Second-oldest city in South Carolina, renowned for its scenic location preservation of its antebellum architecture
How to Get There
From Charleston, SC (≈70 mi): Take US‑17 S from downtown Charleston and continue south through Mount Pleasant and along the South Carolina Lowcountry, then follow signs into Beaufort where US‑17 becomes Boundary St, leading directly into the city.
Overview
Chartered in 1711, Beaufort is the second-oldest city in South Carolina, behind Charleston. It is located on Port Royal Island, in the heart of the Sea Islands and South Carolina Lowcountry. The city is renowned for its scenic location and for maintaining a historic character by preservation of its antebellum architecture. The prominent role of Beaufort and the surrounding Sea Islands during the Reconstruction era after the U.S. Civil War is memorialized by the Reconstruction Era National Monument, established in 2017. The city is also known for its military establishments, being located in close proximity to Parris Island and a U.S. naval hospital, in addition to being home of the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.
The city has been featured in the New York Times, and named "Best Small Southern Town" by Southern Living, a "Top 25 Small City Arts Destination" by American Style, and a "Top 50 Adventure Town" by National Geographic Adventure.
In addition to the Beaufort Historic District, The Anchorage, William Barnwell House, Barnwell-Gough House, Beaufort National Cemetery, John A. Cuthbert House, Fort Lyttelton Site, Hunting Island State Park Lighthouse, Laurel Bay Plantation, Marshlands, Seacoast Packing Company, Seaside Plantation, Robert Smalls House, Tabby Manse, and John Mark Verdier House are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Things to Do
Explore Beaufort's Historic Downtown
Beaufort is one of the South's most charming coastal cities, known for its beautifully preserved historic district, antebellum architecture, and waterfront setting. Visitors can stroll beneath moss-draped live oaks, explore historic homes, browse local boutiques, and enjoy the city's rich history dating back to the early eighteenth century.
Walk the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
The award-winning Waterfront Park stretches along the Beaufort River and serves as the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, swings overlooking the water, shaded walking paths, fishing areas, and opportunities to watch boats travel through the harbor.
Visit Historic Homes and Museums
Beaufort is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the John Mark Verdier House Museum, Beaufort History Museum, and antebellum mansions that survived the Civil War. Many sites offer guided tours that provide insight into the city's colonial, Civil War, and Reconstruction-era history.
Experience the Lowcountry Culture
The city is known for its Gullah-Geechee heritage, coastal traditions, fresh seafood, and vibrant arts community. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, cultural tours, art galleries, festivals, and educational programs highlighting the unique history of the South Carolina Lowcountry.
Take a Boat Tour or Wildlife Excursion
Beaufort's coastal location makes it an excellent destination for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, dolphin cruises, and nature tours. Nearby waterways, marshes, and islands provide opportunities to observe dolphins, shorebirds, and other coastal wildlife while exploring the region's scenic beauty.
Top Trails
Spanish Moss Trail
Length: Approximately 10 miles one way
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
This popular paved rail-trail follows a former railroad corridor through Beaufort and Port Royal. The trail passes marshes, neighborhoods, parks, and scenic Lowcountry landscapes, making it a favorite for walking, running, and cycling.
Waterfront Park Walk
Length: Approximately 1 mile round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along Beaufort's waterfront while taking in views of the Beaufort River, marina, historic downtown, and surrounding coastal scenery. The path is ideal for sightseeing and photography.
Cypress Wetlands Boardwalk
Length: Approximately 0.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Located nearby in Port Royal, this boardwalk provides access to wetlands inhabited by birds, turtles, alligators, and native plants. Interpretive signage helps visitors learn about the ecology of the Lowcountry while enjoying a peaceful nature walk.
Hunting Island Lagoon and Nature Trails
Length: Variable distances available
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
A short drive from Beaufort, Hunting Island State Park offers several scenic trails through maritime forests, lagoons, salt marshes, and beaches. These trails provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and experiencing the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast.
Sources: Beaufort Area Convention and Visitors Bureau information regarding historic downtown Beaufort, Waterfront Park, cultural attractions, boating, wildlife tours, and Lowcountry experiences. https://www.beaufortsc.org Additional information regarding the Spanish Moss Trail, Historic District, Hunting Island State Parkgh local tourism resources and South Carolina State Parks information. This article uses material from the Wikipedia article "Beaufort, South Carolina", which is released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0
