Is December a Good Time to Visit Charleston, SC? Why Charleston in December Should Be on Your Radar (+ Charleston 3-Day Itinerary)

Weather in Charleston in December

Winter weather in Charleston is mild compared to much of the U.S., making December one of the best months for sightseeing. It can get chilly and windy in December, but it’s typical for it to be sunny and warm throughout the day. Mornings and evenings are cooler, so layers are key. However, snow is rare in Charleston, and by December, hurricane season’s over, making flooding less common.

Holiday events and markets to check out:

• Holiday Festival of Lights – One of the largest light displays in the Southeast
  • Definitely doable on your own with a rental car, but if you prefer a tour, check this one out: Festival Of Lights Small Group Tour
• Charleston Christmas Parade – A classic downtown tradition
  • Check the local schedule for 2026 dates
• Ice Skating at the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina
  • Through mid-January
• American Gardens (off King Street) – Beautiful seasonal décor tucked just off King, best at night to see the lights
• Stop by the Charleston Place to see the iconic train set and decor
• Second Sunday on King Street – Streets close to traffic with shopping, food vendors, music, and pop-ups
  • This is all year round, but in December you’ll find special holiday items!
• Mount Pleasant Farmers Market (holiday edition) – Local vendors, gifts, and seasonal treats
  • Check the local schedule for 2026 dates
• Additional holiday markets and pop-ups throughout Mount Pleasant and downtown Charleston

Even if you don’t plan around specific events, simply walking through Charleston during December will put you in the holiday spirit! It’s common to see festive street signs, Christmas lights, and holiday wreaths hanging on front doors. Although I’ve lived a few Christmases in the Charleston area, returning from Seattle was a surprise. Although we have some holiday decor, it wasn’t nearly the same as December in Charleston.

Mount Pleasant walks:

• Walk the Pitt Street Bridge
  • Classic views of the Charleston skyline
• Walk the Shem Creek boardwalk
  • If you’re lucky, you can see dolphins here!
• Take in views of the Ravenel Bridge from Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park
  • Dogs are not allowed on the pier
• Walk over the Ravenel Bridge for iconic harbor views
  • You can access from either side of the harbor, but Mount Pleasant has better parking

Downtown Charleston walks:

• Explore Upper and Lower King Street for shopping and dining
• Wander through historic homes and cobblestone roads, such as on Church Street
• Walk from the Pineapple Fountain to The Battery and White Point Garden
• Learn about Black History in Charleston on this walking tour
• Get a little bit of everything on this historical Charleston walking tour

December is a fantastic time to mix both indoor and outdoor experiences in Charleston. With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, it’s easier to enjoy shows, tours, and unique local experiences without feeling rushed. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or something just plain fun, there’s no shortage of memorable things to do.

• See a play or performance at a downtown theater
• Take a ferry to Fort Sumpter
• Catch a comedy show for a fun night out
• Explore the scenes of Outer Banks on this e-bike tour
• Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district
• Take a lowcountry cooking class
• Tour through the shrimping industry of Shem Creek on this unique experience
• See the USS Yorktown – check out this special nighttime tour

Where to Eat in Charleston

Charleston is a food city, and December is the perfect season for the comforting cuisines and cozy cafés the Holy City offers. In Charleston, you’ll find cuisine that leans into local ingredients, southern flavors, and European (mostly French) inspiration.

Rather than rushing from attraction to attraction, plan your days around food — it’s part of what makes Charleston special.

Plus, being “low season” for tourists means restaurants tend to have shorter wait times and may be easier to get into. This is the perfect chance to try those James Beard Award & Michelin-recommended locations!

👉 I’ve put together a full guide to my favorite restaurants in Charleston and the surrounding areas. You can read it here:

The Best Places to Eat in Charleston, South Carolina: My Top 6 Lowcountry Favorites

Where to Stay when visiting Charleston, SC in December

Mount Pleasant (My Favorite)

Mount Pleasant is my favorite place to stay when visiting Charleston in December. It’s quieter, more local, and still incredibly convenient.

Why stay in Mount Pleasant:

• Easy access to Shem Creek, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms
• Beautiful views of the Ravenel Bridge
• Less touristy and more relaxed
• Quick drive or rideshare into downtown Charleston

Hotel Indigo: Mid-range hotel just across the bridge in Mount Pleasant

Isle of Palms (IOP)

Isle of Palms is a great option if you want a beachy, relaxed stay — even in winter.

Why stay on Isle of Palms:

• Quiet beaches perfect for long walks
• Oceanfront hotels and rentals
• Easy drive to Mount Pleasant and downtown
• Fewer crowds than summer, with plenty of space to unwind

While it won’t be weather to swim or lie out at the beach, December is ideal for peaceful shoreline walks and sunrise views. If you’re curious about the best beaches near Charleston, read more here

Wild Dunes Resort: Well-known resort with plenty of amenities and beach access, located on IOP

North Charleston (Near the Airport)

North Charleston is a practical and often more affordable place to stay, especially for shorter trips or late arrivals. While it can be a drive from the Peninsula, it would be a good spot if you’re coming for the Charleston Wine & Food Festival (in March).

Why stay in North Charleston:

• Close to Charleston International Airport
• More budget-friendly hotel options
• Easy access to major highways
• Convenient base for exploring the wider Charleston area

DoubleTree by Hilton: A classic good-quality hotel close to the airport

Downtown Charleston (The Peninsula)

Staying on the peninsula puts you in the heart of historic Charleston.

Why stay downtown:

• Walkable to major attractions
• Historic homes, churches, and cobblestone streets
• Easy access to King Street shopping and restaurants