Early fall is one of the best times to experience the Lowcountry. The crowds thin, the pace slows, and Beaufort and Port Royal reveal their quiet coastal charm. We usually squeeze in a coastal trip during the summer, but this time I knew we’d scored the better deal—an off-season weekend in Beaufort, complete with driftwood beaches, walkable old streets shaded by moss-draped oaks, and all the local gems I bet you haven’t even heard of yet.
Beaufort: A Postcard Come to Life
Beaufort is a small, charming coastal town that’s often overlooked, sitting quietly beside the larger tourist hub of Hilton Head Island. For a long time, we had heard about it but always pushed it to the back burner—telling ourselves we’d get there “someday.”
When we finally did, it was in September, during the off-season. And honestly, I doubt there’s a better time to go. The town’s unmatched charm unfolds slowly: a walk through the quiet streets of downtown, a climb up the observation tower in Port Royal for sweeping views, a peaceful wander at the Parris Island Museum, and the raw coastal beauty of Hunting Island State Park.
Without the crowds and the heavy heat of summer, it was sheer joy to simply soak it all in—unhurried, unbothered, and surrounded by the kind of Lowcountry calm that makes you want to linger just a little longer.
We wandered through Beaufort’s historic downtown, where tree-lined streets and colorful cottages felt like stepping back in time.
Our first stop on the route was the waterfront park — the perfect place to sip morning coffee or catch the evening breeze
while the kids ran off their wiggles on the playground overlooking the water.
Just when we thought we’d seen it all, we stumbled on a pair of giant, painted boots standing proudly on the sidewalk — then another, and another. It turned out to be the Watermen’s Wave Lowcountry Boot Trail — a public art project launched in January 2024 to honor local watermen and celebrate Lowcountry culture. Eleven oversized boots, each painted by a different local artist, are scattered across Beaufort and Port Royal like a scavenger hunt. We found ourselves following them from street corners to waterfronts, snapping photos at every stop, and seeing the town through its artists’ eyes.
Browsing the local shops, we found every corner brimming with postcard-perfect coastal charm and a touch of whimsy, wrapped in the laid-back spirit of the Lowcountry.
Port Royal: Small Town, Big Character
Just a short drive from Beaufort, the Cypress Wetlands in Port Royal feel like stepping into another world. The trail loops less than a mile, but every turn holds something new. Boardwalks stretch across the marsh, leading you through stands of towering bald cypress draped in Spanish moss. In the stillness, you can hear the rustle of wings before you see them—herons gliding low over the water, egrets perched like statues, and sometimes even a wood stork sweeping across the sky.
It’s not just birds that call this place home. Turtles line up on logs to soak in the sun, and if you linger long enough, you might spot an alligator gliding silently through the water. The wetlands aren’t only beautiful—they serve as Port Royal’s natural stormwater system, filtering runoff and keeping the ecosystem alive and balanced.
Benches tucked along the boardwalk. Sunrise paints the trees golden, while sunset fills the sky with color as birds return to roost. Locals stroll the loop for exercise, families bring binoculars for birdwatching, and every visitor leaves with a sense that this little trail is something special—a hidden Lowcountry gem where nature feels both wild and welcoming.
Sunsets Worth the Stop
For unforgettable views, climb the Henry Robinson Tower. The wooden tower rises several stories above the marsh, and the short walk up feels effortless once you reach the top. From there, you’re rewarded with 360-degree views that are absolutely worth every step. As the sun dips low, the sky is painted in shades of gold and pink, and for a moment the sun feels so close you could almost reach out and touch it.
Just below, a beautiful boardwalk stretches out across the coastal waters, perfect for a slow stroll or a quiet moment on one of the benches tucked along the way. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors—some come to simply watch the tide roll in, while others try their luck at catching crabs right off the side.
Right across from the boardwalk, a small sandy beach invited us to slip off our shoes and let the tide lap at our feet. We wandered along the shoreline, passing sloping dunes and long, swaying grasses, with all our worries melting away to the sound of crashing waves.
It’s the kind of spot that feels both lively and peaceful—a place where nature, community, and breathtaking views all come together.
Hunting Island State Park
We wrapped up our Beaufort visit with a short drive — just 15–20 minutes from downtown — to Hunting Island State Park. This barrier-island gem offers wide beaches, a historic lighthouse, marsh boardwalks, and abundant wildlife.
We were especially drawn to the driftwood-strewn section of beach, and it didn’t disappoint. It felt like a nature playground at its best — raw, imperfect, and beautiful.
The kids turned the giant logs into swings, balance beams, and even “hobbit houses,” having the best time all around.
For a more traditional beach day, there’s also plenty of soft sand, swimming areas, and a classic lighthouse climb, plus endless opportunities to spot birds, crabs, and other wildlife. Hunting Island really is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Why Early Fall?
Beaufort and Port Royal shine in their slower seasons, when the streets are calm, the weather is mild, and the sunsets feel like they’re yours alone. It’s the perfect spot for those looking for rest, charm, and a touch of Southern coast magic —without the rush.
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