TripVibzWorst times to visit Charleston
The weeks, days and hours locals would tell you to avoid in Charleston — and what to do instead.
Say it here and visitors will actually read it. One sentence is enough.
Add your takeCharleston month by month
Festivals, conventions, weather and price seasons that change what a visit is like. Researched by the TripVibz editors from official event and weather sources.
January
Late fall and early winter — good. Highs mostly in the 50s and 60s, lighter crowds and off-season hotel deals, plus the Holiday Festival of Lights.
February
Southeastern Wildlife Exposition — busy. A mid-February weekend. Wildlife art, dog competitions and live animal shows at venues across downtown, including Marion Square.
March
Charleston Wine + Food — busy. Early March, five days. Dinners, tastings and a Culinary Village with chefs and winemakers from around the world.
Spring high season — busy. Highs of 60 to 80°F and gardens in bloom draw heavy crowds. Hotel rates peak, especially around Easter; midweek stays help.
April
Spring high season — busy. Highs of 60 to 80°F and gardens in bloom draw heavy crowds. Hotel rates peak, especially around Easter; midweek stays help.
May
Spring high season — busy. Highs of 60 to 80°F and gardens in bloom draw heavy crowds. Hotel rates peak, especially around Easter; midweek stays help.
Spoleto Festival USA — busy. Late May to early June, 17 days. An international performing arts festival with opera, theater, dance and music across the city.
June
Spoleto Festival USA — busy. Late May to early June, 17 days. An international performing arts festival with opera, theater, dance and music across the city.
Summer heat — avoid. Hot, humid days with highs in the upper 80s, strong sun and family vacation crowds. August is the rainiest month.
July
Summer heat — avoid. Hot, humid days with highs in the upper 80s, strong sun and family vacation crowds. August is the rainiest month.
August
Peak hurricane season — avoid. Atlantic hurricane season runs June through November, with most activity from mid-August to mid-October. Consider travel insurance.
Summer heat — avoid. Hot, humid days with highs in the upper 80s, strong sun and family vacation crowds. August is the rainiest month.
September
Peak hurricane season — avoid. Atlantic hurricane season runs June through November, with most activity from mid-August to mid-October. Consider travel insurance.
October
Peak hurricane season — avoid. Atlantic hurricane season runs June through November, with most activity from mid-August to mid-October. Consider travel insurance.
December
Late fall and early winter — good. Highs mostly in the 50s and 60s, lighter crowds and off-season hotel deals, plus the Holiday Festival of Lights.