Summertime: where the days feel shorter, the nights feel longer, sun kissed skin is everywhere you go and the livin’ just feels easier. Here in Beaufort we love to see the historic downtown district fill with visitors and feel the hot salty air breeze through the Spanish moss lined streets.
We also love to swap our coffee for refreshing sweet tea floats and our alarm clocks for the sunrise that lights up the inner coastal waters. Whether visiting for a much-needed vacation or a spontaneous weekend getaway—here are our favorite summertime activities in Beaufort – perfect for any sea lad looking for the unexpected.
Spend The Day On an Instagram-Worthy Beach
Haven’t been kissed by the sun yet? Kick back and relax at one of the state’s best unspoiled beaches. Whether you choose Hunting Island, Fripp or Harbor Island, there’s plenty of beach for everyone. Can’t sit still for more than five minutes? Walk through Hunting Island’s stunning bones park or climb up all 167 stairs to the very top of the state’s only publicly accessible lighthouse.
Visit the 63rd Annual Water Festival
A 10-day event full of music, food, crafts, art, special events and more, the Beaufort Water Festival is held along the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Parks that overlooks the glistening Beaufort River, mystical inner coastal waters and marsh islands. Hit up the fireworks show that kicks off the festival or sip on a refreshment while listening to live music starting July 13 through July 22.
Catch a Movie at The Hwy 21 Drive-In
The only drive-in movie theatre in the Lowcountry, drive on over, grab a few snacks, park your car and watch not one, but two “out in theatre” movies for just seven dollars. Pro tip: bring a blanket, pillows, outdoor chairs and anything else to make you feel like you’re watching the latest movies from the comfort of your couch.
Go Fishing or Embark on a Boat Tour
From sight casting to tailing reds to chasing giant cobia or casting into schools of jacks, Spanish mackerel and more—embark on one of the many fishing charter’s Beaufort and the Sea Islands has to offer. With hundreds of square miles of tide water and grassy marshes to explore, the possibilities are endless. Check out Bay Street Outfitters’ Instagram for inspiration.
Not really into fishing but still want to go out on the water? Go on an adventure with Captain Dick’s river tours and relax in the pleasant bay breeze as a USCG licensed captain steers you through the irresistible Lowcountry salt water. Catch a view of dolphins swimming and end your day with a beautiful sunset.
Stroll Through History
With hundreds of years of history—Beaufort and the Sea Islands serve as a living history today, and is even home to the Reconstruction Era National Monument thanks to a 2017 proclamation of former president Obama. Learn all about it through a horse-driven carriage or get some steps in by taking a walking tour. And, make a stop at St. Helena’s Penn Center, where MLK Jr. drafted his, “I have a dream,” speech. Whether you decide to go on foot, carriage or water, we are confident you’ll be delightfully surprised.
Embrace the warm weather, take a break from reality and cheers to happiness and fun summer nights! Don’t forget to share your summer pictures by using #luvBFT!
