Port Royal South CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Port Royal, South Carolina.
1. Cypress Wetlands
NATURAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Cypress Wetlands is a serene natural sanctuary in Port Royal that offers visitors a chance to experience the region's diverse ecosystem. Visitors can stroll along elevated boardwalks while observing native wildlife including herons, egrets, and alligators in their natural habitat. The wetlands also feature informative signage about local flora and fauna, making it an educational experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
2. The Sands
POPULAR BEACH AREA
The Sands is a beloved beach destination in Port Royal where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy the coastal atmosphere. This recreational area features sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and shell collecting during low tide. The location offers stunning views of the water and is ideal for family outings or peaceful solo retreats.
3. Port Royal Farmers Market
LOCAL FRESH PRODUCE
Port Royal Farmers Market is a vibrant community gathering spot where visitors can purchase locally grown produce and handcrafted items. The market brings together farmers, artisans, and food vendors from throughout the Lowcountry region, creating a lively atmosphere filled with fresh scents and friendly conversations. Open year-round, this market has become a cherished tradition for both residents and tourists seeking authentic local flavors.
4. Shellring Ale Works
CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Shellring Ale Works is a popular craft brewery in Port Royal that delights beer enthusiasts with its unique locally-inspired brews. The taproom offers a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can sample a variety of handcrafted ales while learning about the brewing process from knowledgeable staff. With its commitment to quality and community, this brewery has quickly become a favorite gathering spot for both locals and tourists.
5. The Sands Boardwalk
SCENIC COASTAL WALKWAY
The Sands Boardwalk provides visitors with a picturesque pathway along Port Royal's beautiful coastline. The wooden boardwalk allows for leisurely strolls with panoramic views of the water and opportunities to observe local marine life. Many visitors enjoy watching the sunset from this peaceful vantage point, creating memorable moments against the backdrop of South Carolina's coastal beauty.
6. Lowcountry Estuarium
COASTAL ECOLOGY CENTER
The Lowcountry Estuarium serves as an educational center focused on the region's unique coastal ecosystem and wildlife conservation efforts. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring live animals, interactive displays, and informative presentations about the delicate balance of the local environment. The center offers programs for all ages, making it an engaging stop for families wanting to deepen their understanding of Port Royal's natural heritage.
7. Naval Heritage Park
MARITIME MILITARY HISTORY
Naval Heritage Park honors Port Royal's significant maritime and military history through thoughtfully designed outdoor exhibits and monuments. The park features historical markers, commemorative displays, and scenic views that tell the story of the region's naval importance throughout American history. Visitors can enjoy both a meaningful historical experience and the park's peaceful waterfront setting, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.
8. Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve
HISTORIC COLONIAL FORTIFICATION
Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve protects the remains of one of the oldest British fortifications in South Carolina, dating back to the 1730s. The historic site allows visitors to explore the tabby ruins while learning about the fort's strategic importance in colonial America's defense system. Interpretive signs throughout the preserve provide context for understanding this significant historical landmark and its role in the region's development.
9. Fishcamp on 11th Street
WATERFRONT SEAFOOD DINING
Fishcamp on 11th Street offers a quintessential Lowcountry dining experience featuring fresh seafood in a charming waterfront setting. The restaurant serves locally-sourced dishes with a creative flair, allowing guests to savor authentic regional flavors while enjoying views of Battery Creek. Its casual yet refined atmosphere makes it perfect for everything from special celebrations to relaxed family meals.
10. Fort Fremont Preserve
SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR FORT
Fort Fremont Preserve protects one of the best-preserved Spanish-American War fortifications on the South Carolina coast, located a short drive from Port Royal. Visitors can explore the historic concrete batteries and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding maritime forest and shoreline. The site offers both historical interest and outdoor recreation opportunities, making it a multifaceted attraction for those exploring the greater Port Royal area.
11. Beaufort Historic District
CHARMING ANTEBELLUM ARCHITECTURE
The Beaufort Historic District showcases one of the South's most well-preserved collections of antebellum architecture just minutes from Port Royal. Visitors can stroll tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions, charming cottages, and historic churches that reflect the area's rich cultural heritage. Many of these beautiful homes have been featured in major films, adding to the district's allure as a must-see destination for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs.
12. Beaufort National Cemetery
HISTORIC MILITARY MEMORIAL
Beaufort National Cemetery serves as a solemn tribute to American military personnel, established during the Civil War and located near Port Royal. The cemetery's meticulously maintained grounds feature over 18,500 graves of veterans from multiple conflicts, arranged in concentric circles around a central flag. Visitors can pay their respects while appreciating the site's historical significance and peaceful atmosphere, which provides a meaningful reflection on American military sacrifice.
13. Hunting Island State Park
PRISTINE COASTAL WILDERNESS
Hunting Island State Park offers one of South Carolina's most spectacular natural destinations just a short drive from Port Royal. The park features five miles of pristine beaches, thousands of acres of maritime forest, and a historic lighthouse that visitors can climb for panoramic views of the Atlantic coastline. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy camping, fishing, and hiking while exploring diverse ecosystems teeming with wildlife including loggerhead turtles, deer, and numerous bird species.
14. SILO
FARM-TO-TABLE CULINARY EXPERIENCE
SILO is a celebrated farm-to-table restaurant near Port Royal that showcases the bounty of local farmers, fishermen, and artisans. The establishment offers a seasonal menu that transforms fresh Lowcountry ingredients into sophisticated yet approachable dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Diners appreciate both the restaurant's commitment to supporting local producers and its creative culinary approach that honors regional traditions while embracing contemporary techniques.
15. Beaufort Arsenal Museum
MILITARY HISTORY COLLECTION
The Beaufort Arsenal Museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts within a historic brick building that once served as an arsenal for the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery. Visitors can examine exhibits spanning centuries of local history, including Native American artifacts, colonial items, and Civil War memorabilia. The museum provides valuable insights into the military significance of the region while preserving important pieces of Beaufort and Port Royal's shared heritage.