11 Best Sights in Beaufort, Hilton Head and the Low Country

Located off Bay Street in downtown Beaufort, Waterfront Park represents the heart of this charming coastal town. It's a great place to stroll along the river walk and enjoy the hanging bench swings. Parents enjoy the spacious park where kids can run in the grass or play on the enclosed playground with views of the Richard V. Woods swing bridge that crosses the Beaufort River. Trendy restaurants and bars overlook these seven beautifully landscaped acres that also feature a pavilion, stage, and historical markers and lead into the marina.

This state park located on a barrier island 18 miles southeast of Beaufort has 5,000 acres of rare maritime forest and 5 miles of public beaches—some which are dramatically eroding. The light sand beach decorated with driftwood and the subtropical vegetation is breathtaking; it almost feels like you're in Jurassic Park. You can kayak in the tranquil saltwater lagoon, stroll the 1,120-foot-long fishing pier, and go fishing or crabbing. For sweeping views, climb the 167 steps of the historic 1859 Hunting Island Lighthouse. Bikers and hikers can enjoy eight miles of trails. The nature center has exhibits, an aquarium, and tourist information. There is also a campground on the northern end that has 100 sites, but be sure to book in advance as these nearly oceanfront campsites fill up fast. Amenities: parking; toilets; grills. Best for: sunrise; swimming; walking.

Between Beaufort and Fripp Island lies St. Helena Island, a sizeable sea island that is less commercial than the other islands in the area and home to a tight-knit Gullah community. The highlight here is Penn Center, a historic school and museum that was the first school for formerly enslaved people in 1862. Visitors can also see the Chapel of Ease ruins, go to Lands End and discover Fort Fremont Historical Park, or stop by roadside farms and local restaurants.

Pull over for boiled peanuts, a jar of gumbo or strawberry jam, or perfect watermelons at this roadside stand and working farm on St. Helena Island.

Built and maintained by the forced labor of enslaved people, this 1804 Federal-style mansion has been restored and furnished as it would have been prior to a visit by Marquis de Lafayette in 1825. It was the headquarters for Union forces during the Civil War. The house museum also features historical photographs, a diorama of Bay Street in 1863, and an exhibit about Robert Smalls, the first African American U.S. congressman. Run by Historic Beaufort Foundation, the museum offers docent-guided tours.

This 1724 church (founded in 1712) was turned into a hospital during the Civil War, and gravestones were brought inside to serve as operating tables. While on church grounds, stroll the peaceful cemetery and read the fascinating inscriptions.

The museum at the Penn Center has displays on the heritage of Sea Island African Americans; it also has pleasant grounds shaded by live oaks. Dating from 1862, Penn Center was the first school for the newly emancipated slaves. These islands are where Gullah, a musical language that combines English and African languages, developed. This museum and the surrounding community of St. Helena Island are a major stop for anyone interested in the Gullah history and culture of the Lowcountry.