With a history that can’t be beat and solid cultural roots, Port Royal offers visitors plenty to see and plenty to do. This breezy chunk of South Carolina certainly has character and is the place to be for boating, long walks and bird watching. Port Royal takes pride in its natural conservation efforts and outdoor attractions, by the coast. Drop by for a breath of fresh air, with a healthy dose of adventure, genuine Southern charm and exploration under the sun. Here are the best things to do in Port Royal!
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1. Cypress Wetlands
Nature lovers and bird watchers would do well to take note of this enchanting nature preserve and safe haven for intriguing critters and colorful fauna. Thriving with native wildlife and teeming with extensive variations of forests, fresh and saltwater marshes, as well as cypress swamps, you will also be able to find over 200 different species of birds, here.
Approximately eight species of woodpecker call the Cypress Wetlands their home, with towering trees that provide foraging and nesting habitats, while thorny vines in smaller bushes scattered throughout the forest provide the perfect sanctuary for the state bird: the Carolina Wren. Additionally, around 25 or so species of ducks, mergansers, geese and many other water based animals call the Cypress Wetlands home.
Cypress Wetlands
Address: 1700 Paris Ave, Port Royal, SC 29935
Website: Cypress Wetlands
2. The Sands
A popular destination for tourists who come all the way down to the southern tip of Port Royal, the Sands is a delightful area that stands where the Beaufort River meets Battery Creek. The sandy beaches offer an incredible view, as well as incredible fishing experiences. For those looking for a nice little beach getaway or a relaxing spot to set sail and let their hair down, the Sands in Port Royal is definitely one destination that promises all that and more. One of the most appealing points of the Sands is how easily accessible it is. Located at the Southern tip of Port Royal, visitors will have no problem walking or driving right up to the shores of the beach.
To grab something to eat or drink, a range of eateries can be found in close proximity, such as the Moondoggies Café, just down the road at 925 10th Street, which serves lip smacking delicacies, including steaks, salads and, of course, the freshest seafood. To top it all off, a slow walk along the boardwalk of Battery Creek will treat visitors to a landscape view of the massive waterway and the dolphins, coastal birds and other colorful wildlife that can be found here.
The Sands
Address: Eastern end of Sands Beach Road and 6th Street in Port Royal, SC.
3. Fishing
Renowned as one of the more popular fishing destinations in the county, Port Royal offers an abundance of great charters, providing excellent service and resources for both beginner and expert fishing enthusiasts. Here you can find Cast Away Fishing Charters, which are Beaufort and the Lowcountry’s Premier Fishing Guides, headed by Captain Tim and Captain Joe. The charters have been serving locals and visitors alike, since 2005, with private trips for groups to fish and relax.
With Sea Wolf Charters, another fishing charter located in Beaufort, you will get to experience Gulf Stream blue water fishing on a steady vessel, at the side of an experienced crew.
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4. Port Royal Farmers Market
At Port Royal, you will be able to witness one of the oldest forms of marketing in the country, the farmers market. Here, small farmers and growers bring produce directly to the public, in a long-standing tradition that carries on to this day. Visitors would do well to take this opportunity to get up close and personal and fully experience Port Royal’s cultural roots.
Farming and the process of selling produce has been a source of local livelihood for so long here that no trip to Port Royal would really be complete without experiencing it, first hand.
Port Royal Farmers Market
Address: Ribaut Rd, Port Royal, SC 29935
Website: Port Royal Farmers Market
5. Parris Island Museum
Beaufort is a destination for sightseers as well as history buffs. The Parris Island Museum is housed in a 10,000 square foot (929 square meter) facility and the grand museum includes exhibits delving into the United States Marine Corps’ history, as well as the history of the Port Royal region. Visitors can explore the extensive legacy of the United States Marine Corps, along with the rich historical records of Port Royal, in exhibits that cover the island’s long and interesting legacy, all the way from Native American civilization and French and Spanish colonies to modern day developments.
Displaying artifacts from the 19th century and beyond, as well as later artifacts and other educational material, the Parris Island Museum displays Port Royal’s history, in all its glory.
Parris Island Museum
Address: 283 Blvd De France, Parris Island, SC 29905
Website: Parris Island Museum
6. Lowcountry Estuarium
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If marine life is one of your primary interests, then the Lowcountry Estuarium is right up your alley. A private, nonprofit organization, dedicated to the principle of “Conservation through Education”, this well-maintained facility strives to build upon its track record of community service and education. Established in 1991 as the first ever public aquarium chartered by the State of South Carolina, this prestigious and intriguing state-of-the-art aquarium on the shores of Battery Creek, in Port Royal, has been in business for 20 years.
Lowcountry Estuarium
Address: Ext., 630 16th St, Port Royal, SC 29935
Website: Lowcountry Estuarium
Seafront walks and the great outdoors in Port Royal, South Carolina
Port Royal is all about nature conservation, outdoor attractions by the coast, genuine Southern charm and exploration under the sun. Take a wonderful journey to a place with a strong and interesting tradition. Port Royal has nature, local food, community and a dash of history. Take a look at this list of the best things to do in Port Royal and start planning your trip!
History
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