30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Beaufort (South Carolina)

Situated on the southeastern coast of the U.S., Beaufort is a city on Port Royal Island in South Carolina.

Recognized for its Civil War mansions, awesome historic district, beautiful parks, and so much more, it’s a great place for vacationing.

One of the top East Coast towns in South Carolina, a visit to Beaufort is fun for the whole family.

One of the greatest draws to Beaufort is its many historic attractions; from decommissioned war forts to museums galore and a historic lighthouse to a restored 1970s drive-in movie theater, Beaufort has many unique and educational things to do.

Besides the many historic attractions, Beaufort has scenic parks, recreational trails, coastal views, and fun watersports.

The town is home to several world-class restaurants, amazing local gift shops, and one of the state’s best confectioners.

There are many wonderful places to stay as well as tons of fun things to do in Beaufort.

If you’re considering a trip to Beaufort, add some of these noteworthy attractions to your itinerary.

1. Beaufort Lands End Paddling

One of the best ways to experience some time on the water, Beaufort Lands End Paddling offers standup paddleboard and kayak instruction.

Whether you’re experienced on the water or need a quick lesson, these guys can curate an epic tour that you’ll love.

With four different tour types to choose from, you can see all the most beautiful spots in town from the water.

For starters, the Beaufort tour takes you on a high tide ride through the marsh adjacent to the downtown district.

The Hunting Island tour explores the lagoon, the sand bar, and the southern beach area during which you’ll see loggerhead turtle nests and be able to hunt for sand dollars.

The fishing tour will take you via kayak to fish for trout, whiting, and redfish.

Finally, the sunset tour explores Hunting Island at sunset.

Each of these tours gives you unprecedented Beaufort experiences perfect for exercise, nature observance, exploration, and photography.

Address: Beaufort, SC, United States

2. Spanish Moss Trail

The Spanish Moss Trail is a wonderful way to enjoy sightseeing in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Developed in 2011, the trail occupies the same space as the now-defunct Magnolia Line Railroad.

The trail is made up of 14 miles of scenic pathways that are open to the public for recreation.

Notably, the trail system runs the distance between Beaufort and Port Royal, a neighboring town.

The trail is perfect for all sorts of recreation; its entire length is paved, making it great for running, walking, biking, and beyond.

The trail is open seven days a week from dusk to dawn, so any time is a good time to visit.

The Spanish Moss Trail is convenient to visit with many wonderful amenities.

It’s got six parking lots along the trail, is open to leashed pets, and has two restrooms.

While exploring the trail, you’ll have water and marsh views as well as coastal wildlife encounters.

Lastly, the trail offers recreational fishing from sporadically-placed trestles.

One of the top 10 activities to do in Beaufort, the Spanish Moss trail is a must-do.

Address: Beaufort, SC, United States

3. Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park is one of the most beautiful places in the US.

The park is home to the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse which is super cool to see up close.

It’s currently being renovated, but once renovations are complete, you’ll be able to climb its 167 stairs to its highest point.

The park is also a lovely place to meander the beach in search of pretty shells and other cool treasures.

It is home to an onsite nature center where you can safely get up close and personal with alligators.

The park’s epic marsh boardwalk is the perfect spot to enjoy a South Carolina sunrise or sunset.

The park is also a launching point for a ferry that will deliver you to St. Phillips Island, another fun place to explore.

Hunting Island State Park is a great place for an overnight stay too; it offers tent camping as well as walk-in tent sites.

Finally, the park has an elaborate trail system with trails varying in length from .2 to 2 miles for hiking.

Address: 2555 Sea Island Pkwy, St Helena Island, SC 29920, United States

4. Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park

This lovely seaside park is one of the most gorgeous places to see in Beaufort.

Home to a local marina, the park is a great place to watch the comings and goings of boats as well as catch a picturesque sunrise.

If you love a good waterfront view, this park is a must-do.

Quaint benches line the walkway; they make the perfect spot for sipping a cup of Joe and reading the daily news.

The park is also home to a pirate-themed playground as well as picnic tables for enjoying a packed lunch.

Opened in 1979, the park is made up of nearly 7 acres giving you plenty of space for a brisk walk.

The stunning landscaping, which features live oaks and palmettos, adds to the park’s magnificent scenery.

Some other wonderful park attributes include a dog-friendly vibe, public restrooms, ample parking, and fishing docks.

One of the very best free things to do in town, the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is worth checking out.

Address: Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

5. Highway 21 Drive-In

If you’re looking for unique places to go, look no further.

The Highway 21 Drive-In has been a Beaufort mainstay since 1978.

Although it’s been updated with new screens, lighting, and sound system as recently as 2022, it still maintains its old-timey, nostalgic vibe.

This is the perfect setting for a family fun night while introducing your children to an entertainment venue of yesteryear.

The Highway 21 Drive-In has three screens and three showings each night, and they show new releases.

The drive-in has an awesome concession stand serving everything from meals like hot dogs and cheeseburgers to snacks like popcorn and nachos.

Once parked, you have the option of enjoying the film from your car or you’re welcome to pack blankets and chairs and watch from the field.

Two days out of the week, the drive-in hosts a double feature night where you can enjoy two films for the price of one admission.

Address: 55 Parker Dr, Beaufort, SC 29906, United States

6. Port Royal Boardwalk & Observation Tower

One of the nicest places to go in Beaufort, South Carolina, the Port Royal Boardwalk & Observation Tower is a great place to enjoy outdoor leisure.

The boardwalk is a lovely place to walk or run while enjoying waterfront views.

Grab a cup of coffee or pack a picnic lunch and relish in scenic views, the sound of crashing waves, and that invigorating saltwater air.

The boardwalk offers a fun site to fish and after you’ve enjoyed some time digging along the boardwalk for shells and shark teeth, it’s nice to climb the observation tower.

Besides the epic coastal views, you can often spot dolphin pods swimming by.

The observation tower is a nice place from whence to do some bird watching.

One of a few free things to do, this quaint attraction is good to visit today or this weekend.

Address: 901 London Ave, Port Royal, SC 29935, United States

7. Stephen Elliott Park

This park, situated in Beaufort’s downtown district, is a historic landmark featuring leftover army cannons on its shorelines.

These unusual sights have given the park its nickname, Cannon Park.

The cannons have a unique history dating back to 18th century England.

Located at the Woods Memorial Bridge base, the park is a historic landmark and an outdoor recreation space.

The park is a peaceful place to meander, enjoy waterfront views, and read about the cannons’ history.

Besides the cannons, other park sights include a serene fountain and beautiful landscaping.

Other things to do at Stephen Elliott Park include watching the bridge’s opening and observing informative historical markers.

One of the nicest places to visit for a day outdoors, this park should find a spot on your Beaufort itinerary.

Address: 600 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

8. The Spirit of Old Beaufort

This South Carolina heritage tour will take you back in time.

One of many historical tourist attractions in Beaufort, The Spirit of Old Beaufort will teach you all about the Gullah and Geechee ways of life.

The three-hour tour will take you to historical sites such as Discovery Lady’s Island and St. Helena.

One of the interesting landmarks you’ll encounter is the first-ever public school for freed slaves.

Other historical landmarks include old churches as well as historical plantation houses.

You’ll learn historical songs and stories all from the comfort of an air-conditioned car that will pick you up and drop you off.

The tours are driven and narrated by knowledgeable locals.

Walking tours are also available if you prefer; there’s a 2-hour city tour, a historic district tour, and other tour options.

A great way to learn about the city’s rich history, The Spirit of Old Beaufort is a must-do.

Address: Beaufort, SC, United States

9. Penn Center

The Penn Center is known historically as the first school for formerly enslaved West Africans.

Situated on the picturesque St. Helena Island, the school now serves as a historical landmark.

Surrounded by magnificent marshes, live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and other beautiful landscaping, walking the center makes for a memorable experience.

During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the 50-acre campus that’s home to 25 buildings.

The welcome center and museum house cultural programming such as the Gullah Studies Symposium.

Because the school was the first in history to educate former slaves, it is worth the visit.

While group tours of the campus can be pre-arranged, self-guided tours are also available.

Rich in history, beauty, and outdoor exploration, the Penn Center is one of the most enriching places to visit.

Address: 16 Penn Center Cir E, St Helena Island, SC 29920, United States

10. Sea Island Carriage Company

If you’re looking for one of the most unique ways to see Beaufort, South Carolina, schedule a tour with Sea Island Carriage Company.

Providing hour-long tours that usher you to and from local points of interest, a trolley tour is a cool way to spend some time in town.

Sea Island Carriage Company offers horse-drawn trolley rides, for up to 8 people at a time, that are driven and narrated by knowledgeable docents.

One of the coolest tourist attractions in town, Sea Island Carriage Company will take you back in time along a historical scenic route.

Booking your tour early in the day is recommended so you can beat the midday heat.

During your trolley tour, you’ll see a glimpse of the town’s elegant past, antebellum homes, movie locations, and culturally significant churches.

These trolley tours are one of a few free things to do in town for children under three.

Address: 930 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

Visiting other areas of South Carolina? Why not check out some of the things to do in Charleston, SC & some of the things to do in Greenville, SC?

11. Old Sheldon Church Ruins

With so much historical stuff to do in Beaufort, South Carolina, narrowing down the best sights can be tough.

However, a visit to the Old Sheldon Church Ruins is a must!

Located near Beaufort, just over 15 miles down the road in the city of Sheldon, these church ruins are akin to Stonehenge.

The ancient church that was once known as Prince William’s Parish Church, was erected sometime in the mid 1700s.

Although what remains of the church is, as its name suggests, in ruins, it was originally fashioned in a Greek Revival style.

Today, you can walk the grounds and explore the fascinating ruins.

Interspersed between the ruins are beautiful live oaks, magical Spanish moss, and a smattering of ancient gravestones.

Besides walking the site, events are occasionally held at the ruins, and once a year, there’s an Easter worship service.

One of the coolest Beaufort attractions, the Old Sheldon Church Ruins is a must-see.

Address: Old Sheldon Church Rd, Yemassee, SC 29945, United States

12. Parris Island

This famous Marine Corps recruit camp is newly open to the public.

While it’s now open to the public, tours must be pre-arranged 60 days in advance.

Once you have a reservation secured, there’s so much to see and do within the confines of Parris Island.

For starters, the onsite museum will enlighten you about the Corp’s rich history.

Some of the coolest things to see on Parris Island are the graduation ceremonies; they’re open to the public and held just about every week.

Another cool thing about Parris Island is that it was made famous to the public by the 1987 release of Stanley Kubrick’s “Full Metal Jacket.”

The center sits on 3,000 acres and is surrounded by white sand beaches, and each incredible sight is encircled by incredible coastal beauty.

One of the most famous yet historically rich Beaufort attractions, Parris Island should top your list of what to do in South Carolina.

Address: South Carolina 29902, United States

13. The Chocolate Tree

This Beaufort landmark is a must-see when you’re in South Carolina.

This local mainstay was founded in 1980 by a novice chocolate maker.

Now, it’s a haven for sweet tooths alike.

It’s a full chocolate and candy factory akin to Willy Wonka’s.

If you’ve never visited a chocolate factory, the aroma that emanates from the entire factory is magnificent.

Some of the delicious confections you can pick up during your visit include handmade chocolates, incredible toffees, beautiful nonpareils, and so much more.

Besides the tasty treats and “I Love Lucy” feel, the factory is outfitted with vintage decor including framed photos of Lucille Bar and other show nostalgia.

If you’ll be in Beaufort, be sure to pop into The Chocolate Tree for a sweet treat or a boxful to take home.

One of the sweetest Beaufort attractions, The Chocolate Tree is a top sweet shop.

Address: 507 Carteret St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

14. Scout Southern Market

If you’re not sure what to see in terms of shopping, be sure to visit Scout Southern Market.

Named for Scout Finch of literary repute, this sweet southern gift shop is a great spot for shopping.

Situated in the heart of Beaufort’s downtown district, the shop is known for its unique collection of goods.

From home goods to decor and gifts to specialty foods, there’s something for everyone.

One of this store’s best features is that it carries hand-crafted goods from local artisans.

Once you’ve worked up a thirst from shopping, be sure to treat yourself to one of Scout Southern Market’s famous sweet tea floats which are delightful.

And if you need a little snack, the pecan bars are to die for.

One of the cutest shops around, be sure to visit Scout Southern Market when you’re in South Carolina.

Address: 709 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

15. Saltus River Grill

Established in 2001, this awesome restaurant is something of an institution in Beaufort, South Carolina.

The restaurant’s main goal was to serve culinary masterpieces in a vibey setting.

Now, it stands as an urban seafood grill with incredible cuisine and ambiance.

The restaurant’s setting is gorgeous; it’s a coastal establishment with magnificent waterfront views.

Besides the setting, the service is impeccable.

Saltus River Grill boasts an artistic and delicious dining experience.

Some of the grill’s most well-loved menu selections include small plate selections such as fried oysters, chef specialties such as blackened dorado, and sushi selections such as a spicy tuna roll.

Pair any of these delightful selections with a drink from the bar’s masterful wine menu.

This well-established local restaurant books fast, so be sure to make a reservation in advance.

One of the best spots in town for couples looking for a date destination, it’s worth its weight in gold.

Address: 802 Bay St STE C, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

16. The Beaufort Inn

One of the best vacation spots in Beaufort, The Beaufort Inn is a sweet hotel in the city’s downtown district.

Remarkably, the inn has been welcoming guests for more than 100 years, and for good reason; the inn is situated in a series of historical buildings, dubbed cottages, that add to its quaint charm.

Throughout its history, the inn has hosted notable guests such as Jimmy Buffet, Julia Roberts, and a handful of U.S. politicians.

The inn has wonderful in-room amenities such as rainfall showers, wet bars, soaking tubs, and beyond.

The rooms are decorated in colonial decor that adds to its historic appeal, and all of the rooms are outfitted with a private porch or balcony.

Private courtyards, a sweet gift shop, bike loaners, and fire pits are just a few other amenities that make The Beaufort Inn a top choice for your stay in South Carolina.

Address: 809 Port Republic St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

17. Cuthbert House Inn

Situated adjacent to Harbor River, this much-visited hotel has beautiful coastal views.

The hotel’s history is that it was built in 1790 as a summer getaway for the Cuthbert family who later fled the home because of a threat from Union soldiers.

In the 1960s, after many brushes with near destruction, the house was restored to its current state where it stands as a National Historic Landmark.

Should you choose to book a stay at Cuthbert House Inn, you won’t be sorry.

The hotel has several beautiful, cozy rooms to choose from.

There’s a garden room that overlooks a formal courtyard, a Victoria Room fashioned in bright Victorian decor, and the Hideaway room which couples a recognizable modernity with 18th-century charm.

Some of the hotel’s amenities include concierge services, luxury robes, and a complimentary gourmet breakfast.

Located just two blocks from downtown Beaufort, Cuthbert House Inn is in a great spot.

Address: 1203 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

18. Beaufort National Cemetery

If you’re interested in historical activities that the whole family can enjoy, add Beaufort National Cemetery to your itinerary.

Located on Port Royal Island, the cemetery sits on nearly 35 acres and is managed by Veterans Affairs.

With tens of thousands of veteran interments, it’s a well-trafficked cemetery.

The history of the cemetery is that it gained its national moniker during the Civil War; it’s remained a place to honor the sacrifices of veterans and their families since that time.

The cemetery is rich in history and worth visiting whether it’s home to your descendants or not.

During a visit, you can enjoy the peaceful grounds while meandering the beautifully landscaped space.

You can leave fresh flowers to honor the fallen and relish in these incredible historic attractions.

One of many unique things in Beaufort, you should make time for Beaufort National Cemetery.

Address: 1601 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

19. Fort Fremont

Fort Fremont is a historical, educational, and natural preserve that once stood as a military fort during the Spanish-American War.

Situated on the shores of beautiful Port Royal Sound, the setting is as lovely as its historic gravity.

Designed to protect the southeastern coast during the war, the fort sits on a whopping 170 acres.

One of the most historic activities around Beaufort, the fort was deactivated in 1912.

Since 1946, several of the fort’s buildings have been renovated and opened for tourism.

If you’d like to visit Fort Fremont, a free downloadable app can guide you on a walking tour.

Some of the things you’ll see include an educational diorama of old fort buildings, old cannons, and the beautiful beach preserve.

The fort is open Monday through Sunday so whether you visit today, this weekend, or during the week, anytime is a good time to visit.

Tours are always free and docent-led tours can be pre-arranged if you prefer that to a self-guided tour.

Address: 1124 State Rd S-7-45 Lands End Road, St. Helena Island, SC 29920, United States

20. Beaufort History Museum

While there are so many wonderful historic things to do in South Carolina, the Beaufort History Museum is packed with dynamic local history.

This museum recounts the town’s founding and rich history through documents and other artifacts.

What’s more, the museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time and tangibly experience the town’s vibrant history.

With docents guiding you through more than 450 years worth of local history, there’s so much to learn about this small South Carolina town.

Besides the epic trove of historical artifacts within the walls of the museum, it’s also set in a historical building.

The Arsenal was erected in 1798 and housed the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.

As its name suggests, the building once housed wartime weaponry.

If you’d like to enjoy this immersive taste of Beaufort’s history, the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday.

Address: 713 Craven St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

Exploring other parts of South Carolina? Why not check out some of the things to do in Columbia, SC & some of the things to do in Myrtle Beach?

21. Port Royal Sound Foundation Maritime Center

If you’re looking for things to do in Beaufort that matter, check out the Port Royal Sound Foundation Maritime Center.

The center is a place that works toward the preservation of Port Royal Sound.

Specifically, the center is concerned with the environmental and cultural integrity of local waterways.

The center was established in 1970 as an institution for environmental studies.

Since that time it’s established a water task force to improve county waterways as well as the creation of Friends of the Rivers which carries out water and land protection.

In 2014, the center opened to the public with on-demand educational programs that are hands-on and insightful.

If you’d like a guided tour of the center, you can prearrange one before your visit.

These tours will focus on water studies as they relate to the local ecosystem.

Some of the center’s many enriching programs include a Recycled Art Contest, a STEAM festival, and a Sound Vision program.

Suitable for visitors of all ages, the center is enlightening and engaging.

Address: 310 Okatie Hwy, Okatie, SC 29909, United States

22. Cypress Wetlands

If you’re wondering what to do in terms of getting outdoors, be sure to visit Cypress Wetlands.

This mystical natural haven for wildlife, fauna, and beaches is a beautiful setting that delivers incredible sights, sounds, and smells.

This protected area serves as a natural habitat for birds and other wildlife, so animal observation is a much-loved pastime there.

What’s cool about Cypress Wetlands is that they have a knowledgeable naturalist on staff to provide guided tours.

During a tour, which is free to the public, you’ll learn all about the park’s diverse ecosystem, birds, and other wildlife that call the park home as well as its vegetation.

Some of the beautiful birds that you may encounter in the park include green herons, wood storks, snowy egrets, and the yellow-crowned night heron to name a few.

The park is also home to an interactive activity center that makes the experience especially fun for children.

Address: 1700 Paris Ave, Port Royal, SC 29935, United States

23. The Legends Golf Course

There’s only one great place to play a round of golf in Beaufort this weekend.

The Legends Golf Course is one of a few courses in and around town, but it’s the best option.

As its name suggests this course is legendary.

It’s home to three distinct courses: Heathland, Parkland, and Moorland.

Each course is named for its unique topography.

Heathland is fashioned after the British Isles, Parkland is designed to embrace its natural surroundings, and Moorland’s natural growth coupled with hazards is akin to the famous PGA West Course.

A day on one of these courses is more than just a day of golf.

It’s a day spent surrounded by pristine landscaping and magnificent natural sights.

The Legends Golf Course offers on-site accommodations for stay-and-play packages and hosts many annual tournaments.

Additionally, the course is rife with amenities such as an awesome clubhouse, a pro shop, a golf school, and a pub.

The top choice for golf when you’re in South Carolina, The Legends Golf Course is a must-do.

Address: Belleau Wood Rd, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

24. Plums Restaurant

This Lowcountry restaurant is worth a place on your itinerary.

Plums is a local gem that’s been in business since 1986.

A staple for delicious food in a fun atmosphere, locals and visitors alike rave about Plums.

One of this restaurant’s biggest brags is that its menu selections are all crafted with locally sourced ingredients; local farmers and fishermen provide all of the ingredients for Plums.

Situated in the heart of downtown Beaufort, Plums has a great location and great food.

Speaking of food, some of Plums’ favorite menu items include Lowcountry gumbo, smoked gouda mac-n-cheese, a curry chicken salad sandwich, and classic shrimp-n-grits.

Plums also has a full-service bar that slings ice-cold beers and a great wine selection.

Plums offers both indoor and outdoor seating as well as live music throughout the week.

Fresh ingredients, tasty menu selections, delicious beverages, a wonderful atmosphere, and a great entertainment lineup are just some of the reasons you should visit Plums Restaurant.

Address: 904 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

25. Fripp Island

Fripp Island is a small barrier island with lots of things to see.

Situated on the beautiful Atlantic coast, Fripp Island is known for being a quiet retreat with 3,000 acres of beautiful beaches.

It’s a popular place for wildlife observation, especially birdwatching, treasure hunting, and breathtaking ocean views.

Fripp Island is an oasis for fishing for bass, flounder, and blue crabs among other varieties.

This small island packs a big punch with all there is to do.

From golfing to tennis and swimming to outdoor excursions, Fripp Island is an outdoor lover’s paradise.

There are tons of coastal restaurants specializing in American, Southern, and Seafood cuisines and many offer live music and other entertainment.

Tons of fun attractions and loads of outdoor activities surrounded by this island’s incredible natural beauty are just a few of the reasons you should plan a trip to Fripp Island.

Address: Fripp Island, SC, United States

26. The Old Point Neighborhood

If you’re someone who enjoys unique architecture and incredible real estate, be sure to pay a visit to The Old Point Neighborhood.

Visiting this South Carolina neighborhood is one of the coolest things to do in Beaufort.

Home to some of the largest, most opulent homes in South Carolina, the houses in this neighborhood are some of the oldest and most expensive.

Situated between the historic downtown area and the river, the setting is almost as incredible as the homes.

Architecturally speaking, the homes run the gamut in style from Victorian to Queen Ann Style, and one home is more beautiful than the next.

The homes in this neighborhood are so well maintained that the entire neighborhood has earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

Besides the homes, the neighborhood features luxurious gardens, churches, and ancient cemeteries as well as wonderful restaurants, galleries, and boutiques.

The Old Point Neighborhood is a perfect spot for sightseeing in South Carolina.

Address: The Old Point, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

27. Every Second Counts Escape Rooms

If you’re looking for things to do in Beaufort that are super fun, challenging, and indoors, check out this exciting attraction.

Every Second Counts Escape Rooms is situated just a few miles from downtown.

Whether you’re traveling with adults, children, or both, this establishment has escape rooms for most age levels.

If you’ve never experienced escape rooms, here’s what to expect: you’ll be “locked” in a themed room for a given amount of time (typically an hour) and have to solve puzzles/riddles and overcome obstacles to be “released.”

Successful “release” from a room means you were able to complete your tasks in less than the allotted time.

These are great activities to do in a group.

At Every Second Counts Escape Rooms, some of the fun room themes include a wizard’s room, a cabin theme, an insane asylum, and a bandit’s heist.

Each of the rooms is fun, engaging, and challenging.

Great for a family fun night, a date night, and even a work outing, Every Second Counts Escape Rooms is worth the visit.

Address: 22 Sams Point Way, Beaufort, SC 29907, United States

28. Sands Beach

If you’re wondering what to do in Beaufort for outdoor activities, Sands Beach is perfect for relaxation and excitement.

Located in Port Royal, this epic beach is a family-friendly spot on Battery Creek.

Because it’s on a creek, the water is always calm which makes it great for small children and relaxing swims.

Beautiful to visit any time of the year, Sands Beach is a drive-on beach perfect for picnicking, kite flying, and treasure hunting.

Speaking of treasure hunting, Sands Beach is a much-loved locale for shell collecting and shark teeth hunting.

This beach is also a great spot to see the occasional dolphin pod swim by.

If you’re looking for popular hangouts that even the locals love, Sands Beach is it.

Address: Sands Beach Rd, Port Royal, SC 29935, United States

29. Lady’s Island Dockside

If you’re looking for things to do in Beaufort in terms of incredible dining options, be sure to check out Lady’s Island Dockside.

Originally opened in 1990, this eatery has been serving up the freshest local seafood for decades.

Dockside, as it’s locally known, serves casual coastal cuisine with both indoor and outdoor waterfront seating.

The restaurant overlooks the boat docks on Factory Creek River so you can typically enjoy the comings and goings of boats while you dine.

Lady’s Island Dockside is known for its fresh seafood selections; some of the most popular dishes include coconut fried shrimp, crispy flounder, twin lobster tails, bourbon-glazed salmon, and crab stuffed flounder.

In addition to the amazing food, Lady’s Island Dockside has a full-service bar that serves specialty cocktails such as frozen daiquiris, an assortment of martinis, and a Georgia Peach Lemonade that’s to die for.

Open for lunch, dinner, and takeout, Lady’s Island Dockside guarantees a delicious meal.

Address: 71 Sea Island Pkwy, Beaufort, SC 29907, United States

30. Downtown Beaufort

Beaufort’s downtown district is the top spot for shopping in this South Carolina town.

With tons of local shops, some of the best restaurants in town, and historical landmarks at every turn, downtown is a great place to stroll.

Downtown Beaufort is friendly, inviting, and packed with lots to do.

By far, downtown is the hottest place for shopping.

Some of the incredible shops you’ll encounter include fashion boutiques, jewelers, antique shops, gift shops, and art galleries.

Downtown is also home to many great eateries including pizza shops, seafood restaurants, a Mexican girl, coffee shops, and so much more.

All of these great purveyors are situated in gorgeous historic buildings, each with its own unique story.

A trip to Beaufort is not complete without a few hours spent downtown.

Address: Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

Going on a road trip around South Carolina? Why not check out some of the things to do in Hilton Head?

Start Planning Your Trip To Beaufort, SC

Things to do in Beaufort, South Carolina are not hard to come by.

Especially fraught with outdoor attractions and historical sites, days spent in Beaufort are enriching, peaceful, and enjoyable.

Wonderful restaurants, beautiful golf courses, quaint museums, and epic shopping are a few of the other many reasons why you should plan a trip to this awesome South Carolina town.

Add a few of these wonderful attractions to your itinerary, and you’re guaranteed an amazing time in Beaufort.