Enjoy Dining, Shopping, Tours, History, & Hospitality In State's Second Oldest City

Jeff Walker, Travel Writer

Often called the 'Queen of the Sea Islands' and steeped in history, antebellum architecture, and Gullah culture, Beaufort, South Carolina's second oldest city (1711) is a pristine city unlike any other in the Palmetto State. With a population less than 15K, travel website LoveExploring.com has deemed it the 'Most Charming Small City in South Carolina'. A well earned accolade.

But don't let its size fool you. Beaufort provides a wide variety of activities, including waterfront strolls, boat tours, fishing, as well as state parks and beaches recognized for their natural beauty. Additionally, downtown Beaufort offers a vibrant arts scene with numerous shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Situated serenely on Port Royal Island (known for its salt marshes), truth is, Beaufort is where visitors come to relax, soak up natural beauty, and experience southern charm on a whole different level. Essentially, Beaufort is where people go to veg out, maybe take a break from electronic devices, and not only enjoy the beauty of God's creation, but bask in authentic southern hospitality.

For many, a healthy dose of good old southern hospitality begins with a stay at Anchorage 1770 on 1103 Bay Street. Owned and operated by Frank and Amy Lesesne, the inn is as historic as the city of Beaufort itself. The surname in Anchorage 1770 indicates the location dates back over 255 years ago. 

Ideally positioned at the corners of Bay and Newcastle streets facing Beaufort's iconic intracoastal waterway, Anchorage 1770 was destined to be an accommodating bastion. Over the past two and a half centuries the mansion style building with three oversized porches has survived wars, fires, and hurricanes. 

In May of 2014 Frank and Amy meticulously began renovating the inn to it's former glory, paying tribute to post Civil War Rear Admiral Lester Beardslee who originally restored the property in the early 1900's as his retirement home, dubbing it 'The Anchorage'. Prior to its current status Anchorage 1770 housed two former restaurants and professional offices, with the Lesesne's opting to incorporate a restaurant with their remodel. More about the Ribaut Social Club below.

Rooms with four post beds, high ceilings, and bay windows providing waterfront and garden views. Their new cottage provides privacy in a romantic setting. Talk about being pampered, Anchorage 1770 offers breakfast in bed, breakfast on the porch, in room massages, assistance with tours, porch swings, complimentary use of beach chairs, badminton, and bocce balls, as well as paddleboard and kayak rentals. 

As their website declares 'think of Anchorage 1770 as your luxurious basecamp' for both relaxation and adventure in Beaufort SC. Coastal Living, Southern Living, and Architectural Digest magazines agree, Anchorage 1770 is beautiful inside and out. To be heavenly Inn-spired and slightly over inn-dulged (both puns intended) be sure to visit https://anchorage1770.com/

If you revel in one of a kind boutiques, art galleries, mom & pop shops, and locally owned restaurants, Beaufort will not disappoint. And staying at Anchorage 1770 allows for gingerly strolls throughout downtown without having to get in your car. Many of the preferred businesses are within a half mile of the inn, including several along Bay Street, which lets you get your daily steps in without even noticing you've been working out. Totally awesome!

For the ladies. Located just a stones throw from the inn Rossignol's (817 Bay St.) features unique gifts, jewelry, handbags, and home accessories. Just down the street at 707 Bay Serendipity carries the latest trends with a boho flair at affordable prices. If you can't find what you're looking for then Cherimie at Sugar Belle (818 Bay) sells todays fashion with sweet southern panache. 

Nancy Hall, the owner of Cabana 22 invites shoppers to come on in to the hippest and happiest place on Bay Street (819). Nancy sells a little of everything including home decor, apparel, stationary, puzzles, and games. Even when it's raining the sun always shines in Nancy's shop. Always bright at https://cabana22.com/

If you're shopping with the little ones and want to give them a treat, I suggest popping in Monkey's Uncle (909 Bay), a fun store carrying toys, books, games, and puzzles for kids of all ages. Nan Burgess Brown Sutton the owner of Lula Burgess welcomes shoppers looking for rare and funky finds in her 'shop for the truly gifted'. Your one stop shop for gifts, souvenirs, and gags. Celebrating 25 years in downtown Beaufort at 917 Bay St. (front door to Old Bay Marketplace) and online at   https://luluburgess.com/

Not done yet, Miss Rachel says come on in to the Beaufort Belle (807 Bay) where they cater to 'all things southern girl'. You'll get lost in all Beaufort Emporium (905 Bay) has to offer, including apparel, original art, home goods, pottery, jewelry, Lowcountry specialties, dog accessories, and curated vintage item. Pop in It's Retail Therapy at 700 Bay St. where they cater to the trendiest clothing and accessories for discerning ladies.

For over 70 years and three generations Modern Jewelers (807 Bay) has been Beaufort's preferred jewelry store, carrying one of kind pieces, estate jewelry, and unique tableware. With over 30 plus shops alone on Bay Street, shoppers could spend the entire day browsing along the famed thoroughfare, searching for the latest fashion or that must take home Beaufort memento. 

Obviously you're not going to spend quality time in Beaufort without getting hungry. Not counting the usual fast food restaurants, greater Beaufort offers up over 100 local eateries catering from fine to casual dining including burgers, pizza, seafood, steak, and barbecue, as well as several Mexican, Asian, Italian, and sports bar themed restaurants. The immediate downtown waterfront area alone lists over two dozen places to enjoy food and beverage.

Without being redundant, if you're staying at Anchorage 1770 than you're likely a connoisseur of upscale dining. Guests at the inn have to look no further than downstairs or the front porch, because Ribaut Social Club (RSC) is where locals and visitors congregate to mingle over cocktails and impeccable regional cuisine. Additional libations are poured on the 3rd and 4th floor porches when weather permits. 

Fresh off extended stays in Maui and Philadelphia, noted chef Scott London admits the bill of fare at RSC will change seasonally, with menus designed around what he finds in local markets. The eclectic menu celebrates the Gullah culture and lowcountry cuisine, as well as a salute to Spanish and Mediterranean dishes, thus paying tribute to early settlers along Port Royal.

While Anchorage 1770 serves breakfast, they are not a traditional B&B, rather they are a boutique inn, solely because unlike neighboring B&Bs, Anchorage 1770 is the only inn located in the historic district with a restaurant serving dinner. Don't forget, a stay at Anchorage 1770 includes their complimentary gourmet southern inspired breakfast. A great way to jump start the day. Scrumptious meals from start to finish! Experience extraordinary cuisine at https://ribautsocialclub.com/

If you're a barbecue fan, and quite frankly who isn't when you're in the south, then most folks in Beaufort gather at Q on Bay. Located at 822 Bay St. Q on Bay is known for their gut-busting creative barbecue. No matter what your favorite meat is, they know how to smoke it. 

Carnivores at Q on Bay are best served by ordering the Barnyard, an ample platter teaming with pulled pork, pulled chicken, ribs, & sliced brisket, as well as two homemade sides. Brought to your table with three signature sauces. Unless you have a voracious appetite the Barnyard easily satisfies two people, especially if you add additional sides. Go full tilt southern and order mac n' cheese, seasoned collard greens, and coleslaw.

Additionally Q on Bay carry wings, sliders, and tacos. Non-meat eaters have a few vegan options. Beer lovers will find a plethora of selections including a few from the Carolinas, and Shellring Jam Sour from local brewery Shellring Ale Works. Their covered patio faces the park and the waterway. Most weekends they offer live music. For a memorable experience visit https://www.qonbay.com/

If you're seeking another fine dining option in the immediate downtown, look no further than Saltus River Grill. For more than two decades they have set the standard for sophisticated culinary experiences in Beaufort, focusing primarily on cutting-edge urban seafood. When not savoring their signature Crab Bisque, Seared Yellowfin Tuna, or Sea Island Shrimp with Stone Ground Grits, seafood lovers can opt for a half dozen raw bar selections, or another nine under the sushi listing. 

Open for dinner only, Saltus River Grill offer up three select steak options including a 14oz NY Strip that can be topped with truffle butter. They carry one of the most extensive wine (domestic & global) lists to accompany any and all their dishes, not to mention signature cocktails. It all unfolds in a tranquil environment complete with a breathtaking waterside view, providing an overall ideal upscale dinner setting with friends and family. Experience where history meets culinary excellence at https://saltusrivergrill.com/

Not to be overshadowed, Breakwater Restaurant & Bar serve up bold eye appealing southern cuisine with an eclectic hint of globally inspired flavors. As their website indicates, Breakwater specialize in plating the best seafood, steaks, and southern delicacies in the Lowcountry, and pairing entrees with signature cocktails, exceptional wines and locally-brewed beers. All in an welcoming atmosphere at 203 Carteret St., just a short walk up from Bay. 

Breakwater are renowned for their Lowcountry She Crab Soup, Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Lamb Meatloaf, and Braised Short Ribs. Their Grilled Swordfish & Hoppin' John, a wonderful medley of sea island red peas, bacon, Carolina gold rice, & mustard greens surrounded by “red eye” gravy, is a local favorite. Real meat lovers will savor their half pound waygu beef Bacon Pimento Cheese Burger. Another dinner only restaurant. Delight in a panorama of southern charm and enchanting cuisine at https://www.breakwatersc.com/

Four additional restaurants that must be considered when spending time in historic downtown Beaufort are Blackstone's Cafe, Old Bull Tavern, Luther's Rare & Well Done, and Hop Dog. Each are noted for varying reasons.

Situated at 205 Scott St. (just off Bay) and open 7:30-2pm Blackstone's Cafe is Beaufort's go to place for breakfast and lunch. While both are epic, perhaps breakfast is where Blackstone's shine. We're talking hearty old school meals including eggs, omelets, pancakes, and French toast. Locals rave about their Corned Beef Hash Brisket, as well as Blackstone's Cajun Shrimp & Grits blended with roasted peppers, onions and Chorizo sausage. A spicy way to kick start your day. 

Even more uplifting than the menu is the way they celebrate visitors, the college spirit, and military veterans. Just check out the banners covering the walls. From the moment you walk in, you become family at Blackstone's Cafe. Word on the street is military veterans of all ages and first responders often gather Wednesday mornings to share stories and reminisce. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, coffee, and desserts upstairs, downstairs, to-go, or on their beautiful pet-friendly patio! They welcome newcomers. Meet, greet, & eat at https://blackstonescafe.com/

Old Bull Tavern at 205 West St. is an intimate modern gastropub offering new European and American comfort food, utilizing as much locally sourced ingredients as possible to create one of kind menu items. Bar snacks, starters, soups, salads, small plates, full entrees, and desserts, OBT has something for everyone. According to their website promise, their goal is 'the perpetual pursuit of balance and harmony between the primal urges of appetite and connection'. 

Among their diverse menu items include Cottage Pie, a British themed thick melange of braised beef, peas, mashed potatoes, and cheddar cheese. Their namesake OBT Burger comes with a nice side of gaufrettes (savory crisp wafer style fries). Locals rave about their Cider-Brined Pork Chop and Seared Salmon entrees. Leave room for OBT's Butterscotch pudding with caramel sea salt or Tiramasu drizzled in hazelnut chocolate sauce. Simply delicious!

Don't let their unassuming exterior deter you. Step inside Old Bull Tavern and let the aroma, the aura, and the atmosphere provide the welcome for a dining experience like no other in Beaufort. Open for dinner 5-9pm Tues-Sun. Discover what national magazines are ecstatic about at https://oldbulltavern.com/

In a building dating back to 1907 that once housed a pharmacy, Luther's Rare & Well Done is a local watering hole that doubles as a sports bar. Luther's touts themselves as the 'best burgers in Beaufort'. I enjoyed their Classic Burger with Swiss and my wife was quite pleased with the BBQ Bacon Cheese Burger. Just for an added kick, order them with their signature sour cream & chive french fries. 

Northerners may want to chow down on Luther's Philly Cheesesteak, Meatball Parmesan sandwich, or their oversized ballpark Salty Pretzel. True southerners might start their meal with Fried Pickles or Macaroni Bites. Enough beers to please everyone in your party, including seven on tap. All go great with Luther's Fried Jumbo Wings. Basically an all American rustic sports bar.

Lovers of frankfurters might relish (pun intended) a visit to Hop Dog. As their name suggests Hop Dog celebrate two things that go together well, craft beers and hotdogs. All their wiener creations begin with an Boar's Head Uncured All Beef Hotdogs on a Top Cut French Brioche Lobster Bun. Awesome. You can build your own or choose from eight cleverly named signature hotdogs such as the Pit Boss, the New Yorkie, or the Dog Father (catch their theme). 

Hop Dog love beer (20 on draft) so much they change their beer list every single week. Want more? They pour cocktails, frose', wine, bubbly, local craft soda. Have kids 12 & under in tow, then order a Pup Meal for them. Four-legged friends welcome. Unleashing 'Craft Brews & Hot Diggity Dogs' at 223 Scott Street and https://hopdogsc.com/

Fans of adult spirits (the potable kind could consider a visit to RLB (aka Rotten Little Bastard) Distillery over at 2139 Boundary Street. Among their award winning spirits include Saint Helena 'Shine, an 80 proof straight up corn whiskey, a gluten-free 90 proof King Tide Vodka, their smooth malted barley Coosa Cut Bourbon with hints of vanilla and banana, and their Special 1569 Rum, aged in new American White Oak toasted and charred barrels. 

Currently distilling eight potent potables, all 100% crafted from local grains and organic molasses. Voted 'Best of South Carolina 2025', RLB offer tasting and distillery tours. Open Tues-Sat. To 'sip & nip' or to 'Get Spoiled Rotten' check out
https://www.rottenlittlebastarddistillery.com/

Taking a segue from food and beverage. While there a few hidden beach spots locals assemble on, nine out of ten visitors choose Hunting Island Beach, named One of America’s Top Ten Beaches by TripAdvisor, and surprisingly South Carolina's most popular state park. Covering some 5000 acres Hunting Island resembles a tropical paradise, with palmettos, pine, and moss-draped oak trees surrounding miles of hiking trails. 

Enjoy five miles of pristine white sandy beach, a saltwater lagoon, and stunning views from atop the lighthouse on Hunting Island. Their pier is ideal for fishing, crabbing, and dolphin watching. For more on this hidden SC gem visit https://portroyalsoundfoundation.org/

Beaufort host several major festivals including the Beaufort Water Festival, a two-week (mid July) event celebrating celebrating local traditions of water, sports, and entertainment. The annual Shrimp Festival, observes the local industry and takes place the first weekend in October.

Usually held in February, the Beaufort Film Festival will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2026. In partnership with Film Freeway, the annual six day event pays tribute to the art of filmmaking, including feature films, shorts, documentaries, and animated movies, with several actors, directors, and producers taking part. https://www.beaufortfilmfestival.com/

Movies buffs might be interested to discover a host of major blockbuster films have been shot in around Beaufort, including several novels by long-time resident Pat Conroy (The Big Chill, The Prince of Tides, & The Great Santini). Additionally 'Forrest Gump', 'Something To Talk About', and 'G.I. Jane' were filmed in Beaufort. Maybe come across locations where Glenn Close, Julia Roberts, Tom Hanks, Dennis Quaid, Demi Moore, Robert Duvall and others hung out when in Beaufort.

The Historic Beaufort Foundation host an annual Fall Festival of Houses & Gardens. The October event allows visitors and locals a rare glimpse into homes around the historic district of downtown Beaufort, providing an up close look at manicured gardens and architecture of yesteryear. For a full calendar of events visit https://historicbeaufort.org/event/fall-festival-of-houses-gardens-2025/

Less than 15 minutes (roughly 8 miles) from downtown is the famed Penn Center, formerly the Penn School, an African-American cultural and educational center on Saint Helena Island. Founded by Quakers and Unitarian missionaries from Pennsylvania in 1862, the school was the first founded in the south specifically for the education of African-Americans. 

The Penn School provided critical educational facilities to Gullah slaves freed after plantation owners fled the island, and continues to fulfill an educational mission. With the school having strong ties to both the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement, in 1974 the campus was designated a National Historic Landmark District. Historians and educators will thoroughly enjoy the Penn School. To be fully informed visit https://www.penncenter.com/

There are two ways to visualize and capture the soul of historic Beaufort. You can take a charter boat tour along the intracoastal waterway, or one of several golf cart tours crisscrossing the downtown district. Water excursions include fishing charters, sunset cruises, and dolphin tours. You can enjoy any of the three including an A.C.E. Basin & Monkey Island Tour when you journey with Beaufort Dolphin Adventures. 

Owned and operated by Capt. Rob Alexander, he along with three additional boat captains love to share their favorite things about the lowcountry of SC, dolphin sightings, sandbar visits, sunsets, and time out on the water! Whether you're booking them for a dolphin tour, a fishing charter, or a memorable sunset cruise, Beaufort Dolphin Tours are affordable, knowledgeable, and extremely friendly.

Their Beaufortonian is a super clean Coast Guard approved C Hawk 25 big enough to carry 14 passengers. You can book private tours and meet new friends on one of their excursions. All their boats are new and equipped. Maybe take the kids on a Beachcombing & Shark Teeth Hunting tour. 'Come cruise with them' at https://www.beaufortdolphinadventures.com/

Beaufort Tours offers both golf and walking tours, with the golf tour the most preferred. This one hour tour that leaves several times a day from the marina covers Beaufort’s historic district and gives you a chance to learn more about the city and its rich history. You'll discover Beaufort's cinematic connection including a healthy dose of all things Forrest Gump. Discover where Julia Roberts and Barbra Streisand stayed when filming in Beaufort. 

But more so than Beaufort's link to Hollywood, a golf cart tour provides history buffs information on Harriett Tubman, an American abolitionist and social activist who assisted freeman during the Civil War. You'll learn more about Robert Smalls, an African-American republican politician who was born into slavery in Beaufort, and later in life using clever tactics freed himself and others during the Civil War, helping persuade President Lincoln to accept African-American soldiers into the Union Army. Both have dedication monuments along Craven St. Awesome history lessons indeed!

The golf tour includes info on the Rhett family, a prominent and influential family in Beaufort, South Carolina, known for their wealth, political involvement, and their role as planters during the Antebellum period. Have you heard about the 'Great Fire of Beaufort' (1907) and how much of the city was destroyed? Find out more on a tour. You'd be fortunate to have Jen as your tour guide, because she's a not only personable, but a Beaufort native. Uncover Beaufort's hidden gems at https://beauforttoursllc.com/

Although Beaufort is kid friendly and a great place to raise families, aside from several of the festivals, vacationing in downtown Beaufort somewhat caters more to couples of all ages. If you're a history buff, a foodie, love to shop until you drop, or just enjoy waterfront strolls alongside tranquil locales, then Beaufort, SC has a lot to offer.

Beaufort is where husbands and wives go to enjoy quality time, or adult friends meet to reconnect. You can stroll up and down Bay Street, pop in several antique galleries, shop at a variety of locally owned boutiques, dine at an assortment of restaurants (several on the waterfront), or simply just enjoy peaceful views at waterfront park.

Aside from a few of the annual festivals, it's hard to imagine spending a whole week in Beaufort unless you want to soak up all the rich history and spend more than a day at Hunting Island Beach. However, Beaufort is the ideal long weekend getaway. And if it's your first time, then do your best to stay in the historic district. There are a host of bed and breakfast locations scattered along Bay which further allow visitors to bask in the Beaufort's unique character while being within walking distance to the heartbeat of the city. Consider Anchorage 1770. 

For anything and everything to do, taste, touch, see, and experience in historic Beaufort, SC drop in Visit Beaufort SC at 713 Craven St. near the corner of Carteret. Their office sits next door to Beaufort's famed Arsenal (circa 1798), a modern day museum reflecting the city's military heritage, and the growth of Beaufort during the post Civil War era. Be sure to browse their gift shop. Explore your inner coastal at https://www.beaufortsc.org/

Parting shots:

Don't leave Beaufort SC without dropping in Hemingway's, a hole in the wall bar and bistro located at 920 Bay St. Honestly you might miss it, as it's 'A nice place to be if you can find it'. The owners describe it as a local subterranean hangout simply because it's an underground basement beneath the Thomas Law Building. Grab a cold brew or a strong drink alongside atypical bar munchies. Hemingway's is truly a Beaufort institution. Seek at https://www.hemingways.org/Hemingways2/

Out in town early and getting hungry, consider making your way to Rain-N-Bagels at 221 Scott St. They specialize in fresh, made-from-scratch NYC style bagels, cream cheeses, and a variety of specialty bagel sandwiches, as well as salads and baked goods. You can wash it all down with coffee, espresso drinks, and invigorating smoothies. Open 6:30am weekdays and 7am Sat & Sun.

Located roughly 35 minutes from downtown Beaufort, Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort is it's own family friendly vacation destination. Fripp Island offer a wide spectrum of activities catering to varying tastes. From two award winning golf courses and action packed pickleball to pristine white sandy beaches and guided wildlife tours there's something for everyone on Fripp. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned rider, Fripp Island offer leisurely horseback rides along scenic trails. Or maybe just rent or bring bike. 

Hungry? Fripp Island host 10 different ways to eat including casual eateries, fine dining, markets, and delis, as well as beach and pool side cabanas. No need to leave the island, Fripp provide church services as well. Ideal for honeymooners, family re-unions, or group get togethers. Fripp Island is the total getaway destination, while still providing easy access to historic downtown Beaufort. Discover more at possibilities at https://www.frippislandresort.com/