Hilton Head Island Weather by Month
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, has a mild coastal climate with warm summers, comfortable spring and fall temperatures, and cool but generally moderate winters. Rain occurs throughout the year, with the wettest month typically August. Daylight ranges from about 10 hours in December and January to 14 hours in June and July.
Hilton Head Island Weather by Month
You can click the image below to view the full-size weather chart for Hilton Head Island.
January – Cool Winter Weather and Shorter Days
Average low: 39°F (4°C)
Average high: 59°F (15°C)
Rainfall: 4.6 inches (117.9 mm)
Rainy days: 8 days
Daylight: 10.5 hours
January is one of the coolest months on Hilton Head Island, with mild afternoons and chilly mornings and evenings. Rainfall is moderate, and the shorter daylight hours create a quieter atmosphere around the island. It can be a good time for peaceful beach walks, sightseeing, and exploring without the busy summer crowds.
Best for:
- Quiet beach walks
- Sightseeing and cycling
- Exploring local attractions
- Off-season travel
February – Mild Days and Cool Coastal Evenings
Average low: 41°F (5°C)
Average high: 63°F (17°C)
Rainfall: 3.3 inches (84.6 mm)
Rainy days: 6 days
Daylight: 11 hours
February brings slightly warmer weather to Hilton Head, although mornings and evenings can still feel cool. Rainfall is lower than in January, while daylight gradually increases. The mild daytime temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities, especially cycling, walking, and exploring the island.
Best for:
- Cycling
- Golf
- Beach walks
- Quiet sightseeing
March – Comfortable Spring Weather
Average low: 48°F (9°C)
Average high: 70°F (21°C)
Rainfall: 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Rainy days: 6 days
Daylight: 12 hours
March marks the beginning of warmer spring weather on Hilton Head Island. Afternoon temperatures become comfortable for spending time outdoors, while mornings remain pleasantly cool. With around 12 hours of daylight, there is plenty of time for beaches, golf courses, bike trails, and sightseeing.
Best for:
- Golf
- Cycling
- Outdoor sightseeing
- Exploring beaches
April – Warm Spring Days and Longer Sunshine
Average low: 54°F (12°C)
Average high: 77°F (25°C)
Rainfall: 3.1 inches (77.9 mm)
Rainy days: 5 days
Daylight: 13 hours
April offers some of the most comfortable weather of the year on Hilton Head Island. Warm afternoons combine with relatively low rainfall and longer daylight hours. The weather is ideal for enjoying the beach, biking around the island, playing golf, and spending extended periods outdoors.
Best for:
- Beach activities
- Golf
- Biking
- Outdoor dining
- Spring vacations
May – Warm and Pleasant Pre-Summer Weather
Average low: 63°F (17°C)
Average high: 82°F (28°C)
Rainfall: 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Rainy days: 5 days
Daylight: 13.5 hours
May brings warm temperatures and long days to Hilton Head. Afternoon highs reach the low 80s, while rainfall remains relatively low compared with the summer months. The combination of warm weather and nearly 14 hours of daylight makes May an excellent month for enjoying the island’s beaches and outdoor attractions.
Best for:
- Beach vacations
- Swimming
- Golf
- Cycling
- Family trips
June – Hot Summer Weather and Long Days
Average low: 70°F (21°C)
Average high: 86°F (30°C)
Rainfall: 4.6 inches (116.1 mm)
Rainy days: 8 days
Daylight: 14 hours
June marks the start of hot summer weather on Hilton Head Island. Temperatures are warm throughout the day, and the long 14-hour daylight period provides plenty of time for beach activities and sightseeing. Rainfall increases compared with May, but there are still many opportunities for outdoor activities between showers.
Best for:
- Swimming
- Beach vacations
- Water sports
- Long outdoor days
- Summer travel
July – Hot, Humid, and Sunny Summer Weather
Average low: 73°F (23°C)
Average high: 90°F (32°C)
Rainfall: 6.2 inches (156.5 mm)
Rainy days: 9 days
Daylight: 14 hours
July is one of the hottest months on Hilton Head Island. Average afternoon temperatures reach around 90°F, while nights remain warm. Rainfall is higher, and short summer showers or thunderstorms can occur. Despite the rain, July provides long daylight hours and is a popular month for beach and water activities.
Best for:
- Beach vacations
- Swimming
- Boating
- Water sports
- Summer activities
August – Hottest and Wettest Month
Average low: 72°F (22°C)
Average high: 88°F (31°C)
Rainfall: 7.2 inches (184 mm)
Rainy days: 10 days
Daylight: 13.5 hours
August is one of the hottest and wettest months on Hilton Head Island. Temperatures remain in the upper 80s during the afternoon, while rainfall reaches its highest level of the year at about 7.2 inches. The combination of heat, humidity, and frequent rain showers makes it important to plan outdoor activities around the weather.
Best for:
- Beach vacations
- Swimming
- Water activities
- Early-morning outdoor activities
- Relaxing resort stays
September – Warm Weather and Gradually Shorter Days
Average low: 68°F (20°C)
Average high: 84°F (29°C)
Rainfall: 5.8 inches (148.6 mm)
Rainy days: 8 days
Daylight: 12.5 hours
September remains warm on Hilton Head Island, but temperatures begin to ease from the peak of summer. Rainfall is still relatively high, although lower than in August. With warm ocean conditions and fewer daylight hours than summer, September can be a good time for travelers who want warm-weather activities without the height of July heat.
Best for:
- Beach trips
- Swimming
- Golf
- Cycling
- Late-summer vacations
October – Warm, Comfortable Fall Weather
Average low: 57°F (14°C)
Average high: 77°F (25°C)
Rainfall: 4.3 inches (108.8 mm)
Rainy days: 5 days
Daylight: 11.5 hours
October brings some of the most pleasant fall weather to Hilton Head Island. Afternoon temperatures are comfortably warm, while evenings become cooler. Rainfall decreases significantly compared with August and September, making October a great month for outdoor activities, cycling, golf, and exploring the island.
Best for:
- Golf
- Cycling
- Beach walks
- Outdoor dining
- Fall sightseeing
November – Mild Fall Days and Cooler Evenings
Average low: 50°F (10°C)
Average high: 70°F (21°C)
Rainfall: 2.7 inches (69.4 mm)
Rainy days: 5 days
Daylight: 10.5 hours
November brings mild and comfortable fall weather to Hilton Head Island. Temperatures are pleasant during the afternoon but noticeably cooler in the mornings and evenings. Rainfall is relatively low, and the quieter atmosphere makes November appealing for travelers looking for a peaceful island getaway.
Best for:
- Golf
- Cycling
- Quiet beach walks
- Sightseeing
- Off-season travel
December – Cool Coastal Weather and Shorter Days
Average low: 41°F (5°C)
Average high: 63°F (17°C)
Rainfall: 3.2 inches (82.6 mm)
Rainy days: 7 days
Daylight: 10 hours
December is one of the coolest months on Hilton Head Island, with mild daytime temperatures and cool nights. Daylight is at its shortest point of the year, averaging about 10 hours per day. Rainfall remains moderate, and the island generally has a peaceful atmosphere during the winter season.
Best for:
- Quiet sightseeing
- Beach walks
- Golf
- Cycling
- Winter getaways
Quick Hilton Head Weather Summary
| Month | Avg High °F (°C) | Avg Low °F (°C) | Rainfall (inches) | Rainy Days | Sun (hrs/day) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 59°F (15°C) | 39°F (4°C) | 4.6 | 8 | 10.5 |
| February | 63°F (17°C) | 41°F (5°C) | 3.3 | 6 | 11 |
| March | 70°F (21°C) | 48°F (9°C) | 3.7 | 6 | 12 |
| April | 77°F (25°C) | 54°F (12°C) | 3.1 | 5 | 13 |
| May | 82°F (28°C) | 63°F (17°C) | 2.7 | 5 | 13.5 |
| June | 86°F (30°C) | 70°F (21°C) | 4.6 | 8 | 14 |
| July | 90°F (32°C) | 73°F (23°C) | 6.2 | 9 | 14 |
| August | 88°F (31°C) | 72°F (22°C) | 7.2 | 10 | 13.5 |
| September | 84°F (29°C) | 68°F (20°C) | 5.8 | 8 | 12.5 |
| October | 77°F (25°C) | 57°F (14°C) | 4.3 | 5 | 11.5 |
| November | 70°F (21°C) | 50°F (10°C) | 2.7 | 5 | 10.5 |
| December | 63°F (17°C) | 41°F (5°C) | 3.2 | 7 | 10 |
Hilton Head Weather Overview
Hilton Head Island experiences its warmest weather from June through September, with July typically having the highest average high temperature at 90°F. August is the wettest month, receiving about 7.2 inches of rainfall and around 10 rainy days.
Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. April, May, October, and November combine pleasant temperatures with moderate or relatively low rainfall, making these months particularly attractive for golf, cycling, sightseeing, and beach walks.
Winter is cooler but still relatively mild compared with many destinations farther north. January and December have the shortest daylight periods, at about 10 hours per day, while June and July offer approximately 14 hours of daylight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hilton Head Weather
1. What is the weather like in Hilton Head year-round?
Hilton Head has a mild coastal climate, with cool winters, warm springs and falls, and hot, humid summers. Temperatures are generally most comfortable in spring and fall.
2. What is the hottest month in Hilton Head?
July is the hottest month, with an average high of 90°F (32°C) and an average low of 73°F (23°C).
3. What is the coldest month in Hilton Head?
January is one of the coolest months, with an average high of 59°F (15°C) and an average low of 39°F (4°C).
4. What month has the most rain in Hilton Head?
August is the wettest month, receiving about 7.2 inches (184 mm) of rainfall and averaging 10 rainy days.
5. What is the driest month in Hilton Head?
May and November have the lowest rainfall in the provided data, with about 2.7 inches (68–69 mm) of rain.
6. How much does it rain in Hilton Head in summer?
Summer rainfall is relatively high. June averages 4.6 inches, July about 6.2 inches, and August about 7.2 inches.
7. Does it rain every day in Hilton Head in summer?
No. Although summer is wetter, rainfall typically occurs on several days rather than continuously. August averages about 10 rainy days, leaving many hours suitable for outdoor activities.
8. What is Hilton Head weather like in January?
January is cool and relatively quiet, with an average high of 59°F (15°C) and low of 39°F (4°C). It receives about 4.6 inches of rain over 8 days.
9. What is Hilton Head weather like in April?
April is warm and comfortable, with an average high of 77°F (25°C) and low of 54°F (12°C). It is also relatively dry, with about 3.1 inches of rainfall.
10. Is May a good month to visit Hilton Head?
Yes. May offers warm temperatures, relatively low rainfall, and long daylight hours. The average high is 82°F (28°C), with about 13.5 hours of daylight.
11. Is June hot in Hilton Head?
Yes. June is the beginning of the hottest part of the year, with an average high of 86°F (30°C) and low of 70°F (21°C).
12. Is July a good month for a beach vacation in Hilton Head?
July is popular for beach vacations because temperatures are hot and daylight lasts about 14 hours. However, it is also one of the wetter months, with around 6.2 inches of rainfall.
13. Is August a good time to visit Hilton Head?
August can be good for travelers who enjoy hot weather and beach activities, but it is the wettest month in the provided climate data. Visitors should be prepared for frequent rain showers.
14. What is Hilton Head weather like in October?
October is one of the more comfortable months, with an average high of 77°F (25°C) and low of 57°F (14°C). Rainfall averages about 4.3 inches over 5 days.
15. Is November warm in Hilton Head?
November is mild rather than hot. Average temperatures range from about 50°F (10°C) at night to 70°F (21°C) during the day.
16. What is Hilton Head weather like in December?
December brings cool but generally mild coastal weather. The average high is 63°F (17°C) and the average low is 41°F (5°C), with about 10 hours of daylight.
17. Which month has the most daylight in Hilton Head?
June and July have the longest daylight periods, averaging approximately 14 hours per day.
18. What are the best months for outdoor activities in Hilton Head?
April, May, October, and November are among the best months for outdoor activities because temperatures are generally comfortable and rainfall is lower than during the peak summer months.
19. When is the best time to visit Hilton Head for comfortable weather?
Spring and fall are excellent choices. April, May, October, and November offer a good balance of mild-to-warm temperatures, manageable rainfall, and comfortable conditions for exploring the island.
20. When is the best time to visit Hilton Head for hot beach weather?
June through September are the best months for travelers seeking hot beach weather. July and August are especially warm, with average highs of around 90°F and 88°F, respectively.
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