Beaufort, South Carolina is only 25 miles from Hilton Head Island and makes a delightful day trip. Known as the "Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands," Beaufort is city of lordly and striking mansions of pre-Revolutionary and pre-Civil War eras. Step back in time to recapture a history dating as far back as the 1500's. Blending warm southern hospitality with its interesting chronology, the magic of Beaufort can be felt through the breeze in the Palmetto fronds, can be heard in the hum of passing boats along the Intracoastal Waterway, and can be seen in the classic architecture of regal antebellum homes. Beaufort is known for the major motion pictures made there, including "The Big Chill," "The Great Santini," "Prince of Tides," and "Forrest Gump." Visit the John Mark Verdier House, the Arsenal, or St. Helena's Episcopal Church. A trip to Beaufort is not complete without a visit to St. Helena or Parris Island.

Penn Center is located on St. Helena Island, a 15-minute drive from downtown Beaufort. It is one of the oldest and historically significant African-American cultural and educational institutions in America. Located on 200 acres, 50 acres are designated as a National Historic Landmark, incorporating 18 buildings dating as far back as 1882. Penn Center's Museum and Library provide unique information on national as well as local history of African-Americans of the Sea Islands, known as "Gullah."

Parris Island Marine Base is five miles south of Historic Downtown Beaufort. It's rich history dates back to the mid 1500's when Spanish and French explorers clashed on the Island's shores as they sought a strategic foothold in the New World. Today it is one of the main recruit training stations for the United States Marine Corp. Under the watchful eyes of the Drill Instructors, some 20,000 men and 2,000 women complete their training at Parris Island each year. Highlights of our visit will be the Iwo Jima Monument, Parade Field and the Parris Island Museum. The Museum was listed in the top twenty visitor attractions in South Carolina.

Attractions

• The Arsenal
• John Mark Verdier House
• St. Helena's Episcopal Church
• Carriage Tours
• Penn Center
• Parris Island Marine Base

Dining

• Lunches and dinners can be arranged at one of the many popular Seafood Restaurants in the Bayfront area.