You’ve heard it time and again but we’re here to break the news. Voted Conde Nast Traveler’s #1 City in the US, Charleston, South Carolina is one of the best places to visit in the United States. With its European flair, impeccable beaches and delectable cuisine, Charleston thrives year round on its tourism industry – because every season is a great season to visit Charleston.
But if you’re looking for the in’s and out’s of the best month to visit the coast, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway in the cooler months to that bustling summer beach town energy we all crave in the summer, Charleston is the place to be.
Winter Holiday
December
Winter may seem like an outlandish time to head to the water, but it’s secretly the perfect moment for a well-priced getaway, especially when there’s a heap of holiday-themed activities to take part in this month. From festive holiday pop-up’s at local bars to light shows across the Charleston islands, December offers a quiet vacation with calm weather, cozy activities and plenty of opportunities still available for outdoor events in the docile weather.
- Holiday Pop-Up Bars in Charleston
- James Island Holiday Lights
- Aquarium Aglow at the South Carolina Aquarium
January
Don’t let the middle of winter stop you from finally sneaking that vacation in. There are minimal opportunities to get away for a few weeks at a reasonable price, and with vacation rentals sitting empty during the off-season, this is an awesome opportunity to get in on a fabulous stay without being hindered by those busy season price points. Even better, Charleston is known to have sporadic Indian summers throughout January, allowing for fun days in the sun despite the typically cooler weather. Enjoy shopping on King Street and getting into all your favorite restaurants without reservations during this month. Trust us, it’s a blessing.
February
The month of love is a great time to head to the Carolina Coast. Consider a loved-up getaway for you and your family or head to Charleston to check out SEWE, the Southeastern Wildlife Expo that boasts local vendors, exhibitors and artists. During Valentine’s weekend, many local restaurants offer multi-course dinners for you and yours. And even better? The weather has a tendency to turn earlier in the season, allowing for temperate conditions perfect for outdoor activities across the islands.
- Lowcountry Oyster Festival
- Southeastern Wildlife Expo
- South Carolina Stingrays Hockey Home Games
Spring Escape
March
The season of spring breakers! As the temperature begins to rise in Charleston, so do the amount of guests visiting the area. Getting ahead of those summer months, many travelers like booking their stay in Charleston before the busy season truly kicks off. With calm conditions across beaches and with temperatures hitting in the high 60’s and low 70’s, March is the best time to see nature bloom in the area as you venture around local historical plantations and wander around downtown. And, if your timing is just right, you can even visit Charleston during the peak of St. Paddy’s day activities!
April
If you’re asking us – which you should – April is one of the most ideal times to visit the Lowcountry. Still benefiting from cheaper stays ahead of summer, and traveling while kids are still in school, guests who decide to book during April get the privilege of enjoying some of Charleston’s peak weather before the heat and humidity fully take flight. And with plenty of opportunities to start enjoying the coastal rivers and beaches ahead of the busy season, why wouldn’t you want to visit in April? Plus, farmers’ markets kick back off this month, and we highly recommend you check them out.
May
If you’re lucky, you’ll have the privilege of visiting Charleston in May for a wedding or a Memorial Day stay. Perfect for enjoying stunning weather and those early beach days, May offers an incredible opportunity to beat the heat and explore Charleston in optimal comfort. With many local attractions opening up ahead of the summer (i.e. fishing charters, boat rentals, etc.), May is the perfect time to book a Charleston vacation and head to the shore ahead of those summer vacationers.
Summer Vacation
June
Nothing is better than enjoying summer in Charleston. Offering a little bit of everything, from activities on the water to local farmer’s markets and festivals, Charleston is at its peak when the summertime begins in full swing. Looking for more to do than just lying out on the beach all day? Charleston is bursting with hundreds of activities on the daily.
July
Fourth of July on the Charleston Coast simply cannot be beat. In the peak of the summertime heat, nothing beats coasting around the islands in a boat rental, enjoying the oceanfront breezes on the beach, or having a nice cold frozen beverage by the river. Charleston is still thriving, but the best place to spend your days is by the shore or in the air-conditioned comfort of your coastal retreat.
August
August is finally when Charleston begins to slow down after the fast-paced summer season. Despite the high temperatures remaining, many children in state are back to school and the family vacation season begins coming to a close. This is the perfect time for couples to plan a quick weekend getaway or a week-long vacation when everything in the area is still thriving, but has a bit less of the chaotic hustle and bustle. Enjoy local sports this time of year or head to a concert at Credit One Stadium.
Autumn Getaway
September
Need a last-minute trip to top off the summer vacation season? September is the perfect opportunity to enjoy Charleston during optimal weather conditions and a quieter stay as we head into the fall season. Autumn activities begin kicking off this month in the area, as well, including pumpkin farms, food festivals, and more! Get ahead of the cooler weather by booking your stay before those chillier temperatures take hold.
- Charleston Golfing - Kiawah, Seabrook, Isle of Palms
- Indigo Road Restaurant Week
- Summerville Sweet Tea Festival
October
Autumn in Charleston is hard to compete with. From fun and festive decor across downtown in celebration of Halloween to Oktoberfest shenanigans across the area, there’s plenty of cooler weather activities set up to get visitors and locals alike excited for the off-season. Even better, October is the optimal time to take a trip after any summer travels, offering a great opportunity for a quick getaway or a family trip after the kids have been back in school for a few months.
November
Heading into the winter is always a bummer, with chillier weather and less summer excitement brewing. But don’t let the month fool you, Charleston is still thriving even as the temperatures cool off. Many local restaurants prepare holiday dinners for Thanksgiving, and the holiday festivities begin preparing to go live as the end of the month makes its way around. The joy of Charleston being located in the South allows for the weather to still be in the 60’s even as the northern states begin experiencing snow this time of year.
Book Your Charleston Getaway All Year Long with Sweetgrass Properties
The great part about Charleston is that every season is a great season to visit. Here at Sweetgrass Properties, we offer every kind of stay for every type of visitor. Whether you’re looking for a coastal condo for a short weekend stay on the water this summer or a marshfront estate ideal for a 15+ person stay over the holidays, our property listings are phenomenal… and ready for you no matter the time of year!
Check out properties across islands like Kiawah, Seabrook, Isle of Palms, and Wild Dunes for your next vacation and experience the Sweetgrass difference.