Beaufort Travel Guide

A city of rich history, Southern hospitality and casual seaside charm, the “Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands” was discovered by the Spanish in 1514 and chartered by the British in 1711. Enjoying great prosperity in the eighteenth century as indigo and rice plantations thrived, Sea Island Cotton also brought tremendous wealth to the area prior to the Civil War.

Today, tabby ruins, historic forts, elegant homes, majestic plantations and Gullah culture and cuisine are reminders of Beaufort’s 500-year history. Horse-drawn carriages make their way slowly through the narrow streets of the historic district, one of only three National Historic Landmark Districts in South Carolina and shrimps boats can often be seen gliding past Waterfront Park with the day’s catch.

In addition to a variety of historical and natural attractions, the area is home to three major military installations – the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, the Marine Corps Air Station and the Naval Hospital – which are vital to the local economy, as well as national security.