Beaufort South Carolina

Beaufort was discovered by the Spanish in 1514, and later chartered by the British in 1711. It is the home to many historic forts, including Spanish, French, Colonial, and Civil War forts. If you take a leisurely trip through the historic area on one of the horse-drawn carriages, you will be taken back in time to the first days of our nations history. The Beaufort Historic District is one of only three National Historic Landmark Districts in the state of South Carolina.

Beaufort was a very wealthy town before the Civil War, blessed by the trade created by the nearby indigo, Sea Island Cotton, and rice plantations.

Beaufort boasts a feast of special events each year to entertain the many visitors to this acclaimed town. The Beaufort Kaleidoscope: Film, Food & Fine Art brings excitement and joy to March each year. The Soft Shell Crab Fest happens every April, and A Taste of Beaufort will challenge your taste buds in early May. The historic Gullah Festival is celebrated during the Memorial Day weekend at the end of May. After more than50 years, the annual Water Festival is still a highlight of July in the historic Beaufort area. The famous Beaufort Shrimp Festival happens every October. The first weekend in December kicks off the winter holiday season with the Christmas Parade, Light Up the Night Boat Parade and Night on the Town, all produced by Main Street USA in historic downtown Beaufort.