Winter 2023 Charleston Guide

Fun things to do in Charleston, SC in the Winter

We are so lucky to live in a City where spending time outdoors and on the water is an option year-round! While we do get an occasional cold snap, generally our Winters are mild, short, and a great time for locals to explore new restaurants and attractions before the tourist season. Whether you live here or are visiting, check out our Winter 2023 must-do Charleston guide!

Weather

What to Expect

January and February are typically the coldest months, however our version of “cold” isn’t so bad. A typical day is in the 50’s, with temperatures in the 40’s at night. We do see some warm days though, so check the weather to see if there any of those amazing 70 degree January days coming up!

What to Wear

If you are walking around, make sure to grab a jacket and closed-toed shoes. On land, that is all you need for a comfortable day! Depending on the wind, it is 5-10 degrees colder on the water, so we suggest an extra layer and gloves on the boat so your hands are warmed up for a round of Thunderstruck. Don’t forget that it gets dark earlier, so if you want a sunset tour, we suggest a 3:30-5 tour!

Pro tip: Turn your cruise into a onesie booze cruise! We absolutely love this group’s vibe and genius way to combat the chilly season. No one will bat an eye if your crew does a bar crawl down King Street in a onesie afterwards!

Where to Eat

While most of Charleston’s restaurants have amazing outdoor spaces, take these colder months to enjoy the beautiful indoor spaces that are overlooked, yet very insta-worthy!

Church & Union

Church & Union is a huge restaurant, with lots of seating with larger groups. The dinner menu is a seasonal and great for warm pasta and seafood dishes. But don’t sleep on the brunch! If you have a crew with you, this is the perfect place to carbo-load before your Saltwater Cycle cruise. We recommend the Holy $h*t breakfast to split with your friends.

Pro Tip: When you walk inside, look up.

Gingerline

This new Charleston hot-spot is putting fresh energy into the Market area! Described as “the newest cocktail destination with a food menu to match”, this spot is a must try! The bright coastal interior is a great place to fight the Winter blues.

What to Do

The Riviera Theater

Catch a band or comedy act at the Riviera Theater for a change of pace! The 45-year old theater has been recently redone and is a perfect spot to spend a night out, cocktails included. Check out the website for upcoming events!

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to take a picture outside! This is the theater used in the filming of the Notebook!

Isle of Palms

If you are looking for a full day of food, drinks, and entertainment, Isle of Palms is a great option. Start the day with brunch at Acme Lowcountry Kitchen. Even in the Winter months, the beach in Charleston is still a scene! Take your crew to the beach to walk off those brunch cocktails. Afterwards, do some bar hopping! Our favorite spots are The Windjammer and The Dinghy.

Pro tip: Check out the Windjammer’s schedule ahead of time, they have great concerts at night year-round!

Saltwater Cycle Party Boat Cruise
There is something special about being able to go out on a boat in the Winter and we are so lucky to keep the party going year round! Our cruises are one hour and 30 minutes of music, dancing, beautiful scenery, and your favorite adult beverages! Our fleet offers the OG cycle boat, and the Brew Barge-you can’t go wrong with either option! A Saltwater Cycle booze cruise is guaranteed to be the highlight of your trip to Charleston!

Saltwater Cycle Party Boat Cruise

There is something special about being able to go out on a boat in the Winter and we are so lucky to keep the party going year round! Our cruises are one hour and 30 minutes of music, dancing, beautiful scenery, and your favorite adult beverages! Our fleet offers the OG cycle boat, and the Brew Barge-you can’t go wrong with either option! A Saltwater Cycle booze cruise is guaranteed to be the highlight of your trip to Charleston!