August in Charleston is hot, humid, and generally sunny, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures typically reach the upper 80s, while nighttime temperatures remain warm and muggy. You can expect rain on some days, but showers and thunderstorms often pass quickly, leaving plenty of time to explore the city.
If you're planning a trip to Charleston in August, you'll want to be prepared for the heat and humidity. Pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, and keep an umbrella or lightweight rain jacket handy for sudden summer storms.
My experience as a retired meteorologist, combined with my work as a Charleston tour guide, allows me to provide reliable information about what you can expect from Charleston weather in August.
Charleston Weather in August at a Glance
Average daytime temperatures:
- Upper 80s F (around 29-31 C)
- Average nighttime temperatures: Low to upper 70s F (around 23-26 C)
- Rain: Measurable rain falls on about 12 days
- Thunderstorms: Around 12 days on average
- Ocean temperature: Around 82-83 F (28 C)
- Daylight: About 13 hours by the end of August
- Humidity: Typically high throughout the monthHurricane risk:
- Tropical activity increases during August
How Hot is Charleston in August?
August is one of the hottest months of the year in Charleston. Daytime high temperatures tend to average around 88 F (31 C) early in the month, gradually cooling to around 84-86 F (29-30 C) toward the end of August.
On average, Charleston records high temperatures of 90 F (32 C) or higher on about 13-15 days during August. The record high temperature for Charleston in August is 105 F (40.6 C).
If you're planning to spend the day walking around downtown Charleston, the heat and humidity can make it feel warmer than the actual temperature. Consider scheduling longer walking activities for the morning or late afternoon, and take breaks in the shade or indoors during the hottest part of the day.
Nighttime temperatures remain warm. Late-night and early-morning lows tend to be around 77-79 F (25-26 C) at the beginning of August, gradually cooling to approximately 73-74 F (23-24 C) by the end of the month.
A few cooler mornings, particularly later in the month, can dip to around 68 F (20 C). The record low temperature in Charleston during August is 56 F (13.3 C).
Does It Rain Often in August?
Rain is common in Charleston during August, but that doesn't necessarily mean you'll have a rainy vacation. Summer showers and thunderstorms often develop in the afternoon and can move through the area relatively quickly.
On average, Charleston has about 6 sunny days, 13 partly sunny days, and 12 mostly cloudy days during August.
Measurable rain falls on approximately 12 days during the month. However, only about 3-4 days typically record rainfall of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) or more.
Thunderstorms occur on an average of about 12 days in August. These storms can bring heavy rain, lightning, and strong wind gusts, but they often don't last all day.
If you're visiting Charleston in August, it's a good idea to check the forecast each morning and be flexible with your plans. A morning walking tour may be a better choice on a day when thunderstorms are expected later in the afternoon.
How Much Daylight Does Charleston Get in August?
The days gradually become shorter throughout August.
Charleston receives about 13.8 hours of daylight on August 1 and approximately 12.9 hours of daylight by August 31.
You will still have plenty of daylight for sightseeing, but sunset comes earlier toward the end of the month. This can be a good time of year to plan outdoor activities earlier in the day and enjoy Charleston's restaurants and nightlife in the evening.
How Windy Is Charleston in August?
Winds are generally light to gentle in August, typically ranging from about 4-12 mph (6-19 kph).
Stronger wind gusts are possible during thunderstorms and tropical weather. If you're spending time near the coast, conditions can also feel breezier than they do in the city.
What Is the Ocean Temperature in Charleston in August?
August is one of the warmest months of the year for swimming and beach activities around Charleston.
Ocean temperatures average around 82-83 F (28 C), making the water comfortable for swimming, although conditions can change with weather and surf.
If you're planning to visit the beach during your Charleston vacation, August's warm water is one of the advantages of traveling during the summer. Just remember to use sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Is August Hurricane Season in Charleston?
Yes. August falls within the Atlantic hurricane season, and tropical activity typically increases during this month.
Historically, a named tropical storm or hurricane has passed within 175 miles of Charleston approximately once every 2-3 years. However, this does not mean that a storm will affect Charleston during any particular August.
If you're traveling to Charleston in August, it's wise to monitor the weather forecast, particularly if a tropical system is developing in the Atlantic. Travelers should also be aware of their hotel's cancellation policies and have a flexible plan if severe weather threatens the area.
What to Wear in Charleston in August
The weather in Charleston in August is hot and humid, so lightweight, breathable clothing is your best choice.
Consider packing:
- Lightweight shirts and tops
- Shorts or lightweight pants
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals
- A hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- An umbrella
- A lightweight waterproof jacket or rain jacket
- A change of clothes if you'll be walking outdoors for several hours
If you plan to visit nicer restaurants or go out in the evening, you may also want to pack a slightly dressier outfit and comfortable evening shoes.
Most importantly, bring comfortable walking shoes. Charleston is best explored on foot, and you'll likely spend more time walking outdoors than you expect.
Things to Do in Charleston in August
Charleston can be hot in August, but there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the city. The key is to plan around the heat and take advantage of cooler mornings, evenings, and indoor activities.
Take a Charleston Walking Tour in the Morning
If you want to explore Charleston on foot, consider taking a walking tour earlier in the day, before temperatures reach their afternoon peak.
Our Charleston walking tours offer flexible pricing, so you can choose to pay what you wish or prepay your reservation in advance. You'll explore the historic district while learning about Charleston's history, architecture, and culture from a local guide.
Watch a Charleston RiverDogs Game
For a fun evening activity, consider attending a Charleston RiverDogs baseball game.
The minor league team plays summer home games, and some games feature post-game fireworks. Check the current schedule to see whether a fireworks night coincides with your visit.
Take a Charleston Ghost Tour
August evenings can still be warm, but nighttime is a great opportunity to explore Charleston after the heat of the day.
Charleston is known for its history and ghost stories, and a ghost tour can be a fun way to experience the historic district after dark.
Explore Charleston's Indoor Attractions
When temperatures climb or thunderstorms move through, take a break from walking outdoors and visit one of Charleston's museums, historic homes, or other indoor attractions.
You can also use a rain shower as an opportunity to stop for lunch, browse the shops, or relax at a cafรฉ before heading back outside.
Is August a Good Time to Visit Charleston?
August can be a good time to visit Charleston if you don't mind hot, humid weather and the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms.
The biggest advantages are the warm ocean temperatures, long summer days, and plenty of summer activities. The biggest drawbacks are the heat, humidity, frequent thunderstorms, and the possibility of tropical weather.
If you plan your outdoor activities for the morning or evening, stay hydrated, and keep your schedule flexible when thunderstorms are forecast, you can still have a wonderful Charleston vacation in August.
For more ideas, read our complete guide to things to do in Charleston and start planning your visit.
Fred Pickhardt
