When the sun goes down, Charleston truly shines — and if you’re planning a girls’ night out, this charming Southern city delivers everything from rooftop cocktails to late-night dancing and dessert bars. Whether you’re celebrating a bachelorette weekend, a birthday, or just a well-earned night away with friends, here are four fun things to do in Charleston for the ultimate girls’ night.
1. Sip & Savor on King Street
Start your evening with cocktails on King Street, Charleston’s trendiest stretch for food, drinks, and people-watching. From sleek rooftop lounges to cozy wine bars, there’s something for every mood.
Where to go:
- The Cocktail Club – A sophisticated rooftop bar known for handcrafted drinks and skyline views.
- Bin 152 – A French-inspired wine bar perfect for sharing charcuterie before dinner.
- Prohibition – 1920s-themed, complete with swing music, great cocktails, and plenty of photo ops.
Insider tip: Make reservations if your group is large — and wear your dancing shoes. King Street is walkable, vibrant, and always buzzing.
2. Dinner with a Charleston Twist
Charleston’s dining scene is second to none, blending Southern tradition with coastal flair. Whether you’re craving Lowcountry seafood, wood-fired pizza, or small-plate dining, there’s a table waiting for your group.
Local favorites:
- Halls Chophouse – Perfect for a classy dinner with champagne toasts and incredible service.
- The Ordinary – Known for its raw bar and fresh seafood in a former 1920s bank building.
- Leon’s Oyster Shop – Fried chicken, oysters, and rosé on tap — casual, cool, and quintessentially Charleston.
If you’re coming in from out of town, check the Charleston weather forecast before booking those patio tables. Warm evenings often make outdoor dining the top choice.
3. Experience Charleston by Water
For a truly memorable night, take your celebration off the cobblestone and onto the harbor. Sunset cruises, private charters, and sailing tours let you toast with a view of the Ravenel Bridge, the Battery, and Fort Sumter as the city lights begin to twinkle.
Options include:
- Charleston Harbor Tours – Classic narrated cruises with drinks and live music.
- Saltwater Cycle – A pedal-powered party boat made for group fun.
- Private Yacht Charters – Ideal for bachelorettes or milestone celebrations.
Many groups staying in vacation rentals on Folly Beach make this a centerpiece of their Charleston evening — start on the water, end downtown for a late bite.
4. Late-Night Laughs, Dessert, or Dancing
Charleston knows how to end a night right. Whether you’re craving something sweet or ready to hit the dance floor, there are plenty of options.
Top picks:
- Carmella’s Café & Dessert Bar – Part cocktail lounge, part dessert heaven.
- Uptown Social – Rooftop dancing, casual crowd, and late-night eats.
- Republic Garden & Lounge – DJ sets, bottle service, and Charleston’s best nightlife energy.
- The Commodore – A live jazz and soul club with a vintage vibe.
For a relaxed finale, grab dessert or espresso martinis, then stroll the Waterfront Park Pier under the palm trees — a peaceful end to a glamorous night.
Alternative Ideas for Your Charleston Girls’ Getaway
If you’re spending the weekend (and why wouldn’t you?), here are a few more experiences worth adding to your itinerary:
- Spa Morning at The Dewberry or Hotel Bennett – Start your day in luxury before heading out.
- Shopping on King Street – Designer fashion, local boutiques, and everything in between.
- Wine & Design Workshop – Paint, sip, and laugh your way through an afternoon art class.
- Brunch Before You Go – Don’t miss a farewell brunch at The Darling Oyster Bar or 82 Queen before heading home.
Getting There from Folly Beach
If your group is staying on Folly Beach, it’s easy to make a quick trip into Charleston for the evening — but timing is everything. Traffic between the island and downtown can get heavy during peak beach season, especially in the late afternoon and early evening.
Before you head out, check our guide on tips for avoiding the worst of Folly Beach traffic for smart routes, parking suggestions, and the best times to travel. With a little planning, you can enjoy the best of both worlds — beach days and Charleston nights.
Plan the Perfect Weekend
Whether you’re sipping cocktails on King Street, cruising Charleston Harbor, or dancing beneath the live oaks, the Holy City offers endless ways to celebrate friendship.
If you’re staying nearby, Folly Beach vacation rentals make for the perfect home base — Charleston’s nightlife and beaches all within easy reach.
So gather your girls, plan your outfits, and get ready to make Charleston your new favorite escape.
