Top 10 Things To Do In America’s Happiest Coastal Escape + 5 Bonus Ideas For A Perfect Day
Tucked along the South Carolina coast, this charming seaside town invites you to slow down and enjoy life at a gentler pace. With shady oak-lined streets, scenic waterfront views, and a friendly downtown filled with local shops and cafés, it’s the kind of place that feels like home—even on your first visit.
Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, looking for a quiet trail to wander, or just want to sit by the water and watch the world go by, this coastal escape offers the perfect mix of comfort, charm, and low-key adventure.
1. Stroll The Historic Downtown
Cobblestone streets and centuries-old oak trees create a magical atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Beaufort’s downtown district dates back to the 1700s, offering glimpses into America’s colonial past through its well-preserved architecture.
Local shopkeepers welcome visitors with genuine Southern hospitality, making window shopping an experience in itself.
2. Relax On The Beachfront Promenade
Wooden boardwalks stretch alongside crystal-clear waters, creating the perfect path for afternoon wanderers. This beloved coastal walkway in Beaufort offers unobstructed views of sailboats bobbing on the horizon.
Benches positioned at scenic intervals invite visitors to sit and soak in the peaceful atmosphere without ever setting foot in the sand.
3. Visit Local Art Galleries And Studios
Creative energy flows through colorful spaces where painters and sculptors showcase coastal-inspired masterpieces. Beaufort’s thriving arts scene reflects the natural beauty surrounding this waterfront community.
Many artists work in open studios, allowing visitors to witness the creative process firsthand and even chat about techniques or inspiration behind favorite pieces.
4. Explore Nearby Nature Trails Or Marsh Walks
Elevated wooden pathways wind through golden marshlands teeming with wildlife. These serene boardwalks in Beaufort offer safe passage through delicate ecosystems where herons stalk their prey and fiddler crabs scuttle across mud flats.
Morning visits often reward nature lovers with glimpses of dolphins playing in adjacent waterways.
5. Grab Coffee At A Beloved Local Café
Aromatic brews and freshly baked pastries greet early risers seeking their morning caffeine fix. These charming Beaufort cafés double as community gathering spots where locals share news and visitors get insider tips.
Window seats offer prime people-watching opportunities while you plan the day’s adventures over a steaming cup of locally roasted coffee.
6. Browse The Farmers Market
Colorful produce stands burst with seasonal fruits and vegetables harvested just hours earlier. The Beaufort farmers market transforms ordinary shopping into a sensory adventure with fragrant herbs, artisanal cheeses, and homemade preserves.
Friendly vendors eagerly share cooking tips and family recipes, making this weekly gathering a must-visit for food lovers.
7. Dine At A Waterfront Seafood Restaurant
Fresh catches arrive daily at dockside eateries where chefs transform local seafood into memorable meals. Beaufort’s waterfront restaurants pair delicious food with million-dollar views of boats gliding past as the sun sets.
Open-air seating lets diners feel the gentle sea breeze while savoring shrimp caught that very morning in nearby waters.
8. Take A Sunset Cruise Or Dolphin Tour
Golden light dances across gentle waves as tour boats glide through protected waterways. These popular Beaufort excursions combine wildlife watching with fascinating local history narrated by knowledgeable captains.
Bottlenose dolphins often playfully swim alongside boats, delighting passengers of all ages who scramble for photos of their sleek fins breaking the water’s surface.
9. Rent Bikes And Explore The Coast
Gentle sea breezes cool sun-warmed skin as bicycle wheels spin along scenic coastal paths. Renting bikes in Beaufort opens up hidden corners of this charming town that might otherwise be missed.
Cruiser-style bicycles with wide seats and upright handlebars make for comfortable riding even for those who haven’t pedaled in years.
10. Visit A Local Museum Or Maritime Exhibit
Fascinating artifacts and interactive displays bring centuries of coastal heritage to life. Beaufort’s museums showcase everything from Native American settlements to Revolutionary War battles and beyond.
Maritime exhibits feature salvaged shipwreck treasures and detailed models of historic vessels that once plied these waters. Knowledgeable docents share captivating stories that textbooks never mention.
11. Catch Sunrise At The Pier
Pastel hues paint the morning sky as fishing boats head out for the day’s catch. Early risers at Beaufort’s pier are rewarded with breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
Local photographers often gather here, tripods positioned to capture the perfect moment when golden light first touches the water’s surface.
12. Enjoy Live Music At A Beach Bar
Acoustic guitars and soulful voices provide the perfect soundtrack for balmy evenings under the stars. These casual Beaufort establishments serve up cold drinks alongside hot music, creating an irresistible atmosphere for relaxation.
Sand-between-your-toes venues attract both locals and visitors, making it easy to strike up conversations and maybe even dance with new friends.
13. Try A Paddleboarding Or Kayaking Session
Gliding across glassy waters offers a unique perspective of coastal landscapes inaccessible by land. First-timers in Beaufort quickly master the basics with help from patient instructors who know these waters intimately.
Protected coves provide ideal conditions for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can venture into open water for challenging workouts with spectacular views.
14. Treat Yourself To A Spa Hour Or Massage
Skilled hands work magic on travel-weary muscles in tranquil spaces scented with essential oils. Beaufort’s day spas specialize in ocean-inspired treatments using seaweed extracts and local ingredients.
Even short sessions provide remarkable rejuvenation, preparing you for more coastal adventures. Many spas offer outdoor treatment options with gentle ocean sounds as your natural soundtrack.
15. Take A Scenic Drive Along The Coast
Winding roads reveal postcard-worthy vistas around every curve, perfect for spontaneous photo stops. This leisurely activity showcases Beaufort’s diverse landscapes, from maritime forests to expansive salt marshes.
Local radio stations provide the perfect soundtrack as you cruise past historic plantations, hidden beaches, and charming roadside stands selling fresh seafood caught hours earlier.