Hunting Island State Park named one of best in the south

Our beloved Hunting Island State Park has been chosen to be among the Best State Parks in the South by Southern Living Magazine.

The magazine recently published its list of “The South’s Best State Parks” and chose nineteen fantastic spots to rave about. Our Hunting Island made the list and, frankly, we’re not surprised.

“If you’ve been searching for a perfectly picturesque beach—Hunting Island State Park won’t disappoint,” Southern Living said. “Take in the full view of the ocean, beach, and marshland by climbing to the top of the Hunting Island Lighthouse.”

SL also mentions the nature at Hunting Island too. “Today you can still see deer and waterfowl regularly. The endangered loggerhead turtle nests here as well. If you’d like to catch some fresh seafood for dinner, try crabbing or fishing…”

“Enjoy a cool Atlantic breeze as you swim, boat, or kayak,” the article added, giving a nod to getting in the water and having some fun.

Again we’re not too surprised.

Hunting Island is special.

Named for the hunting done here in years past, it’s a pristine barrier island that has been kept nearly completely natural for as long as man has walked on it. With some three miles of natural beach and the state’s only publicly accessible lighthouse, its no wonder why over three million visitors go to the park each year.

And its resilience. It’s amazing.

Pounded and devastated by Hurricane Matthew and then hit by Irma eleven months later, Hunting Island has been through quite a lot and that’s just in recent years.

It’s only been through the talent, sweat and perseverance of the park rangers and staff along with a strong commitment from the state that she’s come out a winner in the aftermath each time.

The park has gone through some changes recently and yet still remains a stellar slice of paradise right here in Beaufort SC.

See the full article and list here at Southern Living.

See more about Hunting Island here.

See the damage Hurricane Matthew caused to Hunting Island.