BEAUFORT, SOUTH CAROLINA

Beaufort is a small coastal city surrounded by one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the United States. Chartered in 1711, it is the second-oldest city in South Carolina, after Charleston. The city's population was 12,950 in the 2000 census. Beaufort, unlike its counterpart in North Carolina, is located on Port Royal Island, in the heart of the Sea Islands and the Lowcountry. The city is renowned for its scenic location and for maintaining a historic character through its impressive antebellum architecture and Gullah heritage.

The city is also known for its military establishments, being located in close proximity to Parris Island and a U.S. Naval Hospital, in addition to being home of the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. Beaufort has been featured in the New York Times, named "Best Small Southern Town" by Southern Living, named a "Top 25 Small City Arts Destination" by American Style, named a "Top 20 Fishing Town" by Field and Stream, and a "Top 50 Adventure Town" by National Geographic Adventure.

To learn more about Beaufort, SC, you may visit the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce and The Beaufort Gazette online.