What is The Best Time of Year to Visit Charleston, SC?

Tori Rhoad • October 11, 2021

People often ask me, when is the best time to visit Charleston? And to me, that's a no brainer. So let's talk about what the best time of year to take a trip to the Lowcountry.


Charleston absolutely comes to life during the spring and early summer. Boats come and go from the docks, everyone is out walking their dogs or riding their bikes, outdoor bars and restaurants flood with customers enjoying a cold drink, the sun shines brighter and the water gets warmer, sand castles and sunburns are forming on the beach, local farmers set up produce tables and every single person has a smile on their face.


This time of year you can expect the weather to range anywhere from low sixties to high eighties with sunshine and a slight breeze. However, be prepared for an unpredicted thunderstorm. But don't worry, they typically come and go within an hour or so.


Some of my personal favorite activities this time of year are happy hours on the Creek (check out Margaret's post on Shem Creek), exploring Pitt Street (check out my other post for more info) and hopping on a friend's boat for an afternoon cruise, a suntan, and maybe even a few cold drinks.


Watch our Lively Charleston episode on the best time of year to visit Charleston!

It's also a great time of year to check out the Historic Charleston Market Downtown as majority of the market is outdoors, but don't forget to do some shopping on King Street too. The heat and humidity aren't nearly as harsh as late summer and fall, so the only sweating you'll be doing is trying to carrying all those shopping bags. Don't forget to check out some rooftop bars like the Vendue or the Citrus Club to see some amazing sunset views over downtown and the Charleston Harbor.


If shopping and drinks aren't your thing, or you're looking for something a little bit different, then head on over to one of our amazing beaches. Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island and Folly Beach are all very enjoyable and you should have no problems soaking in that beloved vitamin D. But don't let the comfortable temperature fool, you, you can still get sun burnt so be sure to reapply that sunscreen.


You truly can't go wrong with visiting Charleston anytime of the year, but I will argue all day long that spring and early summer is the best time. What's your favorite time?

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