Top Things to Do in Beaufort SC: Our Guide to the Best of the Lowcountry

If you’re planning a trip to Beaufort, South Carolina, get ready for a little slice of Lowcountry heaven. We’ve visited this charming coastal town three times, and each visit has made us fall even more in love with it. Whether it’s the breathtaking waterfront views, the rich history around every corner, or the Southern food that keeps us coming back for more, Beaufort is the perfect destination for a quick day trip, a long weekend, or even an extended stay.

In this guide, we’ll take you through all the best things to do in Beaufort, SC—from where to eat (trust us, you’ll want to!) and what to do to what to see and where to stay. If you are traveling to Beaufort by boat, hop to our Boating Guide to Beaufort at the end of this article for detailed information about docking, provisioning, and more! Let’s dive in!

About Beaufort, South Carolina

Founded in 1711, Beaufort is the second-oldest city in South Carolina and is rich in history, charm, and Southern hospitality. Nestled in the heart of the Lowcountry, this picturesque coastal town has witnessed centuries of significant events—from the American Revolution to the Civil War and beyond.

Today, Beaufort draws visitors not only for its rich historical sites, including beautifully preserved antebellum homes and the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park, but also for its stunning waterfront views, vibrant arts scene, and annual crowd-drawing Water Festival in July. Whether you’re strolling through its moss-draped streets, enjoying its classic Southern cuisine, or exploring neighboring islands, Beaufort offers the perfect blend of history and relaxation that keeps people (like us) coming back again and again.

Things to do in Beaufort, SC

In this section, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Beaufort, SC. These activities offer a mix of paid and free options that highlight the town’s stunning natural beauty and rich history.

Visit Reconstruction Era National Historical Park

Reconstruction Era National Historical Park is a cultural district (not so much a nature park) that commemorates the Reconstruction Era following the Civil War. The area includes several sites, such as the Old Beaufort Firehouse (which serves as a visitor center), the Penn Center on nearby St. Helena Island, and other landmarks around Beaufort.

We recommend starting your journey at the park’s visitor center to grab maps and try to hop on a free guided tour with a Park Ranger (this is what we did). The park is generally open year-round, but it’s best to check the National Park Service website for current hours, special programs, or tour availability. Make sure to bring your National Park passport to get a stamp!

Location: 706 Craven St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 9 am – 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday (Closed Sunday and Monday)
Price: Free

Visit the Beaufort History Museum

Right across the street from the Reconstruction Era National Park is the Beaufort History Museum, doubling as the Visitor’s Center. This museum offers a fascinating look into Beaufort’s past, from its founding to its role in key events like the Civil War.

The museum is located in the historic Arsenal building from 1798. We perused the museum ourselves, but keep an eye out for tours led by docents as we’ve heard great things! Their exhibits showcase neatly organized artifacts and documents as well as captivating stories that quickly familiarize you with Beaufort’s past.

Check their website for upcoming events and more information about Beaufort’s history.

Location: 713 Craven St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 10 am – 4 pm Tuesday to Friday, 10 am – 3 pm Saturday (Closed on Sunday and Monday)
Price: $8 per adult

Explore Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park is the state’s most popular coastal park, featuring over 5,000 acres of pristine beaches, marshes, and maritime forests. We recommend the 1.8 km Nature Scenic Trail. This route passes through the Maritime Forest, Boneyard Beach, and over a bridge that stretches across the lagoon. This park is about a 26-minute drive or 17.9 miles from downtown Beaufort, making it a great option if you’re traveling to Beaufort by car.

Another one of this park’s highlights is the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, which dates back to 1875 and offers breathtaking views from the top after a climb of 167 steps. There are opportunities for birdwatching and spotting deer, alligators, and other local fauna while you explore as well—all just a short drive outside of Beaufort.

Location: 2555 Sea Island Pkwy, St Helena Island, SC
Hours: 6 am – 6 pm every day (Extended to 9 pm during Daylight Saving Time)
Price: $8 per adult

We love using AllTrails to download maps offline so we can always stay on the trail. Sign up for AllTrails+ so you too can download maps offline before your hike!

Walk around Beaufort National Cemetery

Beaufort National Cemetery is a peaceful and solemn site that honors veterans from every major U.S. conflict dating back to the Civil War. Established in 1863, it’s one of the oldest national cemeteries in the country, with its beautifully landscaped grounds offering a quiet place for reflection. You can take a self-guided walk through the cemetery to pay your respects and admire the historic headstones, many of which tell the stories of the brave soldiers buried there.

Location: 1601 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: Open daily from 8 am to sunset
Price: Free

Go on a Guided Bus Tour

If you’re visiting during the hotter summer months or on a rainy day, consider hopping on a guided bus tour instead of walking! This specific one we’ve linked is the highest-rated bus tour in the area, taking you through the city’s history that dates back to 1521! Learn about what happened to the town and houses of Beaufort during the Civil War and explore the city’s surrounding areas as well—all in a climatized bus!

Some of our fellow looper friends raved about this tour, the kind guide, and the detailed information they received on the tour so much that we put it high on our list to to when we return to Beaufort!

Location: Downtown Beaufort, SC
Duration: 75 minutes
Price: Around $28 per person

Picnic in Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park was one of our favorite spots to linger in when we weren’t exploring the center of Beaufort. We spent a good amount of time walking along the paths that trace the waterfront with our dog, Ollie—who also loved the views!

The park boasts plenty of green spaces, picnic areas, walking paths, benches, playgrounds, and even a stage that looks set for live performances. This public park is super close to the downtown area, making it a convenient stop if you want to relax after a day of sightseeing or set up a picnic and watch the boats pass by.

Location: Bay St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: Open 24 Hours
Cost: Free

Shop Local Businesses and Art Galleries

There are countless small, local businesses in Downtown Beaufort, making it a great option for anyone who loves shopping! Here are some of our favorites:

• McIntosh Book Shoppe – This local, independent bookshop is a great spot to find your next read. It is located on Bay Street.
• NeverMore Books – we loved perusing the shelves of this bookstore on Port Republic Street.
• Bathe – This store sells soaps, lotions, and other bath products that might make a great gift for friends or family.
• Olive Above – This olive oil and balsamic vinegar store sells over 600 varieties of extra virgin olive oil. This is a must-visit for any foodie or cook.
• The Spice Tea Exchange – if you love flavorful loose-leaf tea, then this is the spot for you! The shelves are full of a variety of teas and blends.
• Cook on Bay – A great stop for cute kitchen and bakeware.
• Visit one of the local art galleries: Rhett Gallery or Thibault Gallery, which are two popular options!

Location: Bay St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: Open varrying hours, depending upon the store
Cost: Free to window shop

Honorable Mentions

Here are some of the other top things to do in Beaufort, SC.

• Pat Conroy Literary Center – If you’re a fan of this author or Southern Literature in general, this center is a must-visit!
• The Old Point Neighborhood – We saw most of this historic neighborhood with antebellum houses on our tour with the park ranger, but it can also be explored without a guide!
• See a show at the USCB Center for the Arts! Be sure to check their website for tickets.
• Spanish Moss Trail – Pleasant hiking and biking cement trail, perfect for dog walking as well! The trail is 1.5 miles outside of downtown Beaufort, about a 35-minute walk or a 10-minute bike ride. It’s a great option to get to Port Royal while enjoying the outdoors and scenery.

Where to Eat in Beaufort, SC

Beaufort, SC, offers a mouthwatering array of food options, from classic dishes like shrimp and grits to modern plates like a veggie wrap with home-cut fries. In this section, we’ll share the most popular dining spots in Beaufort at a range of price points—including our personal favorites from our trips. Whether you’re after a cozy dinner, a quick coffee stop, or a fun bar for the evening, Beaufort has a taste of everything!

Food in Beaufort, SC

Lowcountry Produce Market and Café

Lowcountry Produce Market is a charming market near the waterfront that serves breakfast and lunch every day of the week! On our visit, we kicked things off with their famous fresh glazed donuts that put Krispy Kreme to shame! Then, Jen dug into a Pimento Grilled Cheese, and Elliot got the veggie wrap with hand-cut fries. There can be a wait during lunchtime, so we recommend coming early or being patient as there might be a line.

We loved everything we ate here as well as the old country feel of this spot’s interior. They also had a ton of locally made products for sale, such as fruit preserves and pickled vegetables, perfect if you’re looking for a unique gift to bring home. Jen bought a dish towel for her mom who’s always looking for fun pops of color in her kitchen.

Location: 302 Carteret St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 8 am – 3 pm Everyday
Price: $10-20 per person

Old Bull Tavern

Old Bull Tavern is one of the most popular restaurants in Beaufort, SC—and for good reason! This charming gastropub’s food, service, and overall vibe all receive a 10/10! With a menu that features everything from craft beers and bar snacks to creative cocktails and full entrees, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the old town.

On our last trip, we were looking to order takeout as we were with Ollie, but as they were packed, they couldn’t prepare to-go orders. If you make it please let us know what you ordered! Each time we’ve visited Beaufort, Old Bull Tavern has been on our list to visit, and we’ve unfortunately missed it.

Location: 205 West St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 5 pm – 11 pm Tuesday to Saturday, until midnight on Friday and Saturday (Closed on Sunday and Monday)
Price: $20-$30 per person

Blackstone Cafe

Blackstone Cafe is a great local spot for breakfast, lunch, or dessert in downtown Beaufort! This local spot has been open since 1991 and serves up French toast, pancakes, shrimp and grits, corned beef hash, omelets, bagel and lox, and more! For lunch, they serve rubens, tuna melts, burgers, Philly cheese steaks, and a variety of sandwiches and salads. They are located by the waterfront park and have a dog-friendly outdoor patio; however, their two-story interior is decorated with various flags,

Location: 205 Scott Street in historic downtown Beaufort, South Carolina
Hours: 7:30 AM until 2:30 PM Monday through Saturday and until 2:00 PM on Sundays
Price: $10-20 per person

Herban Market and Cafe

Herban Market and Cafe is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a quick but tasty bite in Beaufort. Just south along the bay, this breakfast and lunch spot serves up everything from flaky croissants and avocado brownies (yes you heard that right) to vegan quesadillas and roast beef sandwiches!

We visited for breakfast and got one of their Breakfast Burritos with fresh-cut fruit. Originally, we wanted to get their famous Vegetarian Biscuits and Gravy, but they had already sold out, which is a tell-tale sign of how popular that dish is!

Location: 1601 North St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 7 am – 4 pm Tuesday to Friday, 8 am – 2 pm Saturday (Closed Sunday and Monday)
Price: $10-20 per person

Hearth Wood Fired Pizza

You may not think of pizza when you come to Beaufort, SC but we ended up at Hearth Wood Fired Pizza for a meetup with other Great Loopers. We cozied up in some of their large booths and dug into a classic Margherita Pie. Elliot couldn’t have been happier as pizza is one of his favorite foods. To keep it real, it wasn’t the best pizza we’ve ever had, but it seemed to be the best pizza spot in the area so it still hit the spot! Much better than the frozen pies we’d been preparing on the boat.

Location: 802 Bay St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 11 am – 9 pm Sunday – Thursday, 11 am – 10 pm Friday and Saturday
Price: $10-20 per person

Bars in Beaufort, SC

Breakwater Restaurant and Bar

Breakwater Restaurant and Bar is a delightful higher-end dining spot in Beaufort, SC with ample indoor seating as well as a lively bar area. They offer a diverse dinner menu that highlights fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and local ingredients. If you’re looking for a spot that serves up a wide variety of expertly prepared dishes, from Peruvian Ceviche to Fried Green Tomatoes, as well as creative drinks, Breakwater is your best bet!

We went there for dinner on their patio and ordered the Pimento Cheese dish with Pickled Okra as well as a Cacio and Pepe dish with asparagus. Both were super delicious! If you’re not looking to have a full dinner, you can sit at their bar and enjoy a drink with a small dish!

Location: 203 Carteret St, #102, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 5 pm – 9 pm Monday to Thursday, 5 pm to 10 pm Friday and Saturday (Closed Sunday)
Price: $30-$50 per person for a full dinner and drinks

Bricks on Boundary

Bricks on Boundary is a popular bar and grill with cold beer, hot burgers, and great service! Located right by the Beaufort National Cemetery, this local no-frills pub is fitted with big-screen TVs, trivia nights, and occasional live music! Cozy up to the bar to enjoy a few beers and watch the game, or grab one of their booths and dig into a filling Cheeseburger with Cole Slaw on the side.

Location: 1422 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 11 am – 9 pm every day, until 10 pm Thursday, Friday, and Saturday Night
Price: $15-25 per person for a full dinner and drinks

Coffee Shops in Beaufort, SC

City Java & News

We stopped at City Java & News to relax for an hour after walking around the historic district and enjoyed a warm cup of coffee. Although we didn’t eat on our trip here, it would be the perfect spot for a quick coffee and baked goods as well as a casual sandwich-and-salad-type meal. Their space has ample indoor seating, with spaces to work on laptops, as well as a cute outdoor patio area.

Location: 301 Carteret St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 6 am – 8 pm Everyday, 7 am – 6 pm Sunday
Price: $1-10 per person

Lowcountry Cider & Superior Coffee Beaufort

If you’re looking for a cozy ice cream and pastry shop by the riverfront, Lowcountry Cider & Superior Coffee is your place! This inviting shop serves up specialty coffee, locally famous gelato (there’s often a line for their gelato in the summer), flaky and fresh pastries, and more!

We had tried to visit when they used to be called Common Ground, but they were closed for renovations—now we know why! Enjoy their sweet treats on their covered back porch or take them down to the riverfront to enjoy in the park. Don’t miss out on their gift shop filled with local jams, nuts, and oils if you’re looking to bring back souvenirs!

Location: 102 West St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 7:30 am – 6 pm Friday – Sunday, 8 am – 6 pm Monday – Thursday
Price: $1-10 per person

Rain-N-Bagels

Rain-N-Bagels is a classic American café serving up NY-style bagels, colorful wraps, and homemade desserts! On our visit, we went to grab coffee at their full-service coffee station and catch up on some work indoors, but they also have a pleasant outdoor patio!

We’ve heard raving reviews about their Frogmore Bagel Sandwich which comes with curry chicken and sun-dried tomato cream cheese. We loved the detail that all their sandwiches are named after important figures and places in Beaufort.

Location: 221 Scott St, Beaufort, SC
Hours: 6:30 am – 3 pm During the week, 7 am – 3 pm Weekends
Price: $1-10 per person

Map of Beaufort, South Carolina

How to use this map: We have saved the locations from this guide on this map. You can save this map to your Google Maps by pressing the star icon. In your Google Maps, click the menu icon and then Saved Maps, where this map will appear.

When to Visit Beaufort, SC

We think the best time to visit Beaufort, SC, is in the spring or fall, when the weather is warm but not too hot, and the humidity is more manageable. Spring is perfect for outdoor activities like exploring Hunting Island or strolling through the historic district, while the fall months are popular among boaters passing through on the Intracoastal Waterway.

How to get to and around Beaufort, SC

Beaufort, South Carolina, is located along the coast in the heart of the Lowcountry, roughly halfway between Charleston, SC, and Savannah, GA. You can easily get to Beaufort by car, as it’s just off U.S. Highway 21, or by flying into nearby airports like Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (about an hour away) or Charleston International Airport (about 1.5 hours away).

While there isn’t a train station directly in Beaufort, you can take an Amtrak train to these nearby cities—Savannah, GA, or Charleston, SC.

Once in Beaufort, we found the downtown area to be very walkable, and we were able to comfortably explore all of the city by foot! If you want to venture outside of downtown, renting a car is a convenient option for visiting surrounding areas like Hunting Island State Park or St. Helena Island.

Beaufort, South Carolina, is also located on the Intracoastal Waterway, which many boats travel up and down during the fall and spring, as well as boats traveling on the Great Loop. We’ll discuss navigating and approaching Beaufort in our Boater’s Guide at the end of this post.

Where to Park in Beaufort, SC

The Downtown Marina parking lot is a popular option, offering a central location with convenient access to both the waterfront and the historic district. Parking rates are usually $1 an hour here. Throughout the town, you’ll also find many metered spaces, with some becoming free in the evenings and on weekends. Port Republic Square Parking is another paid parking option in the center that is known to accept RVs as well.

Annual Festivals + Farmers Markets in Beaufort, SC

• Port Royal Farmers Market (Saturdays) – Farmers market with fresh bread, local produce, fresh-cut flowers, and more on Saturdays from 8:30 am – 12 pm in Heritage Park (in Port Royal).
• Beaufort Water Festival (July) – This huge 10-day festival has taken place every July since 1956, featuring concerts, fireworks, sporting events, and more! Most events are free, but some concerts require a ticket to enter.
• Beaufort Shrimp Festival (October) – The annual Shrimp Festival is a free festival taking place one weekend every October. It features arts and crafts markets, a shrimp cook-off, live music, and more!
• Gullah Festival (May) – This festival celebrates the culture and history of the Gullah people, descendants of enslaved Africans in the Lowcountry. Take part in traditional music, crafts, storytelling, and cuisine!
• A Taste of Beaufort (May) – A free-to-enter food and arts festival that highlights the best local cuisine, arts, and entertainment, including seafood dishes, live performances, and a 5K run.
• Pat Conroy Literary Festival (November) – Honoring Beaufort’s famous resident author, this festival celebrates the power of storytelling with paid workshops, author talks, film screenings, and other literary events.

How much time do you need in Beaufort, SC?

To fully experience Beaufort, SC, we recommend spending between 1 and 2 days. This gives you enough time to explore the historic district, visit key attractions like Hunting Island State Park and the Beaufort History Museum, and check out a few local restaurants. If you’re really into outdoor activities, consider extending your stay to 3 days to take in more of the town’s natural beauty and explore nearby islands at a relaxed pace. And if you can only manage a day, that’s completely doable, too!

Where to Stay in Beaufort, SC

Since most of the activities are concentrated in downtown Beaufort, SC, we recommend staying as close to the downtown as possible. We stayed on our boat, but here are some of the top accommodations we’ve found at a range of price points:

Hotels in Beaufort, SC

• Cuthbert House (Moderate, Quaint B&B)
• Quality Inn at Town Center (Budget)
• Best Western Sea Island Inn (Budget/Moderate)
• City Loft Hotel (Moderate)
• Anchorage 1770 (Luxury)

You can also check for vacation rentals through VRBO or Airbnb.

Campgrounds near Beaufort, SC

• Hunting Island State Park Campground – Popular campground right by the water on St. Helena Island
• Tuck in the Wood Campground – Another inland campground option on St. Helena Island

Boater’s Guide to Beaufort, SC

We’ve traveled to Beaufort, South Carolina, and we lived aboard for 2.5 years as we completed America’s Great Loop. Each time we visited Beaufort, we were enchanted by the small-town charm and southern hospitality. Each time we visit a place, we’re left with finding all of the boater resources for the area so we’ve compiled them all here for you to make your trip the most enjoyable.

How to Approach

Beaufort is situated along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway, offering a picturesque approach for boaters. As you navigate toward the harbor, be mindful of the local currents, which can vary with tides—experiencing up to a 1-knot current during high tide. It’s crucial to watch for recreational vessels and the occasional commercial traffic in the area, especially around the busy downtown marina. Please be respectful and watch your wake.

Most boaters approach Beaufort from the north through Brickyard Creek Inlet off St. Helena Sound or the south through Port Royal. Port Royal can get choppy depending upon the direction of the wind and incoming/outgoing tide. We recommend checking the weather conditions before arriving.

Depending upon where you’re approaching from and where you’re heading, there is the Lady’s Island Swing Bridge, which is approximately 30 feet when closed. Be sure to check your navigation charts for the latest information on when the bridge opens and how to request an opening.

Free Docks

Beaufort has two free docks. Both can fit a larger boat but are not for overnight stays. We chose to take our dinghy to the free docks and dock on the side closest to land to allow for larger boats while we were away.

• Beaufort Free Dock – Allows for 3 hours within 24 hours, 140’ on the outside with room for smaller boats on the inside. No docking between 1 and 6 am.
• Beaufort Free Day Dock – Same as above.

Download the free Waterway Guide App to locate marinas, services, anchorages, free docks, navigation alerts, bridges, locks, and more!

Anchoring

• Beaufort Anchorage – This anchorage is just past the Safe Harbor mooring field, only slightly further from the downtown. They have a good holding, but expect to swing 180 degrees with the tide. Their amenities include laundry, restrooms, and water. A bit simpler than that of Safe Harbor, but a good second option.
• Factory Creek Anchorage – We anchored here twice and liked getting off the ICW with less boat traffic. We were able to take our dinghy to Beaufort’s free docks and took our dog out to the Whitehall Boat Landing for closer shore access.

Check out our Great Loop Anchorages and Free Docks Spreadsheet with 600+ anchorages!

Marinas

Safe Harbor Beaufort – Great location with floating docks, restrooms, showers, fuel, and laundry facilities. There are plenty of restaurants just a few streets away. We recommend reserving on Dockwa in advance, especially when traveling during higher tourism seasons like the early fall and spring. During our first visit to Beaufort, we used a Mooring Ball in Safe Harbor’s Mooring Ball Field and then took our dinghy to shore. Depending upon the wind direction, the mooring ball field can get a bit choppy.

Safe Harbor Port Royal Landing – This marina is close to Port Royal instead of Beaufort, but you can easily access Beaufort by bike on the Spanish Moss trail.

Lady’s Island Marina – This marina is located just south of Beaufort and off the ICW on Factory Creek. You can access Beaufort by walking over Lady’s Island Bridge, biking to Beaufort, or taking an Uber/Lyft. This marina has full amenities and is available for transient boats.

Use our Referral Code 450ZMS3 for a $15 discount on your Dockwa reservation!

Provisioning

• Chapman’s Grocer – Small, quaint grocery close to the waterfront
• Food Lion – If you have a bike, this larger supermarket is within 10 minutes from the Main Street Landing Dock
• Publix – Located on Lady Island, it’s easily accessed by bike from Lady’s Island Marina.

Wifi

Safe Harbor Beaufort offers wifi and several coffee shops in the area. We worked at City Java & News and Rain-N-Bagels downtown for a while. There’s also a public library near the waterfront where you could set up shop with your laptop. If you want to install Wi-Fi on your boat, check out our blog post about boat internet.

Watch more about our trip to Beaufort, SC on YouTube!

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