Charleston local weather

Charleston, SC, with its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, is situated in a temperate climate zone. Oceanfront temperatures can be several degrees cooler than inland locations in the summer and several degrees warmer than those same locations in winter. Winters are short in duration and quite mild, while spring and fall tend to linger with grand bursts of color. There are just enough differences that residents can appreciate each seasonal variation and yet always find a great time to catch 18 holes of superb golf. Charleston is a year-round vacation destination with seasonal occasions to suit everyone’s tastes.

Winter

December is Holiday Festival time in Charleston. The Christmas in Charleston celebrations have been honored as one of the top ten winter events in the southeast, combined with the Festival of Lights at James Island County Park, provide a wonderful celebration of the season. The blues hit town in February with the annual Lowcountry Blues Bash, top this off with the “World’s Largest Oyster Roast” at Boone Hall and you’ve got something to write home about! The mild climate of South Carolina’s Coast makes Charleston a year-round golf destination as well, where a game can be found at one of the many prime courses in the area! Most winter days, the temperatures will warrant wearing a lightweight jacket. Then there are days when shirt sleeves will do just fine. Winter sunsets may bring an unexpected chill to the air, that can be easily remedied by settling down to a warm and cozy, romantic evening around a luscious seafood dinner, a pleasurable finale for a great day.

Spring

A perfect season for golf, gardens tours and shopping. It’s spring in the Lowcountry, when the weather is the most comfortable for outdoor non-swimming activities and crowds remain light until the latter part of the season. Spring in Charleston is delightful, romantic and full of promise for a special trip! In March and April there’s the annual Festival of Gardens and Houses Week. May introduces the famous Spoleto Festival USA in venues throughout the historic city and Sculpture in the South, Summerville’s annual sculpture show and sale takes place in the park. Spring is an ideal season to visit Charleston and environs.

Summer

Plan a day of fun in the sun! Make a week of it, because there’s lots to do. If the temperature soars, take the plunge at one of the local beaches at Isle of Palms, Folly Beach or Kiawah Island or visit the Splash Zone or Splash Island waterparks for instant relief. Most summer days start with a warm sunny morning, perfect for an early game of golf. The day then flows into a grand afternoon, perfect for exploring the area. If there is a sprinkle, go shopping, visit one of the many historic homes or museums in town, or choose to explore one of the local plantations or the amazing South Carolina Aquarium. The evening usually brings on a breeze, which is conducive to dining at one of the courtyard cafes. You’ll find a variety of ways to top off a fabulous day!

Autumn

This is one of the area's most beautiful times of year. Another perfect season for golf, shopping or enjoying the finale of a lingering summer season on the ocean. Starting in late September, the annual Fall Candlelight Tours of Homes and Gardens begins and runs through October, adding to the backdrop is the brilliant fall foliage which remains a visual focal point well into the season. Daytime temperatures are mild throughout. A sweater or light jacket will suffice for almost any activity, from Charleston sightseeing to observing wildlife in their natural habitats or to viewing the annual Charleston Cup steeplechase race at Stono Ferry. The season opener for the winter holidays begins on November 1 with the annual Holiday of Lights at James Island County Park. Anytime is a great time to visit Charleston!