Summary
Here’s how to avoid South Carolina’s crowds, hurricane season, and infamous humidity.
If warm weather, salt water, football, and barbecue are calling your name, it may be time to plan a trip to South Carolina. However, before you begin plotting out your itinerary, understanding the best times to visit the Palmetto State is essential, especially if you want to avoid crowds, inclement weather, and inflated prices.
For the most part, each of South Carolina’s four major regions — the Lowcountry, the Midlands, the Pee Dee, and the Upstate — experience hot, humid summers followed by mild winters. Nevertheless, the mountains in the northwest often have more temperate weather. Resort areas like Hilton Head Island and Myrtle Beach tend to be busiest during summer, while cities often see more visitors in spring and fall.
Chef Mike Lata of Charleston’s acclaimed Fig notes that spring is the optimal time to visit the coastal region for both exceptional food and delightful weather. “The fish is plentiful, produce is coming on strong, and the weather is cool and generally dry,” he says. Echoing his sentiments, Greenville’s Jamie McDonough, co-owner of the bike shop and tour operator Reedy Rides, adds, “In addition to the pleasant weather, spring and early fall offer a plethora of outdoor activities.”
Best Times to Visit South Carolina for Smaller Crowds
Late spring and early summer are peak times for tourists in South Carolina, thanks to spring break, college graduations, and pleasant weather. “Summer months are our busiest times,” states McDonough. To sidestep the larger crowds, consider early spring, fall, or even winter for a more relaxed and authentic South Carolina experience.
The coastal region generally follows this pattern, although the Lowcountry’s humidity can repel visitors during peak summer. “Charleston experiences the biggest crowds from March through June and again in October,” Chef Lata mentions. “You’ll have the city to yourself in late September.”
- High Season: May to August
- Shoulder Seasons: March to April and September to October
- Low Season: November to February
Best Times to Visit South Carolina for Good Weather
There are two weather-related factors to monitor when planning your South Carolina adventure: heat and hurricane season, which peaks in August and September. “If you’re looking to enjoy South Carolina without the oppressive heat and humidity, I’d recommend visiting during the shoulder-season months,” advises Black. “From late April to early June and early September to late October, you’ll enjoy warm weather without the excessive humidity.”
Although it may not be ideal for swimming, the winter months can also be a great time to explore. “Winters can be very pleasant and mild, so don’t count the holidays out for a visit,” McDonough suggests.
Best Times to Visit South Carolina for Lower Prices
Hotels in South Carolina’s major cities and tourist areas are usually most expensive in late spring and early summer, coinciding with peak tourism. Room rates at beach resorts also remain high during July and August due to family vacations. However, prices in Lowcountry cities like Charleston often decrease slightly during the peak summer months, as extreme heat and humidity deter some visitors.
If you’re aiming to save money while enjoying more reasonable weather, consider a trip between December and February, excluding the holiday season. This timeframe typically yields lower prices across the state, and golfers may find green fees more affordable in winter. In Columbia, hotel rates tend to decrease as temperatures drop, with Black noting that while a post-holiday spike occurs in February, it remains cheaper compared to summer months.
Best Times to Visit South Carolina for Festivals and Events
To align with the pleasant weather, South Carolina’s largest festivals and events are often scheduled in spring and fall. “Greenville hosts a variety of arts, music, and food festivals during these seasons, offering visitors a chance to experience the local culture,” shares McDonough. Notable events include the Artisphere festival in May, which showcases artists from across the country, and Fall for Greenville in October, celebrating the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Columbia also offers exciting events, such as the Rosewood Crawfish Festival in May and the South Carolina State Fair in October. Charleston follows suit with a bustling festival season from February through early June, featuring events like the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE), Charleston Wine + Food, and the Spoleto Festival USA.
Worst Time to Visit South Carolina
It is advisable to avoid the height of summer — specifically from late July through August. Combining the tourist influx with sweltering temperatures and high humidity levels can potentially hinder your experience. However, McDonough reminds us that “each season in South Carolina brings its own unique charm and activities.” Consequently, even if you visit during the hottest months, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from beach outings to relaxing by the hotel pool.
