Beaufort, South Carolina

Between Savannah and Charleston, Beaufort, S.C. maintains a coveted place on the map and an infectious small-town charm. Beyond boutique shopping, world-class golf and water recreation, the seaside city’s Southern hospitality has welcomed visitors for decades. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Beaufort’s historic district—a favorite of Hollywood. It’s been the setting for The Big Chill, The Prince of Tides, The Great Santini and Forrest Gump. It’s also a favorite of travelers. TripAdvisor named Beaufort’s Hunting Island State Park as one of “America’s Top Ten Beaches for 2008.”

Historic structures ground the town, but creative arts and dining make Beaufort an ideal blend of past and present. The second oldest city in South Carolina, untouched ruins still dot the landscape. But with a thriving creative culture, there’s a new way to discover Beaufort every time you’re here.

For more information about this nationally recognized town, visit the Beaufort Chamber website at http://www.beaufortsc.org/.

Accolades for Beaufort, SC

"Top 100 Best Art Towns in America" Author John Villani

"Best Small Southern Town" - Southern Living

"Top 50 Adventure Town" - National Geographic Adventure

Hunting Island - Beaufort’s Pristine Beach

Not far from Dataw is one of the most popular state parks in South Carolina, Hunting Island State Park.

The beautiful sandy beach and the warm Atlantic Ocean make it a perfect backdrop for the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse. The lighthouse was originally constructed in 1859 and was destroyed by Confederates during the Civil War to prevent Union soldiers from using it. In 1875, it was rebuilt and continued to be an active lighthouse until June 1933.

Besides the historic landmark and pristine beaches, the preservation of flora and fauna habitats is evident.

The wildlife is expected and diverse for a coastal area. There are alligators, egrets, herons, osprey and bald eagles. The marine life is everything you would imagine from crabs and jelly fish to sand dollars.

The park is also a nesting ground for loggerhead turtles.

There are many fun opportunities to interact with the island, from fishing in the lagoon or the 1,120 foot pier, to staying in one of the cabins. The nature center features live displays and exhibits. There is a marsh walk, nature trails and picnic areas.

Visit the Hunting Island Photo Gallery