Woohoo! Beaufort ranks among nation’s “Best Coastal Small Towns,” website says
Isn’t it so cool to live in a place people daydream about?
Beaufort County’s small towns are consistently getting national attention for their beauty, history and waterfront views. Hilton Head Island usually tops lists for its magnificent beaches, but its northern brother is not to be outdone when it comes to coastal town charm.
Beaufort, which boasts a waterfront park and marina downtown, was ranked in the top 10 on USA TODAY’s 10 Best Reader’s Choice Award’s “Best Coastal Small Town” 2021 list recently.
“Forget about Miami and Los Angeles! These 10 small towns – each with a population of fewer than 25,000 people – were selected by our readers as the 10 Best Coastal Small Towns,” the article says. “Each offers uncrowded, unpretentious, and affordable seaside fun in small packages that prove bigger isn’t always better.”
Beaufort came in ninth. (We’d argue that it should’ve been No. 1, but we digress.)
What won readers over?
“The smell of the pluff mud, the briny breezes, and the charming antebellum architecture makes for the perfect trifecta,” the article says.
They list other notable characteristics like the “winding, historic streets with their moss-draped live oak trees” and suggest learning about sea life on an educational boat tour — or kayaking with the chance of a dolphin sighting.
“Beaufort is more than a hidden Lowcountry South Carolina jewel – it’s a life-changing destination that has enchanted visitors since 1512,” it says.
Here’s a full list of the winners:
1. Bucksport, Maine
2. Georgetown, South Carolina
3. Rockport, Texas
4. Southport, North Carolina
5. Ocean Springs, Mississippi
6. Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
7. Nags Head, North Carolina
8. Del Mar, California
9. Beaufort, South Carolina
10. Cape May, New Jersey
