Beaufort SC (South Carolina)

Beaufort is a port city in Beaufort County (South Carolina USA). Founded in 1711, it is the 2nd-oldest in the state - following Charleston. The town has population around 13,000 and covers a total area of 87 km2 (34 mi2). Beaufort SC is a primary city within Hilton Head Island (a resort town on the island is named Bluffton-Beaufort). It could be sometimes confused with the city of the same name located in North Carolina - Beaufort NC.

Beaufort SC port is located on Port Royal Island, right in the heart of the Sea Islands. The town is famous for its scenic location and historic character. It preserves its antebellum architecture and is also known for its military establishments (in proximity to Parris Island), a US naval hospital, and is home to the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

The city of Beaufort has been featured in New York Times and awarded "Top 25 Small City Arts Destination" by American Style, "Best Small Southern Town" by Southern Living, and "Top 50 Adventure Town" by National Geographic Adventure.

Its proximity to other fast-growing regions including Bluffton and Hilton Head Island, as well as good access to Savannah GA, Savannah/Hilton Head Airport, and a future container port to be created on Savannah River make Beaufort a desirable choice for business development opportunities.

Beaufort's largest economic sector is the military presence in/around the community. Having supplanted aquaculture and agriculture during the last decades of the 20th century, the military bases provide thousands of jobs related to base operations and fill millions of dollars into the local economy. 

Due in part to its deep connections with history and attractive location, the hospitality industry, and tourism is also important economic sector. About two million visitors per year come to Beaufort and Sea Islands of northern Beaufort County. The peak seasons are spring and fall. The primary attractions of the visitors include history, local arts, and crafts, water sports, golf, and beach vacations. As a result, the city is home to various accommodation options that range from upscale bed-and-breakfasts in the downtown area to standard inns and motels along Boundary Street. The city boasts several dozen dining establishments that cater to tourists.

Downtown Marina is the nautical gateway of Beaufort to the Intracoastal Waterway and the surrounding Sea Islands. Other marinas are situated in Port Royal and on Lady's Island. Several boat landings are found in the city and surrounding areas.