Want a unique way to experience the holidays while immersed in culture and Southern hospitality? Beaufort SC is a perfect family getaway to explore Gullah culture through food, shopping , arts and more. This unique destination is a special place to experience the holidays amongst the backdrop of the Lowcountry and the heart of Gullah culture.
Food: Begin your exploration by savoring traditional Gullah cuisine, which is a delightful fusion of West African and Southern flavors. Be sure to try dishes like shrimp and grits, gumbo, and the famous Gullah red rice. Many local restaurants offer authentic meals that provide a taste of the region’s heritage. Here are few of my favorites:
- Gullah Express: Food trucks are a lifesaver with kids. The owner is so sweet and always makes families feel welcome. Kids especially love the fried okra and crab balls to go.
- Carolina Cider Company: Love stopping here with the family and picking up ciders and desserts for the road, plus you can beat the marshland views. It’s my go to caffeine stop for Lavender lattes to keep up with the kids while holiday shopping.
- Plum’s: Looking for classic shrimp and grits or fried fish sandwiches? Plum’s is a great waterfront option to take your kids. You can let them run around the park while you wait for food. And I have been known to ask for extra honey butter myself and is definitely a kid’s favorite!
Accommodations: Choose from a range of accommodations that suit your family’s needs, from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Staying in the heart of Beaufort allows you to experience the local culture firsthand and provides easy access to all festivities.
- Anchorage 1770: If you have teenagers or just want a separate space for your family, I would recommend booking both suites at the carriage house. My family has enjoyed the privacy especially when little ones get a little noisy and messy.
- Beaufort Inn: This boutique hotel has a plethora of housing options and lots of porches and courtyard for kids to run around.  Â
Gullah Art/History:
The Gullah culture is rich with history and artistic expression. I love taking the kids to learn about the culture and history through art. Here are my go to places for families:
- Lybenson’s Art Gallery: A great place to learn about and splurge on Original Gullah and African American art. You can also bring a few of your favorite pieces for framing and get a Gullah and art history lesson from the shop owner, Reverend Hodges.
- Penn Center Gift Shop: This is a great place to shop for kids and pick up prints, books and let them run around the Penn Center grounds while enjoying the beauty of the Lowcountry.
Shopping:
Stroll through the quaint streets of Beaufort and discover shops offering unique Gullah-inspired crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Local artisans often sell handcrafted jewelry, sweetgrass baskets, and other traditional items that make for perfect mementos of your trip.
- Kids Stores: From museum gift shops to kids clothing stores Beaufort has a plethora of places for getting unique gifts for your kids.
- Book Stores: As an avid book collector, I can’t get enough of searching for Lowcountry and Gullah books in town. I especially love the vintage finds at McIntosh Book Shoppe.
Outdoor Activities with Kids:
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy with children. Explore the scenic beauty of Hunting Island State Park, where families can go hiking, fishing, or simply relax on the beach. Kayaking and boat tours are also popular options for exploring the area’s natural landscapes and wildlife.
- Boat Tours and Dolphin Cruises: Explore the scenic waterways with a boat tour, offering a unique perspective on the area’s natural beauty and rich heritage. Add Coastal Expeditions and Beaufort Dolphin tours to your travel itinerary for sure. Kids especially love the dolphin tours and shells.
- Kid Friendly Beachfront: Beaufort has an abundance of beachfront and waterfront experiences. I love taking the kids to The Sands because it’s great for collecting shells and has minimal waves. It’s great when your kids are under 5.Â
- Waterfront Playground: Need some time to relax and want the kids to burn their energy? The waterfront playground at the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is a great place for a picnic while your kids enjoy themselves.
Events: Throughout the holiday season, Beaufort hosts a variety of events celebrating Gullah culture. Attend live music performances, storytelling sessions, and traditional dance demonstrations. Participate in community gatherings and parades that highlight the vibrant spirit of the Gullah people.
- Dec 5-8: Sea Island Gullah Christmas Celebration: Celebrate the season with the Gullah Kinfolk Christmas, an enchanting event filled with music, storytelling, and traditions that bring the Gullah culture to life from a symposium to a Gullah Rice cook-off.
- Dec 31 Watch Night Celebrations: Join in the communal spirit at the Watch Night service at a few historic Gullah Churches including, First African Baptist, Tabernacle Baptist Church and Brick Baptist Church on Saint Helena.
Beaufort SC offers a unique way to experience the holidays from Gullah culture to Lowcountry traditions. If you want to gift your kids an experience that will remember and also learn about unique cultures and traditions, Beaufort is the perfect place to explore for a few days or even a few weeks.
Presented by Visit Beaufort, Port Royal, and Sea Islands of SCÂ
Supported by Discover SC
Comments
