Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Beaufort
Beaufort charms visitors with its moss-draped oak trees, cobblestone streets, and gentle pace of life. The town's deep roots in American history are evident in its well-preserved antebellum mansions and museums. Guests can kayak through the salt marshes, explore the Gullah culture, or stroll the picturesque waterfront park. The warm hospitality, unique cuisine, and unspoiled natural surroundings offer a truly enriching experience.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Beaufort
Historic Downtown Beaufort
Historic Downtown Beaufort is the heart of the town and a top choice for those wanting to immerse themselves in its history and culture. This area features 18th-century homes, charming bed-and-breakfasts, and riverfront apartments with spectacular views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Guests staying here are within walking distance of the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, local galleries, and restaurants like Saltus River Grill. It's an ideal location for those who want to explore Beaufort's heritage and vibrant arts scene.
Port Royal
Located just minutes from downtown, Port Royal offers a peaceful, laid-back vibe with rich historical roots. Vacation rentals in Port Royal include charming cottages and beach-style homes close to the Sands Beach and the Cypress Wetlands boardwalk. Travelers enjoy birdwatching, kayaking, and panoramic sunset views over Battery Creek. Port Royal is perfect for families or couples looking to unwind in a serene coastal setting.
Lady’s Island
Lady's Island, connected to Beaufort by the Woods Memorial Bridge, provides a mix of rural charm and convenient access to downtown. The island features spacious homes, waterfront retreats, and quiet neighborhoods perfect for longer stays. Vacationers can explore the area's scenic byways, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, or take a short drive to Hunting Island State Park. This area is excellent for those seeking nature and proximity without the hustle of the downtown area.
St. Helena Island
Rich in African-American heritage and Gullah culture, St. Helena Island offers a unique and meaningful experience. Airbnb options in St. Helena Island include rustic cottages, farm stays, and secluded retreats surrounded by nature. Attractions such as the Penn Center and Chapel of Ease tell stories of resilience and tradition. This location suits travelers interested in culture, history, and a slower pace of life.
Parris Island
While best known for the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island also provides access to quiet surroundings and military history. Visitors can stay nearby in vacation homes or apartments that cater to families attending graduation ceremonies or military buffs exploring the island's museum. The area is also close to beautiful tidal creeks and scenic drives, offering a calm retreat not far from Beaufort's core attractions.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Beaufort
Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is a focal point for community events and quiet relaxation along the Beaufort River. Guests can enjoy a scenic walk, relax on the swings facing the water, or attend festivals and concerts throughout the year. The park is adjacent to the downtown area, making it easy to pair a visit with shopping or dining. It provides an ideal setting for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Hunting Island State Park
Just a short drive from Beaufort, Hunting Island State Park is one of South Carolina’s most popular state parks. It features pristine beaches, a historic lighthouse, and miles of hiking and biking trails through lush maritime forests. Visitors can climb the lighthouse for panoramic views or spot wildlife in the salt marshes. The park is a natural paradise ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
Penn Center
Founded in 1862, the Penn Center is one of the nation’s first schools for formerly enslaved individuals and a cornerstone of Gullah culture. Today, it serves as a cultural hub showcasing African-American history through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs. The tranquil grounds are perfect for reflection and learning. A visit here offers powerful insight into the region’s enduring cultural identity.
Beaufort History Museum
Located in the historic Arsenal building, the Beaufort History Museum chronicles over 300 years of local history. Exhibits cover everything from Native American culture to the Civil War and Reconstruction. Visitors gain a deep understanding of Beaufort’s strategic importance and rich heritage. This museum is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
The Spanish Moss Trail
Stretching over ten miles, The Spanish Moss Trail is a scenic multi-use path ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling. It runs through marshes, woodlands, and residential areas, offering a quiet way to explore the Lowcountry. Interpretive signs along the trail provide historical context.
Chapel of Ease
A hauntingly beautiful ruin, the Chapel of Ease on St. Helena Island was built in the mid-1700s for plantation families. Its tabby walls and oak-shaded grounds evoke the solemn grace of the past. Visitors often combine a trip here with nearby cultural attractions. The site offers both a spiritual and historical dimension to any visit.
Bay Street
Bay Street is Beaufort's main thoroughfare, lined with boutiques, cafes, and historic buildings. A stroll here reveals architectural gems and opportunities for shopping and dining. Art lovers will appreciate the many galleries showcasing local talent. It's the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed afternoon or evening.
Parris Island Museum
Located on the Marine Corps base, the Parris Island Museum offers an in-depth look at the history of the Marine Corps and the Lowcountry. Exhibits include military artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. The museum is open to the public with appropriate access. It appeals to both military families and curious travelers alike.
Where to find a vacation rental near Beaufort
Charleston, South Carolina
Only two hours north, Charleston shares Beaufort's Southern charm but offers a grander scale of historic districts, museums, and culinary delights. Travelers can enjoy vacation rentals in restored antebellum homes, modern apartments downtown, or beachfront Airbnbs on nearby Folly Beach. For a deeper dive into Lowcountry elegance, stay in a vacation rental in Charleston, where every block blends history, food, and architecture.
Savannah, Georgia
About 90 minutes south of Beaufort, Savannah is known for its cobblestone streets, oak-shaded squares, and ornate architecture. Vacationers can stay in charming row houses, stylish lofts, or riverside rentals near the Savannah Riverwalk. For romance and rich storytelling, unwind in a house in Savannah, where Southern beauty and timeless streets shape the experience.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Roughly an hour from Beaufort, Hilton Head Island is a premier destination for beach lovers and golfers. The island boasts luxury vacation rentals, waterfront condos, and family-sized villas with resort access. For an upscale getaway with a coastal twist, enjoy a vacation rental in Hilton Head Island, where boardwalks and fairways meet marsh views.
Edisto Island, South Carolina
A bit more secluded but within two hours, Edisto Island offers untouched beaches and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. Visitors can stay in beachfront homes, rustic cottages, or charming Airbnbs in the island’s small residential pockets. For quiet coastal living and natural beauty, settle into a house in Edisto Island, where porches, pines, and sea breezes define the rhythm.
Bluffton, South Carolina
Just under an hour away, Bluffton is a growing town known for its historic Old Town district and scenic views along the May River. Guests can enjoy cozy vacation rentals, art festivals, and delicious oysters. For a calm and creative escape, relax in a vacation rental in Bluffton, where art, marshlight, and Lowcountry character shine.
Unearth the rich tapestry of historical landmarks and enchanting coastal towns in the United States
Beaufort's charm and storied past make it a perfect starting point for exploring historical sites across the region. Immerse yourself in history by visiting nearby destinations like stay in Elizabeth City, where you can explore the Museum of the Albemarle for a glimpse into the area's rich heritage. Further south, Georgetown airbnb properties offer a chance to stroll along the historic waterfront, dotted with antebellum architecture that whispers stories of the old South. To the north, Annapolis rental homes await just beyond the Chesapeake Bay's embrace, where the U.S. Naval Academy stands as a symbol of maritime legacy and national pride.
For those drawn to the allure of coastal towns, the beauty of Beaufort extends to other picturesque locales. Discover the rugged charm of the Pacific Northwest with an airbnb in Bandon, where the Coquille River Lighthouse stands serenely against Oregon's magnificent shoreline. Travel south to experience the warm hospitality and tranquil beaches of vacation rentals in Rockport, where the Texas Maritime Museum offers nautical insights. Or reach out to the Outer Banks by choosing vacation rentals Corolla, surrounded by bright sandy beaches and iconic wild horses, embodying the raw beauty of North Carolina’s coastal habitat.