If you’re searching for the best things to do in Beaufort, South Carolina, let me just say this upfront: Beaufort completely stole my heart.
Pronounced “BEW-furt” (not “BO-furt”), this charming South Carolina Sea Islands town feels like stepping straight into a Hallmark movie — complete with moss-draped live oaks, waterfront views, historic homes with dreamy wraparound porches, and enough Southern charm to fill a dozen novels.
Located between Savannah and Charleston, Beaufort was established in 1711 and is one of those places that encourages you to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly soak it all in. I’m going to call it “vibing”.
From carriage rides and art galleries to waterfront sunsets and Lowcountry cuisine, here are some cool things to see and do in Beaufort, South Carolina.
Take a Horse & Buggy Ride Through Historic Beaufort
One of the absolute best things to do in Beaufort is taking a tour with Southurn Rose Carriage Tours.
The 50–55 minute carriage ride winds through Beaufort’s historic streets while sharing fascinating stories about the town’s history, famous residents, Civil War connections, and movie filming locations. And yes — this town has been featured in countless films thanks to its postcard-perfect scenery.
The guide also sprinkles in fun secrets and local lore that make the tour feel personal and entertaining rather than overly scripted. I loved hearing about the gorgeous homes, local traditions, and how fiercely proud residents are of their Beaufort roots.
The tours are pet-friendly, so Dexter, my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, got to enjoy the ride, too.
Stroll Beaufort’s Award-Winning Downtown
Beaufort has been a South Carolina Main Street community since 1985, and honestly, it shows.
Downtown Beaufort is incredibly walkable and filled with delightful boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, floral displays, and historic buildings that make you want to linger all afternoon.
Bay Street especially is the heart of the action and one of the prettiest downtown areas I’ve seen in the South.
The Arts Corridor along Bay Street is packed with stunning galleries featuring Lowcountry artwork, Gullah traditions, and coastal-inspired pieces. I also enjoyed shopping at Lulu Burgess, Lowcountry Stitch, Social Betty, and The Rustic Pup.
Beaufort has the kind of downtown where storefronts feel thoughtfully curated and also photo-worthy.
If you want more of this epic South Carolina scenery, Fripp Island is definitely a place you need to check out.
Admire Beaufort’s Stunning Waterfront
Beaufort’s Waterfront Park overlooking the Port Royal Sound may have been my favorite place in town to simply sit and exist for a while.
The harbor views are stellar, with sailboats, fishing boats, marshlands, and shimmering water stretching out in every direction. People gather here to read, reflect, chat, or simply watch the world go by, again, vibing.
I quickly learned that Beaufort sits on one of the largest estuaries in the Southeast, and the natural beauty is impossible to ignore. Between the salty breeze, alluring benches, and towering trees, this area is Lowcountry magic.
Grab a Bite in Beaufort
Foodies will have no trouble finding tasty eats in Beaufort, either. Dexter and I grabbed lunch at Q on Bay, a laid-back downtown BBQ joint that pets can accompany you on the patio. I had pulled pork with sides of Mac & cheese and the most amazing green beans.
If you’re looking for a quick breakfast, coffee stop, or casual lunch, don’t skip Rain-N-Bagels, which also has tasty coffee drinks, fresh bagels, pastries, salads, and sandwiches in a cozy atmosphere that feels both welcoming and trendy
Learn About Pat Conroy’s Legacy
Acclaimed Southern author Pat Conroy had deep ties to Beaufort, and the town clearly influenced much of his writing.
Books like The Prince of Tides helped showcase the beauty and emotional pull of the Lowcountry to readers everywhere. Beaufort also played a role in the filming and inspiration behind beloved movies like Forrest Gump and The Big Chill.
While the Pat Conroy Literary Center was unfortunately closed during my visit, it’s definitely worth adding to your itinerary if you’re a fan of Southern literature. It is easily one of the best things to do in Beaufort.
Get a Passport Stamp at Reconstruction Era National Historical Park
I definitely didn’t expect to add another stamp to my National Park Passport book during this trip, but Beaufort surprised me again.
Reconstruction Era National Historical Park tells the story of the Reconstruction period following the Civil War and preserves incredibly important African American history connected to the region.
If you enjoy national park sites, history, or educational travel experiences, don’t skip this stop.
Take All the Photos
Beaufort is ridiculously photogenic.
Some of my favorite spots for photos included Beaufort Arsenal, Bay Street, Pigeon Point Park, St. Helena’s Anglican Church Cemetery (graves date back to 18th century), Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, and the streets traversed along the carriage ride (all lined with historic mansions, sweeping porches, and and giant live oaks, I might add).
And let me just say this: Beaufort may be one of the most patriotic towns I’ve visited in a long time. American flags and South Carolina flags proudly wave from homes, porches, storefronts, and gardens all across town.
Stay at the Beautiful Cuthbert House
My stay at Cuthbert House truly elevated this entire trip.
This historic inn is absolutely gorgeous, with cozy shared spaces, a welcoming front porch, complimentary happy hour snacks and drinks, and one of the best breakfasts I’ve had in ages.
I stayed in the Mariner Suite, which featured:
- A semi-private patio perfect for sunset watching
- One of the most comfortable beds I’ve slept in in 40 years of traveling
- Locally made mattresses and pillows
- A massive shower with excellent water pressure
- Premium toiletries and coffee service
- Mini fridge stocked with soda and water
- A cute sitting area and stylish décor
Honestly, it felt luxurious without being stuffy.
Explore Beyond Beaufort
One of the best things about Beaufort is how close it sits to other incredible Lowcountry destinations.
Nearby highlights include:
- Old Sheldon Church Ruins
- Penn Center (St. Helena) to learn about Gullah culture
- Stunning Fripp Island
- Kayaking, fly-fishing, and boating adventures
- Hunting Island State Park with beaches and its famous lighthouse
- The scenic Spanish Moss Trail
Nature lovers especially will appreciate how lush and beautiful this entire area feels. Everywhere you look there are blooming flowers, ancient oak trees, marsh views, and peaceful waterfront scenery.
FYI: Cuthbert House had a state park pass for my Hunting Island visit, so keep this in mind for a money-saving tip.
Final Thoughts on Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort ended up being one of my biggest travel surprises in recent memory.
It’s charming without trying too hard, historic without feeling stuffy, and scenic in a way that constantly makes you stop and say, “Wow.”
Whether you’re taking a carriage ride through historic neighborhoods, browsing art galleries downtown, watching boats drift through the harbor, or relaxing beneath the Spanish moss, Beaufort simply feels good for the soul. I already can’t wait to go back.
Thanks to Cuthbert House Inn for hosting me on this overnight adventure. As always, opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased.
Read more of our “Hallmark” like town posts here:
Virginia City (by train ride)