Beaufort, South Carolina

Beaufort is located on Port Royal Island, one of the large sea islands in the coastal Lowcountry region of South Carolina. The city is located 43 miles (69 kilometers) north of Savannah, Georgia, and 34 miles (55 kilometers) by road north of Hilton Head Island. Beaufort has a population of 12,950 and is bordered by military installations, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island and Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

Beaufort area has a history of European colonization dating back to 1562, and the city received its charter in 1711, making it the second-oldest city in South Carolina, after Charleston. A great place to explore the city is in its historic downtown, set along a bay of the Intra-Coastal Waterway, and is part of the city's National Landmark District, containing a wide range of architectural and cultural styles, including French, Colonial, Spanish-American, and Revolutionary. Check out sites such as Verdier House, which dates to approximately 1800, and the Beaufort Museum, located inside an 1852 arsenal. Or for more variety, go on the Fall Festival of Houses & Gardens to explore a variety of historic homes.

Major festivals include the Taste of Beaufort, held in late April, which celebrates both food, wine, and Earth Day; the Gullah Festival, which is held in May, and is multi-day celebration of diversity and of the Gullah heritage; the Water Festival which is held in July, and celebrates watersports, golf, a parade, and more; and the Shrimp Festival, which is held in October, and celebrates the area coastline, history, and shrimp.

Beaufort enjoys temperate to semitropical climate, so you'll have many great days to enjoy the outdoors. During days off, go out on the water to enjoy a boat tour or do some fishing, head to Hunting Island State Park a 5,000-acre (2,023-hectare) secluded barrier island with more than four miles (six kilometers) of sandy beach, an historic lighthouse to explore, and great opportunities for wildlife viewing, or enjoy a day on the links.

So if you're looking for a picturesque community that's full of history, with fun community events, and easy access to a variety of recreational opportunities, consider Beaufort.

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