Last updated: February 24, 2025
October in Hilton Head, United States, offers a delightful mix of warm temperatures and refreshing coastal breezes. With maximum highs reaching 31°C (89°F) and an average of 23°C (73°F), this month is ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the beautiful scenery. However, it's also a time for occasional rain, as 11 days of precipitation contribute to a total of 88 mm (3.5 in), creating a lush environment. Visitors can expect humidity levels around 78%, adding to the tropical atmosphere while encouraging relaxation on the beach or at a local café. Whether soaking up the sun or strolling through charming streets, October provides a unique blend of warmth and coastal charm in Hilton Head.
In October, Hilton Head experiences a delightful transition, with temperatures showcasing a charming blend of warmth and coolness. The minimum dips to a refreshing 6°C (42°F), while the average settles comfortably at 23°C (73°F). As the month progresses, the maximum temperature can reach a pleasant 31°C (89°F), making it an inviting time for outdoor activities and exploration. Compared to the hotter summer months, October offers a significant reprieve, allowing visitors to enjoy the island's scenic beauty without the sweltering heat. This month’s moderate temperatures mark a shift towards autumn, turning Hilton Head into a cozy retreat for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
In October, Hilton Head experiences a notable shift in precipitation, with 88 mm (3.5 in) of rainfall spread over approximately 11 days. This amount reflects a slight decrease from the heavier rains of August and September, which often see higher totals, peaking at 180 mm (7.1 in) and 127 mm (5.0 in) respectively. As the summer heat wanes, October's rainfall helps to usher in autumn, marking an end to the more intense summer storms while maintaining a pleasant climate. The transition into November shows consistency, with both months receiving similar precipitation levels, yet fewer rainy days, hinting at the drier conditions ahead. Overall, October serves as a mild bridge into the cooler months, balancing sufficient moisture with the tail end of the tourist season.
As the summer heat gives way to autumn, October in Hilton Head sees a slight dip in humidity, averaging 78%. This marks a refreshing change from the more humid months that precede it, peaking at 83% in September. Overall, a notable trend emerges throughout the year: humidity levels are generally highest in the winter months, peaking at 87% in December. In contrast, late spring to early fall tends to be more moderate, with May and June recording the lowest averages of 75%. This gradual decrease towards October allows residents and visitors alike to enjoy more comfortable conditions as they relish in the mild transition of the season.
As we transition into October, Hilton Head experiences a notable decrease in UV index levels, dropping to a very high rating of 8. This signifies a shift from the relentless extremes of summer, with the burn time for fair-skinned individuals slightly increasing to 15 minutes. Throughout the year, March through August recorded some of the highest UV indices, peaking at an intense 11 during the summer months, while September showcased a still elevated rating of 10. As the calendar moves toward the cooler months, the UV exposure remains significant but manageable, reminding sun-seekers to stay vigilant. For detailed information on UV levels and safety tips, check out the Hilton Head UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
October in Hilton Head is a delightful blend of warmth and sunshine, featuring an impressive 294 hours of sunlight that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. Following the peak summer months, where July boasts an abundant 347 hours, October comfortably maintains a robust output of sunlight, albeit with a slight decline as the days grow shorter. This month serves as a beautiful transition, showcasing a gradual decrease from the vibrant summer, yet remaining considerably bright compared to the earlier months of the year. As the coastal paradise prepares for the approaching chill of winter, October offers a splendid opportunity to bask in the comfortable temperatures and radiant daylight, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of Hilton Head.
In October, Hilton Head experiences a 52% chance of sunny weather, marking a notable transition as the temperature begins to cool down from the summer heat. As autumn sets in, the likelihood of sunshine remains relatively high compared to the summer months, where figures drop significantly to around 27% in both June and August. Interestingly, October's sunny potential is slightly above the average for the preceding months, suggesting a continued trend of favorable weather conditions leading into fall. This uptick in sunny days is mirrored by a remarkable increase as the year progresses towards November, where the likelihood climbs to 61%. Thus, October presents a sweet spot for visitors seeking pleasant days under the sun in Hilton Head.
As October unfolds in Hilton Head, the island experiences a slight decline in daylight duration, averaging 11 hours per day. This marks a transition from the longer sun-drenched days of summer, where June boasts the longest daylight at 14 hours, to the shorter, cozier days of winter, which see just 10 hours in both November and December. The gradual shift from the vibrant brightness of spring and summer to the more subdued light of fall highlights the dynamic interplay of the seasons, inviting residents and visitors alike to savor the picturesque autumn sunsets and enjoy outdoor activities while they can. The month of October, with its moderate daylight, sets the perfect stage for embracing the charming coastal atmosphere.
As October sets in on Hilton Head, the gentle breeze ushers in a refreshing change, with an average wind speed of 3.5 m/s (8 mph). This subtle rise from the summer’s lull reflects a slight uptick in activity, offering a pleasant backdrop for outdoor adventures. Observing the trends throughout the year, we see that the winds peak in the spring, specifically in March and May, when they reach 4.4 m/s (10 mph). As summer wanes, however, October's breezes are part of a gradual decline that started in July, but they carry a comforting crispness that heralds the approaching cooler months. Whether you’re strolling along the beach or enjoying a round of golf, October’s winds are just perfect for savoring the island's stunning natural beauty.
The weather in Hilton Head changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of October's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Hilton Head and find detailed weather information for every month.
October and January exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. October enjoys a warmer climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F) and an average of 23°C (73°F). It experiences more precipitation, totaling 88 mm (3.5 in) over 11 days, alongside a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, January is considerably cooler, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and peaking at 24°C (75°F), averaging 11°C (53°F). This month also sees less rainfall, with only 61 mm (2.4 in) over 7 days, although the humidity increases slightly to 86%. For more detailed information, check out Hilton Head weather in January.
October tends to be warm and pleasant, with daytime temperatures averaging around 23°C (73°F) and reaching highs of up to 31°C (89°F). This month experiences a moderate level of precipitation at 88 mm (3.5 in) over about 11 days, and humidity levels hover around 78%. In contrast, February is generally cooler, with an average temperature of 14°C (57°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 80 mm (3.1 in) over the same number of days, and humidity remains comparable at 81%. For more details on February weather, check out Hilton Head weather in February.
When comparing the weather in October and March, several notable differences emerge. October typically features a wider temperature range with minimums around 6°C (42°F), averaging 23°C (73°F), and maximums reaching up to 31°C (89°F). This month experiences more precipitation, averaging 88 mm (3.5 in) across 11 days, coupled with a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, March has cooler temperatures, with minimums dropping to 1°C (34°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and maximums capping at 27°C (81°F). It sees less rainfall with about 68 mm (2.7 in) over just 6 days and slightly higher humidity at 81%. For a detailed look at what to expect, you can visit Hilton Head weather in March.
When comparing the weather in October and April, both months exhibit mild temperatures with similar minimums, averaging around 6°C (42°F). However, October typically boasts higher average (23°C or 73°F) and maximum temperatures (31°C or 89°F) than April, which averages 19°C (67°F) and peaks at 30°C (87°F). Precipitation levels are comparable, with October receiving slightly more at 88 mm (3.5 in) over 11 days, compared to April’s 85 mm (3.4 in) over 8 days. Humidity is similar as well, with October at 78% and April at 79%. For a closer look at April weather, you can check out Hilton Head weather in April.
When comparing the weather in October and May, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, hovering around 23°C (73°F). However, May tends to be warmer overall, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 34°C (94°F) compared to October's highs of 31°C (89°F). Both months experience comparable levels of precipitation, around 89 mm (3.5 in), over roughly the same number of days—10 days in May and 11 in October. Additionally, October has a slightly higher humidity level at 78%, whereas May's humidity is a bit lower at 75%. For a detailed look at the weather in May, you can visit Hilton Head weather in May.
In October, the weather presents a more moderate climate compared to June, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F) and an average of 23°C (73°F). October also sees 88 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with a relatively high humidity of 78%. In contrast, June experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (64°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging 26°C (79°F). June is also wetter, receiving 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain across 18 days, but with slightly lower humidity at 75%. For more detailed information on the conditions during this summer month, check out Hilton Head weather in June.
When comparing the weather between October and July, one can observe significant differences. October generally boasts milder temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), whereas July tends to be hotter, with temperatures peaking at 35°C (95°F) and averaging around 28°C (82°F). Additionally, July experiences higher precipitation levels, accumulating 156 mm (6.1 in) over 19 days compared to October's 88 mm (3.5 in) over 11 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with October at 78% and July slightly higher at 80%. For more details, you can check Hilton Head weather in July.
In comparing the weather of October and August, October offers a more moderate temperature range with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and a maximum of 31°C (89°F), while August provides warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures starting at 22°C (73°F) and peaking at 34°C (94°F). August tends to be wetter, receiving 180 mm (7.1 in) of rainfall over 22 days compared to October’s 88 mm (3.5 in) across 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain similar, with October at 78% and August slightly higher at 81%. For more details on August conditions, you can visit Hilton Head weather in August.
In comparing the weather of October and September, October exhibits cooler temperatures with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and an average high of 31°C (89°F), whereas September has a milder range with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F). While October sees less precipitation overall at 88 mm (3.5 in) across 11 days, September experiences more rain, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 15 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in October at 78% compared to September's 83%, indicating a gradual transition to the cooler and drier conditions of fall. For more detailed insights, you can explore Hilton Head weather in September.
In October, temperatures in Hilton Head range from a comfortable minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 23°C (73°F). The month sees about 88 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days, with humidity levels around 78%. In contrast, November brings cooler conditions, with a notable drop in minimum temperatures to 1°C (35°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). Maximum temperatures also decrease slightly to 28°C (82°F). Despite the total precipitation remaining similar at 90 mm (3.5 in) over just 8 days, humidity rises to 85%, making November feel a bit more humid. For more detailed information, check out Hilton Head weather in November.
October and December present quite a contrast in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a mild 6°C (42°F) at night to a warm average of 23°C (73°F) during the day, with maximums reaching up to 31°C (89°F). This month typically experiences around 88 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days, paired with a relative humidity of 78%. In contrast, December sees colder temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), peaking at 23°C (73°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 125 mm (4.9 in) over 10 days, with humidity rising to 87%. For more detailed insights on December weather, you can check Hilton Head weather in December.
As October descends on Hilton Head, temperatures begin to cool down from the summer highs, offering a pleasant escape with averages around 23°C (73°F). Visitors can expect delightful sunny days interspersed with a modest amount of rain, contributing to the island's lush beauty. This month stands out with its unique blend of warmth and humidity, making it a transitional period before the cooler winter months. The balance of bright days and occasional showers creates a refreshing atmosphere perfect for exploring the island's natural charm. For a deeper dive into Hilton Head's unique climate patterns, check out Hilton Head Climate.