It’s not surprising that Beaufort is consistently named in best small-town lists, including a Lugless best small-town vacation list, #1 on Southern Living’s "South’s Best Small Towns in 2022" list, and the "Best Small Town for Adventure" by USA Today. Let’s explore just why Beaufort is viewed as one of the best small-town vacations in America.

Situated on Port Royal Island, you will find beautiful water views in Beaufort. Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park overlooks the Beaufort River and is a good place to take in the scenery, have a picnic lunch, or just sit and relax for awhile.

As the second oldest town in the state, Beaufort is rich in history, which you can experience on a 50-55 minute, fully-narrated, horse-drawn carriage tour. Slip back into Beaufort’s elegant past as your carriage meanders under the moss-covered Live Oaks, past breathtaking Antebellum homes, historic churches, movie sites, and more!

Sea Island Carriage Company runs tours every other day.

Delve into the long and fascinating legacy of the United States Marine Corps as well as the history of the Port Royal region at the Parris Island Museum. Thousands of artifacts, images, and other materials illustrate varying stories within exhibit galleries from Native Americans to modern Marines.

Grilled garden Greek salad with perfectly seasoned wild-caught shrimp from Lady's Island Dockside makes an excellent lunch.

Now for some shopping ... stop by Beaufort Belle Co. on Bay Street for all things Southern Belle!

At Tidal Creek Haven on Carteret Street, you'll find all kinds of treasures for your home and garden, including some unique, one-of-a-kind driftwood and hardwood furniture pieces.

The Antique Mall on Sea Island Parkway is a must for those who love searching for amazing antique deals and finds.

Nature lovers will want to visit the Spanish Moss Trail, a Beaufort hidden gem that was named among the Top 10 Urban Walking Trails in the country in Outside Magazine – in the company of trails in New York City, Washington D.C., San Francisco, and Chicago! This trail connects Beaufort with the Town of Port Royal and has approximately 10 miles developed out of the 14 that had been granted for use as a recreational trail.

Cast iron New York strip with shiitake and caramelized shallot ragout, roasted burgundy and purple sweet potatoes, sautéed Tuten Farm vegetables, and glace de veau for dinner? Yes, please!!

Head to The Ribaut Social Club at Anchorage 1770, a historic waterfront boutique inn, for this or other delicious dishes to savor. The restaurant aims to capture the incorrigible spirit and social atmosphere of the original Ribaut Club, established at the Anchorage in 1891. In its heyday, the Club hosted performances, grand parties, dances, and even gambling. Today's guests enjoy dinner with unrivaled water views or a sophisticated brunch surrounded by 300 years of Beaufort history. Be sure to check the restaurant's page on the Anchorage 1770 website to confirm hours of operation.

You may wish to return to the waterfront park to end the day with a beautiful sunset.

Get a good night's sleep at the Rhett House Inn, a wonderful, multi-award-winning bed and breakfast that's the perfect choice for an overnight stay in Beaufort. Built circa 1820, it's centrally located in the historic district for convenient access to the downtown area.

Breakfast on the veranda in the morning is a must, cooked by Chef Beverly, who was featured in National Geographic Traveler! Known for her blueberry pancakes and southern grits (her secret recipe), it's the perfect way to start your day before heading home or exploring more of Beaufort. The stone-ground grits are ahh...mazing, some of the best we've ever had!

The attractions we have highlighted are just a taste of all that Beaufort offers. There are lots of other fun things to do and see in Beaufort and the surrounding area, including visiting the Highway 21 Drive-In Theater for a movie, the Edgar Allen Poe-themed bookstore, touring one or more of the Antebellum mansions in Beaufort, and more!

Have you ever visited Beaufort before? What did you enjoy most about Beaufort? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

If you love visiting small towns, you’re definitely going to want to see our list of 12 other charming small towns in South Carolina to explore!