It's no surprise that the Lowcountry is one of the best-kept secrets of the east coast! For those of us who live here (as well as those who visit often), we understand the beauty and tranquility that the area has to offer. Here are some of the most Instagrammed / photographed landmarks of the area which we have dubbed, the 7 Wonders of the Lowcountry!

 

1.HISTORIC HOMES / DOWNTOWN BEAUFORT

 historic downtown

Historic Downtown Beaufort is a great place to site see! Our historic homes offer distinguished beauty unlike any other. A walking tour through the streets of downtown is a must and you can even check out some of the more "famous" movie homes in the area! Pictured is the home used in the two Hollywood Movies (The Great Santini and Price of Tides). Home Pictured / 601 Bay St. Beaufort SC

 

2. WOODS MEMORIAL BRIDGE

WOODS MEMORIAL BRIDGE

The bridge was opened on December 17, 1959, and was named in memory of Richard V. Woods (1935–1969), who was a South Carolina Highway Patrol officer killed in the line of duty. Hang out downtown for a bit to watch the magical opening of the bridge as boats file through or if you're up to it, you can park at the Marina Park and walk across the bridge to Lady's Island (1/4 mile in length)! This bridge was also featured in the movie Forrest Gump! 197 Carteret St, Beaufort SC

 

3. OBSERVATION TOWER & BOARDWALK 

Observation Deck

Just a few miles from downtown Beaufort lies the small town of Port Royal. Not only do they offer a beach that you're able to drive on, they have a fantastic boardwalk that leads to a four-story Observation Deck! Once perched up top, you can see for miles. It's an especially great place to catch a clear view of Marine Recruit Depot Parris Island! 50 Sands Beach Rd, Port Royal SC

 

4. HUNTING ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE

Hunting Island lighthouse

The historic Hunting Island lighthouse was originally constructed in 1859 and is the only lighthouse in the state of South Carolina that is open to the public! You can see the lighthouse while relaxing on the beach or see it up close! You can also venture up the 167 step spiral staircase, where you truly can get a bird's eye view of the Atlantic Ocean, the park, and the surrounding marshes from about 132 feet above the ground. Hunting Island State Park, N Beach Rd, Saint Helena Island, SC

 

5. OLD SHELDON CHURCH RUINS

Old Sheldon Church

Located in the town of Yemassee, just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Beaufort lies the Old Sheldon Church Ruins. Prince William's Parish Church, erected 1745-55, was once one of the most impressive churches in the Province. During the Revolution, the Patriots are believed to have stored gunpowder in it. In 1779, when the British General Augustine Prevost invaded the Lowcountry, the church was burned by a detachment which according to tradition, was commanded by the flamboyant local Tory, Andrew Deveaux. Rebuilt in 1826, the church was again burned by Sherman's men in 1865 leaving behind the ruins much like we still see them today. This is truly a place of historic beauty at its finest. 919 Old Sheldon Church Rd, Yemassee, SC

 

6. AVENUE OF OAKS

Avenue of Oaks

St.Helena Island is home to a small dirt road that's draped in Oak Trees which has aptly been titled "The Avenue of Oaks" by locals. The road leads you to the Coffin Point Plantation, which is a historic plantation that was once a prosperous Sea Island plantation. Neary is the Camelot Farms Equestrian Center where you can ride horses under the oaks and throughout the entire point! 78 Avenue of Oaks, Saint Helena Island, SC

 

7. CHAPEL OF EASE

chapel of ease

The Anglican chapel was constructed in 1740 by planters on Saint Helena Island as a chapel of ease for parishioners who had difficulty traveling to worship at the main parish church in downtown Beaufort, South Carolina. The church was burnt in 1886 by a forest fire leaving behind the "haunted" ruins which remain today. 17 Lands End Rd, Saint Helena Island, SC