Along the road, between Charleston and Savannah, is where you will find this beautiful little town of Beaufort. Much smaller than Charleston, but just as charming. It's an amazing way to spend a day or a weekend. Where you can find many "Instagram-able" picture perfect moments. Whatever your reasoning for being here you will find plenty of things to do. So lets stroll through some of the best things to do in this beautiful destination.
Along the road, between Charleston and Savanah, is where you will find this beautiful little town of Beaufort. Much smaller than Charleston, but just as charming. It's an amazing way to spend a day or a weekend. Where you can find many "Instagram-able" picture perfect moments. Whatever your reasoning for being here you will find plenty of things to do. So lets stroll through some of the best things to do in this beautiful destination.
1. The Old Sheldon Church
Number one on the list and arguably the prettiest and most famous thing to see here is the Old Sheldon Church. Its beauty is captivating, but not because of its stain glass windows and hand carved pews, because you wont find any of those here. The church is in complete ruins, and it's because of what it lacks that makes this church so stunning.
The most interesting thing about this property is that it was burned not once but twice. The first time was during the Revolutionary War and then again by General Sherman's famous escapade of burning the South in the Civil War. After the second burning of the Church is was never rebuild and has remained in ruins ever since. Standing purely as a destination to marvel at this temple style church structure.
As you walk the grounds, visiting the old grave stones and going in and out of the remaining structure you will feel a since of wonder. The stunning columns, large open window frames, and a beautiful property are definitely a must see when visiting Beaufort.
2. Have a picnic
This second must do in Beaufort doesn't take you far away from the first. It's actually right there on the church grounds. It is not so much a destination or something to see as a sit back and relax opportunity. A picnic! Whether you just pack a blanket and pick up fast food, something to go, make sandwiches, or a fancy lunch with wine you are assured to have an amazing meal taking in the views and taking a moment to relax and enjoy with this perfect backdrop behind you.
I don't know about you, but a picnic (especially when wine is involved) is always a must do. But stay tuned because this is not the only amazing picnic spot in Beaufort. I know, you're on the edge of your seat, right? LOL
3. Huntington Beach
No long sentence is needed to introduce this destination spot. I mean if the word beach didn't already have you packing your bags the fact that it is ( in my opinion) one of the most beautiful beaches in South Carolina should. You normally don't find huge crowds of people obstructing your view of actually being at the beach. You will be sure to find lots of wildlife that is worth you taking a beach stroll in search of.
Unfortunately, the last time we were there it was right after a hurricane so we weren't able to get to the beach to take new pictures. So those will be coming soon. Sorry for the inconvenience.
4. The Town of Beaufort
The town of Beaufort itself is stunningly charming. Beautiful buildings, quintessential southern homes, marsh views, cute shops, great restaurants and southern charm fill this small town. It's a great place to bring kids where they can play in the park and smother their faces with ice cream. But it isn't just a family getaway. Beaufort is great for a girls trip, fishing with the boys, a romantic destination for you and your significant other, or the perfect place for a solo trip to unwind (because sometimes that's just what the doctor ordered). While you are here, you should definitely take the time to get a great Instagram photoshoot in. Rent a bicycle and strike a pose in one of these beautifully southern homes.
5. Fort Fremont
Now, this next one is cool but possibly a little scary. Tucked away on Saint Helena Island is an old military fort called Fort Fremont. Since abandoned, this fort stills stands completely derelict, but open to the public. You can self tour this place, in and out. But be careful. There is no security here and some tunnels, hallways and rooms are entirely dark (so take a flashlight) and you have no idea what or who might be on the other side.
I will tell you, on a side note, that we were perfectly ok. I personally wouldn't go into some of the room by myself or let my child either, but with Luke with us I felt better about it. Also, speaking of children, remember this fort is abandoned and has been for many years. Therefore there hasn't been any upkeep and certain areas could have metal pieces sticking out. It was also not built as a playground, so keep an eye out. I tell you this not to scare you but to urge you to be aware. They will have a lot of fun seeing it and even walking around it, but be careful.
6. Walk on the beach
As you walk around the fort, make your way around to the back. There is a long fence and a gate to a beautiful and quite beach, which is a great place for your second picnic if you so chose (and I do recommend that you do). But at the very least, take the time you stroll down and collect shells, and put your feet in the water before taking a seat and watching an incredible sun set.
7. Saint Helena Parish Chapel of Ease
Saint Helena Parish Chapel of Ease is yet another beautiful church in ruins in the Beaufort area. I don't know what it is about old burned down churches that make them so eerily beautiful, but they I would most definitely advise that you stop and find out for yourself. Although this church has ties to the Civil War, it was not burned down at that time like the Old Sheldon Church and the beginning of this post. It was burned just after the Civil War in a Forest Fire. To read more about these ruins visit click here.
8. Drive in movie theater
Last but not least, the drive in movie theater. Yes that's right, one a the few left in the United States. In 2016, it was reported that only 336 drive in movie theaters remain in the US. At one point South Carolina housed 70 of them and apparently only three are left standing. So as a dying American tradition, if you have the opportunity to make it to Beaufort this should most definitely make it onto your list. And don't worry, they have all the current movies available to watch. With two massive screens and multiple showing of different movies you'll be sure to fine something you will enjoy seeing.
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