LOWCOUNTRY &
BEAUFORT, SC
Lowcountry living is defined by beautiful vistas, southern charm, and an eclectic mix of art and history.
Between Savannah and Charleston lies the charming historic city of Beaufort, SC. Enjoy galleries, boutiques and dining, or attend the symphony after a romantic ride on a horse-drawn carriage through Beaufort’s historic district—a favorite of Hollywood. It’s been the setting for "The Big Chill," "The Prince of Tides," "The Great Santini," and "Forrest Gump."
It’s also a favorite of travelers. TripAdvisor named nearby Hunting Island State Park as one of “America’s Top Ten Beaches,” and New York Times Travel names Beaufort one of the “Top 52 Places to Visit This Year” for 2016.
Historic structures ground the town, but creative arts and dining make Beaufort an ideal blend of past and present. The second oldest city in South Carolina, Beaufort – and Dataw! -- still boasts untouched ruins that dot the landscape. But with a thriving creative culture, there’s a new way to discover Beaufort every time you’re here.
- BEAUFORT, SC
- “America's Number One Happiest Seaside Towns” Coastal Living
- "Top 100 Best Art Towns in America" Author John Villani
- "Best Small Southern Town" Southern Living
- "Top 50 Adventure Town" National Geographic Adventure
- “Top 52 Places to Visit This Year” New York Times Travel
- “Top 25 Small City Arts Destinations” American Style Magazine
- “Top 20 Fishing Town” Field & Stream
- “Top 25 Places to Retire” CNNmoney
- SAVANNAH, GA
With its pedestrian-friendly layout and innovative urban design, Savannah is a short trip away from Dataw and well worth the time. The city inspires visitors with its emerald tree canopy, quaint cobblestone streets and majestic architecture. Take the time to wander off the beaten path, and experience the history, beauty and charm of this beloved coastal city. Savannah is an abundant city to visit any time of year, with activities for everyone to indulge in. From live music and food festivals, to art exhibits and Civil War re-enactments, Savannah brims with all kinds of events to excite the mind, the body and the senses.
- CHARLESTON, SC
Charleston is the oldest and second-largest city in the southeastern state of South Carolina. The city lies just south of the geographical midpoint of South Carolina's coastline and is located on Charleston Harbor, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean formed by the confluence of the Ashley and Cooper rivers, or, as is locally expressed, "where the Cooper and Ashley rivers come together to form the Atlantic Ocean."
Founded in 1670 as Charles Towne in honor of King Charles II of England, Charleston adopted its present name in 1783. It moved to its present location on Oyster Point in 1680 from a location on the west bank of the Ashley River known as Albemarle Point. By 1690, Charles Towne was the fifth largest city in North America, and it remained among the ten largest cities in the United States through the 1840 census.
Known for its rich history, well-preserved architecture, distinguished restaurants, and mannerly people, Charleston has received a large number of accolades, including "America's Most Friendly City" by Travel + Leisure in 2011 and in 2013 and 2014 by Condé Nast Traveler, and also "the most polite and hospitable city in America" by Southern Living magazine.
- HUNTING ISLAND - BEAUFORT’S PRISTINE BEACH
Not far from Dataw is one of the most popular state parks in South Carolina, Hunting Island Beach State Park.
The beautiful sandy beach and the warm Atlantic Ocean make it a perfect backdrop for the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse. The lighthouse was originally constructed in 1859 and was destroyed by Confederates during the Civil War to prevent Union soldiers from using it. In 1875, it was rebuilt and continued to be an active lighthouse until June 1933.
Besides the historic landmark and pristine beaches, the preservation of flora and fauna habitats is evident.
The wildlife is diverse for a coastal area. There are alligators, egrets, herons, osprey and bald eagles. The marine life is everything you would imagine - from jumping dolphins to sand dollars. The park is also a nesting ground for loggerhead turtles.
There are many fun opportunities to interact with the island, from fishing in the lagoon or from the 1,120-foot pier, to staying in one of the cabins. The nature center features live displays and exhibits. There is a marsh walk, nature trails and picnic areas.