Charleston Winter Recreation: Find Outdoor Adventures in South Carolina

When icy winds howl and snow buries much of the U.S., visitors to Charleston, South Carolina, enjoy golfing, cycling, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking and fishing. During the winter months — from early-December through February — daytime temperatures in Charleston typically hover around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Nighttime temperatures are usually in the high 30s to mid-40s, with freezing temperatures an occasional occurrence. Although the Atlantic Ocean may seem a bit chilly for swimming, it’s not too cold to enjoy a day on the water boating or fishing. Keep reading to learn about Charleston winter recreation activities.

4 Charleston Winter Recreation Experiences for the Family

Charleston’s climate and over 200 days of sunshine per year provide the ideal spot for outdoor recreational activities in the winter. Visitors find it pleasant enough to play golf in a sweater, but cool enough to keep from getting too hot while hiking or cycling along Lowcountry trails on James Island, Johns Island and Mount Pleasant. Here are some other adventures the family can’t miss:

• OnDeck offers exhilarating half- and full-day yacht sails across Charleston’s harbor. Suited for groups up to six, these tours explore the open waters and let guests handle the yachts. Add catering to make this a fun family afternoon out or romantic trip.
• Aqua Safaris provides everything for an exciting day of inshore or offshore fishing. The company can arrange a package for small groups and have everything anglers need, including local captains who know where to find fish. Short trips venture 15 miles into the water, while longer trips travel as far as 50. Families will find a winter fishing excursion just for them.
• Middleton Place — hosts carriage tours that begin at the visitor center and journey through historic manicured gardens. These 45-minutes tours travel through a bamboo forest, woodlands and flooded rice fields. For those with more time, book a one-hour group horseback riding lesson at the Middleton Place Equestrian Center located adjacent to the gardens.
• Coastal Expeditions offers guided kayak tours of Charleston’s waterways and marshes. Three-hour tours are the most popular and explore Shem Creek near downtown, Folly Creek near Folly Beach and Isle of Palms. While kayaking, look for native wildlife such as bald eagles, dolphins, pelicans and even manatees. Each area offers its own experience and showcases Charleston’s natural beauty.

Need more trip ideas? Winter is also a prime time to book a Charleston ghost tour and learn about the city’s haunted history.