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This Small Coastal Town in South Carolina Has Charleston-like Charm Without the Crowds

Here’s what to know about visiting Beaufort, one of South Carolina’s most beautiful towns.

Charleston may get most of the attention when it comes to South Carolina’s many cities, but the history, culture, and (of course) Southern charm that make it so special can also be found in smaller and less expensive places in the region. If you’ve ever watched “Forrest Gump” or read anything by the late author Pat Conroy, you may be familiar with Beaufort, a harbor town on Port Royal Island. Its narrow streets, oak trees, and historic district that pre-dates the Civil War are similar to those in Charleston, but Beaufort is remarkable and magical in its own right. Plus, it doesn’t draw the same crowds that tend to flock to notable Holy City hangouts like King Street, Folly Beach, and the Battery. 

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Before you read any further, though, you need to know how to properly pronounce the name. Not to be confused with Beaufort, North Carolina (said like “bow-fert”), the coastal town has a pronunciation more akin to “bew-fert.” Mistaking the two will immediately identify you as a tourist — and it won’t sit too well with the locals. Once you have that squared away, you can start planning your trip to Beaufort, the second-oldest city in South Carolina.

Best Things to Do in Beaufort, South Carolina

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In 1969, Beaufort became one of the few U.S. cities with an entire downtown designated as a historic district by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, so exploring the neighborhoods filled with Victorian, Greek Revival, Neoclassical, and Federal-style homes is at the top of most travelers’ lists. At Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park , you’ll spot Woods Memorial Bridge, recognizable from the aforementioned Tom Hanks blockbuster. Stretching your legs is also encouraged along the Spanish Moss Trail , a 10-mile greenway that weaves by Beaufort’s marshes and through trees draped in Spanish moss. Given its waterfront location, Beaufort should also be experienced by boat; book a Dolphin & History Boat Cruise with Coastal Expeditions or an ecology tour with Beaufort Kayak Tours . Paddleboarding is another option, with rental equipment available at Higher Ground Outfitters . 

Beaufort’s ties to the literary world are strong; visiting the Pat Conroy Literary Center (Beaufort was Conroy’s adopted hometown) or one of the three independent bookstores in town —  NeverMore Books , McIntosh Book Shoppe , and Beaufort Books — is a must for book lovers. For those interested in local art, there’s the Gullah Art Gallery and Museum , Legacy Art Gallery , Rhett Gallery , Thibault Gallery , or Atelier Off Bay . 

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Many of the best things to do in Beaufort are found further outside of downtown. About 17 miles east is Hunting Island State Park, with its pristine beaches , marshes, maritime forest, saltwater lagoon, and the Hunting Island Lighthouse , which was destroyed during the Civil War and rebuilt in 1875. St. Helena Island (a 13-minute drive away) is home to Penn Center — one of the United States’ first schools for formerly enslaved individuals — as well as the family-owned Dempsey Farms , where you can pick in-season fruits and vegetables. Local produce can also be acquired on Saturdays at the nearby Port Royal Farmers Market .

Beaufort Hotels

An overnight trip to Beaufort is best accompanied by a stay in one of the town’s upscale inns. Slow Southern mornings paired with a home-cooked breakfast can be enjoyed on the expansive wooden porch at The Rhett House Inn . Guests can also book the more modern Rhett House Inn Cottages, which sit across the street from the main building. Once a Union Army hospital, Anchorage 1770 overlooks the Beaufort River and offers a fine dining experience at the Ribaut Social Club. The Beaufort Inn first opened its doors in 1897, and the property’s modern-day chapter features several fully renovated buildings within the town’s historic district.

Where to Eat and Drink in Beaufort, South Carolina

As with most Southern cities and towns, food is a major part of the local culture. If you’re a traveler who plans their vacations around meals, you’ll want to start your day at Blackstone’s Cafe or Herban Market and Cafe . If you’re exploring Beaufort during the day and want something quick, order a fried chicken sandwich or po’boy from Lowcountry Produce Market & Cafe . Chapman’s Grocer also has grab-and-go treats, wine, and craft beer. Old Bull Tavern is a lively gastropub open only for dinner, Saltus River Grill is great for indulging in seafood, and those craving Italian should dine at Griffin Market . Gullah Grub Restaurant on St. Helena Island is one of the area’s most famous restaurants (it appeared on Anthony Bourdain : No Reservations ); get the shrimp gumbo.

Best Time to Visit 

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A South Carolina summer is hot and humid — there’s no getting around that. To explore Beaufort in the most comfortable climate, your best bet is to go in either early spring or late fall. April and October are ideal for having plenty to do (winter is far from bustling) while simultaneously avoiding the sweltering weather synonymous with the South.

Getting There

If you’re flying into Hilton Head Airport (HHH) or Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) — both are under an hour away  — you’ll need to rent a car to fully experience Beaufort and its surrounding area. Charleston International Airport (CHS) is also an option, although it’ll take about 90 minutes to get to Beaufort. 

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Visit Beaufort South Carolina! The Official Travel & Tourism Guide to Beaufort, SC

Welcome to Beaufort, SC!

In this lovely little harbor town founded more than 300 years ago on Port Royal Island, “winter” is less a season than a state of mind. Here, you will find some of the American South’s most unique and exquisite Bed & Breakfasts , restaurants , and hotels . And because this season is so temperate this far south, there are still plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in and around Beaufort. But we’re not the only ones that think our town’s got something special — just ask the creators of classic films such as Forrest Gump , The Big Chill , The Great Santini and The Prince of Tides ! While you’re here, be sure to check out the Penn Center , an important hub of Gullah-Geechee culture. Steeped in history, culture and hospitality, you won’t want to miss Beaufort!

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Beaufort is the perfect place for things to do and have family fun ! Spend the day at the beach or explore the town on a tour . Visit a museum or the you pick farms that are only a short ride from downtown Beaufort. Dolphin watch or go fishing , kayaking, biking, sailing or simply lounge around a pool. Discover a family vacation in Beaufort, SC!

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To learn more about up coming Beaufort events and activities , visit our Beaufort Calendar of Events . From performing arts productions to fun outdoor festivals, there is always something entertaining and educational in the works in Beaufort. Some highlights include, A Taste of Beaufort, Beaufort Water Festival and Beaufort Film Festival .

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A local’s guide to visiting beautiful Beaufort SC

By Elizabeth Bishop Later | Tourist season is in full swing in our lovely hometown. Folks from all over are driving down Highway 17 and up Interstate 95, taking a little detour on Highway 21 and ending up in one of the most beautiful places in the country.

OK – the universe. (Bias is an inherited southern trait.)

We love and welcome visitors to Beaufort and are so happy they’ve chosen to spend some of their precious vacation time strolling down Bay Street and riding in carriages through the Old Point. There’s a lot to see; a lot to do. And it’s great fun.

However, for those of us who grew up in Beaufort, live elsewhere, and visit regularly, we admit that we have a very serious character flaw. They say that admitting it is the first step to recovery, so here goes: we are snobs about being native Beaufortonians. It’s a pride thing, really. So when we visit, the very last thing we want is for someone to mistake us for tourists.  Once I was walking down Carteret Street with my dad, who had a camera in his hand. He said, “I probably should have put this camera in a bag. Walk like you know where you’re going so no one will think we’re tourists.”

The only thing worse than being mistaken for a sightseer is someone thinking you’re a Yankee. Heaven forbid.

Rest assured that you will never catch us in a t-shirt that says, “It’s a Beaufort Thing.” We avoid the stores on Bay Street between the months of May and September unless we’re wearing dark glasses. And just in case we do have a real need for carrying a camera downtown, we’ve got our bases covered with car decals like this one, which eliminate any confusion.  The decal’s message: “We’re in the cool club. We were born here.”

Of course, we enjoy all the great things Beaufort has to offer, too. We just don’t do it when anyone’s looking. So if you want to visit Beaufort like a native Beaufortonian, here are five suggestions:

Straws are for tourists.

2.  A visit to the Chocolate Tree is a must, but put on your best southern accent when talking to the chocolatiers. “I just LOVE these darlin’ chocolate sand dollars! I just can’t get enough of ’em.” Pay in cash. Credit cards are a dead give-away.

3.  If you get caught on the bridge, stay in your car. Opening the door and resting your feet on the door handle is acceptable. However, if you absolutely must lean on the railing to watch the boat go under, go with the nonchalance of Robert Mitchum and make sure you don’t point at anything.

4.  Take a ride to Frogmore and eat lunch at the Shrimp Shack. Get the Shrimp Burger but do not, I repeat, DO NOT ask if the Shrimp Burger has shrimp in it. My schoolmate Julie will stare at you like you’ve got a head growing out of your left shoulder.

5.  Grits are a thing here. But if you ask for milk and sugar everyone’s going to think you’re from New Hampshire. (A very nice place, but remember the goal here….) Butter and salt, mix it all up with your eggs and bacon, and eat it with a spoon.

And while we’re on the topic of Lowcountry food, if someone offers you a boiled peanut just pop it open and eat it. Choke it down if you have to and, for heaven’s sake, don’t say “Ewww….it’s soft!”

So there you have it. Our top five ways to visit Beaufort like a native. Of course, you can always throw caution to the wind, forget what everybody thinks about you, and just enjoy it. Take the carriage tour. Wander in and out of the little stores on Bay Street and buy lots of stuff adorned with seashells. Walk on the waterfront and gaze at the sailboats. Stroll into the Chamber of Commerce and pick up some postcards and brochures.

You never know what might happen. You might even find a new Facebook friend from New Hampshire.

Originally written as ‘The Beaufortonian’s Guide To Visiting Beaufort’ by Elizabeth Bishop Later for A Place Called Home: A memoir of Beaufort and St. Helena Island, South Carolina. You can read more from the book and writings of Sonny Bishop and Elizabeth Bishop Later at BishopsBest.com

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Self-Guided Walking Tour of Beaufort, SC

Are you looking at spending a day in the beautiful city of Beaufort, SC? I’m sharing a detailed self-guided walking tour guide, so you can explore this South Carolina city’s most beautiful spots on foot.

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Our family spent two amazing weeks on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, and we loved taking day trips to nearby beautiful Southern cities that were full of charm and history. Beaufort was one of our favorite day trips from Hilton Head Island, and since it was just 35 miles away and less than an hour drive, it was also one of the easiest day trips. While researching the city, I knew that I wanted to explore this historic city on foot with my family, so I spent time mapping out and creating a route for our self-guided walking tour.

This historic walking tour focuses primarily on the Old Point and Bay Street Neighborhoods, which are chalked full of American Civil War history. It takes about 1 hour , although you will want to factor in some extra time to enjoy the Spanish moss trees, take photos of the beautiful streets, and stroll leisurely. I would recommend giving yourself 2-3 hours.

Pro tip: Are you exploring other parts of the beautiful state of South Carolina? Consider booking a local photographer through Flytographer , a company that helps you find the perfect photographer to capture your travel memories. Use my referral link to receive $25 off your first photo shoot. After using them 11 times to capture unforgettable memories in destinations like Paris and Hawaii and Edinburgh , I cannot recommend this wonderful company enough!

Bonus tips for families : Consider bringing travel scooters or bikes for your kids. Our 3 year old daughter rode her scooter around this charming city, which allowed her to keep up while our 1 year old rode in his travel stroller . She had a blast, and it allowed us to keep up a good walking pace. If you’re visiting Beaufort during the humid summer months, like we did, be sure to carry plenty of water. If you are going to push a baby or toddler in a stroller, consider bringing along a stroller fan to keep your little one cool.

Reasons to Visit Beaufort, SC

Beaufort, SC, is located on the coastal Port Royal Island and is a great destination for United States history buffs, as the city was occupied by the British during the American Revolution and the Union during the Civil War. Many original buildings are still standing today, and the city takes great pride in its beautiful preservation. It is very walk-able, the locals are friendly, and its overall just a very beautiful city to explore. I am excited to share our self-guided walking tour itinerary with you!

Please note that most of these spots are now private residences. Please keep a respectful distance and honor all private property.

Other Ways to Explore Beaufort, SC

If you decide that you would prefer to explore with a local guide, this highly rated walking tour will take you to all the main sites as you learn about Beaufort’s history. It is also very popular to explore Beaufort by horse and carriage , if you prefer to avoid the walk.

Where to park in Beaufort, SC

We chose to park our car near the Chocolate Tree, located at 507 Carteret Street. This public street had plenty of parking and was a great starting point for our walking tour of the historic district. It was also fun to return here at the end of our adventure for a few chocolate treats. We headed “The Old Point” neighborhood of Beaufort first.

You might also be interested in: Creative Ways to Capture Travel Memories

Click here to view walking directions for the first part of this tour (Old Point) on Google Maps!

601 New Street – 1st African Baptist Church

This beautiful church, which is still active today, started in 1863. It served as a school for freed people and then a church during the Reconstruction Era. Robert Smalls (more on him in a minute), attended this church and was baptized here in 1905.

511 Prince Street – Robert Smalls’ House

Robert Smalls is arguably Beaufort’s most well-known resident. Born into slavery in 1839, he freed himself (and others) and commandeered a Confederate ship in Charleston Harbor in 1862, where he successfully sailed past the Confederacy into Union-occupied waters. The ship became a Union warship, and President Abraham Lincoln was inspired to accept African Americans into the Union army. After the Civil War, he returned to Beaufort and purchased his former master’s house. He went on to serve in politics, including the two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. His fascinating story can be read about in the book Be Free or Die: The Amazing Story of Robert Smalls’ Escape from Slavery to Union Hero , which I highly recommend reading before your trip to Beaufort, if at all possible!

804 Pinckney Street – John Archibald Johnson House

The John Archibald Johnson House was built in the 1850s and was the elegant home to Dr. Johnson and his wife. During the Civil War, it was confiscated and used as a Union Hospital. It is now privately owned.

207 Hancock Street – Elizabeth Hext House

The Elizabeth Hext House is one of the oldest houses in the city with a beautiful river view. Build around 1720, it was considered small of for its era.

1 Laurens Street – Tidalholm/Edgar Fripp House

The Edgar Fripp House, also known as Tidalholm, was built as a summer home in 1853 by plantation owner Edgar Fripp. After the Civil War, a Frenchman purchased this home and returned it to its original owner for no payment. The home is featured in the movies The Big Chill and The Great Santini .

Pro Tip: If you’re interested in learning more about the movies filmed in Beaufort, SC, consider booking this walking history and movie tour or this golf cart history and movie tour !

100 Laurens Street – The Oaks

The Oaks was built in 1855 for Colonel Hamilton and was used as a Union hospital during the Civil War. It was returned to its original owner after the war.

Pro Tip: Despite its address, you will not find this beautiful home on Laurens Street. We weren’t able to find it, and after doing more researching after our trip, I discovered that you will find its entrance on a dirt road west of King Street. Here is a photo of the park you will find if you try to map to 100 Laurens Street:

501 Pinckney Street – Marshlands/James Robert Verdier House

The Marshlands was built in 1814 and was home to James Robert Verdier, who discovered a treatment for yellow fever. This home is National Historic Landmark because of its well-preserved architecture. It was used as the headquarters for the United States Sanitary Commission during the Civil War.

411 Craven Street – The Castle/Joseph Johnson House

The Joseph Johnson House was built in the late 1850s and was used as a Union Hospital during the Civil War. Before fleeing his home in 1861, Johnson hid his silver and china on the property. He was able to pay his taxes after the war and return to his home. There are two olive trees on the property that were brought from the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem. This home is featured in the film Forces of Nature .

At this point, you will officially be walking along Bay Street. Some scenes from Forrest Gump were filmed here.

Click here to view walking directions for the second part of this tour (Bay Street) on Google Maps!

601 Bay Street – Lewis Reeves Sams House

The Lewis Reeves Sams House was built in 1852. During the Civil War, it was used as a Union Hospital and as General Rufus Saxton’s headquarters (General Saxton was a Union Army brigadier general who received the Medal of Honor for his role in the defending Harpers Ferry). This home was featured in the film Prince of Tides .

600 Bay Street – Stephen Elliott Park (Cannon Park)

This park is located along the water in downtown Beaufort. There are two cannons that were salvaged from a British Ship named the Vigilant during the American Revolution. After the war, the ship was burned and some cannons were set up to defend Beaufort in future attacks, if needed.

801 Bay Street – Verdier House/Lafayette Building

This home was built in 104 by French Huguenot John Mark Verdier and was supposedly the first home in the city to have a telephone. This home currently houses a museum, which is open to the public for docent-led tours. For more information and current hours, check out the Historic Beaufort Foundation .

713 Craven Street- Beaufort Arsenal/History Museum

The Beaufort Arsenal was built in 1798 to house the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery after the Revolutionary War. It is now the Beaufort History Museum, which you can visit. Find more information and hours on their website .

Pro Tip: You will find free, clean, public restrooms here! My sister traveled to Beaufort recently and was able to pick up a paper map of the city here.

907 Craven Street – Tabernacle Baptist Church

Tabernacle Baptist Church was built in the 1840s as a meeting room/lecture house.  It was transformed into a church in 1863. There is a bust of Robert Smalls on the church grounds, and he was buried here after his death in 1915.

1113 Craven Street – Secession House/Maxcy-Rhett House

The Secession House was built in 1810 for Milton Maxcy and was bought in the 1850s by Edmund Rhett. It is where the first meeting in favor of secession was held. During the Civil War, it was used as a Union hospital and officer quarters.

1211 Bay Street – Tabby Manse

Tabby Manse is best known for its exterior tabby walls and is one of the last few buildings in South Carolina built in this style. With the exception of its updated kitchen, the home hasn’t been changed since it was built around 1786. In the 1930s, Francis Griswold stayed here and wrote A Sea Island Lady . He was inspired by Tabby Manse and described it in the book, where he referred to the home as Marshlands.

1405 Bay Street – Edward Barnwell-Geddes Dowling House

The Edward Barnwell-Geddes Dowling House was used as a Union signal station during the Civil War. Built around 1815, the two brothers who owned it couldn’t stand each other, so they divided it down the middle.

915 Port Republic Street – Cuthbart Scheper House

The Cuthbart Scheper House is now the Cuthbart Scheper Inn , where you can stay during your trip to Beaufort. Located along the water, its beautiful architecture and location make the B&B an excellent lodging location. During the Civil War, the home was used as a bakery for the Union troops.

Bonus Stop : We are almost to the end of the walking tour, with just one more stop. If you have time, considering strolling further down Bay Street and Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, where you’ll find lovely swings along the water.

507 Newcastle Street – St. Helena’s Episcopal Church

The historic St. Helena’s Episcopal Church was established in 1712 and was originally known as the Parish Church of St. Helena. It was originally linked King Henry VIII’s Church of England. During the Civil War, it was used as a Union hospital. Today, it is an active church with regular Sunday services and events.

507 Carteret Street – Chocolate Tree

This brings us the end of our self-guided walking tour of Beaufort, SC! It’s time to head back to your parked car near the Chocolate Tree. Forrest Gump supposedly purchased his chocolates here!

Tip for families: Stop by the Kazoo Factory on your way out of town for a fun tour or to buy a souvenir kazoo from their gift shop. My kids are still playing their high-quality kazoos!

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23 comments, jennifer prince.

Ah! It’s such a beautiful town with quintessential Southern architecture. The drippy Spanish moss and historic homes are gorgeous. I also love that part of Forest Gump was filmed there. How fun! I need to visit as I’m just in Virginia.

Yes, it is truly beautiful! The Spanish moss trees are one of my favorite things about the south. Beaufort would make a perfect getaway from Virginia!

Richard McKenzie

Good article but you didn’t include a map for the walking tour, we are visiting in early December and are excited as we have never been. We love Savannah and Charleston, and St. Augustine.

Hi Richard! Thank you for your feedback. You can now find maps with walking directions in the post. Have a wonderful time in Beaufort! If you love those other cities, then you will surely love the beauty and charm of Beautfort as well. I imagine that Beaufort will be exceptionally beautiful in December.

Tom and Linda Masters

Thank very much Leah, Your self guided was very well enjoyed while I sat on my daughter’s couch. I hope to try it in person if we can with our disabilities and age me 76 Linda 72. or maybe by Horse Carrage Tour. Your tour was very historical reading and enjoyable and informative. thanks again, Leah and God less You and your Family.

I am so glad that you enjoyed this. I hope you and your family makes it to Beaufort soon! It is a lovely city.

Noel Morata

Wow, this is gorgeous, I only did a short tour of Beaufort and need to revisit again and check out all these historic homes and buildings. It is really stunning and would love to do a walking tour that you have showcased like this, thanks for the fun tour.

I’m glad you enjoyed it! I hope you make it back to Beaufort soon. It is a lovely small city.

This self guided walking tour is so intense and complete. All these historical buildings are super interesting . In my opinion it is a great added value to visiting Beaufort. The first African Baptist church looks like a super interesting place to visit. The Stephen Elliot park looks like a place that should not be missed. Amazing tour:-)

Thank you! I am glad you enjoyed this. Yes, the 1st African Baptist Church and Cannon Park are two must-sees, and the city is small enough that it is just a short walk between the two. 🙂

Lovely architecture, history and a walking workout! Great way to see Beaufort. I have been wanting to visit Hilton Head for long and now I am totally inspired by this walking tour. One thing I find in common among many of these buildings is the inset long running balconies. I love that style! It is also interesting that some scenes of Forest Gump were shot there. I am bookmarking your blog and will use it when I make a definite plan to visit Hilton Head. 🙂

I’m so glad you enjoyed this! Yes, the architecture is truly beautiful. Each home is stunning and unique in its own way. It’s the perfect short trip from Hilton Head, so it’s a must-see when do make it there. 🙂

Beaufort seems to be a charming little town with a lot of history. I would love to explore all these beautiful houses and their history. It also seems a very quiet, non-touristy place! Perfect!

Yes! Although we were there during “tourist season” is wasn’t crowded at all for us, especially on a week day. The locals were very friendly as well!

I like visiting historical towns, there is so much to learn from them. I would like to visit Beaufort, the architecture is so beautiful. It is like going back in time, especially that many of the buildings have been built between the 18th-19th century. It’s interesting that you can also take a movie tour around Beaufort, I would like to do that too.

Yes, movie tours are quite popular there! There is a reason so many movies have been filmed here! It is the perfect little historical town, in my opinion. 🙂

Subhashish Roy

We have plans to visit US next summer as we have never been there as yet. South Carolina is in our plans as one of my closest friend stays there. As it is we love self guided walking tours and wouldn’t like to miss this one. History always beckons me and my spouse and hence this walk would be really interesting. Thanks for bringing this into notice. Certainly would now include it in our plans. The Edward Barnwell-Geddes Dowling House would be interesting to visit.

I hope you have a lovely time in the USA! Yes, if you are planning to visit South Carolina, then I would add Beaufort to your list. It is only 1.5 hours from Charleston, which would most certainly make your list. 🙂

Wow! This is amazing. Happy to know that they were able to preserve these old homes. So far, my favorite is the Marshlands. Can’t wait to visit and explore the area. Thank you for the tips. Will take your advice and stop by the Kazoo Factory before going home. 🙂

The Marshlands is definitely a beautiful home, and the Kazoo Factory is a fun stop too! 🙂

First of all, I’m intrigued about the name of the city! I guess the French named it so, it being French word and all! As you recommend, it is indeed a great destination for history buffs like me. I really like self-guided walking tour, coz I can see everything at my own pace. It’s interesting that quite a few of these houses have been featured in movies and all the more intriguing that these are now private residences.

Beaufort is the second oldest city in SC, and it was actually named by the British while it was a colony. 🙂 It is certainly an interesting city!

Supraja Lakshmi N

Wow, what a beautiful and charming town! I loved your self-guided walking tour of Beaufort, SC. You captured the essence of this historic place with your stunning photos and informative descriptions. I can’t wait to visit Beaufort myself and follow your itinerary.

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A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Beaufort, SC

One of the best ways to experience a town is to explore it on foot.  Beaufort, SC is no exception.  Full of beautiful homes and lots of history, Beaufort is a great place for a walking tour.  Listed below is a selection of some of the amazing structures you’ll see in the historic sections of Beaufort. You can check out an interactive map of these properties here .

Edward Barnwell-Geddes Dowling House (1405 Bay St.)

Built in the early 1800s, this house was once divided into two parts by a dividing wall put up by two brothers who couldn’t stand each other.  It was also used as a signal station by the Union army during the Civil War.  Since it has been home to several families including a Broadway actress and a poet (who wrote about ghosts in the house!).

Tabby manse (1211 Bay St.)

Built in 1788 by Thomas Fuller, a wealthy local planter, the exterior walls of this structure are composed of tabby—a combination of shells and limestone—though they have since been covered with stucco.

Secession house (1113 Craven St.)

Also known as the Maxcy Rhett House, this home was built in 1810 as a school for boys.  It was purchased in the 1840s by the brother of US Senator Robert Barnwell Rhett.  The very first meeting in favor of secession took place inside this house and it served as a hospital and officer quarters during the Civil War.  There are even messages written on the walls inside from soldiers and politicians that date back to the 1860s.

Parish Church of St. Helena (505 Church St.)

Originally established in 1712 as a colonial parish of the Church of England, St. Helena is one of the oldest active churches in the United States.  During the Union occupation during the Civil War, the church was converted to a hospital.  A cemetery surrounds the church including graves that date back to 1724.

Cuthbart Scheper House (915 Port Republic St.)

Originally owned by the Cuthbart family, they evacuated when Beaufort was taken over by the Union army and after that the house was used as a bakery for the troops.  After the war was over, the house was purchased by the Schepers and served as a warehouse in the shipping industry.

Tabernacle Baptist Church (907 Craven St)

Originally built in 1811, during the Union occupation of the city, this church became a center for African American religious activities.  It was officially organized as the Tabernacle Baptist Church in 1863.  Robert Smalls is buried in the church cemetery and a memorial dedicated to his memory can be found here.

Beaufort Arsenal/Beaufort History Museum (713 Craven Street)

The Arsenal, that now serves as Beaufort’s History Museum, was originally built in 1798 to house the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery after the Revolutionary War.  The Civil War brought renewed purpose to the building and it was repaired and expanded by local secessionists that patrolled the city monitoring slaves.

Verdier House (801 Bay Street)

Built in 1804 by a wealthy local businessman, John Verdier, prominent in the indigo trade and growing and sale of cotton, the house has been restored to its original grandeur and is open to the public.  The home served as Union headquarters during the Civil War and was also the first house in the city to have a telephone.

Waterfront Park

This park extends along the waterfront in downtown Beaufort and offers a great place to sit and relax.

Stephen Elliott Park (600 Bay St.)

Also called ‘Cannon Park’ this greenspace contains cannons salvaged from a British Navy warship named Vigilant that served in the Revolutionary War.

Lewis Reeve Sams House (601 Bay Street)

Built in 1852 by a wealthy local planter, this house was used as a Union hospital during the Civil War.  After the war, it was reclaimed by the original family and eventually sold to a businessman.  Stories claim the house survived being consumed by the fire of 1907 thanks to the efforts of cotton gin workers who formed a bucket brigade to save the structure.  The house was a featured location in the movie Prince of Tides based off the Pat Conroy novel of the same name.

Joseph Johnson House (411 Craven St.)

Also known as “The Castle,” this magnificent house and its gardens occupy an entire city block.  It was finished in 1861 and was shortly thereafter taken over by the Union army for use as a hospital.  The original owners were able to reacquire the house after the war and many of the trees in the garden were planted at this time, including two olive trees said to come from the Mount of Olives near Jerusalem. 

First African Baptist Church (601 New St.)

In 1865, freed slaves came together to purchase land and build the First African Baptist Church.  Most of the building is original, having only been updated over the years.  Robert Smalls was one of the church’s earliest members.

Robert Smalls House (511 Prince Street)

Born into slavery, Robert Smalls spent the early years of his life serving in this house.  Smalls eventually went on to commandeer a Confederate ship, join the Union Navy, and serve as a member of congress.  He later returned to Beaufort to purchase his former master’s home.

John Archibald Johnson House (804 Pinckney Street)

Built in the 1850s, this home was used as a Union hospital during the Civil War.  It was nearly demolished in 1973 after a chimney collapsed, but was saved by the historic society and eventually remodeled.

Elizabeth Hext House (207 Hancock St.)

Also called “Riverview” due to its location, this small house is one of the oldest in Beaufort…originally built in 1720.

Edgar Fripp House (1 Laurens St)

Originally built in 1853, legend has it that this home was purchased at auction after the Civil War by a Frenchman, who returned it to its original owner and refused any repayment.

The Oaks (100 Laurens St)

Originally built in 1855, this beautiful home right on the water was used as a Union hospital during the army’s occupation of Beaufort.  Thanks to the intervention and generosity of several local businessmen, it was able to be returned to its original owners after the war.

Marshlands (501 Pickney St.)

Completed in 1814, this house was built by a wealthy local businessman and planter, John Verdier, for one of his sons, Dr. James Verdier, who helped pioneer a treatment for yellow fever.  In recent history, the house has been called ‘Marshlands’ after a fictional home in the novel A Sea Island Lady by Francis Griswold.

More houses and history

Beaufort is filled with many more beautiful homes and history.  Check out the Beaufort Online’s History page for lots more information.  Or take a guided tour of the town from one of several different operators …from walking tours to horse drawn carriage tours.

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Step-On Bus Tour Guides

Contact us for step-on bus tours guides, we have two main itineraries, but can be flexible to arrange for a guide to meet your time and itinerary needs:.

1) Parris Island and Parris Island History Museum

2) Visit to the Penn Center and Darrah Hall (National Park Service museum of the new Reconstruction Era National Park) and a Gullah Art Gallery, all on St. Helena Island

Contact us by email at [email protected] or by phone at (843) 838-2747 to discuss putting together an itinerary that meets your group’s needs.