Beaufort SC – Small Town Charm
Immersed in history and charm, Beaufort is the second oldest city in South Carolina, located between Charleston and Savannah. Winding streets take you to antebellum houses and oak trees draped with Spanish moss, but also to newer vibrant neighborhoods and lively commerce districts.
Living with the saltwater tides mean that boats, marinas, and sea breezes are a way of life here. The town of Beaufort is located on Port Royal Island, one of many coastal sea islands that make up the area. Lady’s Island, St Helena Island, Dataw Island, Harbor Island, Hunting Island, Fripp Island, and Parris Island are just some of the islands that make up the Beaufort region.
It is hard to miss the patriotism of the area as Beaufort County has a long relationship with the military through the Marine Corps Recruit Depot on Parris Island, the Naval Hospital Beaufort, and the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.
Located in northern Beaufort County, locals say the Beaufort area is “North of the Broad.” The Broad River, a tidal river that flows out to Port Royal Sound, cuts Beaufort County in half with Bluffton, Okatie, and Hilton Head being “South of the Broad.”
The area is family-friendly with very little crime. A myriad of educational options exist for children or adults with a love of lifelong learning. Both public and private schools are available to young students, and The University of South Carolina – Beaufort provides higher education for the area.
The City of Beaufort is run by a Council-Manager form of government and utilizes a five-member City Council, including the mayor. All members are elected at-large by voters within the city limits. They set policy and govern through their single employee, the city manager. The city manager is responsible for day-to-day operations, as well as carrying out policy decisions made by the City Council. Learn about the City of Beaufort HERE.
Be sure to check out all the pages in the Lowcountry Insider’s Guide for more detailed information about living in the Lowcountry.
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