Things To Do
in Beaufort
Beaufort is a charming coastal town located in South Carolina, known for its historic architecture and picturesque waterfront. Visitors can explore the town's rich history by taking a historic walking tour or visiting the Beaufort History Museum. The area is also popular for outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and dolphin watching tours.
With its vibrant arts scene, delicious Lowcountry cuisine, and warm Southern hospitality, Beaufort offers a relaxing and inviting getaway for visitors.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a boat tour of the picturesque marshes. Enjoy spotting wildlife and taking in the serene vistas.
Visit the Beaufort History Museum to learn about the rich heritage of the area. Don't forget to stroll through the historic downtown area afterward.
Relax with dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Savor fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the water.
Head to Hunting Island State Park for an early morning hike. The trails offer beautiful coastal scenery and opportunities to see native wildlife.
After lunch, spend time at the beach relaxing or swimming. Enjoy the soft sand and warm sun during the afternoon.
Join a local guided night tour to explore the park's wildlife. Experience the tranquility of nature under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and waterfront views
- Rich historical significance and charming architecture
- A variety of outdoor activities, including boating and fishing
- Close-knit community with friendly residents
- Access to nearby islands and natural parks for exploration
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries
- Seasonal tourism can lead to crowded areas in peak months
- Higher cost of living compared to some other regions
- Hurricane risk during the storm season
- Public transportation options may be limited
Best Activities in Beaufort
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful waterways of Beaufort by kayaking. Rent a kayak and paddle through the salt marshes, spotting local wildlife and enjoying the scenic views.
Visit this stunning state park with pristine beaches, hiking trails, and scenic views. Ideal for swimming, picnicking, and nature walks.
Ride along the Spanish Moss Trail, a scenic path that connects Beaufort to Port Royal, perfect for biking, walking, and jogging.
Try your hand at fishing in the Beaufort River. Whether you prefer shore fishing or chartering a boat, there are plenty of options available.
Rent a paddleboard and navigate the calm waters around Beaufort, enjoying the tranquility and spotting local marine life.
Take a guided walking tour of Beaufort's historic district, exploring its rich history, architecture, and charming streets.
Visit Parris Island to enjoy bird watching. The area is home to diverse bird species and offers beautiful natural settings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Beaufort with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Beaufort
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque park along the Beaufort River offering stunning views of the water and historic waterfront.
A scenic coastal park featuring beautiful beaches, lighthouse views, and nature trails perfect for photography.
A historic cemetery with ancient oak trees and historic gravestones, providing unique photo opportunities.
A peaceful location with beautiful landscaping and historic monuments, offering serene vistas for photography.
Offers charming views of historic buildings along the waterfront, especially during sunrise and sunset.
This nature area features boardwalks and trails with opportunities to capture wildlife and scenic landscapes.
Offers educational exhibits and beautiful natural views of the Sound, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Food in Beaufort
Beaufort Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Lowcountry dish featuring locally caught shrimp served in a rich sauce over creamy, stone-ground grits. Best enjoyed at Saltus River Grill or Q on Bay.
Must-Try!
Also known as Lowcountry boil, this communal dish includes a mouthwatering mix of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes simmered in a flavorful broth. Visit The Foolish Frog or Emily's Restaurant & Tapas Bar for an authentic taste.
A beloved Southern spread made from sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and various seasonings. Sample the best at Wren Bistro or Blackstone's Cafe & Bar.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Beaufort better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a vibrant selection of locally grown produce, homemade treats, and artisanal crafts. Visitors can relish freshly baked bread, flavorful jams, and handcrafted cheeses.
An annual celebration spotlighting the region's delectable shrimp in all its forms, from fried to boiled. The festival also features live music, local art, and a delightful array of street food vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Beaufort residents value politeness and friendliness. It is customary to greet people with a smile and a simple 'hello' or 'how are you?' This friendly approach helps to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Beaufort is rich in history, especially related to its Gullah culture. Showing respect for historical sites and local traditions is important. Engage with the community by learning about its history and heritage.
Participating in local events and respecting community gatherings is encouraged. Residents appreciate when visitors engage in local customs, such as attending festivals or supporting local businesses.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Beaufort with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Beaufort
Ensure a smooth experience
In Beaufort, as in much of the United States, tipping is a common practice in service industries. It is customary to tip restaurant servers, bartenders, taxi drivers, and other service providers. Typical gratuities range from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. Tipping is generally seen as a way to reward good service and supplement the income of service workers who may earn lower hourly wages.
Payment practices in Beaufort typically involve a variety of methods. Most restaurants, shops, and service providers accept credit and debit cards, as well as cash. Mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also becoming increasingly popular. Many establishments may have a minimum purchase limit for credit card transactions. Additionally, sales tax is applied to goods and services, and it is important for consumers to account for this in their total payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Beaufort.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring, from March to May, is one of the best times to visit Beaufort. The weather is mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s (°F). Expect blooming flowers and vibrant greenery, making it a picturesque time for outdoor activities and festivals, including the annual Beaufort Shrimp Festival.
Summer runs from June to August and features warm to hot temperatures, often reaching the high 80s to low 90s (°F). This season brings high humidity and afternoon rain showers. It's perfect for beach activities, boating, and enjoying the local seafood, though the heat may limit outdoor excursions during the day.
Fall, from September to November, is another ideal time to visit Beaufort. The weather cools down, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s (°F). The humidity decreases, providing a comfortable atmosphere for exploring historic sites, kayaking, and enjoying fall festivals, such as the Beaufort International Film Festival.
Winter, from December to February, is mild in Beaufort, with average temperatures ranging from the upper 40s to mid-60s (°F). While it may not be ideal for beachgoers, it's a great time for enjoying a quieter atmosphere, holiday festivities, and exploring the local culture without the summer crowds.
Beaufort at Night
Hiking in Beaufort
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful barrier island featuring sandy beaches, maritime forests, and scenic hiking trails. Ideal for nature lovers and wildlife viewing.
Offers a variety of trails through the pristine marshlands and coastal ecosystems. Perfect for hiking and enjoying the unique natural scenery of the area.
A picturesque multi-use trail that runs through the Lowcountry, ideal for hiking, biking, and enjoying the views of the surrounding nature.
A scenic beach park with walking trails that provide access to the beach and stunning views of the salt marsh and ocean.
A short nature trail that meanders through wetlands, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife and native plant species.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Beaufort through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Beaufort by plane.
Located approximately 40 miles south of Beaufort, this airport serves the Savannah, GA metropolitan area and offers flights to various domestic and limited international destinations.
About 70 miles northeast of Beaufort, it serves the Charleston, SC area and provides numerous domestic flights as well as some international services.
Located around 120 miles south of Beaufort, this airport is a major hub for northeastern Florida and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Approximately 90 miles north of Beaufort, it serves the Myrtle Beach area and primarily offers seasonal flights to domestic vacation destinations.
Located about 120 miles west of Beaufort, this airport serves the capital of South Carolina and provides a variety of domestic flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Caucasian individuals, primarily of European descent.
Individuals with African ancestry, including those from the African diaspora.
Individuals of Spanish or Latin American origin, encompassing a diverse range of backgrounds.
Individuals of Asian descent, including those from East Asia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia.
Individuals identifying as two or more racial groups.
Indigenous peoples of the United States, with rich cultural heritages.
Individuals with origins in Hawaii, Guam, Samoa, and other Pacific Islands.
The Soul of Beaufort
Discover the essence of Beaufort through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Beaufort is known for its beautiful golf courses, attracting both locals and tourists.
With its coastal location, fishing is a popular pastime in Beaufort, offering opportunities for both recreational and sport fishing.
The local waterways make Beaufort a great place for sailing, with many residents enjoying this activity and participating in sailing clubs.
High school football is a significant part of the community culture, drawing fans and supporting local teams.
Soccer is growing in popularity among youth and adult leagues in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beaufort.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Beaufort offer innovative vegetarian and vegan alternatives, with dishes featuring farm-fresh produce and creative plant-based ingredients. Check out Breakwater Restaurant & Bar and Panini's on the Waterfront for an exceptional range of options.
For those seeking gluten-free options, several eateries in Beaufort accommodate this dietary requirement with specially curated menus and knowledgeable staff. Notable mentions include Hearth Wood Fired Pizza and Plum's Restaurant.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Beaufort with these cultural adventures.
