Are South Carolina beaches cold?

Average Ocean Temperatures for North & South Carolina The water at beaches in North Carolina and South Carolina stays warm enough from May to mid-October for most people to enjoy swimming. Ocean temperatures normally peak at over 80 °F (high 20s °C) during summer. The farther south you go, the warmer the sea.



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In Charleston, waters are most inviting from June to October, with monthly maximum averages ranging from 28-30 °C (82-86 °F).

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The best months to go to Myrtle Beach is June through August. This is the best time of the year for warm and sunny beach days. For fewer crowds but warmer weather still, September to October and April to May are great times to visit Myrtle Beach, too.

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As was mentioned before, you have plenty of time for swimming in the ocean starting from late April - early May (water temperature varies from 68°F to 71°F) and ending in late September - early October (water temperature varies from 79°F to 73°F). Ocean waters are gentle, have shallow slopes and smooth surfaces.

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Average annual water temperature on the coast in Folly Beach is 72°F, by the seasons: in winter 62°F, in spring 68°F, in summer 81°F, in autumn 77°F. Minimum water temperature (56°F) in Folly Beach it happens in January, maximum (85°F) in July.

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Water quality for beaches throughout the entire Myrtle Beach area is very good. Water quality testing occurs twice a week during the summer and results are posted on SCDHEC's Beach Access Guide. Rainstorms create runoff and can temporarily increase the bacteria count in the water.

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A little cooler than your body temperature (98.6° Fahrenheit) should not be too cold so that you don't get chilled. 70° to 78° Fahrenheit is the range where most folks feel comfortable swimming.

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A few seasonal attractions close in cooler months, but most remain open all year to entertain the off-season visitors. The average occupancy rate of Myrtle Beach hotels is nearly half that of summer, so you won't have a problem booking a room for your October trip at the best hotels and resorts in Myrtle Beach.

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