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Contents
- The climate of Hilton Head Island
- The best time to visit Hilton Head Island
- The worst time to visit Hilton Head Island
- Spring weather in Hilton Head Island
- Summer weather in Hilton Head Island
- Autumn weather in Hilton Head Island
- Winter weather in Hilton Head Island
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Tall iconic lighthouse seen in a great night view over downtown Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
The climate of Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, in the USA is located in a Humid subtropical zone as per the Köppen climate classification (Cfa), indicating a humid and temperate weather pattern with no dry season. This region experiences a significant influx of moisture accompanied by moderate to high temperatures throughout the year.
Taking a closer inspection of the climatological parameters, one can observe a steady rise in the average peak temperatures, moving from 57.4°F (14.1°C) in January to a high of 87.1°F (30.6°C) and 87.6°F (30.9°C) in July and August respectively. The lowest monthly average temperatures follow a similar sequence, escalating from 46°F (7.8°C) in January to 77.9°F (25.5°C) in July.
The Island receives rainfall throughout the year, with August being the wettest month receiving an average of 6.06" (154mm) of rain. The driest month is January, with an average of 1.02" (26mm) of rainfall.
Humidity also remains relatively high throughout the year, with a peak relative humidity of 77% in December.
Additionally, visibility remains constant at 6 miles all year round, while wind speeds average around 9.6mph (15.4km/h), with slight fluctuations.
Surprisingly, despite its subtropical classification, snowfall on Hilton Head Island is extremely rare, with only trace amounts noted in January.
Taking a closer inspection of the climatological parameters, one can observe a steady rise in the average peak temperatures, moving from 57.4°F (14.1°C) in January to a high of 87.1°F (30.6°C) and 87.6°F (30.9°C) in July and August respectively. The lowest monthly average temperatures follow a similar sequence, escalating from 46°F (7.8°C) in January to 77.9°F (25.5°C) in July.
The Island receives rainfall throughout the year, with August being the wettest month receiving an average of 6.06" (154mm) of rain. The driest month is January, with an average of 1.02" (26mm) of rainfall.
Humidity also remains relatively high throughout the year, with a peak relative humidity of 77% in December.
Additionally, visibility remains constant at 6 miles all year round, while wind speeds average around 9.6mph (15.4km/h), with slight fluctuations.
Surprisingly, despite its subtropical classification, snowfall on Hilton Head Island is extremely rare, with only trace amounts noted in January.
The best time to visit Hilton Head Island
Considering the Köppen climate classification and the climatological parameters, the prime time to visit Hilton Head Island is during the spring months. Specifically, March offers relieving temperatures, with the highest and lowest average temperatures characterized by mild 65.8°F (18.8°C) and 54.1°F (12.3°C) respectively.
Additionally, March receives 1.46" (37mm) of rainfall, considerably lower than the summer months, making it more conducive for outdoor activities. The sunshine duration, evens out at 7.9 hours per day, assuring enough daylight for exploration.
Additionally, March receives 1.46" (37mm) of rainfall, considerably lower than the summer months, making it more conducive for outdoor activities. The sunshine duration, evens out at 7.9 hours per day, assuring enough daylight for exploration.
The worst time to visit Hilton Head Island
The summertime, owing to its sweltering conditions, can be considered the less desirable period for a visit. August poses the harshest conditions, with soaring high temperatures recording an average of 87.1°F (30.6°C). Even nights offer no significant relief with an average low of 77.5°F (25.3°C).
Furthermore, August also presents the maximum rainfall, compromising outdoor activities with a downpour of 6.06" (154mm). Notably, the relative humidity in August is 76%, adding to the overall discomfort.
Furthermore, August also presents the maximum rainfall, compromising outdoor activities with a downpour of 6.06" (154mm). Notably, the relative humidity in August is 76%, adding to the overall discomfort.
Spring weather in Hilton Head Island
The spring season starting from March brings a revival to the atmosphere of Hilton Head Island. Average temperatures climb from 65.8°F (18.8°C) in March to 72.9°F (22.7°C) in April, culminating in a warm 79.2°F (26.2°C) by May. Night temperatures too, rise in a parallel fashion, starting with a comfortable 54.1°F (12.3°C) in March, reaching up to 61.3°F (16.3°C) and 68.9°F (20.5°C) in April and May respectively.
Rainfall ranges from 1.46" (37mm) in March to 2.13" (54mm) in April, and a relatively higher 2.09" (53mm) in May. The duration of sunshine experiences a steady growth from 7.9 hours per day in March, through to around 10.6 hours per day by May.
Rainfall ranges from 1.46" (37mm) in March to 2.13" (54mm) in April, and a relatively higher 2.09" (53mm) in May. The duration of sunshine experiences a steady growth from 7.9 hours per day in March, through to around 10.6 hours per day by May.
Summer weather in Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island witnesses persistent summer conditions from June through August. July stands out as the warmest month with temperatures peaking at an average 87.6°F (30.9°C), while nighttime lows settle around 77.9°F (25.5°C) on average.
Rainfall surges during these months, accumulating to 3.94" (100mm) in June, 4.17" (106mm) in July, and reaching a peak at 6.06" (154mm) in August. Despite the rainfall, sunshine hours remain relatively high, registering an average of about 14.2 hours per day in June and approximately 13.3 hours per day in August.
Rainfall surges during these months, accumulating to 3.94" (100mm) in June, 4.17" (106mm) in July, and reaching a peak at 6.06" (154mm) in August. Despite the rainfall, sunshine hours remain relatively high, registering an average of about 14.2 hours per day in June and approximately 13.3 hours per day in August.
Autumn weather in Hilton Head Island
Autumn on Hilton Head Island is characterized by downscaling temperatures. September sees a high average of 83.3°F (28.5°C), easing into 75.9°F (24.4°C) by October, and further cooling down to 66.4°F (19.1°C) in November. Correspondingly, night temperatures diminish from 74.1°F (23.4°C) in September to 50.9°F (10.5°C) by November end.
Rainfall ranges from 3.78" (96mm) in September, dropping to 2.68" (68mm) in October, and further to 1.42" (36mm) in November. Autumn days boast nearly 12.4 hours of daylight in September, gradually decreasing to about 10.5 hours in November.
Rainfall ranges from 3.78" (96mm) in September, dropping to 2.68" (68mm) in October, and further to 1.42" (36mm) in November. Autumn days boast nearly 12.4 hours of daylight in September, gradually decreasing to about 10.5 hours in November.
Winter weather in Hilton Head Island
Winter commences in December and lasts through February. January records the lowest temperatures with an average high of 57.4°F (14.1°C) and a low of 46°F (7.8°C). However, by February, the temperatures rebound to an average high of 60.4°F (15.8°C) and a low of 48.9°F (9.4°C).
Rainfall during winter varies from 1.02" (26mm) in January, increasing to 1.22" (31mm) in February. Sunlight hours range from 10.1 in December to 11.1 in February. Notably, despite being in the winter season, Hilton Head Island experiences very negligible snowfall throughout these months.
Rainfall during winter varies from 1.02" (26mm) in January, increasing to 1.22" (31mm) in February. Sunlight hours range from 10.1 in December to 11.1 in February. Notably, despite being in the winter season, Hilton Head Island experiences very negligible snowfall throughout these months.
Weather in January
January in Hilton Head Island is renowned for its mild winters. These months typically see a mix of clear and partially cloudy skies, with temperatures suiting light to medium-weight clothing. The month witnesses an interesting blend of rain and humidity, enhancing the overall awe-inspiring ambiance of the place. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February brings marginally warmer temperatures to Hilton Head Island as compared to January. The beach city experiences relatively less cloud cover, offering residents and visitors ample sunshine. There's a slight increase in rainfall as well but interestingly, it is categorically lower than in the upcoming months. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March marks the beginning of Hilton Head Island's spring season, with warmth gradually pervading the environment. The temperature difference from February to March becomes more noticeable, symbolizing the approach of the hot season. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April witnesses a significant jump in temperature, discarding any remnants of early year cold. Compared to March, the weather in this month has become substantially warmer and ideal for water-related activities. With increased daylight hours, the extended evenings beckon locals and tourists to bask in the beauty of Hilton Head Island's landscapes. Weather in April »
Weather in May
As the Hilton Head Island approaches summers, May unveils the marvels of increased warmth and refreshing sea breezes. April's mild spring weather transitions into a balmier May, thus, attracting more beach lovers to the island. This month is hallmarked by balmy days, longer sunlight hours, and a tropical vibe, making it a favorable time for outdoor events and water sports. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June in Hilton Head Island ushers in the onset of the peak summer season. Following May, the month experiences an increase in temperature, intensifying the summer quotient. Hilton Head Island jumps into full summer swing with long daylight hours ensuring ample time for beach escapades and outdoor games. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July sets in with the continuation of the hot summer season on Hilton Head Island, accompanied by increased humidity and rainy spells. Its temperatures are somewhat similar to June, with July marginally warmer. The mix of hot weather, humid air, and frequent showers exemplify typical tropical summer weather patterns. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Hilton Head Island's weather in August is marked by a confluence of intense heat and substantial rainfall, making it the wettest month of the year. The temperature scale remains akin to July, indicating ongoing summer madness. Although the rainfall intensifies compared to July, it does little to dampen the high temperatures, resulting in increased humidity. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September on Hilton Head Island signifies the commencement of the much-awaited fall season. August's wet spell starts fading away, making the climate more pleasant and tinge cooler than in the high summer months. The weather plays along with nature’s vibrant colors and balmy temperatures, providing an excellent backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Hilton Head Island exhibits the full bloom of the fall season with notably cooler temperatures than September. October’s refreshing weather, with a decrease in humidity and rainfall, amplifies the beauty of the autumn landscape. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Hilton Head Island in November reflects a pre-winter state, showcasing a remarkable drop in temperature as compared to October. With crisper air and a propensity for clearer skies, November symbolizes the transition from the fall to the winter season. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December marks the arrival of the winter season on Hilton Head Island, with a significant decrease in temperature compared to November. Despite being a winter month, December offers fairly mild weather suitable for exploring the splendid landscapes of the island. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 13, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What part of the year is the coldest in Hilton Head Island?
January is the coldest month, exhibiting average temperatures of 57.4°F (14.1°C) at the peak and 46°F (7.8°C) at the base.
What is the least humid month in Hilton Head Island?
With an average relative humidity of 72%, January is the least humid month in Hilton Head Island.
What is the driest month in Hilton Head Island?
The month with the least rainfall in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is January, when the rain falls for 8.3 days and typically collects 1.02" (26mm) of precipitation.
How much does it rain in Hilton Head Island?
Throughout the year, there are 175.3 rainfall days, and 32.28" (820mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow in Hilton Head Island?
January is the only month when snow falls.
What is the snowiest month in Hilton Head Island?
January is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 0.1 days and accumulates 0.04" (1mm) of snow.
How many days does it snow in Hilton Head Island?
Throughout the year, in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, there are 0.2 snowfall days, and 0.04" (1mm) of snow is accumulated.
When is the lowest UV index in Hilton Head Island?
With an average maximum UV index of 3, January is the month with the lowest UV index in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.
When it does not snow in Hilton Head Island?
February through December are months without snowfall in Hilton Head Island.
What month is the ocean coldest in Hilton Head Island?
February is the month with the coldest seawater in Hilton Head Island, with an average ocean temperature of 57.6°F (14.2°C).
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Hilton Head Island?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Hilton Head Island?
The months with the highest UV index in Hilton Head Island are May through August, with an average maximum UV index of 7.
When are the longest days in Hilton Head Island?
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 12min of daylight.
What are the months with the most sunshine in Hilton Head Island?
June and July, with an average of 11h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine in Hilton Head Island.
What part of the year is the hottest in Hilton Head Island?
July, recognised by an average high temperature of 87.6°F (30.9°C) and a low of 77.9°F (25.5°C), is Hilton Head Island's warmest month.
What is the rainiest month in Hilton Head Island?
August is the month with the most rainfall in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Rain falls for 25 days and accumulates 6.06" (154mm) of precipitation.
What month is the ocean warmest in Hilton Head Island?
August is the month with the warmest seawater in Hilton Head Island, with an average ocean temperature of 83.5°F (28.6°C).
What is the most humid month in Hilton Head Island?
The most humid month is December, with an average relative humidity of 77%.
What is the month with the shortest days in Hilton Head Island?
December has the shortest days of the year in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, with an average of 10h and 6min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Hilton Head Island?
The month with the least sunshine in Hilton Head Island is December, with an average of 5.7h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Hilton Head Island, SC
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (87.6°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (57.4°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (77.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (46°F).
Average pressure
Hilton Head Island, SC
- Average pressure in January:
30.14"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.11"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.09"Hg - Average pressure in April:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.98"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
30"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in September:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.02"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.12"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.13"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.14"Hg).
The months with the lowest atmospheric pressure are June and August (29.98"Hg).
Average wind speed
Hilton Head Island, SC
- Average wind speed in January:
9.6mph - Average wind speed in February:
9.5mph - Average wind speed in March:
9.6mph - Average wind speed in April:
9.6mph - Average wind speed in May:
9mph - Average wind speed in June:
8.3mph
- Average wind speed in July:
8.4mph - Average wind speed in August:
7.8mph - Average wind speed in September:
8.5mph - Average wind speed in October:
9.2mph - Average wind speed in November:
9.4mph - Average wind speed in December:
9.4mph
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are January, March and April (9.6mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (7.8mph).
Average humidity
Hilton Head Island, SC
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (77%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is January (72%).
Average rainfall
Hilton Head Island, SC
- Average rainfall in January:
1.02" - Average rainfall in February:
1.22" - Average rainfall in March:
1.46" - Average rainfall in April:
2.13" - Average rainfall in May:
2.09" - Average rainfall in June:
3.94"
- Average rainfall in July:
4.17" - Average rainfall in August:
6.06" - Average rainfall in September:
3.78" - Average rainfall in October:
2.68" - Average rainfall in November:
1.42" - Average rainfall in December:
2.32"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (6.06").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (1.02").
Average rainfall days
Hilton Head Island, SC
- Average rainfall days in January:
8.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
10.1 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.4 days - Average rainfall days in April:
11.5 days - Average rainfall days in May:
15.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
21.2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
23.4 days - Average rainfall days in August:
25 days - Average rainfall days in September:
17.9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
10.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
8.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
11.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (25 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (8.3 days).
Average snowfall
Hilton Head Island, SC
The month with the highest snowfall is January (0.04").
The months with the least snowfall are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (0").
Average snowfall days
Hilton Head Island, SC
- Average snowfall days in January:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in February:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in March:
0 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0 days - Average snowfall days in December:
0 days
The months with the highest number of snowfall days are January and February (0.1 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Hilton Head Island, SC
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (83.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (57.5°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Hilton Head Island, SC
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 3min - Average daylight in December:
10h and 1min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in February:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
10h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
11h and 0min
- Average sunshine in July:
11h and 0min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in November:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 4min
The months with the most sunshine are June and July (Average sunshine: 11h and 0min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 42min).
Average sunshine days
Hilton Head Island, SC
- Average sunshine days in January:
20.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
15.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
17.4 days - Average sunshine days in April:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in May:
13.2 days - Average sunshine days in June:
6.8 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
4.5 days - Average sunshine days in August:
2.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
8.3 days - Average sunshine days in October:
17.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
17.9 days - Average sunshine days in December:
17.2 days
The month with the most sunshine days is January (20.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is August (2.8 days).
Average UV index
Hilton Head Island, SC
The months with the highest UV index are May, June, July and August (UV index 7).
The month with the lowest UV index is January (UV index 3).
Average cloud cover
Hilton Head Island, SC
The months with the most cloud cover are February and December (Cloud cover 38).
The months with the least cloud cover are June and July (Cloud cover 25).
Average visibility
Hilton Head Island, SC
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, USA
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