Beaufort, South Carolina, has a similar Lowcountry history to Charleston and Hilton Head, its neighbors on each side. But it’s a city all its own. It was first explored by the Spanish in 1514 and then by the French in 1562, led by Jean Ribault. However, conflicts arose, and the Spanish eventually drove the French out.
The British founded the city in 1711 on Port Royal Island, which is part of the Sea Islands, that came to prosperity through the rice and cotton industries. The city played an important role in Reconstruction, the period after the Civil War, when the “Port Royal Experiment” took place, where former slaves were educated and given employment opportunities.
Beaufort is also a base for exploring nearby areas like Lady’s Island, St. Helena Island, and Fripp Island, but this guide will only deal with the former.
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What to Do in Beaufort
Beaufort History Museum– Located in the city’s former arsenal, this museum focuses on Beaufort’s past from Native American inhabitance to the present. 713 Craven Street, Beaufort
Fort Frederick– The three-acre site has the oldest surviving tabby fort in the state, built by the British colonial government between 1733 and 1735. It was also where the Emancipation Proclamation was read to the formerly enslaved. 601 Old Fort Road, Port Royal
Fort Fremont Historical Preserve– The 15-acre site is centered around a Spanish American War era fort completed in 1898. Docent-led tours are offered to learn more about the history. 1124 Lands End Road, St. Helena Island
Hunting Island State Park– Created in 1935, this park spans 5,000 acres with a historic lighthouse, five miles of beach, and hiking trails to spot local wildlife. It was also used as a filming location for the show Outer Banks. 2555 Sea Island Parkway, St. Helena Island
Highway 21 Drive-In– The old-school drive-in movie theater that opened in 1978 plays the top releases on three screens. It also hosts frequent flea markets. 55 Parker Drive, Beaufort
Kazoobie Kazoo Factory and Museum– A little-known fact about Beaufort is that it’s home to the kazoo. This museum features exhibits on the history of the instruments and also shows where they’re made. Get your ticket before you go. 12 John Galt Road, Beaufort
Old Sheldon Church Ruins- Completed in 1753, the church was originally called Prince William’s Parish Church. It burned twice, in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and is a popular spot for photos. Old Sheldon Church Road, Yemassee
Parris Island Museum– The museum on the Marines opened in 1951 and has exhibits on conflicts from World War I to the present. 111 Panama Street, Beaufort
Pat Conroy Literary Center– Noted Lowcountry author Pat Conroy is honored at this center that hosts author talks and writers residencies. Learn more about the man behind the books on Pat Conroy’s Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart. 601 Bladen Street, Beaufort
Penn Center– The site of the former Penn School, one of the first schools for the formerly enslaved, is now an important reminder of Black history. It was here that Martin Luther King Jr. wrote his “I Have a Dream” speech. Combine your visit with the Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour. 16 Penn Center Circle, St. Helena Island
Reconstruction Era National Historical Park– Made up of many different sites, this national park focuses on the period of history that followed the Civil War, especially as it relates to the formerly enslaved. The best place to start is the downtown visitors center. 706 Craven Street, Beaufort
Tours- Indulge your different interests by joining one of the city’s many tours. Our picks are the Beaufort City Minibus Tour, Walking Tour in Beaufort, History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart, and the Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours.
Where to Eat in Beaufort
Beedos Burgers– Grab a bite on your way to the Penn Center at this retro-inspired spot offering hearty breakfasts and, of course, burgers. 1634 Sea Island Parkway, St. Helena Island, (843) 612-2901
Blacksheep– Named one of the best restaurants in town, this downtown spot has carefully selected wines alongside a menu of three seasonal dishes for $60. 1216 Boundary Street, Beaufort, (843) 470-8070
Clockwise Coffee– The roadside coffee shop operates alongside a cider company, providing the perfect stop on your way into town for Counter Culture coffee drinks. 81 Charleston Hwy, Yemassee
Foolish Frog– This seafood restaurant uses the best local ingredients and has a beautiful view of the surrounding marsh. 846 Sea Island Parkway, St. Helena Island
Gullah Grub– The cuisine of the Gullah people, who traditionally inhabit these islands, is on offer at this casual restaurant, including gumbo and barbecue. 877 Sea Island Parkway, St. Helena Island, (843) 838-3841
Old Bull Tavern– Reservations are suggested at this neighborhood gastropub with house-made pasta and wood-fired oysters. 205 West Street, Beaufort, (843) 379-2855
The Olde Schoolhouse– This breakfast and lunch restaurant is open, you guessed it, in a former schoolhouse in Port Royal. 1638 Paris Avenue, Port Royal, (843) 379-7379
Lowcountry Produce– The market and cafe has three area locations, including a large space in downtown Beaufort. Menu favorites include the green tomato pickle stack and crab hushpuppies. 302 Carteret Street, Beaufort, (843) 322-1900
Rain-N-Bagels– The popular Beaufort breakfast spot is known for its bagels, but you can also get sandwiches throughout the day. 221 Scott Street, Beaufort, (843) 379-9300
Saltus River Grill– The waterfront restaurant highlights locally sourced ingredients with classic Lowcountry dishes like she crab soup alongside sushi and other seafood plates. 802 Bay Street, Suite C, Beaufort, (843) 379-3474
Urban Brew + Co– Start your day off right with a morning coffee from this Beaufort shop that also offers tea and small bites. 2139 Boundary Street, Suite 104, Beaufort, (843) 608-3174
Looking for more of Beaufort’s best restaurants? Eater has a great guide. You can also check out the best nightlife spots with the Guided Liquor and Beer Tasting Tour in Beaufort.
Where to Stay in Beaufort
Anchorage 1770– The five-star hotel in a historic home has a top-notch restaurant and comfortable rooms. 1103 Bay Street, Beaufort
The Beaufort Inn– The charming inn has 47 guest rooms and cottages to choose from and scenic gardens to explore. 809 Port Republic Street, Beaufort
City Loft Hotel– Set in a former motor inn, the retro hotel has 22 guest rooms plus an on-site coffee shop, fitness center, and parking. 301 Carteret Street, Beaufort
Cuthbert House Inn– Dating back over 200 years, this home-turned-inn has incredible views of the marsh, plus daily breakfast and wine reception. 1203 Bay Street, Beaufort
Emerald Stays– Located inside a former toy store, this self-service boutique hotel has free parking, a tea and coffee bar, and comfortable rooms, all a short walk from downtown. 501 Carteret Street, Beaufort
Rhett House Inn– Check into this inn set among the live oaks that includes rooms in the main house, plus guest houses for added privacy. 1009 Craven Street, Beaufort
Camping and glamping- Hunting Island State Park has 100 campsites with water and electrical hookups, showers, and restroom facilities. You can also stay at an Airstream near Parris Island.
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