Beaufort

ExploreBeaufort

Beaufort, SC, USA

Beaufort is a historic, waterfront town located on Port Royal Island in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Known for its antebellum architecture, moss-draped oaks, and Southern charm, it’s a peaceful yet culturally rich destination.

Beaufort is a perfect blend of history, culture, and coastal relaxation—ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, elegant slice of the South.

City (Founded 1711)SC's 2nd Oldest
Forrest GumpFilmed Here
Gullah-GeecheeCultural Center
Pat Conroy Tour by Golf Cart
Beaufort River and Hunting Island Sunset Tour
Essence of the Lowcountry Sunrise
Beaufort High Tide Kayak Tour

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Things to See in Beaufort

  • Historic Downtown

    Wander through Beaufort’s downtown historic district, filled with preserved antebellum homes, charming boutiques, and restaurants housed in centuries-old buildings.
  • Scenic Waterfront Park

    Relax at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, a beautifully landscaped promenade along the Beaufort River, perfect for sunsets, picnics, or watching boats pass by.
  • Carriage Tours

    Take a guided horse-drawn carriage ride through Beaufort’s historic neighborhoods to learn about the town’s Civil War history and architectural heritage.
  • Hunting Island State Park

    Just a short drive away, Hunting Island offers pristine beaches, marsh trails, and a historic lighthouse you can climb for panoramic ocean views.
  • Southern Cuisine

    Savor Lowcountry flavors such as shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and frogmore stew at local eateries and waterfront dining spots.

When to Visit Beaufort

  • Winter (December – February)

    Winter in Beaufort is mild, with average highs ranging from the upper 50s to mid-60s °F (15°C to 18°C). While it’s the quietest season for tourism, the town remains picturesque, and holiday decorations lend charm to the historic downtown. Winter is ideal for peaceful waterfront strolls, uncrowded dining, and cozying up at local inns. Outdoor activities like kayaking and walking the Spanish Moss Trail remain enjoyable during most days.
  • Spring (March – May)

    Spring is one of the best times to visit Beaufort, with pleasant temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to high 70s °F (18°C to 25°C) and blooming azaleas bringing color to the town. The season marks the return of popular festivals like the Beaufort International Film Festival and the Soft Shell Crab Festival. Outdoor adventures thrive—kayaking through tidal creeks, biking scenic trails, and exploring historic homes and gardens are all at their best.
  • Summer (June – August)

    Summer brings heat and humidity, with highs in the upper 80s to 90s °F (31°C to 34°C), along with a lively tourist season. The town buzzes with beachgoers headed to nearby Hunting Island and boaters enjoying the local waterways. While afternoons can be hot, mornings and evenings are ideal for exploring downtown or dining alfresco. Expect occasional afternoon thunderstorms and a vibrant calendar of events, including Independence Day celebrations and Gullah cultural tours.
  • Autumn (September – November)

    Fall offers a wonderful balance of warm weather and fewer crowds, with temperatures gradually dropping from the 80s to the 60s °F (27°C to 18°C). It’s oyster season, and local seafood takes center stage at festivals like the Beaufort Shrimp Festival. The foliage along the marshlands takes on golden tones, and the crisp air invites long walks, sunset cruises, and relaxed sightseeing. Fall is also a great time for photography and spotting local wildlife.

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What Our Guests Are Saying

5.0/5

Based on 1,411 Reviews

Saskia

Saskia

1 month ago

What an amazing tour. We saw whales, dolphins and porpoises. The crew was very friendly and enthusiastic. We could really tell they are very respectful towards the animals, we were able to see two humpbacks for nearly half an hour, everybody was silent, the engine was off and the crew was also in awe. Only when the whales left, the engine was back on and we also started moving again. We really felt like we had all the time in the world and we didn't disturb the animals.

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