I’ve been visiting Charleston South Carolina since I was little since we have family that lives in Mount Pleasant and over the years I have grown to love the city more and more. There are so many old favorites and new spots popping up and I wanted to add all of my top recommendations in one place. Charleston, South Carolina is one of those magical cities that feels like is charming at every corner—from cobblestone streets and pastel-painted row houses to some of the best food and shopping in the South. Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend, planning a girls’ getaway, or just craving a slower pace in a beautiful setting, this guide rounds up all my personal favorites—from my favorite photo spots and can’t-miss meals to the best local shopping I’m hoping this guide has something for everyone!

WHERE TO EAT IN CHARLESTON

Charleston is all about the food—and dinners here are next-level. Some spots are new and packed (for good reason), while others are more low-key gems. I’ve had some of my favorite meals in Charleston, you know- the ones you think about long after your trip. Rounding up my favorite spots for below:

Dinner Favorites

• Leon’s – Fried chicken + oysters in a casual and perfectly curated setting. It’s always packed and a great vibe. Don’t skip the frozen G&T! I dream of this sandwich- a few other notable favorites are the hush puppies, scalloped potatoes, and make sure you end your meal with a soft serve ice cream! I honestly don’t think you can miss with anything on their menu.

• Chubby Fish – Fresh, seasonal seafood with a creative twist. It’s cozy, unpretentious, and always incredible. They don’t accept reservations so be sure to get in line outside around 4 (or even earlier) if you would like to get first seating. Believe me the line is WORTH IT and if you don’t believe me- take Martha Stewarts word for it. I’m always a fan of merch too and they have the cutest trucker hats.

• Sorelle – Italian elegance meets Southern hospitality. I haven’t personally been here yet for dinner but I have heard amazing things from local friends and can’t wait to dine here for dinner on our next trip. It just opened in 2023 and is an absolutely beautiful space. We stopped in for coffee and pastries in the morning and loved everything!

• 167 Raw – Tucked into a narrow space, this seafood bar serves up the best tuna burger and lobster roll in town. I always love the vibe here and have yet to have something from their menu I didn’t love! Fresh seafood is always a favorite of mine and we’ve always enjoyed 167 Raw!

• Little Jack’s Tavern – A retro burger bar with old-school charm. The tavern burger is basically famous.

• The Quinte – Sophisticated seafood spot perfect for a date night or a low-key luxe dinner.

• Merci – European-inspired and beautifully plated, it’s the kind of place you linger over wine and dessert.

• Basic Kitchen – Healthy-ish, super fresh, and very pretty. Their bowls and juices are on point.

• Husk – A Charleston institution. Go for a Southern-inspired menu that’s rooted in local ingredients and tradition. I always love to order classic Southern dishes here since they always knock it out of the park.

• Vern’s – Understated and effortlessly cool, with a menu that changes with the seasons.

• FIG – Farm-to-table done flawlessly. Book early—it’s a classic for a reason.

• Hall’s Chophouse – For a steakhouse vibe with Southern service (and gospel brunch if you’re in town on a Sunday).

• Marbled & Fin – A newer spot making waves with high-quality cuts and a moody, modern vibe.

Laid-Back Lunch Spots

Whether you’re grabbing a bite mid-shopping spree or fueling up between photo stops, these lunch picks hit the spot:

• Goat Sheep Cow – A charming cheese and wine shop with the cutest courtyard. Their sandwiches are simple perfection.

• Island Provisions – Think curated coffee shop meets café. Stylish, light-filled, and delicious.

• Lewis BBQ – Massive trays of brisket, pulled pork, and all the fixings. Worth the wait.

• Home Team BBQ – Casual and fun with amazing wings and a famous frozen “Gamechanger” drink.

Breakfast and Brunch Favorites

• Millers All Day – Retro-inspired diner vibes with elevated breakfast classics (and the best pancakes).

• Basic Kitchen – Their breakfast is as good as lunch/dinner—light, bright, and flavorful.

• Post House Tavern – Technically in Mount Pleasant, but the vibe is so worth the short drive.

• Sorelle – If you missed it for dinner, swing by for their pastries or a luxe espresso start. I had the lavender cold foam latte while I was there- an incredibly delicious way to start the day.

• Babas on Canon – A relaxed spot with a patio & a European vibe offering light bites, plus coffee & cocktails.

Drinks with a View (or a Vibe)

• The Living Room at the Dewberry – Make sure you get the spicy caramel popcorn! I always love the mix of mid-century modern with a touch of Southern charm.

• Citrus Club – Rooftop bar at The Dewberry with stunning views, citrusy cocktails, and chic vibes. Perfect golden hour spot

• Camellias (Hotel Bennett) – They have a beautiful champagne bar if you are looking for a fancy place to start or end your evening!

• Little Palm– A fun cocktail spot by the pool at The Ryder Hotel

• By The Way – If you are a Southern Charm fan this is a new spot by Craig and Austen from the show, we didn’t have time to stop in on this trip but we did drive by and it looked bustling!

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WHERE TO SHOP

Charleston is a shopping haven—especially if you love breezy dresses, charming home décor, and thoughtful local brands. Here’s where to go when you’re ready to treat yourself (or pick up gifts) Sharing a variety of local favorites- many of which are female owned! :

• Madison Mathews / Chakeris– Flowy dresses in block prints and soft cottons. They have a beautiful storefront on King Street that is a dream for dress lovers. Caroline and her team are seriously the sweetest and design such darling pieces. Her daughter Sara also started a brand that is showcased in the back of the store. I have and love so many Chakeris dresses and know you all will love them too.

• Beau & Ro – We always love to pop-by to see the latest designs from Beau & Ro and shop the countless other beautiful brands that they carry!

• Estelle Glasses – Bright, colorful glassware that makes any table feel festive. My bestie bought me two glasses for my birthday a few years ago and it’s always a treat to use them!

• The Tiny Tassel – Playful earrings and accessories in bold prints and colors.

• Gold Bug Collection – Jewelry with a whimsical-meets-edgy vibe, inspired by local lore.

• Hill House – The Nap Dress you know and love and so much more—feminine and timeless. We also love that this store is the home to Nell’s which is the cutest cafe in the front of the store serving coffee and fountain Diet Coke. Shopping fueled by Diet Coke- say less!

• Lake Pajamas – The softest pajamas, perfect for gifting (or hoarding like I do lol).

• Blakely Made – Local artist creating vibrant coastal scenes and abstract art.

• Finicky Filly – A curated boutique with a mix of designer and contemporary styles.

• Hampden – High-end fashion with personal styling and top-tier labels.

• Vineyard Vines – Classic preppy staples perfect to incorporate into your vacation wardrobe.

• Roller Rabbit – Boho-chic pieces in playful prints.

• Julia Amory – So many stunning pieces in an equally beautiful space.

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WHERE TO STAY

Charleston has no shortage of beautiful hotels and charming rentals. Depending on your vibe, here’s where to book:

• The Dewberry– A mid-century landmark celebrates Charleston’s quintessential style.

• The Charleston Place – Elegant and iconic, located right in the heart of downtown.

• The Ryder – Trendy and young, with a fun pool scene and a great on-site bar.

• The Restoration – A boutique hotel with apartment-style rooms—great for groups.

• Zero George – Romantic and refined. Think porches, wine hour, and tucked-away charm.

• The Dunlin – About 30 minutes outside Charleston, this new coastal retreat is totally serene.

• The Nicholas – A newer luxury property with timeless design and all the details just right.

• Short Term Rentals – Tons of great options on Airbnb and Vrbo, especially if you’re traveling with a group. We recently stayed in a beach house in the Isle of Palms for my cousins wedding and had a blast!

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MUST-SEE SPOTS & PHOTO-WORTHY STROLLS

Don’t leave Charleston without soaking in its history and snapping a few dreamy pics. Some of these spots are a bit more touristy than others, but it’s always fun to visit especially if it’s your first time in the area. Here are the best stops for sightseeing and Instagram:

• The Battery – Iconic waterfront promenade lined with antebellum homes and ocean breezes.

• Rainbow Row – These pastel-painted homes are pure Charleston eye candy. Wander the surrounding streets too—they’re just as charming. A few of my favorites are Tradd and Broad!

• The Pineapple Fountain – Located at Waterfront Park, it’s a symbol of hospitality and a classic Charleston photo op.

• City Market – Historic and bustling. Great for browsing local crafts and grabbing souvenirs.

• Cypress Gardens – A little drive out of town, but worth it for the dreamy boat rides and swampy magic (also where The Notebook was filmed!).

• Beach Day At Folly Beach – Just south of Charleston but the perfect place to soak up the sun on the beach

Thank you for reading, enjoy your next trip to Charleston!