OUR SMALLEST GUEST CHECK IN EARLY MAY
Holden Beach Weather
Holden Beach has warm summers, mild winters and plenty of sunshine all year. Because the island runs east to west, you get sunrise and sunset over the water on the same day. Check the live forecast below before you plan your beach day, pack for your trip or head out on the water.
Good to know:
- Warmest water: The ocean peaks around 83°F in August.
- Swimming season: Swimming is comfortable from late May through early October.
- Rainiest month: August usually brings short, heavy afternoon showers rather than all-day rain.
- Most sunshine: June has the longest, sunniest days.
Averages are approximate. Always check the live forecast before your trip.
Holden Beach Weather by Season:
| Season | Daytime highs | Nighttime lows | Ocean temp | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | 65–82°F | 43–60°F | 58–72°F | Warm, sunny days and cool nights. The water warms up quickly by late May. |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 87–97°F (or higher) | 68–72°F | 78–83°F | Hot, humid and perfect for swimming. Expect quick afternoon thunderstorms. |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | 84°F down to the upper 60s | 45–65°F | 80°F down to the upper 60s | Locals’ favorite. Warm water, fewer crowds and great fishing. |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 57–60°F | 35–39°F | Mid-50s | Mild and quiet. Perfect for long beach walks and shell hunting. |
Summer storms & lightning:
On hot summer afternoons, pop-up thunderstorms can roll in fast and usually pass within an hour. When thunder roars, go indoors. Get off the beach and out of the water and pool, and wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before heading back out.
Hurricane season (June 1 – November 30)
Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, and the most active stretch is usually mid-August through October. Most weeks are sunny and storm-free, but it’s smart to plan ahead:
- Watch the forecast in the days before and during your trip.
- Sign up for ReadyBrunswick Emergency Alerts to get free texts or calls about evacuation orders and severe weather.
- Follow any mandatory evacuation order right away. See our Bad Weather Policy for how evacuations affect your stay.
- Protect your trip with travel insurance. Buy it early, because many plans won’t cover a storm once it’s been named.
🔗 Helpful weather links:
- 🌤️ Holden Beach Forecast (WillyWeather): live temperature, wind, UV and 7-day forecast
- 🏖️ NWS Wilmington Beach Forecast: rip current risk, surf height, water temperature and lightning risk, updated daily
- 📡 NWS Wilmington, NC: official local forecasts, radar and weather alerts
- 🌀 National Hurricane Center: tropical storm and hurricane tracking
- 🌊 Holden Beach Tide Tables
- 🚨 Brunswick County Hurricane Evacuations
What to pack:
- Summer: Reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, a light rain jacket and water shoes for hot sand
- Spring & fall: Layers. Days are warm, but evenings on the deck can get breezy and cool.
- Winter: A warm jacket for windy beach walks
