Hilton Head Island in September

The island’s best-kept secret — summer weather, fall crowds, and a songwriter festival that draws music lovers from across the country.

Average High Temp

83° F

Average Low Temp

72° F

Average Water Temp

80° F

Pace of the Island

Sweet Spot

September is the month locals love most. The statistics tell the story: average high of 83 degrees, ocean temperature still at 80 degrees, dramatically reduced crowds, and prices that can run 30-40% lower than peak summer. If you have any flexibility in your schedule and you’ve never tried September on Hilton Head, this is the information that changes your booking behavior.

Schools are back in session and the family crowd thins significantly after Labor Day. What remains is a delicious mix of couples, golf enthusiasts, and seasoned island visitors who have figured out the September formula. The water is still warm enough for excellent swimming. The beaches have breathing room. You can get a table at any restaurant without a reservation.

The Hilton Head Island Jam Songwriter Festival brings nationally recognized songwriters to intimate island venues for a multi-day celebration of American music. It is the kind of event that rewards the people who discover it early. The Harbour Town Fall Fest is a genuine community celebration — sidewalk sales, live music, classic cars, and watersports demonstrations at one of the island’s most beautiful settings.

Events & Festivals

These events recur annually. Exact dates shift year to year — check local event listings before your visit for current schedules.

Hilton Head Island Jam Songwriter Festival — multi-day festival featuring nationally recognized songwriters in intimate island venues
Harbour Town Fall Fest — sidewalk sale, live music, classic cars, and family activities at Harbour Town marina
Sea turtle hatching peaks — late August through October is prime hatching season; many nests erupt in September

Best Activities This Month

Swimming — ocean is still 80°F; absolutely comfortable and far less crowded than summer
Golf — September is prime golf season; perfect temperatures and courses transitioning from peak condition
Biking — the trails are spectacular in September light; morning rides without the summer heat
Kayaking and paddleboarding — conditions are calm and beautiful; the marshes take on early fall color
Dolphin cruises — dolphin pods remain highly active through September
Fishing charters — September is exceptional inshore and nearshore; redfish and trout are prime targets
Sea turtle hatching watches — check with Sea Turtle Patrol for guided hatching events
Harbour Town Fall Fest — a genuinely local celebration worth attending if you’re on the island
Songwriter Festival events — intimate venue performances that sell out quickly
Sunset watching from Shelter Cove — fall sunsets over the Intracoastal Waterway are extraordinary