Things To Do In Beaufort, South Carolina, 5 day travel itinerary, brief history, weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall – Bike Paths, Campsites

April 11, 2024

Beaufort, South Carolina: A Lowcountry Gem

Beaufort, South Carolina, is a charming city steeped in Southern hospitality and rich history. Located on the coast between Savannah, Georgia and Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Beaufort offers beautiful scenery, delicious seafood, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Here’s a glimpse into what Beaufort has to offer visitors:

Brief History

Beaufort is one of the oldest cities in South Carolina, founded in 1711. During the Civil War, it served as a center for Confederate blockade runners. Beaufort has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by African American Gullah traditions, French Huguenots, and English colonists.

Weather by Season

Beaufort enjoys a humid subtropical climate with hot, muggy summers and mild winters. Here’s a basic breakdown of what to expect:

Winter (December – February): Average highs in the low 60s F (around 16°C), lows in the mid-40s F (around 7°C). Pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Spring (March – May): Average highs in the mid-70s F (around 24°C), lows in the upper 50s F (around 14°C). Increasing humidity and occasional rain showers.
Summer (June – August): Average highs in the upper 80s F (around 31°C), with high humidity and frequent rain showers. Hottest time to visit.
Fall (September – November): Average highs in the low 80s F (around 27°C), lows in the upper 60s F (around 20°C). Less humidity and comfortable temperatures.

5-Day Itinerary

Beaufort offers a variety of activities for all interests. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 5-day trip:

Day 1: Immerse yourself in Beaufort’s rich history with a walk through the historic district. Admire the beautiful antebellum architecture, like the ones found on Church Street.

In the afternoon, take a guided tour of The Mackey House, a historic plantation home that offers a glimpse into the lives of wealthy planters before the Civil War.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Beaufort’s many waterfront restaurants, savoring fresh local seafood.

Day 2: Explore the natural beauty of Hunting Island State Park. Hike or bike along the trails, relax on the pristine beach, or go swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.

In the afternoon, take a boat tour through the Lowcountry waterways and observe the abundant wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and ospreys.

Day 3: Step back in time at Parris Island Museum, which tells the story of the United States Marine Corps Recruit Depot located in Beaufort.

In the afternoon, visit the Beaufort National Cemetery, the final resting place for many Civil War soldiers.

In the evening, catch a live performance at the Arts Center of Beaufort or enjoy a relaxing evening cruise on the Beaufort River.

Day 4: Spend the day kayaking or paddleboarding through the McKissick Creek water trails, surrounded by beautiful marsh landscapes.

In the afternoon, visit The Kazoo Factory, a unique museum dedicated to the history of the kazoo, a musical instrument invented in Beaufort.

Day 5: Browse the shops at The Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, where you can find locally-made crafts, souvenirs, and fresh seafood.

In the afternoon, visit Beaufort’s Art Galleries and Hunting Island Art Guild to discover the works of talented local artists.

Bike Paths

Beaufort offers a network of scenic bike paths that are perfect for exploring the city and surrounding areas. Here are some popular options:

Spanish Moss Trail: This scenic 10-mile paved trail winds through beautiful tree-lined roads and residential neighborhoods.
Beaufort Waterfront Trail: This 2-mile paved trail offers stunning views of the Beaufort River and is perfect for a leisurely ride.
Pickney Island Loop: This short but scenic loop trail takes