There is always confusion about the two Beauforts. Beaufort, SC and Beaufort, NC. While pronounced differently, AAA Carolinas says that both cities have much more in common than just their names.
Let’s take a look at what AAA Carolinas says about the two cities in a newly published article in the March/April issue of Go Magazine.
The following is an excerpt from the newly published piece. The entire article can be found here.
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We say Bew-fert, they say Bo-fert, but — however you pronounce it — we’re talking about two top coastal Carolina towns. Named after English politician Henry Somerset, Duke of Beaufort, these charming and historic county seats have much more in common than their names. And, learning the tale of two towns is as simple as hitting the road.
Beaufort, S.C.
Located on Port Royal Island in the heart of the Sea Islands that stretch from Jacksonville to Charleston, Beaufort — pronounced bew-fert — is the county seat of Beaufort County and is known for its lush Lowcountry landscape, antebellum architecture and genteel Southern hospitality. The adopted hometown of beloved writer Pat Conroy, and the setting of classic films including The Big Chill, Forrest Gump and The Prince of Tides, Beaufort is rich in history, military might and often bestowed with “top small town” accolades.
History and Festivals
The waterfront is one of Beaufort’s top attractions. With its downtown set squarely along the Beaufort River, the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is the heartbeat of the community. Overlooking the Beaufort marina, the park features a well-landscaped green space, communal swings, playgrounds and a pavilion stage for live performances.
The park is also home to many festivals. Since 1956, Beaufort has celebrated the importance of its waterways with a massive 10-day festival each summer: the Beaufort Water Festival.
Other area attractions: the story of the first European colonial capital in the Santa Elena History Center; the history of the original Gullah community at the Penn Center on nearby St. Helena Island; and nearby Hunting Island State Park, among others.
Stay
Quintessential Southern inns and bed and breakfasts are found throughout the historic district. From intimate rooms in historic mansions….to more sprawling accommodations and cottages.
Beaufort, N.C.
Located 350 miles northeast, Beaufort, North Carolina — pronounced bo-fert — is located along the Beaufort Inlet, a channel that leads to the Atlantic Ocean. Part of the Crystal Coast, Beaufort is North Carolina’s third oldest city and is the county seat of Carteret County.
Nautical Lures
Much of Beaufort’s attractions also center around the water. The North Carolina Maritime Museum on Front Street features exhibits about Beaufort’s maritime history, the seafood industry, life-saving stations, lighthouses and watercraft. Perhaps its most popular exhibit is “Blackbeard and Queen Anne’s Revenge,” which illuminates the life of the early 18th-century swashbuckler.
Enjoy a ferry boat ride to see the wild horses on Rachel Carson Reserve or Shackleford Banks, climb the lighthouse at Cape Lookout National Seashore, or dive the shipwrecks of the Graveyard of the Atlantic.
The spring Beaufort Wine & Food experience celebrates its dynamic culinary scene with wine dinners and tastings, an epicurean village and more. Summer’s Old Homes & Gardens Tour is also popular.
