best time to visit Charleston May or September
 

We are in the UK and will be visiting Charleston for the first time staying 10 days.. Cannot decide which is the best month to visit. If we opt for May it will be from 6th May which is midweek. If we decide on September it will be a similar date.

Our considerations will be price (which is the cheapest for accommodation)and availability
weather which is the sunniest/warmest
less crowded time for doing tours etc.
easiest access to restaurants

Either time will be warm. September could be less crowded. I think both times are OK for not excessive humidity, but Sue can better advise about that. Both will be beautiful times, to me.
If you want to do some beach time, the water may be a bit warmer in September.

Slight preference for May as September has a greater chance of rain from some tropical front/storm.

Are you planning 10 full days in Charleston, or side trips to Beaufort, Savannah, one of the barrier islands? 10 days in Charleston would be too long for me.

My husband and I visited Charleston last year in early October. The weather was perfect. We had the most wonderful trip thanks to the advice I received on this board specifically from suewoo. If she responds...take her advice!!! We stayed at the Doubletree in the historic district. It was in a good location and very reasonable in price. I love architecture and I was in heaven in Charleston. My only regret on this trip is that we didn't get to Savannah. If you have the time try to include it.

Y'all make me BLUSH!

I prefer May. September will be warmer, but it is also high hurricane season and the humidity could make touring uncomfortable. In May the gardenias will be in bloom.

Be aware that the Spoleto Festival will begin at the end of May. Everything will be crowded and hotel prices will go up.

Hi Suewoo! Your advice is spot on!! Thanks for helping make our trip to Charleston one of our very favorites ever!
Right now I am planning a road trip from Tahoe through Yosemite to SF...wish I had a suewoo to help me there!!!

Hi Miss Maggie. You are most welcome , of course. I'm glad you enjoyed your trip. This place is very special.

That trip sounds like fun, but I know nothing! Sorry!

Ahhhh well :(
We WILL be headed back that way to Savanna (possibly even this October)
I definately know who to ask for advice!!!!!

Well your route to SF will be beautiful. Love the Tolumne side of Yosemite--and the sage in that valley, if it is still there.