You’ve seen the postcards. Moss-draped oaks, a sparkling waterfront, and that warm Lowcountry glow. But if you’re looking at the Beaufort SC 10 day weather forecast right now, you might be wondering if you should’ve packed a parka instead of a polo. Honestly, January in Beaufort is a bit of a wild card.
It’s currently Sunday night, January 18, 2026, and the air has a bite to it. We’re sitting at a crisp 38°F, though with the 9 mph breeze coming off the west, it actually feels more like 32°F. That’s the thing about the coast; the humidity makes the cold feel heavier. It "seeps into your bones," as the locals say.
The Week Ahead: Sun, Clouds, and a Bit of a Rollercoaster
If you’re planning your week, don't get discouraged by the chilly start. We just finished up a rainy Sunday with a high of 48°F, but the sky is clearing out for the night. Tomorrow, Monday, January 19, looks like a winner if you like crisp, bright winter days. Expect pure sunshine and a high of 49°F. It’s perfect for a walk down Bay Street, as long as you have a solid sweater.
Things start to climb—slowly—as we head into the midweek. Tuesday will bring some clouds and a high of 51°F, while Wednesday gets a bit gloomier with total cloud cover but a slightly warmer 57°F.
Then comes the "Lowcountry Spring" tease.
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By Thursday, January 22, we’re looking at a beautiful 60°F day with full sun. Friday actually hits 63°F, which is basically luxury weather for January. If you’ve been waiting to hit the Spanish Moss Trail or take a kayak out, Friday afternoon is your window. Just keep an eye on the evening, as there’s a 25% chance of light rain moving in after dark.
The Weekend Dip and Beyond
Don't get too comfortable in those short sleeves. Saturday, January 24, brings the rain back into the picture (40% chance at night) and drops the high to 56°F. Sunday is the real "stay inside and drink tea" day, with showers likely and a high that struggles to even reach 40°F.
Here is the quick breakdown of what the back half of that Beaufort SC 10 day weather forecast looks like:
- Monday (Jan 26): Mostly sunny, high of 46°F, but a freezing low of 31°F.
- Tuesday (Jan 27): Partly sunny, high of 48°F.
- Wednesday (Jan 28): Cloudy, high of 50°F.
Basically, we're seeing a cycle of "chilly and clear" followed by "warm and rainy." It’s typical for this time of year, but the freezing lows near 31°F on the 26th and 27th are a reminder to keep those outdoor pipes covered.
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Why the Tide Matters More Than the Temperature
One thing most visitors miss is that the weather is only half the story in Beaufort. Since the town is surrounded by the Beaufort River and various creeks, the tide dictates the "feel" of the day.
In the winter, the higher of the two daily high tides usually happens in the morning, often around sunrise. When you combine a high tide with a stiff 13 mph northeast wind (like we expect next Saturday), the "feels like" temperature can drop significantly. The water acts like a giant heat sink, pulling the warmth right out of the air.
If you’re heading to Hunting Island State Park, check the tide charts before you go. At low tide, the beach is massive—perfect for finding sand dollars or shark teeth. At high tide, especially during a windy day, the usable beach shrinks fast, and that ocean spray can be pretty cold.
Practical Tips for the Lowcountry Winter
Forget what you think you know about South Carolina being "hot" all year. It isn't.
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First, dress in layers. You’ll want a base layer for the 30-degree mornings, but by 2 PM, you might be down to a light fleece. Second, the UV index is still sitting around 3 on sunny days. It’s not high, but if you’re out on the water, the reflection off the river can still give you a surprise sunburn.
Honestly, the best part of this 10-day stretch is the lack of crowds. January is the "low season" for a reason, but it’s the most authentic time to see the city. You can actually get a table at the best spots on the waterfront without a two-hour wait.
If you are a gardener or have sensitive plants on your porch, pay close attention to the nights of January 26th and 27th. With lows predicted at 31°F, we are looking at a hard freeze. Bring the citrus trees and the ferns inside.
For the next few days, keep your gear flexible.
- Pack a windbreaker for those 10 mph western breezes.
- Keep an umbrella in the car for the 75% rain chance tonight and the weekend showers.
- Plan your outdoor photography for Thursday or Friday when the light is crisp and the temps are in the low 60s.
Enjoy the quiet. The marshes look incredible when they turn that golden-brown winter hue, and the sunsets this time of year are legendary for their deep purples and oranges.