It seems that the best experiences in life are those for which you have very low expectations. It’s those nights when you plan to go out “for just one drink” that you end up dancing till 4 am, when you drop in to the hole-in-the-wall restaurant for a quick bite that you end up having the best meal, or when you get dragged to a movie or concert or lecture that you aren’t really into that ends up changing your life.

Most recently, this happened to me on a whirlwind weekend trip to Charleston. I (embarrassingly) barely knew what state I was in as I caught my connecting flight through Charlotte, and don’t think South Carolina had ever crossed my mind, other than I knew that’s where The Notebook was filmed.

I only went because that’s where my girlfriends suggested we go and, always up for something new, I booked my ticket. Little did I know it would turn out to be one of the loveliest, most memorable weekends I’ve ever experienced.

If you’re looking for a somewhat unusual but fully spectacular getaway, check out these suggestions on where and what to eat, and what to do and see in the sunny South.

Where and what to eat

Hominy Grill – Your best bets for brunch in Charleston include the Fried Green Tomato B.L.T., a local twist on a classic, and the Nasty Biscuit, fried chicken in sausage gravy atop a perfect tea biscuit (worth the calorie splurge!). Wash either dish down with an Arnold Palmer, the most delicious iced tea/lemonade combo you’ve ever tasted, or sip a Southern-style cocktail served from a window in the wall in the sun-drenched courtyard while you wait for your table.

The Bar at The Husk – Husk is consistently ranked as one of the top restaurants in the South, but if you can’t get a reservation take an afternoon break from the heat in this cozy bar, an annex to the restaurant. Try unique, hand-crafted cocktails like the Durka Dur: black pepper and basil vodka, grapefruit, mint and Ruby port. For a more traditional choice, select a classic bourbon among the menu’s more than 60 options. Be sure to order the boiled peanuts, a surprisingly tasty twist on a traditional Southern snack.

Red’s Ice House – If you’ve got a car, venture out of Charleston toward Seabrook Island just 30 minutes away. Since 1947, Red’s has been serving up fresh seafood and Southern charm at the edge of the Bohicket Marina. Go at dusk to enjoy their signature Great Grouper Sandwich with a Yuengling beer as you watch the sun set over yachts in the harbour.

Fat Hen – Close your eyes and imagine mustachioed waiters with different accents and you’d swear you were in France, not on Johns Island just 20 minutes from downtown Charleston. Featuring innovative fare supporting the local farming community, try chef Fred Neuville’s steamed mussels or shrimp and grits, and ask for Josh, the most charming waiter in town.

What to do and see

City Tour – Downtown Charleston is simply gorgeous. With magnificent homes and lush trees and gardens, the strict preservation laws have kept the city rich with Southern charm. Learn about local history on a horse-drawn carriage through the historic district. Your guide will share interesting insights, like how to spot what was once a brothel by the pattern of the window shutters or why the roofs of all the porches are painted sky blue.

Market Hall – Steeped in history and charm, the Charleston City Market is open 364 days a year, making it an interesting place for tourists and locals alike. Check out the handmade sweetgrass baskets and pick up some fresh fudge at Kilwins, a perfect treat for the flight home.

Retail Therapy – Take a break from history lessons and food to wander the shops on King Street, including big box stores like Banana Republic or Loft and local boutiques showcasing regional artisans, antique shops and unique attire and accessories.

Kiawah Island – Really want to get away from it all? Travel under Spanish moss hanging from Oak canopies on the drive to the private beach on Kiawah Island. Though commonly known as an exclusive golf resort and nature preserve, the idyllic, 10-mile hard sand beach has a public access point for all to enjoy. The ocean is bathwater-warm, perfect for swimming. In fact, you may just be joined by a group of dolphins! Be sure to bring plastic cups for your drinks (no glass allowed) and watch out for alligators as you meander toward the beach – they’re lurking all over the island beneath freshwater ponds!

Whether you have an action-packed weekend or a lazy few days on the beach, Charleston will guarantee you an experience you won’t soon forget.

Follow Lynn on Twitter @lynn_bee