Essential Guide to Beaufort, South Carolina

Charleston might get many of the consideration in relation to South Carolina’s many cities, however the historical past, tradition, and (in fact) Southern attraction that make it so particular can be present in smaller and cheaper locations within the area. In case you’ve ever watched “Forrest Gump” or learn something by the late creator Pat Conroy, chances are you’ll be conversant in Beaufort, a harbor city on Port Royal Island. Whereas its slender streets, oak timber, and historic district that pre-dates the Civil Conflict are just like these in Charleston, Beaufort is exceptional and magical in its personal proper. Plus, it doesn’t draw the identical crowds that are likely to flock to notable Holy Metropolis hangouts like King Road, Folly Seaside, and the Battery. 

Earlier than you learn any additional, although, that you must know tips on how to correctly pronounce the identify. To not be confused with Beaufort, North Carolina (mentioned like “bow-fert”), the coastal city has a pronunciation extra akin to “bew-fert.” Mistaking the 2 will instantly establish you as a vacationer—and it received’t sit too properly with the locals. Upon getting that squared away, you can begin planning your journey to Beaufort, the second-oldest metropolis in South Carolina.

Finest Issues to Do

In 1969, Beaufort turned one of many few U.S. cities with a complete downtown designated as a historic district by the Nationwide Belief for Historic Preservation, so exploring the neighborhoods stuffed with Victorian, Greek Revival, Neoclassical, and Federal-style properties is on the high of most vacationers’ lists. At Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, you’ll spot Woods Memorial Bridge, recognizable from the aforementioned Tom Hanks blockbuster. Stretching your legs can be inspired alongside the Spanish Moss Trail, a ten.2-mile greenway that weaves by Beaufort’s marshes and thru timber draped in Spanish moss. Given its waterfront location, Beaufort also needs to be skilled by boat; e book a Dolphin & History Boat Cruise with Coastal Expeditions or an ecology tour with Beaufort Kayak Tours. Paddleboarding is another choice, with rental gear accessible via Higher Ground Outfitters. 

Beaufort’s ties to the literary world are robust; visiting the Pat Conroy Literary Center (this was Conroy’s adopted hometown) or one of many three impartial bookstores on the town—NeverMore Books, McIntosh E book Shoppe, or Beaufort Books—is a should for e book lovers. For these taken with native artwork, there’s the Rhett Gallery, Thibault Gallery, or Atelier Off Bay. 

Most of the greatest issues to do in Beaufort are discovered outdoors downtown. About 17 miles east is Hunting Island State Park, with its pristine seashores, marshes, maritime forest, and saltwater lagoon. It is also dwelling to the Looking Island Lighthouse, which was destroyed throughout the Civil Conflict and rebuilt in 1875. St. Helena Island (a 15-minute drive away) is dwelling to the Penn Center—one of many United States’ first colleges for previously enslaved people—in addition to the family-owned Dempsey Farms, the place you’ll be able to decide in-season vegetables and fruit. Native produce can be acquired on Saturdays on the close by Port Royal Farmers Market.

Finest Resorts

Improve your go to to Beaufort with a keep in one of many city’s upscale inns. Gradual Southern mornings paired with a home-cooked breakfast could be loved on the expansive picket porch at The Rhett House Inn. Visitors may also e book the extra trendy Rhett Home Inn Cottages, which sit throughout the road from the primary constructing. As soon as a Union Military hospital, Anchorage 1770 overlooks the Beaufort River and gives a fantastic eating expertise at The Ribaut Social Membership. The Beaufort Inn first opened its doorways in 1897, and the property’s modern-day chapter options a number of totally renovated buildings inside the city’s historic district.

The place to Eat and Drink

As with most Southern cities and cities, meals is a serious a part of the native tradition. In case you’re a traveler who plans their holidays round meals, you’ll need to begin your day at Blackstone’s Cafe or Herban Market and Cafe. For a fast lunch whereas exploring Beaufort, cease by Lowcountry Produce Market & Cafe to get a fried hen sandwich or po’boy. Chapman’s Grocer additionally has grab-and-go treats, wine, and craft beer. Old Bull Tavern is a full of life gastropub open just for dinner, Saltus River Grill is nice for indulging in seafood, and people craving Italian ought to dine at Griffin Market. On St. Helena Island, The Gullah Grub Restaurant is likely one of the space’s most well-known eateries (it appeared on Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations); order the shrimp gumbo.

Finest Time to Go to 

When contemplating the best time to visit South Carolina, there are some things to remember. Summers listed here are sizzling and humid—there’s no getting round that. To discover Beaufort in probably the most snug local weather, your greatest guess is to go in both early spring or late fall. April and October are excellent—you will discover loads to do (winter is way from bustling) whereas concurrently avoiding the sweltering climate that is synonymous with the South.

Getting There

Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH) and Savannah/Hilton Head Worldwide Airport (SAV) are each about an hour’s drive away. You’ll must hire a automobile to totally expertise Beaufort and its surrounding space. Charleston Worldwide Airport (CHS) can be an choice, though it’ll take about 90 minutes to drive to Beaufort.