If you’re planning a Beaufort, SC vacation, one of the best things about staying at 607 Bay Inn is that you can experience so much of the Lowcountry without having to change hotels.
Located along the Intracoastal Waterway and within walking distance of historic downtown Beaufort, 607 Bay Inn is the perfect home base for exploring South Carolina’s beautiful Sea Islands and surrounding coastal communities.
From peaceful beaches and historic landmarks to charming towns and exciting cities, there are plenty of wonderful day trips from Beaufort, SC to add to your itinerary.
Here are seven of our favorites.
1. Hunting Island State Park
Drive time from 607 Bay Inn: Approximately 20–30 minutes
If you’re looking for a beautiful beach day during your Beaufort getaway, Hunting Island State Park should be at the top of your list.
Just a short drive from 607 Bay Inn, Hunting Island offers miles of sandy beach, maritime forest, nature trails and beautiful views of the Atlantic.
The historic Hunting Island Lighthouse is one of the area’s most recognizable landmarks. When access is available, visitors can climb the lighthouse for spectacular views of the coastline.
Pack a picnic, bring your beach towel and plan to spend a relaxing day enjoying one of South Carolina’s most beautiful coastal parks.
Perfect for: Families, couples, beach lovers, photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Explore St. Helena Island & Penn Center
Drive time from 607 Bay Inn: Approximately 20–30 minutes
A visit to St. Helena Island offers an opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of South Carolina’s Lowcountry.
One of the most important places to visit is Penn Center, a National Historic Landmark and an important center for African American history and Gullah Geechee culture.
Take time to explore the historic campus, learn about the history of Penn School and discover the remarkable stories connected to the people and communities of the Sea Islands.
And don’t rush through St. Helena Island. Some of its charm comes from simply driving the quiet roads, admiring the live oaks and marshes and discovering the area’s historic churches, local businesses and beautiful scenery.
Perfect for: History lovers, photographers, culture enthusiasts and anyone interested in the Gullah Geechee heritage of the Lowcountry.
3. Spend the Day on Hilton Head Island
Drive time from 607 Bay Inn: Approximately 45–60 minutes
Looking for a day filled with beaches, shopping, dining and outdoor activities?
Hilton Head Island makes an excellent day trip from Beaufort.
Spend the morning on the beach, rent bicycles and explore the island’s extensive bike paths, enjoy lunch overlooking the water or browse the shops.
Golfers will also find plenty to enjoy, while nature lovers can explore the island’s coastal habitats and wildlife.
After your day on Hilton Head, return to Beaufort and enjoy the slower pace and historic charm of downtown.
Perfect for: Families, couples, golfers, cyclists, beach lovers and shoppers.
4. Take a Day Trip to Savannah, Georgia
Drive time from 607 Bay Inn: Approximately 1 hour
Why not visit another state while you’re staying in Beaufort?
Savannah, Georgia, is close enough to make a wonderful day trip.
Spend the day walking beneath Savannah’s famous live oaks, exploring its historic squares, visiting museums, shopping downtown and enjoying some of the city’s fantastic restaurants.
You could spend days exploring Savannah, but even one day gives you a taste of its unique Southern charm.
Then, when you’re ready to unwind, head back to Beaufort and enjoy a peaceful evening at 607 Bay Inn.
Perfect for: Couples, foodies, history lovers, shoppers and first-time visitors to Savannah.
5. Discover Historic Bluffton, SC
Drive time from 607 Bay Inn: Approximately 35–45 minutes
For a more relaxed day trip, head to Bluffton, South Carolina.
Old Town Bluffton is filled with historic buildings, art galleries, locally owned shops and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to spend a leisurely morning or afternoon without feeling like you have to rush from one attraction to the next.
Take a stroll through town, browse the local artwork, grab lunch and enjoy the beautiful Lowcountry scenery along the May River.
Perfect for: Couples, art lovers, foodies, shoppers and anyone who enjoys small-town Southern charm.
6. Make the Drive to Charleston
Drive time from 607 Bay Inn: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
If you’re staying at 607 Bay Inn for several nights, consider making Charleston, SC part of your Lowcountry adventure.
Charleston offers an incredible combination of history, architecture, restaurants, shopping and Southern culture.
Spend the morning exploring the historic district, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and spend the afternoon discovering historic homes, gardens, museums or shops.
Charleston is a longer day trip, so plan to leave Beaufort early and give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the city.
Perfect for: History buffs, food lovers, architecture enthusiasts, couples and shoppers.
7. Explore the Beaufort Sea Islands
Drive time from 607 Bay Inn: Varies
Sometimes the best day trip doesn’t involve going very far.
Spend a day exploring the Sea Islands surrounding Beaufort.
Take a scenic drive through Lady’s Island and St. Helena Island. Stop at local markets, explore small shops, discover historic churches, find a quiet marsh overlook or enjoy a leisurely Lowcountry lunch.
Leave some room in your schedule to wander.
One of the joys of visiting Beaufort is that you don’t always need a detailed itinerary. Some of the most memorable moments can happen when you take the scenic route and discover something unexpected.
Why 607 Bay Inn Is the Perfect Home Base
After a full day of exploring, there’s nothing better than returning to a comfortable place in the heart of Beaufort.
607 Bay Inn is a historic manor house beautifully situated along the Intracoastal Waterway. The inn features 10 exclusive guest rooms, each with a private bath, and is conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Beaufort.
You’ll be close to local restaurants, shops, art galleries, festivals and the beautiful Beaufort waterfront.
That means you can spend one day relaxing at Hunting Island, another exploring St. Helena Island, another visiting Savannah or Hilton Head…and return to Beaufort each evening.
End Your Day with a Stroll Through Downtown Beaufort
After your day trip, take some time to enjoy Beaufort itself.
Walk along Bay Street, admire the historic architecture, browse the shops, attend festivals or enjoy dinner at one of the many local restaurants.
As evening settles over the waterfront, Beaufort’s historic streets and beautiful scenery create the perfect setting for a relaxing end to your day.
Plan Your Beaufort, SC Getaway
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic weekend, a family vacation or a longer Lowcountry escape, Beaufort is an incredible home base for exploring the South Carolina coast.
With beaches, historic islands, charming towns and major destinations like Savannah and Charleston within driving distance, you can make every day of your vacation a new adventure.
And when you’re ready to relax, 607 Bay Inn is waiting for you in beautiful downtown Beaufort.
Ready to plan your Lowcountry getaway?
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