Spring Weather In Charleston

Daily maximum temperatures rise steadily through spring, from an average high of around 70°F (21°C) in March, to 76°F (25°C) in April, and 83°F (28°C) in May. The respective average lows are 47°F (8°C), 53°F (12°C) and 62°F (17°C).

Day-to-day weather, however, can vary significantly from these averages, especially in earlier spring. If you are visiting in March or early April, it is advisable to check the weather forecast immediately before you travel, and pack accordingly.

In March, the temperature is usually at least in the 60s, but it can drop down to the low 50s at times, and can often rise well into the 80s.

By May, the weather is far less variable, with the usual temperature close to the average, in the 80s, though it can occasionally fall into the 70s or reach the 90s. For many visitors, this will be perfectly acceptable beach weather; the ocean, however, will still be somewhat cold.

South Carolina’s subtropical climate means that cloudy weather and rainfall are always possible. Rainfall averages around 3-4 inches through spring, with March usually the wettest month of the season.

→ More about Charleston’s weather in March, April and May

Ideal Activities For Spring

Spring is about the best time of year to visit one (or several) of the plantations near to Charleston, many of which are famed more for their gardens than the plantation house and its history.

Two of Charleston’s very popular house and gardens tours, organized by the Charleston Foundation and the Garden Club of Charleston, are also held at this time of year (more tours are given in the fall).

A side trip to Charleston’s sister-city, Savannah, also comes highly recommended at this time of year: the city is at its most appealing in spring, and is only two hours or so away by car or train.

Even if you are traveling on a budget, there is no shortage of free and cheap things to do in spring that take advantage of the best the city has to offer: farmers markets, little parks and old graveyards, or a stroll through the streets “South of Broad” with their historic mansions and beautifully tended gardens.

Later spring is one of the best times of year to enjoy the outdoor activities on offer in Charleston and the lowcountry: hiking or wildlife-watching, boating or kayaking, or a round of golf at one of the area’s many excellent courses. Water parks are usually open from May onwards.

Spring Festivals & Events In Charleston

Along with fall, spring is the most popular time of the year for the bigger festivals and events in Charleston, especially those that take place outdoors.

Spring’s events season opens with the Charleston Food & Wine Festival, Charleston Antiques Show, and Charleston Fashion Week among other events.

Later are the Volvo Car Open women’s tennis tournament, the Cooper River Bridge Run, Charleston Race Week, the Charleston Garden Club’s annual home and garden tours and Tall Ships Charleston.

The Spoleto and Piccolo Spoleto Festivals, highlights of the city’s festival calendar, both begin at the tail end of the spring months.

Many other events too are scheduled for this period, and there should be something on almost every weekend through the season.

See more festivals and events in Charleston for the month of:

• March
• April
• May

Planning A Spring Visit To Charleston

Spring is about the most expensive time for a visit to Charleston, but it is still possible to make some savings. Stay mid-week instead of over the weekend for better hotel prices and smaller crowds; occasionally, last-minute deals can throw up downtown hotel rooms at a surprisingly good price.

If you will be visiting over the weekend, or during one of the city’s more popular festivals, however, it is often advisable to book ahead of time.

Some specific activities and tours also require advance reservations at this time of year: the organized spring house and garden tours, in particular, and some walking or boat tours may need to be arranged at least a couple days ahead of your visit.

If your visit to Charleston will include a side trip to nearby Savannah, the same principles apply with respect to advance reservations for accommodation and house and garden tours.

Savannah’s azeleas usually begin to bloom in March, continuing into April: a visit in the last week of March gives the best chance of seeing the flowers at their peak, but be sure to avoid the days around St Patrick’s Day if you are not interested in seeing the parade — the city is packed, many attractions are closed, and it is difficult to find anywhere suitable to stay.