Find Your Inner Coastal. Tucked into winding, historic streets framed by natural foliage and centuries-old, moss-draped live oak trees, Beaufort is more than a hidden Lowcountry gem—it's a transformative destination that has charmed visitors since 1512. Breathe in the salt air. Breathe out, transformed.
Below are our recommendations on food and activities in Beaufort, but it's certainly not a comprehensive list! Beaufort's website is easy to navigate, and we encourage you to check it out as you plan your visit to the Lowcountry. Plan Your Visit to Beaufort and Port Royal, South Carolina | Visit Beaufort
Breakfast: Blackstone's Café (205 Scott St, Beaufort, SC 29902) | Rain -N- Bagels (221 Scott St, Beaufort, SC 29902) | Lowcountry Produce Market & Café (302 Carteret St, Beaufort, SC 29902) | Red Rooster Café (2045 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29902) | Urban Brew + Co. (2139 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29902)
Lunch: Aalvin Ord's (1415 Ribaut Road, Port Royal, S. C. 29935) - Walter's all-time favorite lunch spot. Walter recommends ordering a medium of The Salvation, The North of Cuba, or Roast Beef all the way on French. Closed on Sunday! | Shrimp Shack (1929 Sea Island Pkwy, Saint Helena Island, SC 29920) If you're heading out to Hunting Island, you have to stop in for a shrimp burger at this family-owned seafood spot on St. Helena Island. | Any of the breakfast recommendations above serve a great lunch |
Dinner:
Fishcamp on 11th Street is a vibrant, nautical-themed seafood destination in Port Royal offering a relaxed waterfront experience. Set directly on the historic shrimp docks, it provides a laid-back and authentic coastal atmosphere where guests can enjoy sweeping views of the water, passing shrimp boats, and frequent dolphin sightings.
Located in historic downtown Beaufort, Hearth is a vibrant restaurant where you can enjoy inventive, eclectic wood-fired pizza served along with hearty Italian dishes, craft cocktails, beer & wine in a warm and cozy atmosphere.
Roadhouse Ribs is a family-owned barbecue destination in Port Royal that blends the diverse BBQ traditions of Carolina, Texas, Memphis, and Kansas City styles. Tucked away under oak trees in Port Royal, this spot is known for its "lowcountry-meets-upscale" atmosphere, featuring classy decor, a stylish full-service bar, and wall-sized wine racks.
⚓ Quick Guide to Beaufort, SC
1. Historic & Cultural Sites
Carriage Tours: Take a horse-drawn tour through to see antebellum mansions, historic churches, and movie filming sites.
Penn Center: Explore Gullah-Geechee history on St. Helena Island.
2. Outdoor Adventure
Hunting Island State Park: Most popular state park in South Carolina. Explore this beautiful sea island's beach and forest.
3. Relaxation & Local Vibe
Downtown Beaufort: Explore Waterfront Park and meander Bay Street to shop boutiques, art galleries, and other local shops.
The Sands in Port Royal: Hunt for shark teeth on the beach and walk the boardwalk.