Location: Beaufort
Top Things to do in Beaufort
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What to do and see in Beaufort, South Carolina (SC): The Best Things to do
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. The Point
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 173 reviews
Reviewed By ephyfe - Wilmington, United States
This neighborhood is really wonderful if you like the southern antebellum architecture. You have classic stately mansions, smaller brightly painted homes, big live oaks with Spanish moss, cicadae and cabbage palms. This is where Hollywood comes to film when they need southern mansions. It’s really a great area to drive through. I wouldn’t even mind walking through but I’d worry people might say something if I’m walking around in front of their house. There didn’t appear to be many people driving around looking at the homes. I was out there driving around and taking pictures (see my pics of some of the homes). This is just one area where there are beautiful old homes. On the other side of Bay Street is another area that seems to have even bigger homes. Buy a good book and a map before you go to find all the antebellum houses.
2. Beaufort National Cemetery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 255 reviews
Reviewed By bmbaird62 - Beaufort, United States
As national Cemeteries go, this one is very small. There are graves sites going back many years. A chance to stroll and honor those who served and some who made that ultimate sacrifice.
3. Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,101 reviews
Reviewed By Phoinix15 - Tampa, United States
What a great place to walk, take a picnic and enjoy the swings and sunset. Lots of people just having a nice time and relaxing. I was impressed how clean and neat the entire walk was. Sunsets to die for, kids were playing and parents pushing strollers. Just a peaceful beautiful place. Beaufort you should be proud.
4. Pat Conroy Literary Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 276 reviews
The Pat Conroy Literary Center educates and inspires a community of readers, writers, and teachers in and beyond our home in the South Carolina lowcountry. In honor of our namesake, one of America's best-loved writers and truth-tellers, the Conroy Center continues Pat Conroy's courageous and generous-hearted legacy as a teacher, mentor, advocate, and friend to storytellers of every kind. The nonprofit Conroy Center is South Carolina's first affiliate of the American Writers Museum and second American Library Association United for Libraries Literary Landmark. Voted as Favorite Local Museum in the 2019 Eat Stay Play Beaufort "Best of Beaufort" Awards, the Conroy Center is also winner of the 2019 Civitas Award for Tourism Leadership, presented by the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Reviewed By 762elisa - Myrtle Beach, United States
I thoroughly enjoyed the virtual tour of the Center today! It was very interesting to learn new things about Pat Conroy and how the Center continues Pat Conroy’s legacy of love of reading, writing, and teaching which he wanted to pass on to others. Jonathan Haupt was delightful! I can’t wait to make the trip to see the Center in person.
5. Hunting Island Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 809 reviews
The only public lighthouse in South Carolina.
Reviewed By 44lindas44 - Metamora, United States
We made reservations in advance. Our group of four made the first climb of the day. The 45 minutes allowed per group is more than sufficient. We found the climb to the top well worth doing. Try for a clear day, of course! Also provided are informative plaques as well as outbuildings that provide additional information. They are worth the time. The staff here proved exceptional, knowledgeable, and friendly. At $2 per person this is a great value and fun opportunity.
6. Hunting Island State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,268 reviews
Park that is a large secluded barrier island with a historic 1859 lighthouse as its centerpiece.
Reviewed By EvanGuthrie - Charleston, United States
Hunting Island State Park is a well managed and maintained state park that has much to offer including a great beach, a historic lighthouse, add on tours, and maritime forrest trails that are really cool. It is well worth the visit here as you can experience the nature and beauty of the coast that is well preserved and an unique experience.
7. Bay Street
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 478 reviews
Reviewed By Snyderlink7645
If you are staying in Beaufort, make sure you take the time to drive diwn Bay Street! There are beautiful historic homes dating back to the 1800's. In the quaint little town, there are many interesting shops with a great variety of items. You can take a horse drawn tour through the area. Right now the homes are decorated for the holidays! Great little town close to Marine training depot.
8. St. Helena's Anglican Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 242 reviews
Reviewed By MGordonCharlotte_NC - Charlotte, United States
We attended the Children’s Pageant on Christmas Eve.....the children presented a contemporary “Story of Christmas “ pageant....clearly advertised as a no rehearsal” event. The children were amazing as was the music. Following the Parish House event we went to the main church for a 30 minute musical program. At 7:30 we returned to the church for a Christmas Eve service celebration. The Bishop was there and celebrated with six priests and a full adult and junior choir. The music was fabulous and the service inspiring.
9. Spanish Moss Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 154 reviews
Reviewed By kimden - Cape Coral, United States
We rented bikes at University Bikes, only 1 mile from trail, easy to get to. The trail is peaceful and shaded. Don't bother going north past 170, as it parallels 21 the rest of the way, very busy, lots of cars and noise. South to Port Royal is beautiful.
10. Port Royal Sound Foundation Maritime Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 94 reviews
We are excited to share with you the home of the Port Royal Sound Foundation - the Maritime Center. The Foundation renovated the former Lemon Island Marina to establish an engaging and exciting educational experience. The center opened in November 2014 and features exhibits, classrooms, hands-on learning spaces and other areas where you can learn about and celebrate Port Royal Sound. Enjoy diverse and fun opportunities to experience and connect with the Port Royal Sound Area. Handicap Accessible
Reviewed By el576 - Hilton Head, United States
I have passed this on my way to work every day for who knows how long. Finally decided to stop in. And was i shocked! Wonderful little center! rich in history of the shrimp and oyster industry, lovely, clean displays and an amazing ocean view. The magnificent aquarium smack in the middle is stocked with many of the very species i have caught on the pier! Just wonderful. The staff were friendly, and so knowledgable. The "please touch" room has a large floor tank with puffer fish and minnows and crabs and welks. a small aquarium houses little horseshoe crabs . There is a tank with 2 baby alligators, a tank with diamond terrapins , a tank with a box turtle , a corn snake and a rat snake. The Dossent was so friendly! He gave the history of each animal. Allowed us to hold the baby eastern king snake and the corn snake. We got to pet the alligators. The terrapins were so cute. The one was a super chubbins. After my visit, i told several friends about it, and advised them to take their little ones. A small child with an interest in the ocean and wildlife would love this place. Mom and dad would love the history area. I thought i would be there for 10 mins tops. 2 hours later i left with a big smile. Just wonderful. And was totally free!
