Beaufort | USA South Carolina

Beaufort is an independent city and the seat of Beaufort County, situated on Port Royal Island in the heart of the Sea Islands. It is defined by its massive National Historic Landmark District, its role as the setting for numerous Hollywood films, and its status as a primary center for Gullah-Geechee culture and military operations.

Historical Timeline

Inhabited by the Yamasee people. Founded in 1711, it is the second-oldest city in South Carolina. A critical historical event occurred in 1861 when the city was occupied by Union forces early in the Civil War; because the planters fled and the Union stayed, the city’s antebellum architecture was preserved rather than burned. This led to the Port Royal Experiment, a rehearsal for Reconstruction where formerly enslaved people worked the land and attended schools. The 20th century saw the city become a cinematic icon (setting for Forrest Gump and The Prince of Tides). In the 21st century, it is a focal point for historic preservation and the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park.

Demographics & Population

The population is approximately 13,500. The demographics are White (67%), Black or African American (20%), and Hispanic or Latino (7%). The economy is heavily stabilized by three major military installations: Parris Island (Marine Corps Recruit Depot), MCAS Beaufort, and the Naval Hospital Beaufort.

Urban Layout & Key Districts

Beaufort is characterized by "Point" geography and water views from nearly every street.

The Old Point: The most prestigious historic district, featuring massive antebellum mansions with "tabby" (crushed oyster shell) foundations and deep verandas.

Downtown / Bay Street: The commercial waterfront corridor featuring the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park and independent boutiques.

The Northwest Quadrant: A historic neighborhood traditionally home to the city’s Black artisan and merchant class, now a focus of cultural preservation.

Pigeon Point: A formerly working-class district now popular for its park, boat ramp, and revitalized cottages.

Port Royal: A neighboring independent town that functions as part of the greater Beaufort urban fabric, known for its seafood docks and Sands Beach.

Top City Landmarks

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park: A multi-acre park overlooking the Beaufort River and the Woods Memorial Bridge.

Woods Memorial Bridge: One of the few remaining swing bridges in the state; famous for its appearance in the "run across America" scene in Forrest Gump.

Reconstruction Era National Historical Park: Includes the Old Firehouse and various sites downtown dedicated to the post-Civil War period.

Penn Center: Located on nearby St. Helena Island; one of the first schools for freed slaves and a retreat for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

St. Helena's Episcopal Church: Established in 1712, featuring a historic cemetery and original colonial architecture.

Old Sheldon Church Ruins: Located 25 km north; the brick shell of a church burned during the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.

Transportation Network

Movement is automotive-centric but the historic core is highly walkable. The city is accessed via US-21. Public transit is provided by the Palmetto Breeze. Commercial air service is via Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV), 70 km southwest.

Safety & "Red Zones"

The general safety level is high. Property crime is localized. There are no significant "red zones," though standard awareness is advised in neighborhoods bordering the Boundary Street commercial strip at night. Environmental hazards include hurricane risk (June–November) and tidal flooding.

Digital & Financial Infrastructure

Internet speeds average 400+ Mbps with fiber availability via Hargray and Spectrum. Main mobile carriers are Verizon and AT&T. Card acceptance is universal. ATMs are concentrated on Bay Street and Boundary Street.

Climate & Air Quality

Temperatures range from 4°C to 16°C in winter and 23°C to 32°C in summer. The "Sea Island" climate is extremely humid with frequent afternoon sea breezes. Air quality is pristine.

Culture & Social Norms

The standard tipping percentage is 20%. A "Lowcountry-Formal" greeting is standard. Dress codes are "Coastal-Chic" (seersucker, linen, and sundresses). The city is culturally defined by its Gullah Heritage, its "Marine Corps Town" patriotism, and its identity as the "Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands."

Local Cost Index

1 Espresso: $5.00 (USD)

1 Standard Lunch: $20.00 (USD)

1 Carriage Tour: $30.00–$40.00.

Nearby Day Trips

Hunting Island State Park: (25 km east; featuring a historic lighthouse and the most popular beach in the state).

St. Helena Island: (10 km east; the epicenter of Gullah-Geechee culture and the Gullah Grub restaurant).

Parris Island: (15 km south; visitors can attend Marine Corps graduation ceremonies).

Facts & Legends

Beaufort is the site of the first school for freed slaves in the South. Historically, the city was the "Winter Home" for many wealthy planters who sought to escape the malaria of the inland rice fields. A local legend involves the "Ghost of the Castle," a spectral dwarf named Gauche who reportedly haunts the Johnson-Cunningham House. Another legend concerns the "Land’s End Light," a mysterious glowing orb seen on the dark roads of St. Helena Island, often attributed to a spectral Confederate soldier.