Hilton Head in early-mid June: Pleasant ocean temperature??

[thisismyusername]

We had planned a trip to HHI in July, but we are thinking of changing it to early June. We have been to HHI in July, and the ocean temps were crazy (but very pleasantly) warm for us northern people who are used to cold oceans in New Jersey throughout most of the summer. Is the ocean significantly cooler in early June (second week)? If so, is it still pleasant enough to swim in? We would never think about going to a northern beach during this timeframe since the water would feel icy cold and would numb your legs quickly.

Is it also a little less humid in early June? It doesn't really bother me that much other than the fact that I would like to sit on my balcony and enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, and I found that pretty hard to do in late July since it feels even hotter than Florida with the humidity.

Thanks for any thoughts!!

 

[flybone89]

Hoping for same info for any folks that have been there in June too! We already committed - booked first week in June - and from what I can research I think we will be ok! Most people seem to confirm the water temp and air temps are just fine in June - even reports as far back as May seem to be ok! And the crowds are much better before the late June - July peak. So thats a benefit too! The NOAA data I have pulled - sorry I'm a data scientist so can't resist! - shows average June water temps are 82 degrees and the peak water temp is only 2 degrees more at 84 in July/Aug. May is average 75 - so my guess is on average early June is 78-80 degrees water temp (I can't find daily averages but if I do will post ). And on the qualitative side - my wife is from South Carolina and used to vacation in Myrtle Beach a lot - farther north on the shore - and she says the water and weather will be just fine. I guess that trumps the data. But look forward to hearing from others who have been there in June too!

 

[disneybirds]

We have been many times the last week of May/first week of June and the water was great! We love going at that time of year before it gets crazy crowded and really hot. We are booked the same week this year.

 

[KristiMc]

We went the first week in June a couple years ago. The water temps were great. It was humid - but I am sure not as bad as late July.

 

[Steve G]

We went May 30 - June 2 last year; air and water temp's were warm, ocean swimming was fine. A couple days very hot and humid actually.

 

[thisismyusername]

Awesome to hear--thanks!! Any suggestions for a great restaurant to eat at nearby that would be kid-friendly (with kids who eat more than chicken nuggets?) We are going for our 20th anniversary--kids in tow.

 

[jerseygal]

We had planned a trip to HHI in July, but we are thinking of changing it to early June. We have been to HHI in July, and the ocean temps were crazy (but very pleasantly) warm for us northern people who are used to cold oceans in New Jersey throughout most of the summer. Is the ocean significantly cooler in early June (second week)? If so, is it still pleasant enough to swim in? We would never think about going to a northern beach during this timeframe since the water would feel icy cold and would numb your legs quickly.

Is it also a little less humid in early June? It doesn't really bother me that much other than the fact that I would like to sit on my balcony and enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, and I found that pretty hard to do in late July since it feels even hotter than Florida with the humidity.

Thanks for any thoughts!!

We were at HHI last year last week of May into very early June...was BEAUTIFUL weather ! We loved it! Swam every day, ocean temps were very warm. Hope that you enjoy HHI as much as we did. Perfect before the northern schools get out to avoid summer crowds! Enjoy!

 

[2boysmommy]

Yes, the ocean will be plenty warm. The humidity will be slightly less...maybe 2-3% less if you are lucky! Seriously - it is slightly less crowded in June and will be plenty warm to enjoy all HHI has to offer.

Scott's Fish Market in Shelter Cove is pretty decent and often has live music. The Old Oyster Factory is a HHI staple and usually worth the wait. Skull Creek Boathouse is amazing and super fun but the waits can get crazy - arrive early! Redfish is a nicer place with amazing food. If your kiddos are up for behaving without much entertainment you should check it out. Of course, don't miss the BEST gelato on the island...Pino Gelato!! It's hidden in the Village at Wexford but you have to go find it. We usually go 3-4 times in a week when we are there!

 

[Fauntleroy]

I am blessed to live in the area (Beaufort County- same county as HHI) and can double-confirm for you that late May/early June is an absolutely gorgeous time to be on Hilton Head. Very pleasant weather- and water. Frankly, January through early/mid February ("cold" by SC standards and wet) is the only time I'm not all that "bullish" on HHI weather. Enjoy the lovely Lowcountry!

 

[bobbiwoz]

We are going mid May and have received a letter stating that Beaufort County is initiating a beach re-nourishing project. This will affect the beach adjacent to Disney's Beach House. Extra walking may be required to reach available portions of the beach.

The Beach House itself will be opened.

I am somewhat disappointed because I was hoping to enjoy the beach this time, I do have sightseeing and bicycling plans for this visit as well. However, I am glad these steps are taken to preserve the beach even if we will be affected.

 

[Debby7]

We also got the letter for our May 22-27 stay. Hopefully the beach experience will be Ok but I am looking for other options for beach access if anyone knows of them.