Charleston Bachelorette Party: Where to Stay, What to Wear, and What to Gift the Whole Crew

Charleston is the number one bachelorette destination on the East Coast — and honestly, once you've spent a weekend here with your crew, you'll understand why. The cobblestone streets, the pastel-colored houses, the rooftop bars overlooking the harbor, the food scene that ruins you for every other city — it's all built for celebrating. And unlike a lot of bachelorette destinations, Charleston gives you range. You can do a chill spa-and-brunch weekend or a full-send boat-party-to-dance-floor situation. Most groups end up somewhere in between, which is exactly where the best memories happen.

I'm a Charleston local who has planned, attended, and accessorized more bachelorette weekends than I can count. This isn't a recycled list from someone who visited once — this is the guide the maid of honor actually needs. Where to book group accommodations that don't require separate hotel rooms, which boutiques to hit on King Street, the best bachelorette gift ideas, where to eat with a big group, and how to plan a weekend your bride will talk about forever.

Where to Stay: Group-Friendly Charleston Bachelorette Accommodations

The number one mistake bachelorette groups make? Booking a bunch of separate hotel rooms. You lose the communal energy, everyone ends up getting ready alone, and half the group is "running late" because they got comfortable in their own room. You need a shared space with a big kitchen, a living area for getting ready together, and enough bedrooms that nobody's sleeping on the couch (unless they want to).

The Charlee on Cannon — Best for Bachelorette Groups

This is my top pick for Charleston bachelorette party accommodations and I'm not being subtle about it. The Charlee on Cannon (89 Cannon Street) is a collection of luxury short-term rental rowhomes in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, each one designed by Charleston-based designer Jenny Keenan. Every unit has four or five bedrooms sleeping up to 10 guests, plus a gorgeous open-concept living space with a full kitchen — perfect for that first-night-in wine and cheese situation. The finishes are stunning (think custom millwork, curated art, and rooftop access), and no two units look the same. They also offer hotel-style concierge service, communal bikes, and off-street parking. You're walking distance to King Street, Upper King restaurants and bars, and everything downtown.

More Charleston Bachelorette Hotels and Rentals

The Ryder Hotel is another strong option if you want a boutique hotel vibe with a pool scene. Their poolside restaurant Little Palm is basically made for bachelorette content — frozen cocktails, cabana rentals, and a backdrop that photographs beautifully. Hotel Bennett on King Street has a rooftop pool, spa, and champagne lounge — ideal for a smaller group that wants a more polished hotel experience.

For larger groups (12+), look at whole-house rentals on Isle of Palms or Sullivan's Island through YourPad Bookings. You'll get a beach house with a pool, but heads up — you'll need Ubers to get downtown for dinner and going out, which adds up fast with a big group. My advice: stay on the peninsula if nightlife is a priority.

Let Someone Else Handle the Decor: Bach Babes Charleston

Here's a secret the best maids of honor know: you don't have to do everything yourself. Bach Babes is a bachelorette party planning and decor company that operates in Charleston (plus Nashville, Austin, and 30A). They'll set up your Airbnb or rental before you arrive with balloon arches, a decorated bridal suite, custom signage, a mimosa bar — the whole Instagram-worthy bachelorette setup. Packages range from a mini decor package to full-service planning including itinerary building and restaurant reservations. They also offer custom Bach Babes gift bags, hangover kits, and matching trucker hats for the crew. The best part? They have partnerships with local Charleston businesses so your group gets exclusive discounts at bars, restaurants, and experiences throughout the weekend.

The Shopping Crawl: Where to Shop in Charleston for a Bachelorette Weekend

This is where Charleston absolutely shines for a bachelorette party. Forget the mall — you're doing a boutique crawl, and every stop has personality. Here's your route:

Maris DeHart — The Going-Out Outfit Stop

Maris DeHart (32 Vendue Range, in the French Quarter) is the boutique where everyone in your group will find something they didn't know they needed. Founded by Alden DeHart Haviland (who cut her teeth at Henri Bendel in New York), this shop is curated with an eye for bold, head-turning pieces — sequined tops, statement dresses, gorgeous accessories. This is where you find the going-out outfit for Saturday night. And yes, you can shop JuJu Loves jewelry and accessories here too — my pieces are stocked at Maris DeHart, so you can try on statement brooches and bold earrings in person.

Read more: Where to Shop JuJu Loves in Charleston: Visit Us at Maris DeHart

Holst + Lee — The Group Activity Stop

This is the can't-miss bachelorette activity that doubles as a keepsake. Holst + Lee (17 State Street in the French Quarter) offers a private Charm Bar happy hour for groups of 6-20. For $165 per person, you get a 90-minute private session with wine, champagne, and a charcuterie board — plus you build your own charm necklace or bracelet from over 300 charms (including Charleston-themed ones like Rainbow Row). The chains are 18K gold-filled, so this isn't costume jewelry. It's a meaningful keepsake everyone will actually wear long after the bachelorette weekend. If your crew loves the idea of charm jewelry, check out why charm bracelets are having a major moment in 2026. Book well in advance — these fill up fast, especially during peak bachelorette season (March through October). Available weekdays only, no Saturdays.

Rebecca Illustrated — The Charleston Souvenir Stop

Rebecca Illustrated (507 1/2 King Street) is the flagship store of watercolor artist Rebecca Meixner, whose playful Charleston-themed prints have landed in Anthropologie and over 300 boutiques nationwide. Pick up art prints, mugs, puzzles, candles, and Charleston pullovers — all featuring Rebecca's signature watercolor style. The store also has a paint-your-own watercolor station where you can sit down and create something together. Perfect for the creative bride or anyone who wants a meaningful Charleston souvenir beyond a shot glass.

The Tiny Tassel — The Colorful Earring Stop

The Tiny Tassel (46 Spring Street) is Charleston's only Black- and Asian-owned boutique, founded by Mimi Striplin. The store is famous for handmade tassel earrings in every color imaginable, plus beaded jewelry, bracelets, colorful clothing designed by Mimi's mother Keiko, and curated accessories. The vibe is pure joy — pastel walls, rainbows, and displays that make you want to photograph everything. Pick up matching tassel earrings for the whole crew in the bride's wedding colors. Open Monday through Saturday, 11am to 5pm.

Sewing Down South — The Southern Charm Stop

Sewing Down South (493 King Street) is Craig Conover's flagship store — yes, that Craig from Bravo's Southern Charm. The store is filled with handcrafted decorative pillows in bright coastal prints, plus candles, kitchen accessories, and home goods. Take a photo in front of the iconic yarn wall (the "Sew What" neon sign is a bachelorette photo staple), and pick up a pillow or candle as a gift for the bride's new home. If you're lucky, Craig might actually be there. Open seven days a week.

Bachelorette Gift Ideas: For the Bride and the Whole Crew

A bachelorette weekend deserves at least one thoughtful gift moment. Here are ideas from JuJu Loves that go beyond the matching tank tops — real jewelry and accessories your bride and bridesmaids will keep forever.

For the Bride: Embellished Charleston Canvas Tote — $138

Embellished Charleston Canvas Tote — $138

This is the bachelorette bride gift. The Embellished Charleston Canvas Tote arrives fully styled with hand-selected Charleston-themed patches — "Low Country," "Y'ALL," a Rainbow Row house, a "So Salty" pretzel, a pineapple for Southern hospitality — plus three removable brooches (sea turtle, sunflower, and bee) and a navy leather tassel. She'll carry it all weekend for beach day essentials, shopping bags, and boat cruise supplies. And because the brooches are removable, she can pop them off and wear them on a jacket or scarf long after the trip. At 15" x 19" in durable cotton canvas with reinforced straps, this tote handles everything from sand to dinner. Every time she grabs it, she'll think of that sunset boat cruise and the night you all danced at Prohibition until close.

Bridesmaid Gifts Under $50: Matching Pieces the Whole Crew Will Love

The maid of honor is already spending a fortune on this weekend. Bridesmaid gifts should feel special without breaking the bank. Here are the best options under $50 — pick one style for the whole group or let everyone choose their own:

Gold Bow Heart Earrings — $48
Bows and hearts at $48. This is the bachelorette bridesmaid gift. Feminine, fun, and made from 18k gold plated stainless steel so they're waterproof and tarnish-resistant. Small enough to wear every day after the trip.

SHOP Gold Bow Heart Earrings - $48

Puffy Heart Charm Bead Bracelet — $48
For the sentimental crew. Stack it with whatever they're already wearing — it plays well with everything from gold bangles to a simple watch. The puffy heart charm makes it feel personal.

Gold Butterfly Stud Earrings — $48
For the group that wants something they'll wear to work on Monday. Classic studs with just enough sparkle to feel like a gift, not an accessory afterthought.

Gold Cherub Angels Red Heart Brooch — $34
The most affordable option that still feels special. Pin it on a jacket or tote for the weekend, then keep it as a keepsake. Love, angels, and a red heart — perfect for a wedding celebration.

Bridesmaid Gifts Under $80: When You Want to Spend a Little More

For the maid of honor, the bride's sister, or the friend who flew across the country to be there — sometimes you want to give a little extra. These are the under-$80 picks that feel like real jewelry gifts:

Gold Heart Dangle Earrings with Red Crystal — $78
Hearts, love, and a bachelorette weekend. These are the earrings a bridesmaid keeps in her jewelry box for years and says "I got these at my best friend's bach in Charleston."

SHOP Gold Heart Dangle Earrings with Red Crystal - $78

Gold Bow Stud Earrings — $58
Versatile enough for the office and pretty enough for date night. The sweet spot between affordable and special — and the bow trend isn't going anywhere.

Baroque Pearl Gold Cocktail Ring — $78
Nobody expects a ring as a bridesmaid gift, which is exactly what makes it special. Looks stunning in every champagne-toast photo and group shot all weekend.

Read more: Best Jewelry Gifts for Women Who Have Everything | Brooch Gift Guide 2026

Charleston-Themed Gifts to Pick Up While You're Here

If you want to surprise the bride with something local, two of the boutiques on your shopping crawl have great options. Maris DeHart carries Charleston-themed sweatshirts and graphic tees that make perfect keepsakes — the kind of cozy pullover she'll throw on every weekend and remember the trip. Rebecca Illustrated has Charleston watercolor pullovers, mugs, art prints, and candles that double as gifts or hostess thank-yous for whoever's hosting the rental.

And don't skip OMG Candy Store on King Street — it's a Swedish and vintage candy shop that's a bachelorette pit stop in its own right. Load up on candy bags for the rental (mimosa bar snacks, anyone?), and check out their "Who's That Girl" candle collection — each scent matches a different personality, so everyone in your crew can pick the one that fits them. The Good JuJu candle is one of ours, and it makes a great little gift for the bride's new home or a hostess thank-you.

SHOP Good JuJu Candle

All three shops carry JuJu Loves products, so you can knock out your gift shopping and your accessory shopping in the same stops. For more Charleston shopping ideas, check out our local's guide to the best gift shops in Charleston.

Where to Eat: Best Charleston Restaurants for Bachelorette Groups

Charleston's food scene is legendary, but not every restaurant can (or wants to) handle a party of 10 women in matching sashes. Here are the spots that actually welcome bachelorette energy and handle big groups well:

Brunch Spots

Poogan's Porch (poogansporch.com) — Classic Southern brunch in a historic home on Queen Street. Chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and biscuits that don't need an explanation. Great for groups and reservations are a must.

Millers All Day (millersallday.com) — Modern Southern diner vibes with creative breakfast dishes and strong cocktails. Walkable from most downtown stays.

Frannie and The Fox (frannieandthefox.com) — Inside Hotel Emeline, this spot has gorgeous decor, bachelorette-worthy brunch cocktails, and food that photographs beautifully. The outdoor patio is stunning when the weather cooperates.

Dinner Restaurants

The Darling Oyster Bar (thedarling.com) — Fresh oysters, creative seafood, and a fun coastal atmosphere on King Street. Great for groups who want something lively but not too formal.

Magnolias (magnoliascharleston.com) — If the bride wants a classic Charleston fine dining experience with Lowcountry cuisine, this is it. Make reservations 3-4 weeks in advance for groups of 6+.

Indaco (indacocharleston.com) — Italian small plates that are perfect for sharing with a big group. Great wine list, vibrant atmosphere, and pasta that will fuel you for the rest of the night.

Charleston Bars and Nightlife for Bachelorette Parties

Uptown Social — The rooftop bar with the best frozen cocktails in Charleston and live music nightly. Get there early because the line gets wild on weekends. This is where every bachelorette party ends up at least once.

The Cocktail Club — Speakeasy-style craft cocktails for the crew that prefers a chill pre-dinner vibe. Great for the "one drink before dinner" stop.

Prohibition — Upscale cocktail bar by day, electric dance floor by night. The place to end up when someone says "let's go dancing!"

Republic Garden and Lounge — If the group wants a full club experience with VIP bottle service, this is it. Dress code applies — which means your Saturday night outfit from Maris DeHart gets its moment.

Zach's Daiquiris — Frozen daiquiris on King Street with bright tropical vibes. Perfect daytime pit stop between shopping and dinner. The drinks are colorful, strong, and very photogenic.

Get on the Water: Charleston Bachelorette Boat Cruises

A Charleston bachelorette without a boat day is like a wedding without cake — technically possible but why would you? The harbor is stunning, the sunsets are ridiculous, and most bachelorette boat cruises in Charleston are BYOB.

Harbor Bar is the go-to for Charleston bachelorette party boats. Their 105-minute cruises run from $45/person on weekdays ($55 weekends) for public cruises, or from $625 for a private charter. You bring your own drinks, they provide coolers, ice, a sound system, a bathroom on board, and even a Polaroid for photos. Book 2-3 weeks in advance, especially for sunset time slots during peak season.

Charleston Party Cat offers private catamaran charters with a full party-boat setup — think floats, drinking games, and anchoring up at a sandbar for swimming. Prices start around $950 for up to 14 people on a 2-hour cruise.

Tiki Tours of Charleston runs the Friki Tiki, a 32-passenger party boat with a bathroom, snacks, floats, and a killer sound system. They offer semi-private bachelorette packages where you share the boat with one other group — a smart way to save money while still having an epic time on the water.

What to Wear: Charleston Bachelorette Party Outfits by Day

Charleston has a dress code, even if nobody says it out loud. Here's what to pack for each day of your bachelorette weekend (and for a full packing guide, see our resort accessories checklist):

Day 1 — Arrival and Dinner: A cute sundress or jumpsuit with statement earrings. Pin a Gold Cherub Angels Brooch ($34) on the bride's outfit so everyone knows who's getting married.

Day 2 — Boat Day: Swimsuit under a cute coverup, slides, a wide-brim sun hat, and waterproof jewelry. Check out our guide to summer jewelry that won't tarnish for pieces that can handle sun, salt, and champagne splashes. (And if the rental has a pool, here's our guide to what to wear to a pool party.)

Day 2 — Going Out: This is your big night. Head to Maris DeHart earlier in the day and find something that makes you feel untouchable. Pair it with statement earrings and a clutch that fits your phone, card, and lip gloss. A brooch on a blazer or jacket adds unexpected edge — the Cognac Crystal Starburst Brooch ($88) catches every light in every bar.

Day 3 — Brunch and Departure: Comfortable but cute. Linen pants, a nice top, and a headband that makes "I was out until 2am" look intentional.

Read more: How to Accessorize a Plain Outfit | Date Night Accessories | Resort Accessories: What to Pack

Sample Charleston Bachelorette Weekend Itinerary

Friday

Arrive and check in (let Bach Babes handle the decor setup beforehand — you'll walk into balloon arches and a stocked mimosa bar). Freshen up, pop champagne, take photos. Walk to dinner at The Darling Oyster Bar. End the night at The Cocktail Club or Uptown Social for rooftop drinks.

Saturday

Morning mimosa bar at your rental. Boutique crawl on King Street: start at Sewing Down South (493 King), walk to Rebecca Illustrated (507 1/2 King), then head to The Tiny Tassel (46 Spring Street). Afternoon: book a private charm necklace party at Holst + Lee (17 State Street) — wine, charcuterie, and custom jewelry. Late afternoon: sunset boat cruise on Harbor Bar. Evening: change into your going-out outfits (purchased at Maris DeHart that morning, obviously). Dinner at Magnolias. Dancing at Prohibition or Republic.

Sunday

Brunch at Poogan's Porch or Frannie and The Fox. Walk to the Waterfront Park and French Quarter for one last stroll before heading out. Stop by Maris DeHart (32 Vendue Range, right in the French Quarter) if anyone needs a last-minute piece — and browse the JuJu Loves accessories while you're there.

Pro Tips from a Charleston Local

Book restaurants 3-4 weeks out for groups of 6+. Charleston's food scene is competitive and the best spots fill up fast on weekends, especially during peak bachelorette season.

Stay on the peninsula. Downtown Charleston is incredibly walkable and you don't want to be coordinating Ubers for 10 people after a night out. The Charlee on Cannon, The Ryder, and Hotel Bennett are all walkable to everything.

Spring and fall are ideal. March through May and September through November give you the best weather without the brutal summer heat and humidity. Peak bachelorette season is March through June — book accommodations 2-3 months in advance.

Bring a light jacket for evening. Even in warm months, restaurant AC and harbor breezes on the boat can be chilly.

Skip the party bus. Charleston is compact enough to walk most places, and Uber is cheap for the few longer trips. Save that money for the boat cruise or the charm necklace party.

Don't forget sunscreen for boat day. The harbor reflection will get you even if you think you don't burn. And bring a hat — your future self's skin will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Charleston bachelorette weekend cost per person?
Budget roughly $500-$800 per person for a Friday-through-Sunday weekend. That covers your share of accommodation ($100-$200/night split), meals ($50-$75/day), a boat cruise ($45-$65), the Holst + Lee charm party ($165), shopping money, and going-out expenses. A Bach Babes decor package adds $50-$100 per person depending on the package level.

What's the best time of year for a Charleston bachelorette party?
April through early June and September through November are the sweet spots. You'll get warm enough weather for boat days without the extreme summer heat. Book accommodations and boat charters 2-3 months in advance for spring and fall weekends.

How many days should we plan for a Charleston bachelorette?
A long weekend (Friday afternoon through Sunday brunch) is the sweet spot. It's enough time to do everything without burning out the group or the budget. If you have extra time, add a Monday morning spa day at Hotel Bennett or a beach day on Isle of Palms.

What are the best bachelorette gift ideas under $50?
From JuJu Loves: the Gold Bow Heart Earrings ($48), Puffy Heart Charm Bead Bracelet ($48), Gold Butterfly Stud Earrings ($48), or Gold Cherub Angels Brooch ($34). All are real jewelry pieces your bridesmaids will wear well beyond the bachelorette weekend.

What's the best gift for the bride at a bachelorette party?
The Embellished Charleston Canvas Tote ($138) from JuJu Loves is the perfect bride bachelorette gift — it arrives fully styled with Charleston-themed patches and three removable brooches, she'll carry it all weekend, and it becomes a keepsake of the trip.

Where can I shop JuJu Loves accessories in person in Charleston?
You can find a selection of JuJu Loves jewelry, brooches, headbands, and accessories at Maris DeHart, 32 Vendue Range in the French Quarter. Read our full guide to shopping JuJu Loves at Maris DeHart.

Is Charleston walkable for a bachelorette group?
Very. If you stay downtown on the peninsula, you can walk to restaurants, bars, boutiques, and the waterfront without needing a car. Uber is available for trips to the beach islands (Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, Folly Beach) which are about 20-30 minutes away.

Can Bach Babes set up our Airbnb before we arrive?
Yes — that's their whole thing. They'll coordinate with your rental host or property manager to access the space before check-in and have everything photo-ready when you walk in. Book at bachbabes.com/charleston.

Do I need to book the Holst + Lee charm party in advance?
Absolutely. Private happy hours accommodate 6-20 guests, run 90 minutes, and are available on weekdays only (no Saturdays). Book at holstandlee.com/pages/events at least 3-4 weeks ahead during peak season.

What should I wear to go out in Charleston?
Charleston dresses up for nightlife. Think cocktail dresses, statement earrings, heels or dressy sandals, and a clutch. The best place to find a going-out outfit is Maris DeHart on Vendue Range. For accessories, browse statement earrings and modern brooches from JuJu Loves.

More Style Inspiration

Charleston Weekend Guide: What to Pack for the Perfect Trip
Best Gift Shops in Charleston: A Local's Guide
Where to Shop JuJu Loves in Charleston
Wedding Guest Jewelry and Accessories Guide
Best Jewelry Gifts for Women Who Have Everything