Beaufort…

Our first trip to Beaufort was a quick overnight trip and boy did we fall in love with this coastal gem. There are many blog posts that could be written about places to visits and amazing mom and pop eateries but for today, I will highlight some history stops for you.

Beaufort is nestled along a pretty little waterfront. You can book horse drawn carriage tours during the year and see homes from many different eras of history and movie film sets or you can visit off the beat path historical sites on your own.

We have done both.

---

The old Shelton Church Ruins site is probably my favorite "history" place we have been in several years. For me, the beauty of the property exceeded my expectations of church ruins.

If it's historic, my sweet hubby probably knows about it and on our adventures we check a lot of places off his list. This is definitely one of my favorite historical places.

The old Sheldon Church ruins are located just North of Beaufort, SC. They are tucked off a paved road lined with beautiful oaks dipping with moss which makes the drive picturesque.

Old Sheldon Church was built between 1745 and 1753. It was originally known as Prince William's Parrish Church. The original church was believed to be burned during the revolutionary war. It was rebuilt in 1826 and burned again by General Sherman in 1865.

There are some notable gravesites at this location including the Bull family. I immediately thought of Bull Street in Savannah and I was correct. This is the burial site of Colonel William Bull and his family.

Bull was said to be the right hand man for James Oglethorpe and had a major role in the planning of Savannah.

---

The history of Beaufort itself is astonishing. A carriage ride is a fantastic way to see and hear about the rich history of the area from colonial establishment to present day movie sets. Forest Gump maybe the most famous but there are noteable other mentions as well.

There are so many historical homes but don't miss finding the stairs to nowhere!

---

As with any good coastal trip, we always find a lighthouse that we haven't seen and seek out a good beach spot. Hunting Island is just one of those great locations that gives the opportunity for both.

Hunting Island is one of many South Carolina state parks. There is an entry fee but you can spend a day there or a weekend or longer and not run out of the beauty of the island. Shelling, hiking, bird watching, sitting by the shore and watching the waves lap the shore are some of our favorites.

Beaufort is one of our favorite sleepy little coastal towns and our only regret is not visiting sooner. There are some great places to stay from hotels to bed and breakfasts and Airbnb/Vrbos. You will find some great eateries as well. We have several favorites but one of the first ones we experienced was The Lost Local and now it's a must stop every time we go.

Beaufort is a charming southern town full of beauty and history.