Best Summer Activities for Kids in Beaufort, SC

(Fun Ideas for Visiting or New-to-Town Families!)

Summer in Beaufort is nothing short of magical — and if you’re raising a family here (or planning to relocate), you’ll quickly see why locals love calling it home. With endless outdoor adventures, creative camps, and plenty of places to cool off, there’s something for every child to enjoy.

Here’s your guide to the best summer activities for kids in Beaufort:

1. Summer Camps: Adventure, Creativity, and New Friends

• Port Royal Sound Foundations’ Kids' Camps
  Perfect for adventurous kids! These day camps teach paddling skills, wildlife education, and water safety — plus, who wouldn’t want to kayak through the Lowcountry marshes?

• Beaufort Academy Summer Programs
  Offering a variety of camps, from sports to arts and STEM-based activities. Great for mixing learning with fun!

• Churches in Beaufort
  Christian-focused camps where kids enjoy praising the Lord, camaraderie, and learning more about Jesus.

• YMCA of Beaufort
  Affordable, well-rounded day camps that include swimming, sports, and arts & crafts.

Pro Tip: Camps tend to fill up quickly — be sure to register early!

2. Splash Pads & Cool-Down Spots

• The Sands Beach in Port Royal
  While not a traditional splash pad, this easy-going beach is perfect for shallow wading, sandcastle building, and even shark tooth hunting — a must-try Beaufort experience!

• Beaufort YMCA Pool
  Membership grants access to their outdoor pools with dedicated kids’ swim times.

3. Playgrounds & Parks to Explore

• Pigeon Point Park
  Large green spaces, swings, slides, and splash pad — the ultimate all-in-one park for little ones to burn off some energy.

• Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
  Pack a picnic, watch the boats drift by, and let the kids enjoy the playground while you relax under the palms.

• Southside Park
  Located in Shell Point, this park offers a nature trail, sports fields, and shaded playgrounds for all-day fun.

Pro Tip: Morning or late afternoon are best for outdoor play to beat the mid-day summer heat!

4. Nature Outings and Wildlife Adventures

• Hunting Island State Park
  Climb the historic lighthouse, hike nature trails, explore the marsh boardwalks, and spend a day on the beach. Hunting Island is a family favorite and a beautiful spot for low-key outdoor adventures.

• Port Royal Cypress Wetlands
  Introduce kids to birdwatching and nature walks. Easy trails make it stroller and toddler-friendly too!

• The Port Royal Sound Foundation Maritime Center
  Interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and monthly kid-friendly events about the coastal environment. Plus, it’s air-conditioned — a summer lifesaver!

5. Family-Friendly Events & Festivals

• Beaufort Water Festival (July)
  From the raft races to the arts and crafts market, this iconic festival is filled with family-focused activities, live music, and food vendors.

• First Friday on Bay Street
  On the first Friday of every month, Bay Street comes alive with kid-friendly music, treats, and fun activities — great for feeling connected to the community.

• 4th of July at The Sands in Port Royal

Moving to Beaufort? Here's Why Families Love It:

• Strong Community Feel: Kids (and parents!) quickly find their tribe.

• Year-Round Outdoor Life: From paddleboarding to playground hopping, Beaufort’s weather means you're almost never stuck indoors.

• Safety: Beaufort’s smaller size and welcoming neighborhoods make it a comforting place to raise children.

• Educational Opportunities: Both in and out of the classroom, kids have endless ways to learn and grow here.

Whether you're already local or planning your family's move to Beaufort, summer is the perfect time to dive into everything our beautiful town has to offer.

Looking for a home close to the best parks, playgrounds, and schools?
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