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.
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!