What to do and see in Beaufort, South Carolina (SC): The Best Historical & Heritage Tours

August 21, 2021 Giuseppe Pratt

With a pristine coastline, a rich antebellum history and a charming, historic downtown, Beaufort is more than one of the most enriching getaways in South Carolina. Here travelers discover a unique destination where stunning views of rivers, marshes and moss-hung oaks couple with authentic Lowcountry cuisine and a relaxing rhythm of life to create an experience that stays with them long after they leave.
Restaurants in Beaufort

1. Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart

1006 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, USA Beaufort Tours
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5.0 based on 18 reviews

Pat Conroy's family moved to Beaufort when he was 15.  He adopted Beaufort as his home and Beaufort adopted Pat as our own!  Join us on this 1 1/2 hour tour of "Pat's Conroy's Beaufort," from his boyhood home to his favorite restaurant to Prince of Tides and Great Santini locations in the film adaptations of Pat's such autobiographical novels.

Inclusions: Tour by Golf Cart

Exclusions: Tips are not included.

Reviewed By 371glennysc

We just learned so many things about this community that were interesting and fun. Our guide was very well versed on the topic and drove us safely through traffic.

2. Spirit of Old Beaufort Heritage Tour

928 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, USA Gray Line Beaufort
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

Travel back in time to explore the Gullah-Geechee heritage of South Carolina's Sea Islands! On this tour we will visit several areas of Beaufort County and discover it's lone history and unique culture. On this 3 hour tour, get ready to soak up some history and take in the sights. Discover Lady's Island, St. Helena, Hunting Island, and more! See the site of one of the country's first schools for freed slaves - a local treasure and National Historic Landmark. Marvel at the ruins of island churches and learn the stories and songs that are part of their rich history. See a historic plantation house from the comfort of our air-conditioned vehicle. Beaufort and the surrounding areas are deeply rooted in the Gullah-Geechee culture, and we're eager to share it with you on this one-of-a-kind tour!

Inclusions: Tour escort/host, Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Professional guide, Transport by air-conditioned bus

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By Vlet29

We booked our tour weeks in advance and four days before the tour they kicked us off our assigned spot so that a larger charter group could take our place. Incredibly disappointed that this is how this company chooses to do business. Luckily we were able to book a tour with Beaufort Tours and had a wonderful time.

3. Complete History and Movie Walking Tour of Beaufort

1006 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, USA Beaufort Tours
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5.0 based on 9 reviews

Discover the fascinating stories of Beaufort on this 2-hour walking tour. Learn about the role of Beaufort in the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. See where famous movie stars stayed and filmed, including Demi Moore while filming GI Jane and Sally Field while filming Forrest Gump. Experience the charm of seaside Beaufort on this 2-hour walking tour.

Inclusions: Professional guide

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By 371glennysc

We just learned so many things about this community that were interesting and fun. Our guide was very well versed on the topic and drove us safely through traffic.

4. Walking Tour in Beaufort

1006 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, USA Janet's Walking History Tour
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5.0 based on 58 reviews

You will be swept up in the 500 year history of Beaufort, the jewel of the south. You will hear of Indian massacres, Pirates, Slaves, planters wealthy beyond belief, the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, a great fire, a catastrophic hurricane, and the wonderful stories of the brave and tenacious people of Beaufort.

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Reviewed By kindlystevo

Janet did wonderfully in explaining history and keeping the juniors and seniors interested in her stories. She is knowledgeable, relational and it would seem that everyone in town loves her. I rate this tour 2 thumbs up!

5. Beaufort Ghost Tours

1002 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, USA Tales of the Lowcountry
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4.9 based on 12 reviews

We visit all the local Haunts. We cover local history as it pertains to the ghosts of Beaufort as well as the ghost stories. We also check for spikes in electro magnetic frequencies and attempt to catch electronic voice phenomenon.

Inclusions: Professional guide

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Reviewed By baileydoc

We selected this ghost tour based on terrific tripadvisor reviews and were not disappointed in this 2 hour walking tour of historical ghost experiences in Beaufort. Charlotte delivered one of the best ghost tour experiences (and we've done a lot ) we've ever had with vast knowledge of the history of the area, colorful descriptions of supernatural events, and a very friendly manner. We understand she does carriage tours as well and look forward to seeking her out next time we visit Beaufort.

6. History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart

1006 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, USA Beaufort Tours
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4.9 based on 72 reviews

Learn about Beaufort's 300 years of rich history on this 1-hour tour. While riding in our new 8 passenger Yamaha golf cart, see beautiful antebellum homes and scenic views. Explore the town where famous movies were filmed, such as Forrest Gump, The Big Chill, and Great Santini on this exciting tour!

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Transport by 8 passenger Yamaha golf cart

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By tmax0830

We just spent a wonderful afternoon on this tour and all we can say is WOW. What an experience. Our guide (we didnt catch her name) was the best guide we have ever had. So knowledgeable. Thank you for a wonderful afternoon and an historical perspective of Beaufort.

7. #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour

1002 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, USA Southurn Rose Buggy Tours
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4.9 based on 74 reviews

Come relax & enjoy Beaufort the way it was meant to be seen, listen to the Clippity-Clop of our gentle horses while our tour guides share their love of Beaufort & its History with you. * Completely Narrated Tour of Old Beaufort SC *55 min duration *Horse drawn Carriage Tour *Passes by all major historical sites in Old Beaufort. *Voted # 1 Historical Tour *Voted # 1 Favorite Tour

Inclusions: All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Parking Fees and Gratuities

Reviewed By phoenixrisingtra2021

We absolutely loved out tour through Beaufort on the carriage and would highly recommend it! Our tour guide was informational and funny. A must do but remember your sunscreen!

8. Beaufort City Tour

928 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, USA Gray Line Beaufort
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4.8 based on 91 reviews

Beaufort town located on Port Royal Island remains the Queen of South Carolina Sea Islands with its charm, natural beauty, fascinating history and rich, diverse cultural heritage. On this 1.15 hour driving tour, we'll explore the historic district of Beaufort, including the famous Old Point area and The Bluff with its antebellum houses and churches, all from the comfort of our air-conditioned vehicle. As we drive around town, your guide will introduce you to some of these beautiful and historic sites: See historic townhouses up close and learn about the architecture and the folks who built them. Discover what happened to the houses and people of Beaufort during the Civil War Union Occupation. See the movie sites made famous by over 24 Hollywood films that were shot in Beaufort and the surrounding areas. Join us for an adventure through the Nation Historic Landmark District of Beaufort, South Carolina's second oldest city!

Inclusions: Professional Local Guide, Costumed Guides, Air-Conditioned Van

Exclusions: Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Reviewed By sandycat405

We enjoyed a Friday afternoon stroll along the beautiful homes in the National Historical area. Our guide Dean was wonderful he knows the history very well and made the past come alive. We enjoyed the attention to details and the ability to ask questions and he was more than happy to answer them. He should write a book about the historical homes. We will come back soon to enjoy another tour with Dean. This is a great place to start your tour of Beaufort and enjoy lunch at one of the wonderful eatery around the area.

9. Kazoo Factory Tour & Museum

12 John Galt Rd, Beaufort, SC 29906, USA The Kazoo Factory
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4.8 based on 96 reviews

Kazoobie Kazoos is a small family run manufacturer based in Beaufort, SC. We love kazoos!! We make them, collect them, and love sharing this American made and invented instrument with the World. Our guides will demonstrate kazoos, nose flutes, kazobos, and an assortment of other fun instruments. After an hour at our factory you will know all there is to know about kazoos, and get to build your own! Perfect for kids of all ages.

Inclusions: Everyone gets to build and keep their own kazoo!

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Reviewed By RebeccaM523

Made a kazoo as an anniversary gift for my hubby while on this girl’s getaway. Also bought him a kazoo t-shirt. Yeah, he’ll laugh and love them both.

10. Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour

1010 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, USA Sea Island Carriage Company
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4.8 based on 424 reviews

Enjoy South Carolina’s second oldest city from our beautiful RED horse drawn-carriages. Our certificated guides will tell you all about Beaufort's amazing History, from the Civil War to "Forrest Gump" running around town! Our tours last approximately 50-55 minutes and stroll through the HEART of Historic Beaufort S.C. You’ll see breath taking Antebellum homes, Historic Churches, movie sites and MUCH more! Sea Island Carriage Company has been Voted #1. Don’t miss out on Beaufort’s number 1 outdoor activity! Look for the RED ROCKING CHAIRS!!

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Reviewed By tbooth32

We had a very nice stroll thru the beautiful streets of Beaufort. Really enjoyed the narration and passion of Kate. She really knows her history and was easy to understand. An hour was just right to really get a good understanding of this historic town.

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