Overview
Beaufort, South Carolina, a quiet Lowcountry town of 13,000, sits on the Beaufort River, 70 miles southwest of Charleston. Founded in 1711, it draws 150,000 visitors yearly to its antebellum charm-minus the crowds of bigger hubs. Spared in the Civil War, Beaufort offers historic mansions, wild beaches, and a serene vibe-an offbeat escape steeped in Southern beauty.
Top Attractions
Historic District
Antebellum homes on Bay Street.
Hunting Island State Park
16 miles east-beaches, lighthouse ($8/adult).
John Mark Verdier House
1804 mansion-ghostly tales ($12/adult).
Waterfront Park
Free riverside swings.
Gullah Culture (nearby)
Explore African traditions that live nearby on St. Helena Island.
Kazoo Factory (2 miles)
World's only-free tours and a quirky souvenir.
Unique Stories & Facts
- Civil War Spare: Union took it in 1861-saved the mansions.
- Hollywood Cameo: Forrest Gump bridge is here.
- Gullah Echoes: African traditions live nearby.
- Pirate Raid: Blackbeard hit in 1718.
Best Travel Seasons
Spring (Mar-May)
60-80°F-walks bloom.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
80-95°F-beach peak.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
55-75°F-marsh glow.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
40-65°F-quiet charm.
Popular Activities
- Walking Tour: Historic District-2 hours ($25).
- Beach Day: Hunting Island-wild shores.
- Kayaking: Beaufort River-2 hours ($45).
- Photography: The Point's mansions-timeless shots.
Famous Buffets Nearby (~20 Miles)
- Golden Corral (Bluffton, 25 miles): Closest all-you-can-eat.
- Oldfield Club (Okatie, 18 miles): Sunday brunch.
Casinos Nearby (~30 Miles)
- No casinos within 30 miles: Closest is Harrah's Cherokee (300 miles). Alternative: Local oyster roasts.
Oddities Nearby (~20 Miles)
- Kazoo Factory (2 miles): World's only-free.
- Old Sheldon Church Ruins (15 miles): Burned twice-eerie.
Haunted Tourism Nearby (~20 Miles)
- John Mark Verdier House: Ghostly doors.
- Old Sheldon Church Ruins: Phantom hymns.
Local Events & Festivals
- Shrimp Festival (Oct 3-4, 2025): Free shrimp, music.
- Water Festival (Jul 18-27, 2025): Free boat races.
Lodging Options (Types and Recommendations)
Luxury: Cuthbert House Inn
B&B ($250/night).
Mid-Range: Rhett House Inn
Historic ($150/night).
Budget: City Loft Hotel
Modern ($90/night).
Camping: Hunting Island
Beach ($25/night).
Dining (Local Cuisine Highlights)
Saltus River Grill
She-crab soup-riverfront.
Plums
Oyster po'boys-casual.
Become a Pathfinder
See something we missed? Spot a detail that doesn’t add up? Pathfinders don’t just read the journey, they help write it. Correct the facts, fill in the gaps, and blaze new trails for fellow travelers.
Does it cost anything? Nope. In fact, we pay you. You may even write off travel on your taxes (check your local laws).
You’re a money-making, tax-break-taking, pathfinding machine.
Travel Tips
- What to Pack: Layers for Oct (55-75°F), bug spray.
- Safety: Low crime-mind marsh bugs.
- Accessibility: Walkable-call for specific info.
Nearby Destinations Within 20 Miles
- Hunting Island (16 miles): Beaches.
- St. Helena Island (12 miles): Gullah culture.
Recommended Duration of Stay
3 Days: History and beaches.
Target Travelers
- History Buffs: Antebellum homes.
- Nature Lovers: Hunting Island.
- Couples: Quiet charm.
Destination Joke
Ghosts keep it crowd-free!
Listen to Our Podcast Episode!
"Beaufort's Antebellum Charm" - Discover the quiet beauty of the Lowcountry.
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Beaufort perfectly blends rich history, beautiful beaches, and a serene atmosphere!
Beaufort offers adventures for paddlers and delicious treats for foodies!
Beaufort's charm makes it an ideal spot for a romantic getaway!