Outdoor Activities

Outdoor Activities In Beaufort, Port Royal & The Sea Islands

Beaufort, Port Royal & the Sea Islands are filled with sunshine, saltwater, fresh air, and opportunities for adventures and peace in the outdoors. To help you plan a trip the whole family will enjoy, Visit Beaufort offers travel guides and suggestions for outdoor activities on area beaches, the local river, and beyond.

Our Beaches

Beaufort and Port Royal are premier destinations in South Carolina for beach lovers. Whether you’re looking for a non-crowded spot to walk and search for shells, a place for a picnic, or swimming areas, check out the following:

Hunting Island State Park: Explore over five miles of uncrowded beaches, stunning nature trails, access to the state’s only public lighthouse, and more at this breathtaking state park.

The Sands Beach: This beach, conveniently located at the southern tip of Port Royal, is a family-friendly spot great for looking for shark teeth, flying a kite, or simply relaxing in the sun. 

Bike Rentals & Trails

Cover a lot of gorgeous ground by going for a long bike ride. If you don’t travel by bike, you can rent one for the day from getting Outdoors Rentals and check out the following:

The Spanish Moss Trail - This 10-mile bike trail winds through the town, coastal areas, and even salt marshes offering breathtaking views as well as wildlife viewing along the way.

Camping Opportunities

Whether you’re traveling on a budget or just love the outdoors, camping is always a unique experience in our area. Pop up your tent or park your camper while you enjoy the natural side of Beaufort and Port Royal at the following:

Hunting Island State Park camping is available at 100 campsites with water and electrical hookups, shower and restroom facilities, beach walkways, and a playground. Hunting Island State Park camping reservations must be made for a minimum of two nights.

Hiking Trails

While you’re in town, don’t forget to hit the hiking trails. Hunting Island is home to a network of trails through the dunes and maritime forest and with a variety of lengths and difficulties including:

• Palmetto Pines Pass (0.2 miles and easy to hike)
• Marsh Boardwalk Trail (0.25 miles and easy to hike)
• Marsh Boardwalk Crossover (0.3 miles and easy to hike)
• Lighthouse Nature Trail (0.4 miles and easy to hike)
• Lighthouse Magnolia Forest Connector (0.6 miles and easy to hike)
• Nature Center Scenic Trail (0.7 miles and easy to hike)
• Magnolia Forest Trail (1.2 miles and easy to hike)
• The Lagoon Access Recreation Trail (1.4 miles and easy to hike)
• Maritime Forest Trail (2.0 miles and easy to hike)
• Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail (2.3 miles and moderately strenuous)

Kayak Tours & Rentals

When it’s time to hit the water, kayak tours offer a great way to explore the gorgeous coastline, river, and salt marshes that surround our city. You can rent one or go for a tour with either of these providers:

Beaufort Kayak Tours - Take a private paddle through crystal-clear ocean water, or join an ecology tour to explore salt marshes at low tide and learn about local wildlife.

Higher Ground Kayak Tours - Dolphin lovers can seize the opportunity to view these elusive creatures on a kayak that curves through sun-warmed Beaufort waterways.

Boat Tours & Charters

Spartina Marine Education Charters - Take a scientific expedition of the Chechessee River and learn about sea life while interacting with the crabs, shrimp, and fish in the onboard touch tank.

Explore The Great Outdoors In Beaufort

If you love the outdoors, Visit Beaufort can help you plan your next adventure with travel guides and suggestions for things to do in the Port Royal and Beaufort areas. Contact us to learn more and be sure to ask about specials and deals on the beach and outdoor experiences.