February in Charleston is that sweet spot where winter is on its way out, but spring hasn’t fully arrived. It’s a month of mild days, crisp evenings, and the occasional light rain, making it the perfect time to explore the city’s cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and world-class restaurants—all without the peak season crowds.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a romantic trip, or just looking to enjoy Charleston’s historic charm, here’s what you can expect from the weather this month and how to make the most of it.
How Warm (or Cold) Will It Be?
Charleston’s February weather is cool but comfortable, giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors without sweating through your shirt.
- Daytime Highs: Most days will see temperatures around 59°F (15°C), but when the sun is shining, it can feel warmer—sometimes creeping into the mid-60s (18-19°C).
- Night time Lows: The evenings cool down quickly, dropping to 48°F (9°C), so if you’re heading out for a rooftop dinner or waterfront walk, you’ll definitely want a sweater or light jacket.
- Wind & Breezes: Because Charleston sits on the coast, a light breeze is almost always in the mix. While it’s refreshing in the afternoon, it can make mornings and evenings feel chillier than the temperature suggests.
It’s the kind of weather where you can wear a sweater during the day and be perfectly comfortable, but once the sun goes down, you’ll want to layer up a bit more.
Will It Rain?
February isn’t Charleston’s wettest month, but it does bring a few light showers here and there.
- Rainfall Totals: Expect around 2.8 inches (72mm) of rain spread across five days. That means the majority of the month will be dry and pleasant, but you might see a few passing showers.
- Rain Type: Most of the rain in February is light and brief—you’re unlikely to see any all-day downpours or thunderstorms. A cloudy morning may turn into a bright and sunny afternoon, so it’s best to check the forecast before heading out.
Can Charleston Expect Snow?
Short answer? Not likely.
Charleston rarely sees snow, and February 2025 is expected to follow the usual pattern—which means no ice, no flurries, just mild winter temperatures. The only real chance for a brief cold snap would be if a strong front pushes down from the north, but even then, you’re more likely to see cold rain than snowflakes.
For those hoping to experience a frosty, snow-covered Charleston, you’ll probably need to head north into the mountains.
How Much Sun Will Charleston Get?
Even though February is still part of winter, Charleston enjoys plenty of sunshine.
- Sunshine Hours: Expect around 7 hours of sun per day, meaning you’ll have lots of bright afternoons for exploring.
- Cloud Cover: Some days will be partly cloudy, but overall, you’ll get more blue skies than gray ones.
On those sunny, mid-60s days, it can feel like an early taste of spring, which is why so many locals and visitors love Charleston in February.
Best Things to Do in Charleston in February
Since February’s weather is mild and crowds are smaller, this is one of the best months to enjoy Charleston without the long restaurant wait times or tourist-packed streets.
1. Stroll Through the Historic District
This is prime walking weather. Take your time wandering through Rainbow Row, King Street, and The Battery, where you’ll find colorful historic homes, gas lantern-lit streets, and a mix of charming cafés and boutiques.
2. Explore Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
While spring blooms haven’t fully arrived yet, camellias and early azaleas start to show in February, giving you a glimpse of Charleston’s famous gardens waking up from winter.
3. Enjoy Charleston’s Food Scene (Without the Crowds)
February is a fantastic time to enjoy Charleston’s restaurants, as you can get into the top spots without long waits.
- Try seafood at 167 Raw
- Go for classic Lowcountry cuisine at Husk
- Enjoy a scenic meal at Fleet Landing right on the water
4. Take a Sunset Cruise or Dolphin Tour
Even though evenings are cool, you can still enjoy a Charleston Harbor cruise at sunset. Just bring a warm coat and a drink to keep cozy as you take in gorgeous waterfront views.
5. Check Out Charleston’s Outdoor Markets & Events
Charleston starts waking up from winter in February, with events like:
- Second Sunday on King Street (a pedestrian-friendly street fair with shopping, music, and outdoor dining)
- Oyster roasts and seafood festivals, where you can try fresh, local oysters in the perfect cool-weather setting.
Charleston February 2025 Weather Recap
- Daytime Highs: 59°F (15°C), with some warmer days reaching 65°F (18°C)
- Nighttime Lows: 48°F (9°C)—bring a jacket for evenings
- Rainfall: 2.8 inches (72mm) over five days—a few light showers, but mostly dry
- Sunshine: 7 hours per day, meaning plenty of bright, comfortable afternoons
- Wind: Light to moderate coastal breezes (8-12 mph), making it feel cooler in the mornings and evenings
