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14 Fun Free Things to do in Beaufort SC

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Beaufort SC is known for its delightful cuisine and historic architecture, as well as its rich African American heritage. There are a multitude of sights to see and things to do here, and even better, many of them are free! Here are 14 free things to do in Beaufort SC that are included in our Free things to do in every state.

Beaufort SC is known for its delightful cuisine and historic design, also a rich African American heritage. Here are 14 free things to do in Beaufort SC. #southcarolina #beaufort #freethingstodo #thingstodo #southcarolinatravel #ourroaminghearts | South Carolina Travel | Frugal Travel | Free things to do | Beaufort South Carolina |

Travel Tips

With rentals available all over the world, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay. Airbnb has something for everyone. Plus, with prices that are often much cheaper than traditional hotels, you’ll be able to stretch your vacation budget even further.

If you can not find an Airbnb that fits your needs a second option is VRBO. Find an amazing vacation home for your family.

Make sure to check out our travel deals page for any deals or sales on your next trip no matter where it is!

This beautiful city can be found on Port Royal Island, on South Carolina’s Atlantic coast. There is so much history in Beaufort and even just walking around town is beautiful with the old trees and architecture. 

14 Fun Free Things to do in Beaufort SC

While traveling be sure you bring change so you can take advantage of any pressed penny machines you come across. These make great souvenirs. 

The Point Neighborhood Put on your walking shoes and stretch your legs out in the Point neighborhood. In early 1700 the area actually used to be a shipyard, however, these days you can admire gorgeous houses on your stroll.

The Edgar Fripp house, The Castle, and B.B. Sams House are just some of the magnificent homes you will pass as you travel under Spanish moss-draped oak trees.

Parris Island MuseumAdmission to the Parris Island Museum is free! Here you can explore the history of the Port Royal region, and even get a glimpse into the Marine Corps legacy.

The exhibits are home to amazing artifacts dating back to the turn of the nineteenth century, as well as current artifacts. It is the perfect place to spend a rainy day when you cannot be a dolphin watching on the beach!

Henry-C.-Chambers-Waterfront-Park

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront ParkThis is a pet-friendly park right on the water. There are plenty of places to take a calming walk and see the water and fishing boats. There is a playground for kids, a picnic area, and even a seawall where you can watch for dolphins.

Related: 31 Free Things to do in Charleston SC 

Fort FremontHistory buffs are absolutely going to love checking out Fort Fremont, which was built during the Spanish American War in 1899. After being abandoned in 1921 the fort was eventually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Don’t forget to bring your camera so you snap some photos of this historic fort!

St Helenas Episcopal, Beaufort, South Carolina

St. Helena’s Anglican Church – This church has both Revolutionary War and Civil War history attached to it. Make sure to check out the gravestones too!

The Sands in Port RoyalThe Sands in Port Royal is the perfect place to spend an entire day, for free! There is much to do from combing the hot, sandy beach for seashells and shark teeth to fishing offshore.

You can even take a stroll on the long boardwalk, and climb the four-story tower, for amazing views of the lapping waves. Pack yourself a cooler with water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized.

Related: 10 Free Things to do in Myrtle Beach SC

Port Royal’s Cypress WetlandsBeaufort has about 65 uninhabitable islands, however, if you want to explore the wetlands, be sure to take a nature walk through Port Royal’s Cypress Wetlands.

Throughout the green foliage from the water oaks and willow trees, you can spy an assortment of various wildlife. Ducks, great blue herons, and turtles are all abundant throughout the wetlands.

Ruins of Old Sheldon Church

Old Sheldon Church Ruins – This church was known as Prince William’s Parish Church and was erected in 1745. It was the most impressive church of its time. Unfortunately, the Patriots stored gun powder in it during the Revolutionary War and it burned to the ground.

It was rebuilt in 1826 and then burned to the ground again in the Civil war in 1865 by Sherman’s men. There are a few graves nearby as well.

Related: 12 Civil War Places to Visit When Studying the Civil War

Land’s End Beach – Located just several miles off the main highway on St Helena Island is the Land’s End Beach. Depending on the day parking and a spot on the sand can be hard to find but if you go on the off times it’s a great quiet beach. 

Beaufort National Cemetery in Beaufort South Carolina

Beaufort National Cemetery – This is a Civil War cemetery that was built in 1863 and is a blue star memorial. The headstones mixed with the old oak trees and Spanish moss make for an unbelievable setting. 

The Gullah Geechee Visitors Center – Learn all about the local Gullah Geechee culture and local historical sites. There is lots of great info on the local area too. 

Related: Take a Day Trip through the Carolinas

Walk Downtown – Take a walk downtown and take in the shops and the many local art galleries. You can people watch and you might catch some live entertainment. 

Free Things to do in Beaufort SC

Spanish Moss TrailGo for a walk, jog, or bike ride along the Spanish Moss Trail. This trail, once completed, will connect the towns of Port Royal, Beaufort, Burton, and Grays Hill to the Whale Branch Pier.

Head down to Hilton HeadHilton Head South Carolina isn’t very far away and is also on the water. There is a lot to see and do from the lighthouse to the ruins and old graveyards. There are a lot of great places for family photos here too! 

Did we miss any amazing free things to do in Beaufort SC? Let us know what you enjoyed most, while in this awesome city!

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