Guide to Charleston
Charleston is the perfect kind of place to just go without a rigid plan and wander around. As the city's official visitors site highlights, it is an ideal destination to "immerse yourself in a rich coastal culture, hop on a historic tour, splash in the waves, or set out on a flower-strewn stroll". With its incredible dining scene and walkable streets, it is absolutely perfect for solo female trips or girls' getaways of any kind—think birthdays, bachelorettes, or a classic friends' retreat.
Where to Stay:
Your accommodation shapes your entire experience. Here are my top recommendations for a fabulous stay in Charleston:
Hotel Bennett: Grand, elegant, and perfectly situated right on King Street.
The Palmetto Hotel: A chic, deeply Southern boutique stay with a fantastic historic district location.
The Pinch Hotel: Modern, stylish, and perfect for travelers who want a boutique luxury feel with all the comforts of home.
The Dewberry Charleston: Mid-century modern glamour wrapped in Southern hospitality.
What to Do:
Charleston is a city best explored at a relaxed pace. Here are a few experiences I highly recommend adding to your itinerary:
Take a Historic Walking Tour: One of the best ways to see this historic city is on foot. I highly recommend a women's history walking tour—it offers an incredible, unique perspective on the city's past.
Experience Rooftop Dining: Charleston has phenomenal options for rooftop drinks and dining. You absolutely must check out the Citrus Club, located on the top floor of The Dewberry Charleston, for sweeping views and fantastic cocktails. (For even more vibey dining options in the area, check out the curated list on Opulist here!
Spend a Day on the Water: You are on the coast, after all! Carve out a day to get out on the water, whether that means a harbor sail, a boat charter, or a trip out to the barrier islands.
Explore and book even more curated local activities and tours on Get Your Guide here!
Capture the Moment:
Flytographer You shouldn't have to stress about capturing the perfect photo while you are trying to be present in the moment with your friends or enjoying a solo trip. I recommend securing a session through Flytographer, a service that connects you with professional local photographers to capture high-quality memories of your getaway.
Book your Flytographer session here!
If Not Charleston, Then Where?
If you love the historic charm, coastal energy, and incredible dining scene of Charleston, but want to explore somewhere new, here are two incredible alternatives that capture that same magic:
📍 Savannah, Georgia
The Vibe: Just down the coast, Savannah offers that same dripping-in-Spanish-moss Southern charm with a slightly more relaxed, eccentric energy.
The Highlight: I highly recommend making Hotel Bardo your home base. It's a stunning urban resort and exclusive neighborhood clubhouse right on Forsyth Park, featuring an incredible pool club and coastal Italian dining at Saint Bibiana.
📍 New Orleans, Louisiana
The Vibe: If your group wants to dial up the culinary and music scene while keeping the historic architecture and walkable neighborhoods, NOLA is unmatched.
The Highlight: Skip the generic tourist traps and build your itinerary around the city's phenomenal food and wine culture. I always recommend spending an evening at Bacchanal—it offers a legendary backyard party vibe with incredible wine, cheese plates, and live jazz right in the courtyard.
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