Hilton Head Island in March

The island wakes up — wine, wings, the largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in South Carolina, and perfect golf weather.

Average High Temp

67° F

Average Low Temp

52° F

Average Water Temp

60° F

Pace of the Island

Building

March is when Hilton Head shakes off winter and starts to hum. Temperatures climb into the mid-to-upper 60s, the bike paths fill back up, and a series of excellent events make March one of the most underrated months on the island. Spring break begins arriving toward the end of the month, so the first three weeks offer ideal conditions before the crowds return.

The Hilton Head Island Wine and Food Festival is the culinary highlight of the year, drawing acclaimed chefs and wine producers for several days of tastings, dinners, and cooking demonstrations. It has grown into one of the Southeast’s most respected food events and sells out early. If you enjoy food and wine at a high level, plan around it.

St. Patrick’s Day on Hilton Head is a bigger deal than most visitors expect. The annual parade is one of the largest in South Carolina, drawing thousands of locals and visitors to the route. The Shamrock Run/Walk precedes it as a community tradition. Hilton Head Wingfest, now in its fourth decade, is exactly what it sounds like — a serious wings competition with live music that draws strong local participation.

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 Wine and Food Festival — multi-day culinary event with top chefs, wine tastings, cooking demos, and farm dinners
St. Patrick’s Day Parade — one of the largest in South Carolina; festive, family-friendly, and very local
Shamrock Run/Walk — community 5K run preceding the St. Patrick’s Day parade
Hilton Head Wingfest — annual wing competition with live music; nearly 30 years running
Spring Break (late March) — families begin arriving; beach energy picks up

Best Activities This Month

Golf — March is considered peak golf season by many; perfect temperatures and courses in top condition
Biking — the entire trail network is stunning in spring; wildflowers begin along the forest paths
Kayaking and paddleboarding — water is warming and conditions are excellent
Dolphin cruises — dolphin activity increases in March as water temperatures rise
Fishing charters — spring fishing is exceptional; flounder, trout, and redfish are active
Beach walking — the hard-packed sand at low tide is perfect for long walks in March light
Harbour Town — the lighthouse and marina area are beautiful before summer crowds arrive
Bluffton Farmers Market — local produce, artisan goods, and the best of the Lowcountry
Daufuskie Island day trip — ideal weather for the ferry crossing and golf cart exploration
Tennis and pickleball — outdoor courts are in constant use by March; book court time in advance