Welcome to Sea Islands
Port Royal
Experience everything Port Royal, South Carolina, has to offer. Located between the Beaufort River and Battery Creek, the town is a true gem on the East Coast and one beloved by history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking a quiet retreat away from it all. At Visit Beaufort, Port Royal and Sea Islands we take pride in helping travelers find things to do, places to stay, and memorable events in the area. Learn how to plan your visit to Port Royal Island and what makes it an ideal destination.
History of Port Royal
Port Royal, SC, was founded in 1562 and appealed to Spanish, French, British, and Scottish explorers throughout its history. Thanks to its prime coastal location with the only natural deepwater harbor on the East Coast and an active railroad system, it quickly flourished. Port Royal was also once home to the world's largest cotton compressor. During more challenging times, a hurricane, yellow fever, higher taxes on big trade items, and other challenges compounded to create economic turmoil – a past that laid the foundation for the area as residents know it today.
Port Royal is thriving with new homes, businesses, and a rotating calendar of events that create a bustling atmosphere of opportunity and enjoyment. The town strikes a balance between historical preservation and progress, promising a bright future to locals, travelers, and visitors alike. For more information on the area's history, visit the Historic Port Royal Foundation and Museum in Harbour Village and other historical sites.
About the Area
Port Royal takes pride in the natural environment. It nurtures the walking trails, community beaches, boardwalk, and observation tower that makes it so accessible and is known as a leader in small-town New Urbanism. The area is recognized as one of the best places to live, work, and play in South Carolina's Lowcountry, and aims to keep it that way through mindful preservation for residents and future generations to come.
Residents enjoy a sense of community and a rich arts and culture scene, while visitors can take guided tours that showcase what makes the area so special. You can even visit iconic movie locations in the region where some of the most memorable films on the silver screen were made. Restaurants, shopping, and other attractions make for a well-rounded itinerary any day of the week.
Nature lovers and birdwatchers also come to Port Royal Island to explore the area's ecosystem. The diverse habitats in the area, such as brushland, freshwater ponds, and salt marsh, are home to many species of plants, as well as birds and other animals. What's more, Port Royal is considered a boater's paradise, with the rivers and miles of the South Carolina coastline to explore.
Things to Do in Port Royal
There's plenty to do on Port Royal Island throughout the year. While planning a trip for two or a family vacation, Visit Beaufort can help you create an itinerary that suits your interests. Some popular ideas include:
Explore the Outdoors: Port Royal features several well-kept parks, as well as the Spanish Moss Trail. Along the trail, you can walk, jog, bike, fish, or kick back and take in the scenic views. At just over 10 miles, the trail connects the Town of Port Royal to the City of Beaufort and the Marine Corps Air Station.
Go Dining: Let your inner foodie be your guide. There are many restaurants in Port Royal, SC, from casual coastal cuisine to fine dining. Whether you're looking for a scenic spot for date night or in search of a bakery or coffee shop for breakfast, itand#39;s easy to find your favorite foods in South Carolina.
Treat Yourself: Port Royal features several spas and wellness centers, making it easy for guests and residents to feel pampered. The moderate climate also makes this area a prime location for golfers and anglers of all skill levels. You can also explore artistic and cultural attractions, peruse the local farmers market and much more. Special events in Port Royal, SC, include:
- Bands, Brews, and BBQ
- Beaufort Charities Oyster Roast
- Soft Shell Crab Festival
- Lowcountry Jaycees Food Truck Festival
- Octo"PR" fest
Visit St. Helena Island
Located just a few miles east of Beaufort, South Carolina, St. Helena Island showcases the rich fabric of rural Lowcountry life both past and present. St. Helena Island is one of the Sea Islands, a chain of over 100 islands off the coast of SC, Georgia, and Florida that includes Hilton Head, St. Simons, and Kiawah. If you’re planning a trip to Beaufort or Port Royal, SC, let Visit Beaufort help you include a stop at St. Helena Island.
History of St. Helena Island
The Sea Islands were occupied by Indigenous communities for thousands of years before the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 1500s. St. Helena Island was subsequently colonized by the French, reclaimed by the Spanish, and then by the English, who occupied the island until the American Revolution.
Throughout the colonial period, British and American plantation owners used enslaved Africans and Native Americans to produce rice, cotton, and other agricultural products. Isolated from other parts of the South, communities on St. Helena Island and other Sea Islands developed a unique Creole language and culture known as Gullah Geechee.
During the Civil War, St. Helena Island was occupied by Union forces after they declared victory in the Battle of Port Royal. White landowners fled, and thousands of enslaved people were suddenly freed. In 1862, abolitionists provided donations to set up the first school for African Americans in the Southern United States.
Over time, the Penn School grew into a 50-acre campus with multiple buildings, some of which are still standing today. In the 1960s, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. made several visits to the campus, by then known as Penn Center. He composed his “I Have a Dream” speech while staying at one of the cottages onsite.
Today, Gullah culture continues to thrive on St. Helena Island. The passage of the Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor Act allocated $10 million in federal funding to preserve the history and culture of Gullah communities in the Carolinas and Florida.
About the Island
Just a short drive from downtown Beaufort, St. Helena Island has preserved its rural character. Agriculture, shrimping, and fishing continue, and some Lowcountry land is protected by conservation easements. Frogmore is the island’s commercial center, with a mix of charming shops and art galleries, as well as restaurants featuring authentic Lowcountry and Gullah cuisine.
Things to Do
St. Helena Island boasts a quiet, seaside setting and a slower pace of life, but there’s no shortage of things to do and see. Consider the following activities:
- Historical Sites: Pay a visit to St. Helena Parish Chapel of Ease Ruins, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988, or spend the day at Penn Center, now a museum and cultural institution. Military history buffs will enjoy Fort Fremont Preserve and; History Center, one of the only surviving coastal fortifications from the Spanish-American War.
- Outdoor Activities: Spend a day out on the water with a chartered fishing trip and try your luck at catching flounder, amberjack, or even barracuda. At the tip of the island, St. Helena’s Lands End Beach is secluded and peaceful, perfect for catching a sunset or splashing in the water.
- Dining: On the island, you’ll find many small, family-owned eateries serving local produce and freshly- caught seafood. Popular dishes at St. Helena Island, SC restaurants include shrimp gumbo, fried fish, and Frogmore Stew, a traditional Lowcountry boil of corn, potatoes, shrimp, and sausage. For fresh produce, stop by one of the local farm stands that dot the highway.
Several companies offer tours highlighting the area’s history, culture, and nature.
Plan Your Getaway with Help from Visit Beaufort
St. Helena Island, SC, is just one of the many exciting day trips you can take while visiting Beaufort, Port Royal, and Sea Islands. Let the experts at Visit Beaufort help you plan the vacation of your dreams. Whether you’re looking for kid-friendly activities, world-class dining, immersive historical experiences, or outdoor adventure, our team can provide expert advice and recommendations. Visit Beaufort is the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for Beaufort, Port Royal, and the surrounding areas. For more information, contact us today.
Welcome to Harbor Island
Imagine waking up every morning to the soothing sounds of the Atlantic Ocean and the sight of pristine, sandy beaches just outside your door. Harbor Island, located just 15 miles from historic Beaufort, South Carolina, is more than just a getaway—it's the perfect place to call home. This secluded 1,400-acre barrier island offers a rare blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, with stunning ocean views, lush dunes, and abundant wildlife right at your doorstep.
As a resident of Harbor Island, you’ll enjoy a tight-knit community with access to top-tier recreational activities like golf, tennis, surfing, and biking, all set against a breathtaking natural backdrop. Whether you’re taking a peaceful stroll along three miles of untouched coastline or spotting dolphins from your backyard, every day here feels like a vacation.
With a variety of homes available, you can find the ideal spot to create a lifestyle that’s as relaxed or active as you want it to be. And with the charm of Beaufort just a short drive away, you’ll have access to a rich history, local dining, and the unique culture of the Lowcountry.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-filled lifestyle without sacrificing convenience and community, Harbor Island is calling your name. Start your next chapter in one of the most beautiful, exclusive locations in South Carolina.
What To Love
- Unmatched Natural Beauty: Live surrounded by stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, pristine beaches, and lush coastal dunes—perfect for nature lovers who want to experience tranquility every day.
- Tight-Knit, Peaceful Community: Enjoy the sense of belonging in a small, gated community where neighbors become friends and the pace of life is refreshingly relaxed.
- Outdoor Paradise: With endless opportunities for outdoor activities—golf, tennis, biking, surfing, and wildlife watching—you’ll have a constant supply of adventure and relaxation right at your doorstep.
Overview
Secluded Coastal Retreat: A 1,400-acre barrier island located just 15 miles from Beaufort, SC, offering pristine beaches, picturesque dunes, and abundant wildlife, making it a peaceful, natural paradise.
Food:
Johnson Creek Tavern - Johnson Creek Tavern offers a cozy waterfront dining experience with fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes. Enjoy stunning creek views while savoring favorites like shrimp and grits or the daily catch in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for a laid-back meal with friends and family.
Another Slice - Casual pizza restaurant in the Mainline Market offering a variety of specialty pies, wings, and live music.
To Do:
Harbor Island offers a wealth of outdoor activities perfect for those who love an active, nature-filled lifestyle. Here are a few reasons you’ll want to call it home:
- Beach and Water Sports: Enjoy three miles of pristine, sandy beaches—perfect for swimming, surfing, or relaxing by the shore.
- Outdoor Recreation: With tennis courts, biking trails, and world-class golf courses, there's always something to keep you active and entertained.
- Boating and Nature: Sail the Atlantic or explore the island's rich wildlife, from dolphin sightings to biking through lush landscapes—Harbor Island is an outdoor lover's dream.
Travelers looking for a memorable vacation should consider taking a trip to one of the most secluded destinations in Beaufort, South Carolina. Located 15 miles outside the city sits the famous Harbor Island, known for its graceful dunes covered with sea oats and coastal grasses. The 1,400-acre barrier island offers its guests an abundance of great amenities, allowing them to create the vacation of their dreams. Learn more about this fantastic getaway destination from Visit Beaufort and how we can help you plan your visit.
History of the Island
Before it became known as a popular travel destination, Harbor Island, SC, was largely uninhabited and used primarily as hunting grounds until the 1930s. Later, development of the island began, turning this scarce piece of land into a gated residential and resort community.
About the Area
Nestled between St. Helena Island and Hunting Island, Harbor Island offers travelers the perfect place for a romantic weekend getaway, a family vacation, or simply a place to retreat. This small barrier island features an abundance of natural beauty with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean from almost anywhere on the island. Travelers will enjoy the small community atmosphere mixed with relaxing vacation vibes.
The area features a peaceful gated community that houses a variety of vacation rentals and condominiums that can accommodate couples, families, or large groups. The area is also home to a vast array of wildlife. Throughout the year you can spot over 200 species of birds roaming around Harbor Island, such as terns, pelicans, egrets, and herons. Other wildlife creatures that call Harbor Island home include blue crabs, loggerhead turtles, and dolphins.
Things to Do
South Carolina's Lowcountry and Harbor Island offer guests much to do and see, from a variety of recreational activities to breathtaking natural views. With so many things to do, visitors have the option to create a vacation that best suits their needs and interests. Some of the activities visitors can add to their itineraries include:
Outdoor Activities
While Harbor Island is a pristine location for wildlife lovers, the three miles of pure, untamed, sandy white beach offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty to do. While vacationing on Harbor Island, guests can enjoy the following:Swimming: With three outdoor pools, guests have plenty of space to comfortably splash around, getting much-needed relief from the warm sun.
Tennis: Work on your game or learn a new sport while on vacation, as Harbor Island features several tennis courts for guests to use.
Golf: SC is known for its beautiful golf courses, and Harbor Island is no exception. Choose from terrific courses and put greens to work on your short game.
Surfing: Take to the Atlantic coast to catch some waves by planning your stay on Harbor Island.
Biking: There is no better way to explore the island than by grabbing a bicycle and taking a ride throughout the area.
Boating: Get a taste of the open seas as you sail the vast Atlantic Ocean on one of the many boating charters available.
Dining
No vacation is complete without indulging in the area’s local culinary establishments. Harbor Island features numerous locations serving some of the area’s best dishes. Harbor Island restaurants offer everything from casual Southern eats to waterfront fine dining. Whether you want to have a romantic evening with your significant other, celebrate a special occasion with the whole family, or are just looking for something quick and delicious, Harbor Island’s eateries can accommodate you.
Plan Your Trip to Harbor Island
Whether you need a relaxing vacation away from the stresses of life or just want to spend quality time with the ones you love, Harbor Island is the ideal getaway destination. If you need help planning your trip, turn to Visit Beaufort for recommendations. We will offer insight into various Harbor Island hotels, attractions, and places to eat to make your vacation unforgettable. Contact us today to begin planning your stay in Beaufort, Port Royal, and Sea Islands.
Welcome to Lady’s Island
Lady’s Island, located just across the river from Beaufort, South Carolina, offers a charming blend of peaceful coastal living and easy access to the vibrant heart of the city. Known for its scenic beauty, spacious properties, and stunning waterfront views; it’s the ideal place for those seeking a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle while still being close to all the amenities Beaufort has to offer. Residents enjoy a relaxed pace of life with plenty of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and kayaking along its peaceful shores. With a growing community, excellent schools, and a range of dining and shopping options, Lady’s Island provides an inviting atmosphere for families, retirees, and anyone looking to enjoy the laid-back beauty of the South Carolina coast.
What To Love
Peaceful, Natural Beauty: Harbor Island offers a serene, picturesque setting with three miles of pristine beaches, stunning dunes, and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal place to enjoy nature daily.
Outdoor Lifestyle: With endless recreational opportunities like biking, tennis, golf, and surfing, Harbor Island is perfect for those who want an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle just steps from home.
Family-Friendly Environment: With excellent schools, parks, and a strong sense of community, Lady’s Island is a great place to raise a family in a safe, scenic environment.
Perfect Balance of Seclusion and Accessibility: Enjoy the privacy and serenity of living on an island while still being just a short drive from all the amenities and conveniences of Beaufort and surrounding areas.
Year-Round Coastal Living: Enjoy the beauty of the Lowcountry throughout all seasons, whether it’s a warm summer day on the water or a cozy winter evening with marsh views.
Food:
Dockside: With dozens of preparations available on our menu including fresh seafood, steaks, poultry, pasta and more - every guest, even the non-seafood lover, is sure to find something to satisfy their palate.
Brody's Bar: Casual, family-friendly hangout with bar bites, beer, and cocktails, plus sports on TV and outdoor seating.
Piace Pizza: Pepperoni pizza, wings, hoagies, and more are on the menu at this cozy, family-friendly joint.
Locals Raw Bar: Casual restaurant serving up locally sourced eats, including sushi, oysters, and lobster rolls.
Carolina Cider Company: Grocery store offering natural ciders, preserves, and pickles, plus baked goods and coffee drinks.
Mameem and Maudie: A cute and quirky retail shop where you can find a little bit of everything from clothing, jewelry, gifts, and accessories to unique and fun kids gifts.
Herban Market and Café: A market and cafe in Beaufort, SC, that serves up fresh, locally sourced dishes in a cozy, community-driven setting. From artisan sandwiches to smoothies and baked goods, their menu focuses on healthy, flavorful options. With a commitment to sustainability and supporting local farmers, it's the perfect spot for a delicious meal or a coffee break.
Shops:
Higher Ground Outfitters: offers a broad selection of trusted kayaking, camping, clothing, surfboard, skateboard, footwear, travel, and hiking goods. Adventure awaits so stop in today and gear up!
Old Timey Meats Beaufort: We are a local family-run butcher shop that focuses on quality, consistency, and great customer service.
Lady’s Island Marina Store: The Lady’s Island Marina Store promotes and sells the work of local artists, many who live right here on the water.
To Do:
Ask Annette
Situated just north of Beaufort, South Carolina, you will find a small community that calls Lady’s Island home. Once comprised mainly of indigo plantations, Lady’s Island quickly developed into a thriving seaside village that makes it an enjoyable travel destination. Perfect for either a weekend getaway or a day trip, Lady’s Island has something for everyone. Learn more about this little slice of paradise and the experiences it can offer from Visit Beaufort.
History of Lady’s Island
Lady’s Island has a long history stemming back to the origins of the United States. Back then, the Coosaw band of Native Americans called this place home, residing on the high ground of Coosaw Point on Lady’s Island. Originally called Combahee Island, the island’s name was changed in 1698 by Royal Governor Joseph Blake. He renamed it to honor his wife, Elizabeth Axtell Blake, whose mother, Lady Rebecca Axtell, owned Newington Plantation in present-day Summerville. The island played a significant role in the American Civil War as Union troops occupied many of the area’s plantations under the direction of General T. W. Sherman. Predominantly rural and agricultural until this point, the first bridge that connected downtown Beaufort with Lady’s Island was completed in 1927. The development of Beaufort and the surrounding areas in the last half of the 20th century pooled into Lady’s Island, as many of its former plantations were turned into residential subdivisions. To provide greater access to the island, a second bridge connecting Lady’s Island and Port Royal was completed in the 1980s.
Welcome to Hunting Island
Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing on a pristine beach, surrounded by towering pines and coastal wildlife. Welcome to Hunting Island, South Carolina — the perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure, offering an unparalleled quality of life for those seeking a peaceful, close-knit community.
Living on this stunning island means more than just access to some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. It's about embracing a lifestyle that celebrates nature and simplicity. Picture your weekends spent hiking through lush maritime forests, fishing off secluded piers, or enjoying breathtaking views from the iconic Hunting Island Lighthouse. And with no shortage of local wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and rare bird species, you'll feel constantly connected to the natural world.
Beyond the idyllic setting, Hunting Island offers a serene and safe environment, ideal for families, retirees, and anyone seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, time slows down, and life takes on a slower, more fulfilling pace. The island's proximity to Beaufort provides easy access to local amenities, charming shops, and delicious Lowcountry cuisine while maintaining the peace and privacy that comes with living in a coastal haven.
Ready for a life of breathtaking sunsets, endless outdoor adventure, and a true sense of community? Come discover why Hunting Island is more than just a place to visit — it’s a place to call home.
What To Love
- Unmatched Natural Beauty and Outdoor Living: Wake up every day surrounded by miles of pristine beaches, lush forests, and scenic trails—perfect for hiking, fishing, or simply unwinding in a peaceful, nature-filled setting. It’s a dream for those who want to live immersed in the outdoors.
- Historic Charm and Stunning Views: Live just steps away from the iconic Hunting Island Lighthouse, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and the Atlantic, making every day feel like a getaway with rich history right at your doorstep.
- A Thriving Wildlife Sanctuary: With sea turtles, dolphins, and countless bird species as neighbors, you’ll find your home nestled in a wildlife lover's paradise—offering the perfect balance of conservation, tranquility, and the joy of living in harmony with nature.
To Do:
Beachcombing and Water Sports: With miles of unspoiled shoreline, your days can be spent walking along the beach, collecting seashells, or enjoying water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The calm waters and abundant marine life make it a perfect spot for enthusiasts.
Exploring: Hunting Island is home to several picturesque trails, perfect for walking or biking. From the towering dunes and marshes to the maritime forests, each trail offers its own unique experience and chance to immerse yourself in the island’s diverse ecosystems. The island's peaceful atmosphere invites leisurely walks and exploration at your own pace.
Community Events and Local Culture: While the island itself offers serenity, the nearby town of Beaufort provides a vibrant community with farmers' markets, art festivals, and local seafood eateries. As a resident, you’re just a short drive from exploring historic streets, and local galleries and enjoying the rich culture of the South Carolina Lowcountry.
Named one of America’s top ten beaches by TripAdvisor, Hunting Island State Park sits just 16 miles east of historic downtown Beaufort and is South Carolina's most-visited state park.
Hunting Island in Beaufort, South Carolina
Located near Beaufort, Port Royal, and Sea Islands, Hunting Island is conveniently situated to give visitors a taste of nature near charming and relaxing seaside towns. Along with Fripp Island, it is one of the six Beaufort Barrier Islands that naturally protect our area's mainland. This semitropical state park is home to an array of wildlife and is ideal for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. Hunting Island maintains 100 campsites with amenities that include water and electrical hookups, shower and restroom facilities, and a playground so families and guests of all ages can enjoy this beautiful park.
History of Hunting Island
The island was first named Reynolds Island after its first official owner, Richard Reynolds, whose family owned it through much of the 18th century. It was changed to Hunting Island because it was a favorite hunting ground for regional plantation farmers during the mid-1800s. Long before European settlers arrived, the island was inhabited by Native American communities who left behind relics of their culture.
About the Area
The island was declared a state park in 1941. Several notable aspects make it unique, from its flora and fauna to the famed and reportedly haunted lighthouse.
Hunting Island Lighthouse
The island’s iconic lighthouse, constructed in 1859, was destroyed by Confederate Army soldiers to keep it out of the hands of the Union Army during the United States Civil War. Rebuilt in the mid-1870s, it was moved farther inland to avoid beach erosion and remained a working lighthouse until 1933. It is said to be haunted by a former keeper’s daughter.
Fauna
A variety of fauna is abundant within this 5000-acre park. Wildlife here includes deer, alligators, diamondback rattlesnakes, and many others. A conservation program exists for the inhabiting loggerhead turtles on the island, considered threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The island is a paradise for birders, boasting hundreds of different water-loving species.
Flora
The maritime forest is home to a myriad of trees, plants, and flowers, including the Sabal Palmetto. A type of palm, the Sabal is SC’s official state tree and can grow up to 90 ft. tall. Live oaks dwell here, too, some surviving up to 1,000 years. Cacti, such as prickly pear and yucca, also thrive in this environment.
Salt Marsh Ecology
The Atlantic Ocean-facing side of the island offers nearly five miles of soft white sand. Yet the salt marsh lagoon portion of the island enjoys a unique and dynamic ecosystem where dolphins, tiger sharks, shrimp, crabs, and certain turtle species flourish. Osprey and eagles are easily spotted hunting here.
These are just a few of the intriguing aspects of Hunting Island that make it a unique destination for all.
Things to Do
You can spend days on Hunting Island and never run out of exciting activities for you and your family. Some of the ventures you can take part in include:
Outdoor Recreation
The park maintains miles of hiking trails throughout the island’s forest. Horseback riding is permitted along the park’s ocean beach, where you can also swim and enjoy the waves. Guests can fish, kayak, go tubing, and paddle board along the salt marsh, which also makes a great spot for birding and photography.
Marsh Boardwalk
The boardwalk that enters the salt marsh is a wonderful spot for birding, relaxing, watching nature, and practicing photography. Fans of the film “Forrest Gump” may recognize the areas around the boardwalk, where several scenes were filmed.
Camping
Whether you prefer to sleep in a 40 ft. camper or a rustic tent under the stars, Hunting Island has the option for you. This state park is known for its scenic vistas and attracts visitors from near and far, no matter the weather. Many more activities are available on the island, including a nature center and visitor center. The park also offers special seasonal entertainment and educational events.
Make a Memorable Trip to Hunting Island
With so much to explore, Hunting Island makes for a great getaway when visiting Beaufort, Port Royal, and Sea Islands. Our team will be happy to help you plan your visit. We recommend looking at the weather for Hunting Island before arriving at the park, which is open daily from 6 am to 9 pm. Children and senior citizens enjoy an entrance fee discount and the park has wheel-chair accessible amenities. Contact us today to learn more about Hunting Island and the many area attractions.
Welcome to Fripp Island
Looking for the perfect coastal retreat? Fripp Island offers the ultimate in Lowcountry living, with stunning beachfront properties and tranquil, upscale surroundings. This private, gated island community is just a short drive from Beaufort, SC, providing an idyllic escape with access to world-class amenities and unparalleled natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a permanent residence or a vacation home, Fripp Island has something for everyone: expansive waterfront estates, cozy cottages, and everything in between. Enjoy endless outdoor recreation, including golfing on the renowned Ocean Creek Golf Course, tennis, biking, kayaking, and direct access to miles of pristine beaches. The island is also home to abundant wildlife, offering nature lovers a front-row seat to South Carolina’s coastal ecosystem. With its peaceful atmosphere and a community that feels like family, Fripp Island is the ideal place to live, relax, or invest.
What To Love
- Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Enjoy miles of pristine beaches, scenic marshlands, and lush landscapes, all within a peaceful, secluded environment—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Exclusive Island Lifestyle: With a private, gated community, residents experience the best of Lowcountry living—relaxed, secure, and surrounded by luxury homes, world-class amenities, and a close-knit community.
- Endless Recreational Activities: Whether it’s golf on a championship course, tennis, kayaking, or exploring the island’s rich wildlife, Fripp Island offers endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure right at your doorstep.
Food:
The Sandbar: Laid-back, oceanside bar at Fripp Island Resort Club offering cocktails, beer, and live music.
Bonito Boathouse: Fripp Island’s favorite dining choice for the entire family, Bonito Boathouse, has spectacular sunsets and expansive Lowcountry marsh views. The Boathouse specialties include Fish Tacos, Fried Seafood, and Shrimp and Grits.
FrippIslandResort
Shops:
Ask Annette
To Do:
- Tee Off at World-Class Golf Courses: Spend your days playing at the renowned Fripp Island Golf and Beach Resort, with two championship courses offering challenges and stunning coastal views for golfers of all skill levels.
- Perfect Your Tennis Game: Enjoy a friendly match or work on your skills at one of Fripp Island’s well-maintained outdoor tennis courts, ideal for both leisurely games and competitive play.
- Fishing at Your Doorstep: Whether you’re an avid angler or just love a quiet day on the water, Fripp Island’s marina offers some of the best fishing around, with both saltwater and freshwater options available.
- Cool Off in Five Resort-Style Pools: Take a dip in one of the island’s five pools to relax, unwind, or simply cool off after a day of outdoor fun.
Unwind on Beautiful Beaches: With miles of pristine white sand beaches just a short walk away, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun, take in stunning sunsets, or enjoy a peaceful day by the water.
- Savor Coastal Cuisine: Enjoy fresh, local flavors from the island’s variety of dining spots—whether it’s a casual bite or a fine dining experience, there’s something for every palate right on the island.
- Explore the Outdoors: Living on Fripp Island means endless opportunities for adventure—whether it’s boating, hiking, or simply enjoying the abundant wildlife and breathtaking nature that surrounds you.
Beaufort, Port Royal, and Sea Islands of South Carolina are home to some of the best islands and towns in the area, including Fripp Island. Couples, families, and large groups looking for the ideal vacation getaway will appreciate what Fripp Island has to offer. Situated as the most seaward of the beautiful barrier islands of SC, Fripp Island is home to several wonder amenities, making it the perfect travel destination for any number of occasions, including destination weddings, group retreats, and reunions.
*Please be aware that Fripp Island is a private island and can only be accessed if you are staying at a vacation rental.
History of the Island
With stunning views, it can be easy to forget Fripp Island’s fascinating history. Before Fripp Island was a popular travel destination, it was a point of interest for world travelers. Legend has it that treasure-hunting pirates used Fripp Island as a hideaway after sailing the seas, preying on other ships. Stories of buried treasure located on the island persist. History that can be traced back to the 17th century, Fripp Island was deeded to Captain Johannes Fripp. The development of Fripp Island to what it is known today started in 1961. Currently, there are approximately 1,474 privately owned homes and villas on the island, many of which are used as vacation rental properties for traveling guests looking to indulge in the unique attractions of the island.
About the Area
Designated as a wildlife sanctuary, Fripp Island is home to 3,000 acres of natural beauty, making it an outdoor and wildlife enthusiast’s dream destination. When visiting the area, guests can take in the spectacular views, as well as admire the wildlife that can be found in the area. Fripp Island is home to over 175 species of birds, including brown pelicans, great blue herons, snowy white egrets, and wood storks. Other land wildlife creatures that can be found in these parts include raccoons, alligators, and deer.
The three-and-a-half-mile long and half-a-mile-wide island gives visitors great access to the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean where dolphins can be spotted playing in the water surrounding Fripp Island. Also unique to Fripp Island is the endangered loggerhead turtle that makes the island its nesting ground. Other water wildlife found in the area includes bass, trout, flounder, grouper, and blue crabs.
Things to Do
One of the aspects that make Fripp Island so special is its ability to accommodate just about anyone who visits. There are many restaurants on Fripp Island, as well as an array of things to do, allowing guests to create their ultimate vacations. Choose to add the following activities to your trip to help make your getaway to Fripp Island even more memorable:Golf: Get out on the course and test your skills at either of Fripp Island Golf and Beach Resort’s championship courses.
Tennis: Work up a sweat or enjoy a leisurely match outdoors at one of Fripp Island’s tennis courts.
Fish: Anglers and fishermen can experience great fishing at Fripp Island’s marina.
Swim: Cool off from the sun when you decide to take a dip in any one of the five pools located on Fripp Island.
Beaches: Visitors owe it to themselves to check out Fripp Island’s beautiful white sand beaches, which offer an excellent escape.
Places to eat: Guests can enjoy authentic southern coastal favorites from the various dining establishments and restaurants found on Fripp Island.
Outdoor excursions: Take an outdoor adventure while visiting Fripp Island as guests can choose from several different outdoor excursions, including boating and hiking.
Plan a Memorable Vacation to Fripp Island
With so much to do and see, Fripp Island makes for a wonderful getaway when visiting Beaufort, Port Royal, and Sea Islands. Travelers who wish to take in the amazing scenery and experience all that Fripp Island has to offer must first make reservations, as it is a private island only accessible to those staying at a vacation rental. Visit Beaufort can help you plan your visit to Fripp Island, SC, by providing excellent vacation rentals and other places to stay. To learn more about Fripp Island and the numerous attractions it has to offer, please contact us today.
