Complete Beaufort Weekend Itinerary:

Planning a weekend in Beaufort, SC? Discover the perfect 2-day itinerary, including the best things to do, where to eat, and why 607 Bay Inn is the ideal place to stay.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a relaxing coastal escape, Beaufort, South Carolina offers the perfect mix of Southern charm, waterfront beauty, rich history, and exceptional dining. Nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway, Beaufort is one of the South’s most picturesque and friendliest small towns. Moss-draped live oaks, historic homes, locally owned restaurants, waterfront parks, and a walkable historic downtown create an unforgettable destination for visitors year-round.

If you’re wondering how to spend a weekend in Beaufort, this guide covers everything you need…from where to stay and what to see to the best ways to experience the Lowcountry.

Stay in the Heart of Historic Downtown

Choosing the right accommodations can completely transform your visit. Instead of staying on the outskirts of town and driving everywhere, stay where Beaufort comes alive.

607 Bay Inn is located directly on Bay Street in the heart of Historic Downtown Beaufort. Guests enjoy beautifully appointed boutique accommodations just steps from the city’s best restaurants, shops, galleries, and Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

Leave your car parked for the weekend and explore Beaufort on foot. On-site parking is included with your stay!

Friday Evening: Arrive and Unwind

Check Into 607 Bay Inn

Plan to arrive in the afternoon to make the most of your stay. Check-in begins at 3pm. After settling into your room, take a few moments to relax before heading out to explore downtown.

One of the greatest advantages of staying at 607 Bay Inn is that your vacation begins the moment you arrive. Everything you want to experience is within walking distance.

Walk Along Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park

Start your weekend with a leisurely stroll along Beaufort’s award-winning waterfront. This scenic park stretches beside the Beaufort River and features:

Waterfront paths with views of the river
Shaded benches
Beautiful gardens
Public marina and day dock
Spectacular sunset views

Keep an eye on the water.. you may spot dolphins or even a manatee swimming through the river.

Dinner on Bay Street

Downtown Beaufort is known for outstanding Lowcountry cuisine.

Some local favorites include:

Fresh shrimp and grits at Old Bull Tavern
She-crab soup and Lowcountry Produce
Local oysters (seasonal) at Saltus River Grill
Crab cakes at Wren Bistro
Fresh catch of the day Breakwater Bar & Restaurant
Southern comfort food at Lowcountry Produce

Many restaurants offer outdoor patios where you can enjoy warm coastal evenings beneath the live oaks.

End the Evening with a Walk Downtown

Before heading back to the inn, enjoy one last stroll through Bay Street. The soft lighting, historic buildings, and peaceful waterfront create the perfect ending to your first day. Downtown Beaufort is known for its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, and the historic district is generally considered a safe and pleasant place to walk in the evening, especially along the well-traveled streets and waterfront.

Saturday Morning: Explore Beaufort

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your morning with breakfast at one of Beaufort’s locally owned cafés. If you are a guest at 607 Bay Inn, two breakfast vouchers per stay are provided for Rain-N-Bagels or Lowcountry Cider and Superior Coffee. Whether you’re craving fresh pastries, Southern biscuits, pancakes, or avocado toast, you’ll find several excellent options just a short walk from 607 Bay Inn at Lowcountry Produce or Blackstones.

Explore the Historic District

Beaufort is South Carolina’s second-oldest city and one of the best-preserved historic communities in America.

Spend the morning wandering beneath centuries-old live oaks while admiring:

Quiet residential streets of the Old Point Neighborhood
Antebellum homes
Historic churches
Hidden gardens
Our Historic 607 Bay Inn
Beautiful architecture

The slower pace encourages visitors to take their time and appreciate every corner of downtown. Don’t forget your camera… Beaufort is one of the most photogenic towns in the South.

Shop Along Bay Street

After exploring the historic district, browse the unique locally owned shops downtown.

You’ll discover:

Coastal home décor
Handmade jewelry
Vintage antiques
Local coastal artwork
Boutique clothing
Specialty foods
Gifts
Books by regional authors

Shopping locally is one of the best ways to support Beaufort’s vibrant small business community.

Lunch Downtown

Enjoy lunch at one of Beaufort’s many restaurants. Popular menu choices include:

Fish tacos at Lost Local
Fresh seafood baskets at Plums
Gourmet sandwiches at Sister Sister Deli
Lowcountry shrimp at Paninis on the Waterfront
Fresh salads at Hearth Wood Fire Pizzas
Southern classics at Lowcountry Produce

Many restaurants feature outdoor seating overlooking Bay Street or the waterfront.

Saturday Afternoon Adventures

Choose the activity that best fits your travel style.

Option 1: Take a Dolphin or History Boat Tour

Seeing Beaufort from the water provides an entirely different perspective.

Many boat tours include opportunities to:

Spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins
Learn about Beaufort’s history at the Beaufort History Museum (Free to the Public!)
Cruise through scenic salt marshes
View nearby islands
Observe local wildlife

Option 2: Visit Hunting Island State Park

Only about 20 minutes from downtown, Hunting Island is South Carolina’s most visited state park.

Enjoy:

Beautiful beaches
Historic lighthouse that you can climb to the top
Nature trails
Wildlife viewing
Shell collecting at the driftwood beach

It’s a perfect afternoon escape before returning downtown for dinner.

Option 3: Discover Beaufort’s Hollywood History

Beaufort has served as the filming location for numerous major motion pictures thanks to its beautifully preserved architecture and coastal scenery.

Movie enthusiasts can spend the afternoon visiting recognizable filming locations throughout town.

Saturday Evening

Relax Back at 607 Bay Inn

After an active afternoon, return to the inn to refresh before dinner. Enjoy drinks on the porches with beautiful views on the swing bridge.

Boutique accommodations and a quiet atmosphere make it easy to unwind before another evening exploring downtown.

Watch Sunset Along the Beaufort River

One of Beaufort’s greatest attractions is its spectacular sunsets.

Grab a bench in Waterfront Park or simply stroll along the marina as the evening sky reflects across the Beaufort River.

It’s an unforgettable Lowcountry experience.

Dinner and Dessert

Enjoy another locally owned restaurant before ending your evening with dessert, coffee, or a nightcap downtown.

The relaxed atmosphere makes Saturday night one of the highlights of any Beaufort getaway.

Sunday Morning

Enjoy One Last Breakfast

Wake up slowly and savor your final morning in Beaufort. Take another walk through downtown before checking out at 11am.

Many visitors use Sunday morning to revisit favorite shops, grab coffee, or simply enjoy peaceful time on our waterfront porches one last time.

Before Heading Home

If time allows, squeeze in one final stop. Consider:

Waterfront Park
Historic churches
Local art galleries
Scenic marsh overlooks
Additional shopping along Bay Street

There’s always one more reason to extend your stay. We are happy to accommodate you!

Why Beaufort Is Perfect for a Weekend Getaway

Visitors love Beaufort because it offers:

Walkable historic downtown
Beautiful waterfront scenery
Award-winning restaurants
Boutique shopping
Rich Southern history
Relaxed atmosphere
Easy access to beaches
Incredible photography opportunities

Whether you’re visiting for an anniversary, girls’ weekend, military graduation, or spontaneous getaway, Beaufort offers something for everyone.

Why Stay at 607 Bay Inn?

Your location can make or break a weekend getaway. At 607 Bay Inn Downtown Beaufort, you’ll enjoy:

Prime Bay Street location
Walkable access to restaurants and shopping
Boutique accommodations
Beautiful guest rooms
Personalized hospitality
Steps from Waterfront Park and Downtown
Easy access to Beaufort’s top attractions
Easy, Free Parking

Instead of spending your vacation driving, spend it exploring.

Plan Your Beaufort Getaway Today

From moss-covered oak trees and historic architecture to fresh seafood and breathtaking waterfront sunsets, Beaufort offers one of the most relaxing weekend destinations in the Southeast.

When you stay at 607 Bay Inn, you’ll experience the very best of Beaufort from the heart of Historic Downtown.

Book your stay today and discover why so many visitors return to Beaufort again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Beaufort, SC walkable?

Yes. Historic Downtown Beaufort is extremely walkable and safe. Guests staying at 607 Bay Inn can easily walk to restaurants, Waterfront Park, shops, galleries, and many historic attractions.

How many days should I spend in Beaufort?

A two-day weekend is perfect for experiencing Beaufort’s highlights, but many visitors choose to stay three or four days to explore nearby beaches, Hunting Island State Park, and surrounding Lowcountry communities.

What is the best time of year to visit Beaufort?

Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer is ideal for boating and beach trips. Winter provides fewer crowds and mild coastal weather.

Where should I stay in Beaufort?

For the best experience, stay in Historic Downtown so you can walk to Beaufort’s top attractions. 607 Bay Inn offers boutique accommodations in the heart of Bay Street, making it an ideal home base for your visit.