Summer in Charleston is hot, humid, salty, and so much fun. It’s beach days followed by seafood dinners, rooftop cocktails at sunset, boat days with friends, and late nights walking downtown with ice cream in hand.
As someone who grew up here and still spends every summer in Charleston, this guide includes the places I actually recommend to friends and love doing myself every summer. From where to stay to the best summer activities, here’s everything you need to know before visiting Charleston in summer.
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What to Expect from Summer Weather in Charleston
Before planning your trip, it’s important to know what Charleston in summer actually feels like. It is HOT. But if you plan your days around the weather, summer can be one of the most fun times to visit Charleston.
1. Expect Hot and Humid Weather
Summer temperatures in Charleston are usually:
- June: highs around 87°F
- July: highs around 90°F
- August: highs around 89°F
The humidity is what surprises most visitors. It regularly feels much hotter than the actual temperature, especially in July and August. You can expect sticky mornings, sweaty afternoons, and balmy evenings. You’ll basically sweat any time of day.
I usually plan outdoor activities for early mornings or later in the day once the sun starts to go down. Late afternoons, sunset, and evenings are when Charleston really comes alive in the summer and temperatures start to feel more manageable (sort of).
Midday is typically best spent cooling off at the beach, by the pool, or out on the water. It’s also a great time to duck inside a museum, restaurant, cocktail bar, or coffee shop and take a break from the heat!
2. Afternoon Rain Showers Are Very Common
One of the biggest things to know about summer in Charleston is the rain pattern.
During the summer months, it’s very common to get:
- Quick afternoon thunderstorms
- Heavy rain showers that last 20–60 minutes
- Sudden weather changes followed by sunshine again
The rain can actually help cool things down a bit, but it makes so much more humid after. I usually tell visitors not to panic if they see rain in the forecast every day because summer forecasts often look worse than they actually are.
A lot of the time, you’ll still have beautiful beach weather before and after the storm rolls through.
3. Hurricane Season Officially Starts in June
Hurricane season runs from June through November in Charleston.
That said, I personally would not worry too much if you’re visiting during true peak summer travel months like June, July, or most of August.
Historically, Charleston tends to see more hurricane activity later in the season in September and October. BUT, anything can happen!
Even then, many trips are completely unaffected. I just recommend purchasing travel insurance during hurricane season, especially for beach vacations.
4. The Best Strategy for Charleston Summer Weather
The best way to enjoy Charleston in summer is to embrace the slower pace and plan around the heat.
My biggest recommendations:
- Schedule walking tours early or don’t go at all
- Prioritize hotels with pools
- Build in beach and pool breaks
- Make any outdoor dinner reservations later in the evening (around sunset)
- Keep water with you constantly (seriously, this is the trip to bring a water bottle)
- Don’t overpack your itinerary
Summer activities in Charleston are all about balancing outdoor time with places to cool off!
Where to Stay During the Summer in Charleston
My top recs for where to stay during the summertime!
1. Stay at a Beach Resort for a Relaxed Summer Vacation
If your goal is beach access, pools, and an easy summer setup, these are my favorite resorts for summer in Charleston.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
The Sanctuary is one of the most luxurious beach resorts near Charleston (45 mins drive from downtown). You’ll experience a quieter beach atmosphere, incredible dining, and one of the best spas in the area. Perfect for couples or a relaxing family trip.
Wild Dunes Resort
I especially recommend the Boardwalk Inn for couples or Sweetgrass Inn for families. Wild Dunes works really well for families because everything is easy. You have pools, beach access, golf, tennis, restaurants, and activities all in one place.
The Dunlin
The Dunlin is one of the newer luxury hotels near Charleston and close to Kiawah Island. The design is whimsical and beautiful and the setting along the river feels peaceful while still being close to downtown and the beaches.
Tides Folly Beach
If you want to stay directly on the beach at Folly, this is the best option. You can walk to restaurants, bars, and the pier.
The Palms Oceanfront Hotel
A more casual and budget-friendly beach stay on Isle of Palms with a great location near restaurants and the beach.
2. Rent a VRBO for a Family or Group Trip
Summer is one of the best times to rent a beach house in Charleston. Folly Beach and Isle of Palms each have great rental homes for families and groups especially if staying for a whole week. I recommend looking on VRBO in Charleston. You can also reach out to me and I can help you find the perfect stay for your group!
I especially recommend this option if you want:
- A kitchen for easy breakfasts and snacks
- Space for multiple families
- A pool
- Walkability to the beach
- Parking!
3. Stay Downtown at a Hotel with a Pool
If you want to experience Charleston’s restaurants, shopping, and nightlife while still cooling off during the day, book a downtown hotel with a pool.
This is also the time when you will find better hotel rates in downtown Charleston. The beaches will be expensive, but the city is quieter and this is the time for a more budget friendly stay in downtown.
Hotel Bennett
The rooftop pool at Hotel Bennett is one of the best in downtown Charleston!
The Charleston Place
The Charleston Place hotel is classic Charleston luxury with an excellent location for walking everywhere easily.
Also read: Compare Charleston Place vs Hotel Bennett here!
86 Cannon
A quieter boutique stay that feels more intimate and personalized. They have the cutest rooms and an amazing pool! Check rates for your stay here!
The Ryder Hotel
A fun summer hotel with a younger social atmosphere and a great pool scene. Their restaurant and bar, Little Palm is lively and fun! It is great for girls groups. Check rates at The Ryder!
The Mills House Hotel
The Mills House is one of the most iconic pink hotels in Charleston with a fantastic location. They have a large rooftop pool that I love.
The Restoration Hotel
Great for longer stays or families because many rooms have apartment-style layouts. They have a very small pool onsite. Check rates here!
The Cooper
The Cooper is a brand new (opened in 2026) luxury option with waterfront views and a beautiful infinity pool setup.
☀️ HOW TO BOOK WITH MY VIP PERKS! If you’re planning a trip, I can help you find the perfect vacation rental or book your hotel with my VIP perks. I can often secure VIP perks like complimentary breakfast, hotel credits, room upgrades based on availability, and offer personalized recommendations to elevate your stay. Inquire here!
Dining and Waterfront Restaurants for Charleston Summer
Summer in Charleston is all about seafood, frozen drinks, and waterfront dining. These are the restaurants I crave most this time of year and some of the best Lowcountry cuisine to try in Charleston.
1. The Obstinate Daughter
One of my favorite restaurants year-round. Order a spritz, pasta, and anything seafood-related. They are on the Michelin guide for Charleston!
2. CudaCo
A casual seafood spot with fresh local fish, rice bowls, sandwiches, and a great laid-back atmosphere. It’s seriously the freshest fish in Charleston. I especially love their poke bowls!
3. Poe’s Tavern
Perfect after a beach day. Go for burgers, fish tacos, and cold drinks.
4. Sullivan’s Fish Camp
A newer favorite for seafood and cocktails near the beach.
5. Bowens Island Restaurant
An absolute Charleston classic. Go around sunset and order fried seafood and oysters.
6. Tavern & Table
A great waterfront dinner spot on Shem Creek. Come here for the views!
7. Ellis Creek Fish Camp
One of my favorite casual waterfront restaurants with beautiful marsh views. This one is a true hidden gem on James Island.
8. Chico Feo
A Folly institution. Think tacos, cold drinks, live music, and a backyard atmosphere. I love it here so much.
9. The Boathouse at Breach Inlet
One of the best waterfront views for dinner in the summer. You might get to see dolphins here too!
10. Islander 71
Fun rooftop and marina views with live music during summer weekends in Charleston.
11. Salty Mike’s
A great (very) casual option for drinks along the water in downtown Charleston.
12. The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene
One of the most iconic seafood restaurants near Charleston. No frills. Just fresh seafood and waterfront views along Shem Creek. Fun fact: this restaurant was used as a film location for Outerbanks in Charleston.
Beaches for Summer in Charleston
Read my full guide to all the best beaches in Charleston here.
1. Folly Beach
Folly Beach is relaxed, eclectic, and fun. You’ll find surf culture, beach bars, live music, and a younger crowd. I grew up going here and still love it.
2. Isle of Palms
Isle of Palms tends to feel more family-friendly with wider beaches and resort access.
3. Sullivan’s Island
Sullivan’s Island is my favorite for combining beach time with amazing restaurants afterward. There’s a quieter, more local feel here as it is more residential. No hotels or short term rentals here.
Things to Do in Charleston in Summer
A few of my favorite ways to spend Charleston summer days and nights!
1. Spend a Day on the Water
Boat days are one of the best summer activities in Charleston. You can charter a boat, join friends on the water, or book a guided cruise.
2. Take a Sunset Cruise
Summer sunsets over the marsh are beautiful. This is one of my favorite things to do in summer when visitors are in town.
3. Plan Beach Days
Keep it simple. Pack snacks, a beach tent, and spend the day by the ocean.
4. Visit Rooftop Bars
Charleston rooftops are especially fun in the evenings once temperatures cool down.
5. Go to Summer Concerts
Charleston has outdoor concerts and live music almost every weekend in summer. Look for shows at Credit One Stadium or The Windjammer.
6. Catch a RiverDogs Game
Watching the Charleston RiverDogs is such a fun summer activity for families, couples, or groups.
7. Attend Party at the Point
One of the most popular summer events in Charleston with live music and waterfront sunset views.
8. Visit the South Carolina Aquarium
South Carolina Aquarium is a great indoor activity for kids when you need a break from the heat.
9. Take a Ghost Tour
Summer evenings are actually a great time for ghost tours because you avoid walking around downtown during peak afternoon heat. I recommend this one!
10. Go Kayaking
Kayaking through the marshes is one of the best ways to experience Charleston’s natural beauty. I like this kayak tour if your staying on Folly!
11. Take an Eco Tour to Morris Island
Seeing the Morris Island Lighthouse by boat is one of my favorite experiences in Charleston. Check availability here:
12. Explore Museums with a City Pass
Museums are a great way to cool off midday during Charleston in summer. The Charleston city pass is definitely worth if you plan to do some sightseeing!
13. Walk the Ravenel Bridge
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge usually has a nice breeze and feels much cooler than walking downtown streets if you are trying to squeeze in an exercise!
Rooftops for Summer in Charleston
1. The Citrus Club
Beautiful harbor views and great cocktails at the highest rooftop in Charleston!
2. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits
A fun rooftop for sunset drinks downtown with amazing views.
3. Rosemary Rose
One of the prettiest rooftop spaces in Charleston right along King Street. Located at The Nickel Hotel.
4. Revelry Brewing
A casual rooftop brewery with views of the Ravenel Bridge and great local beers.
Packing Tips for Summer in Charleston
1. Prepare for Heat and Humidity
Charleston summers are very hot and humid. Lightweight clothing is essential and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. More tips below on how to manage this!
2. Pack Hair Clips and Hair Ties
Trust me on this one. You will not want your hair down for long.
3. Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Especially if you plan on spending time at the beach or on the water. I like this one for my face because it acts as a primer and this one for my body.
4. Don’t Forget Bug Spray
Mosquitos can be intense at sunset near the marsh. I like to wear these bracelets. I like to think they work!
5. Pack Extra Deodorant for Your Purse
You’ll thank yourself later. Bring a travel size deo.
6. Bring Hats and Sunglasses
You’ll use them every single day.
7. Pack a Beach Tent
We use this Sun Ninja tent, but the Shibumi is extremely popular in Charleston.
8. Choose Breathable Clothing
For women, flowy dresses and linen work best. Avoid fabrics that visibly show sweat in the humidity like silk or satin.
For men, dry-fit shirts are ideal during summer in Charleston. Shorts are acceptable almost everywhere unless you have a very formal dinner planned then I would wear pants.
9. Bring a Good Beach Read
One of the best parts of summer vacations!
Final Thoughts on Summer in Charleston
Charleston in summer is definitely hot, but it’s also one of the most fun and vibrant times of year to visit. You’ll experience beach days, boat rides, rooftop cocktails, fresh seafood, outdoor concerts, and long evenings by the water.
If you plan around the heat and humidity, summer in Charleston can be such a memorable trip. Slow mornings, afternoons spent cooling off, and sunset dinners are really the key to enjoying the season like a local.
Whether you’re planning a family beach vacation, a girls trip, or a romantic getaway, there are so many fun things to do in summer throughout Charleston and the surrounding beaches.
Save it for later!
