Travel South Carolina Beaches

Looking for things to do in Beaufort SC? This guide covers a myriad of attractions and things to do, from historical tours to outdoor adventures and local cuisine. 

Read on to find out how to make the most of your trip.

1. Explore Historic Beaufort

History comes alive in the streets of Beaufort, where every building has a story to tell. Begin your exploration with a self-guided walking tour that highlights significant historical sites, including homes that served as hospitals during the Civil War.

A journey through historic Beaufort sets the stage for the rest of your trip, adding context and depth to the area’s beauty and culture. With a rich history that spans centuries, Beaufort is a living museum waiting to be discovered.

Enhance your knowledge of Beaufort by joining a guided walking tour, which often includes captivating stories about the region’s history and ecology, or stop by these two spots:

• John Mark Verdier House– this must-visit site was built in 1804 and restored by the Historic Beaufort Foundation. Opened to the public in 1975, it offers a glimpse into the life of a prosperous merchant in the early 19th century.
• Beaufort History Museum – a must-visit for any historical tour of the town. Housed in a historic building that was once the Beaufort Arsenal, the museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that chronicle the town’s rich history from its founding to the present day.

2. Relax At Pigeon Point Park

Pigeon Point Park offers a scenic, peaceful spot to unwind, suitable for both families and individuals. The park features a playground with various equipment, making it a great spot for children to play while adults relax and enjoy the surroundings.

The park is shaded by large live oak trees adorned with Spanish moss, creating a picturesque atmosphere that invites relaxation. With several picnic tables and benches available, Pigeon Point Park is perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

With convenient access and free parking, Pigeon Point Park is an easy place to relax and enjoy Beaufort’s tranquil beauty.

3. Enjoy Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park

Relax and enjoy the serene beauty of Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park after exploring Beaufort’s history. Established in 1975 and opened in 1979, this seven-acre park along the Beaufort River offers a picturesque spot for relaxation and leisure. Named after a former mayor who transformed abandoned docks into public parks, the park stands as a testament to the town’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty.

The park is a haven for families and individuals alike, featuring a playground for children, shaded walking paths, and picnic areas. Stroll along the waterfront to take in stunning views of the marina, where fishing charters and private yachts navigate the waters. The park’s atmosphere, with its landscaped green space and majestic oaks, invites you to unwind and soak in the tranquil surroundings.

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park offers a refreshing break, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely picnic, watching boats glide by, or soaking in the scenic views. Open from dawn to dusk and dog-friendly, it’s the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

4. Discover Hunting Island Lighthouse

One of the most iconic landmarks in the area, the Hunting Island Lighthouse, is a must-see for visitors. The Hunting Island Lighthouse provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding maritime forest. 

Climb the lighthouse for a unique perspective on the natural beauty of Hunting Island and the South Carolina Sea Islands. This experience combines adventure, history, and stunning scenery, making it a highlight of any trip to Beaufort.

5. Visit Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park is a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers. As the most visited state park in South Carolina, Hunting Island offers a vast expanse of outdoor experiences for every type of explorer. Covering approximately 5,000 acres, this park is a paradise for hiking, biking, and beach activities.

Embark on an adventure along the park’s 8-mile bike and hike trail, which winds through lush maritime forests and offers stunning views of the coastline. If you’re looking to cool off, take a dip in the ocean—swimming is allowed at the park’s beaches, providing a perfect spot for family fun.

Hunting Island State Park offers memorable outdoor adventures for everyone, from experienced riders to beginners, including pony rides for children. It’s easily one of our favorite beaches near Beaufort.

6. Take A Stroll Through Stephen Elliott Park

Nestled within the historic downtown area of Beaufort, Stephen Elliott Park is a charming spot that combines natural beauty with historical significance. The park’s waterfront location offers visitors picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll.

As you walk through the park, you’ll come across two cannons from the American Revolution, adding a touch of historical intrigue to your visit. The park’s proximity to downtown Beaufort means you can easily explore local shops, restaurants, and other attractions before or after your visit.

Stephen Elliott Park is a delightful stop that enhances your experience of Beaufort’s historic district.

7. Experience the Gullah Culture at Penn Center

To truly understand Beaufort’s cultural heritage, a visit to the Penn Center is essential. Located on St. Helena Island, the Penn Center is a significant site for African-American heritage and Gullah culture. It played a vital role in the Civil Rights Movement, serving as a safe haven for interracial groups during segregation.

Gullah culture, which links West Africa and America, is particularly vibrant among the residents of the sea islands. Learn about Gullah culture at the Penn Center through exhibits, programs, and events. The center also houses a museum that chronicles the history and contributions of the Gullah people, offering a deeper understanding of their impact on the region.

The Penn Center is not only a place of historical significance but also a living testament to the resilience and creativity of the Gullah community. Exploring the Penn Center offers a deep appreciation for the cultural tapestry that defines Beaufort and its surroundings.

8. Savor Local Cuisine

Indulging in local cuisine is a must during any visit to Beaufort. The town is renowned for its seafood, with dishes featuring shrimp, crab, and oysters being staples at many restaurants.

Savoring the local cuisine in Beaufort not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a delicious way to connect with the region’s culinary traditions and vibrant food culture. Lowcountry cooking, characterized by its use of fresh, local ingredients, can be sampled at numerous eateries throughout Beaufort. Make reservations at the following places for meals to remember:

• Ribaut Social Club – enjoy upscale dining with dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients and local seafood.
• Blackstone’s Café – offers a casual setting and a delightful Southern twist on breakfast and lunch.
• Old Bull Tavern – a must-visit for those seeking a diverse menu, from burgers to craft beers.

9. Tour Parris Island Marine Corps Base

Tour the Parris Island Marine Corps Base for a glimpse into military history. The Parris Island Museum showcases artifacts from various historical periods, including Spanish and French settlements, the establishment of Parris Island as a Marine training site, and conflicts from World War I to recent military engagements. The museum’s extensive collection provides a comprehensive overview of the base’s history and its pivotal role in shaping the Marine Corps.

You’ll need to present a valid government-issued ID, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance to access the museum on the base. The museum, housed in a 1951 building, features accessibility amenities such as parking and a ramp. The museum also allows photography of exhibits, although photos of recruits and personnel on base are prohibited.

Visiting the Parris Island Marine Corps Base provides unique insights into the region’s military history and the dedication of its service members. It’s a fascinating stop that adds depth to your understanding of Beaufort’s historical and cultural landscape.

10. Visit Beaufort National Cemetery

Paying respects at the Beaufort National Cemetery is essential for a complete exploration of the area. This historic site is a place of memorialization and reflection, honoring those who served in the military. The cemetery is home to several notable monuments, including the Union Soldier’s Monument, Confederate Soldier’s Monument, and Massachusetts Monument.

Walking through the cemetery, you’ll notice the beauty of the live oaks draped in Spanish moss, framing rows of white headstones. The cemetery’s serene and solemn atmosphere provides a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals throughout history.

11. Shop Unique Boutiques

Spend an afternoon exploring Beaufort’s unique boutiques to pick up a treat for yourself or folks back home:

• Kayla DeVito Fine Art – specializes in handmade items and charming trinkets, offering a treasure trove of carefully curated collectibles. It’s a perfect spot for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts.
• Olive the Above – a must-visit for food enthusiasts. This boutique features over fifty types of specialty oils and balsamic vinegars sourced from around the globe, making it a haven for gourmet food lovers.

12. Go Horseback Riding on the Beach

Experience a unique outdoor adventure by horseback riding on the beach with Camelot Farms Equestrian Center. Ride along sandy shores as well as through farm trails and marshlands to experience the Lowcountry’s natural beauty in a whole new way. The breathtaking scenery features old live oaks, island palms, and much more, so don’t forget your camera.

Camelot Farms offers horseback riding tours suitable for all skill levels, making it an ideal activity for families and individuals alike. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, this adventure offers both exhilaration and serenity.

Looking for a family-friendly beach in South Carolina? Read more here.

13. Take A Scenic Boat Tour

Take in Beaufort’s natural beauty from a new angle with a scenic boat tour. Beaufort River tours are available year-round, allowing visitors to appreciate the area’s vibrant marine ecosystem and stunning landscapes.

Guided boat tours offer a chance to encounter local wildlife, including dolphins, eagles, and various other bird species. These tours offer a serene, educational experience that complements land-based explorations of Beaufort.

14. Join a Kayak Tour

Explore Beaufort’s waterways up close with a kayak tour from Beaufort Kayak Tours. These daily excursions cater to all skill levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beautiful and diverse ecosystems of the area. Paddle through serene salt marshes or explore historical sites, as each tour offers a unique perspective on Beaufort’s natural and cultural heritage.

A highlight of these tours is encountering local wildlife, including dolphins and various bird species. Some tours even include experiences like swimming on a sandbar or tasting freshly harvested oysters.

Kayaking in Beaufort offers an unforgettable connection with the region’s stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life.

15. Visit Fort Fremont on St. Helena Island

Fort Fremont on St. Helena Island is a must-visit for history buffs. This historic site offers scenic views of Port Royal Sound and a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved remnants. The fort, which played a role in defending the coast during the Spanish-American War, is now a peaceful preserve open for exploration year-round.

Take self-guided tours of the grounds, enhanced by a mobile app offering informative walking tours. Wandering through the site, you’ll gain an appreciation for Fort Fremont’s strategic importance and historical context.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Must-See Historic Sites in Beaufort?

You’ve got to check out the John Mark Verdier House, the Beaufort History Museum, and the Civil War-era homes that were used as hospitals. These spots really capture the town’s rich history!

Are There Any Family-Friendly Parks In Beaufort?

You’ll love Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park and Pigeon Point Park for family outings! They both have playgrounds and picnic areas, making them perfect for a fun day outdoors.

Where Can I Learn About the Gullah Culture in Beaufort?

You can learn about Gullah culture at the Penn Center on St. Helena Island, where they have exhibits and programs celebrating this vibrant heritage. It’s a great place to connect with the rich history of the Gullah community! If you’d like to discover how to cook Gullah recipes, you can learn how here.

What Outdoor Activities Are Available At Hunting Island State Park?

You’ll love the variety of outdoor activities at Hunting Island State Park, from hiking and biking trails to swimming and even horseback riding along the coast. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy nature!

Are There Any Unique Shopping Experiences In Beaufort?

Absolutely! You’ll love exploring boutiques like Kayla DeVito Fine Art for cool trinkets and Olive the Above for delicious specialty oils and balsamic vinegars.

Discover the Best Things to Do in Beaufort

From its rich historical roots to its stunning natural landscapes, Beaufort, SC, offers a myriad of experiences that make for an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, relaxing in beautiful parks, savoring local cuisine, or engaging in unique outdoor activities, Beaufort has something for everyone.

We hope this guide has inspired you to discover all that this charming town has to offer. Pack your bags, set your sights on Beaufort, and get ready for an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories.

Whether you’re waking up after a fabulous day on the beautiful beaches or you’re arriving for your first day on Hilton Head Island, breakfast is a top priority. It’s going to fuel the rest of your day, but it must be an enjoyable way to spot your morning. You’re looking for the best breakfast Hilton Head has to offer.

To help you, we’ve created a list of the most sought-after locations. Choose one of these as your top breakfast spot each day, or explore several during your trip. They will not disappoint you!

1. Nectar Farm Kitchen

• 841 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• https://nectarfarmkitchen.com/
• $$$
• Southern classics
• You can make reservations if you like

Nectar Farm Kitchen is built on the highest-quality local food. With a slightly more distinguished chef lineup than other locations, this destination offers a beautiful atmosphere and delicious food. It’s not pretensions, though. A farm-to-table eatery with Southern classics like grits makes it a must-try location if you’re looking for authentic quality.

With locally sourced ingredients and a focus on Lowcountry and Southern-style dishes, all in a farmhouse atmosphere, you’ll find Nectar Farm Kitchen creates fabulous dishes with heart. Start with a Georgia Collins or Bless Your Heart cocktail.  Create a benedict that features your favorite options, an omelet you customize, or one of their bowls (the Chilaquiles Bowl offers corn tortillas, farm eggs, radish, goat feta cheese, ranchero, avocado, and sour cream.) Make sure to get a buttermilk biscuit on the side of your meal, too!

2. Southern Coney and Breakfast

• 70 Pope Ave, #J, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• https://www.facebook.com/p/Southern-Coney-Breakfast
• $$
• Traditional American breakfast
• Just stop in 

Southern Coney and Breakfast is one of the best locations for a down-to-earn, stick-to-your-bones meal. This money breakfast spot offers thick, in-house-made biscuits, a variety of pancakes, and fabulous fixings. Many rave about the coffee served as well.

This destination has outdoor seating available and a fun kid’s menu that gives everyone something to try out. If you miss breakfast, this is also an excellent lunch spot.

3. GT International Café

• 807 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• https://www.gt-internationalcafe.com/
• $$$
• International favorites
• Just stop in

Though GT International Café is known for its Italian-inspired pasta and sauces, you’ll find the fabulous breakfast menu to be robust. Choose options such as shrimp and grits, French toast, pancakes, and breakfast skillets packed with eggs and just about everything else. They are also known for their breakfast bennies and crepes when you want a bit more of an elegant choice.

If you have a group, check out their private dining room. Excellent service and exceptional attention to detail make GT International Café an excellent overall choice for most.

4. Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café

• 86 Helmsman Way, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• https://www.palmettobaysunrisecafe.com/
• $$
• Neighborhood café
• Just drop in

For breakfast, brunch, or lunch, Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café is a popular option for both locals and tourists. It’s best known for its popular quiche dishes but the biscuits n’ gravy are hard to beat as well. You could upscale even more with crab cake, eggs benedict, or stuffed French toast.

This destination, a 20-year local tradition, caters to your tastes. The breakfast burrito with homemade salsa showcases the freshness of locally sourced ingredients. There’s also a special menu when you want something more unique.  They offer a gluten-free and vegan menu and both indoor and outdoor seating. The patio is even dog-friendly. 

It’s an excellent choice for a great breakfast before heading to the area’s best golf courses. 

5. Harbor Town Bakery & Café

• 140 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• https://www.seapines.com/dining/quick-bites-to-go/harbourtown-bakery
• $$
• Old-world charm
• No reservations taken

Located in the Sea Pines Resort, Harbor Town Bakery & Café is a wonderful place for fresh-based pastries and home-cooked meals. You’ll love the coffee and tea options but also have some fun with the kid’s menu – it’s perfect for even picky eaters. Stop in to grab something to take with you as you explore the area’s best parks or enjoy the outdoor dining to take in the beautiful view.

A family-friendly atmosphere, with hot breakfasts and pastries, this café is cozy and relaxing. They are noted as having some of the best ham and cheese omelets, breakfast sandwiches piled high with ingredients, and excellent buttermilk pancakes topped the way you like them. 

Expect high-quality menu choices, especially if you’re lucky enough to snag some of the fresh pastry options as they come out of the oven first thing in the morning.

6. Old Birds Café and Market

• 1536 Fording Island Road, Suite 107, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
• https://www.oddbirdshhi.com/
• $$
• American cuisine
• Just stop in

Odd Birds Café and Market offers scratch-made cuisine using sweet and savory ingredients. If you are looking for a deli-style lunch, try their house roast beef on fresh focaccia bread. For breakfast, they offer sweet and savory crepes, smoothies, and delicious bakery products (such as vegan ginger banana bread or pecan coffee cake).

For those hosting an event on Hilton Island, South Carolina, consider their catering. With options such as mini quiche, mini buttermilk biscuits with house-made strawberry and raspberry jam, and scones, make the best breakfast packed ready for your event.

7. Skillet’s Café & Grill

• 1 N. Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• https://www.skilletscafe.com/
• $$
• American breakfast fare
• Just stop in

Skillets Café & Grill focuses on comfort food in the best possible way. It offers options such as stuffed French toast and pancakes, and the biscuits and gravy are hard to top. The benedicts, crepes, and savory (and quite filling) breakfast burritos make them a popular option for those looking for a touch of sophistication. 

On the other hand, this is truly the best of Lowcountry cooking, where everything is made from scratch and with heart.

Here’s a fun tip. If you’re heading out to do some surfing or beachcombing, take one of the fried green tomato, pimento cheese, or Monte Cristo sandwiches with you for a mid-afternoon snack. They also offer a pet-friendly porch that features a doggy menu.

8. Bad Biscuit

• 1 North Forest Beach Drive, Coligny Plaza, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• http://www.badbiscuit.com/
• $$
• Lowcountry and Southern dishes
• Just stop in

Bad Biscuit offers a laid-back experience with a true focus on Lowcountry and Southern cuisine, often with a twist. Quite the eclectic décor, you’ll find a full menu of choices (along with a full bar and vegan options). They are noted for their Bombdiggity Bowls, such as the Southern Chick, which features pimento cheese grits with boneless fried chicken, grilled jalapenos, and local honey.

Choose from numerous skillets and silver dollar pancakes made from a tried-and-true in-house recipe, and they build a breakfast meal where you can choose just about anything. This is a fun destination, from excellent sausage gravy to plates stacked high with all of your breakfast favorites.

Where Will You Breakfast First?

A delicious meal is easy to find on Hilton Head Island. You can stop in one of the area coffee shops for a bagel or enjoy a fabulous full menu at one of these top destinations.

Hilton Head sits on the Atlantic Ocean and has long been a popular tourism destination. Some come for the beaches or the storied history of this Lowcountry region of South Carolina. You’ll find all of the typical beach-going fun from high-end shopping and combing the beaches for sand dollars.

If you’re looking for something new to do, there are a few unusual things to do at Hilton Head that are perfect for most family members. As you plan your getaway here and to the surrounding area, keep these interesting activities on your list of things to do.

Let’s dive right into the best, albeit quirkiest things to do on Hilton Head Island.

1. Check Out the Salt Marshes

The salt marshes are quite a unique ecosystem and perhaps one of the most stunning views of Hilton Head Island (HHI) you’ll find. It’s a careful balance of flora and fauna, so avoiding too much interaction with the environment is important.

What makes them so unusual is that, unlike most coastal areas, where there’s a clear line between the shore and the water, this area lacks that. The creeks and rivers seem to blend directly with the land and the ocean beyond that. The Hilton Head Island Salt Marsh is one of the most prolific producers of biomass.

You can explore them at the Coastal Discovery Museum. There, they have three educational boardwalks that allow you to come up close to these marshes, along with the water’s estuaries.

2. Try as Many Fun Sports as You Can

One of the fun things about Hilton Head Island is that it’s highly diverse. You’ll find a wide range of fun things to try out that you may not have done at home. Water sports are a given here. You can rent everything you need for jet skis, boats, and parasailing.

Consider a kayaking tour or learning to stand-up paddleboard. Sailing tours are an excellent way for first-time visitors to see the area from the water.

Don’t stop on the water, though, but head on land for walking trails, go-karting, zipline, and horseback riding. If you have not done so before and you’re looking for a true adventure, take one of the ropes courses available at the area parks. There’s nearly no limit to the type of unique sports and activities you can do here. 

Regarding adventure, Hilton Head is sure to push you beyond just taking to the walking trails.

3. Take a Guided Tour

It’s definitely fun to arrive on Hilton Head Island to explore yourself. Self-guided exploration of this entire region is a fun way to experience the area if you just want to take in the natural beauty. Guided tours offer an exceptional way to see the area as the locals do.

Various types of self-guided tours are available from numerous providers. Whether you are a history lover or someone who enjoys the natural beauty of this island, there are plenty of options around the island.

Some of the best and most unique guided tours on Hilton Head to book include:

• Gullah culture tours to learn the area’s rich history
• Dolphin and sea turtle tours
• Bluffton’s Historic District tours
• Walking tours of historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
• Kayaking tours
• Biking tours of the historic sites
• Deep sea fishing charters are guided excursions
• Boat tour of the coastal marshes  

4. Take in the Music of the Island

There are many hidden gems throughout Hilton Head Island that allow you to pour your soul out or just have some fun with live music. No matter the type of music you enjoy, chances are good you’ll find an experience or two to have here during your visit.

Some of the best events take place in the local communities. Look for local arts groups to find out what performances are happening the week you’re visiting. Some of our favorite destinations for music of all types include:

• Arts Center of Coastal Carolina for year-round performances
• Symphony Orchestra and Choral Society for seasonal experiences
• Live bands at Tiki Hut
• The Jazz Corner for drinks and music
• The Boardroom for live music as a late-night spot
• The Rooftop Bar for dueling pianos
• Kind of Blue for blues

5. Step into the Past at Stoney-Baynard Plantation

It’s easy to fall in love with the beauty of Hilton Head, but it’s also essential to pay homage to the people and history that is present here. A good destination that will reveal numerous unusual experiences is a tour of the Stoney-Baynard Plantation.

Built in the 1790s, it was an antebellum plantation house owned by Capital Jack Stoney. The view of Calibogue Sound is amazing. In 1840, a poker game loss forced Stoney to hand over the massive plantation to William Baynard.

You can explore the Stoney-Baynard Ruins at the Sea Pines Plantation Drive entrance to the area. Once you are there, ask for unusual stories. You may hear a tale or two about how William Baynard, who died during the Civil War, seems to be still lurking in the area.

6. See the Alligators

It may not seem all that safe to plan a day exploring the Hilton Head Island marshes for alligators, but the good news is you don’t have to do it alone. Various organizations offer charters and expeditions to help you come up close (but not too close) to these animals in the wild.

The Sea Resort Forest Preserve is one of the best freshwater lakes to find the native American alligator. It’s not a good idea to try to find them yourself. The Audubon Newhall Preserve is another location for alligator watching. You’ll find plenty of turtles here, too.

7. Embrace the Remoteness of Daufuskie Island

Are you looking to get away from the intensity of Savannah or Charleston for a day that is truly away from life’s responsibilities? Head to Daufuskie Island. You can only access it by boat, and it’s just about five miles long and 2.5 miles wide. That’s the entire point.

This southernmost sea island is a complete break from the business of daily life. There are ancient oak trees surrounding you, Spanish moss growing on the limited buildings here, and white sand beaches that actually feel soft under your feet.

When you visit this historical landmark, you’ll feel as if you went back in time. Take a birding or nature tour here, volunteer at the Daufuski Island Community Farm, or explore the waterways on a guided kayak tour. At low tide, make the trip to the beaches to look for seashells and driftwood. You’ll be as far from the traditional beach experience as you can get near Hilton Head Island, but it’s well worth the experience.

Explore All That a Trip to Hilton Head Island Has to Offer

HHI certainly boasts outstanding beach access and golf courses that will keep you busy for hours during your visit. The Sea Pines Resort is at the heart of the traditional experience here. There are also boutiques, walking trails, and fabulous parks to explore, including locations like Harbour Town Lighthouse and Coligny Beach.

Yet, when you want to explore the less beaten path, take to the wetlands by boat, visit the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge to see the good work they are doing, and even pack a lunch for the Gullah Heritage Trail. Hilton Head Island has something for everyone. As just a day trip to various areas like Charleston and Georgia, there’s lots to explore here.