
In Charleston, coffee isn’t just a beverage; it’s an experience! So when you need a midday pick-me-up or a morning brew, we’ve got you covered! Charleston has tons of cute coffee shops, but our favorites include Second State Coffee and Sightsee Shop for some of the best specialty coffee in the city!
Brunch
A girls’ trip to Charleston isn’t complete without brunch! When in town, you can’t go wrong with brunch at Daps Breakfast & Imbibe, The Junction Kitchen & Provisions, or Millers All Day. Go ahead and indulge in some hash browns, pancakes, egg sandwiches, and of course, mimosas!
Nightlife in Charleston
From trendy bars and rooftop lounges to live music venues, Charleston comes alive after the sun sets. Dance the night away at nightclubs on King Street, take in the views from rooftop terraces, or enjoy live music at vintage jazz clubs. Whatever vibe you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Charleston!
King Street
King Street is a main hub for nightlife in Charleston and features a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The lively stretch of Upper King Street is home to a variety of trendy bars and craft cocktails spots, while Lower King Street offers classy lounges and rooftop venues with stunning views of the city. Hit up The Cocktail Club for upscale craft cocktails in a speakeasy-inspired atmosphere, or Uptown Social for rooftop views!
Historic District
Charleston’s Historic District is home to charming bars and pubs, many of which are housed in historic buildings. Experience the city’s rich history while enjoying craft beers, signature cocktails, or a glass of fine wine. The Commodore is a fun vintage jazz bar on Meeting Street, and Trio is a chic multi-level nightclub on Calhoun Street.
Charleston Bachelorette Party
With its charming historic district, beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and unmatched culinary scene, Charleston offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable bachelorette party. Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets, dancing the night away, or simply basking in the warm Southern hospitality, a bachelorette party in Charleston will be one for the books.
If you want to uplevel your bachelorette getaway, get in touch with Bach Babes. They’ll help with decorations, mimosa bars, goodie bags, itineraries, and more! As you’re making your packing list, check out the Cabana Boys Shop to pick out some new bachelorette-themed apparel, drinkware, beach necessities, and more!
And don’t miss the Cabana Boys podcast for more party planning fun!