Beaufort, South Carolina

They say the Beaufort River’s high phosphate levels account for the way the river shimmers majestically, especially at dawn and dusk. It could be the silvery fish glittering below, or the sun dancing on the water. Whatever it is, the shimmering, slightly swampy river makes a beautiful backdrop to this architecturally splendid town in the heart of coastal South Carolina. While its size and offerings pale in comparison to nearby Charleston and Savannah, Beaufort is a great place to spend a few days. Inspiration to resident author Pat Conroy, Beaufort embraces all that the “Lowcountry” has to offer, including splendid antebellum architecture, ...

They say the Beaufort River’s high phosphate levels account for the way the river shimmers majestically, especially at dawn and dusk. It could be the silvery fish glittering below, or the sun dancing on the water. Whatever it is, the shimmering, slightly swampy river makes a beautiful backdrop to this architecturally splendid town in the heart of coastal South Carolina. While its size and offerings pale in comparison to nearby Charleston and Savannah, Beaufort is a great place to spend a few days. Inspiration to resident author Pat Conroy, Beaufort embraces all that the “Lowcountry” has to offer, including splendid antebellum architecture, slow sultry days and a deep attachment to the water. Boat tours venture on fishing trips or exploration of nearby ACE Basin – a network of preserved rivers and estuaries. During late May’s Gullah Festival, the town honors its black Gullah culture, with music derived from West African folk tales, history tours and delicious Lowcountry cooking.

About the Expert

Debra Landau has written eight Lonely Planet guidebooks, including books on the USA, Caribbean, and the South.