Beaufort, SC

Located about two hours from Kiawah, Beaufort is a lovely, miniature version of Charleston. It is home to the Marines at Parris Island, yet the downtown area did not feel like a military town. The author Pat Conroy was also born and raised there. Many of his books are set in Beaufort.

A nice way to see the charming neighborhoods is by taking a carriage ride. Pet-friendly carriage companies can be found at the marina on Bay Street, where you will also find a public parking lot. Our guide told us lots of interesting stories about local history and juicy gossip about the various Hollywood stars that have stayed in the area while filming movies there. If you go, ask for the scoop on Barbara Streisand. We are not going to reveal it here, lest we be slapped with a nasty lawsuit.

The guide noted several areas where you could park your car and explore the neighborhoods. The city blocks are small, so you could see the entire area in little time.

After your tour, we suggest grabbing a bite to eat at Nippy’s at 310 West Street. It is a true hole-in-the-wall restaurant. There is no indoor seating. To use the “facilities,” you must walk through the kitchen. However, looks can be deceiving. The shrimp was freshly caught, light, and delicious. The shoestring fries were really good; Gracie gives them two paws up. We spotted several locals there, which is always a good sign.

The carriage driver recommended the Chocolate Tree for dessert. We did not have time to drop by, though. It is a shame. When we returned, others informed us the place has to-die-for chocolate.

While in the area, you might consider a boat tour of the ACE Basin. We did not take a ride because someone in our party gets violently seasick. Again, others have told us the ACE Basin is beautiful.

We posted some pictures of the lovely homes below. Happy Summer!

Rescue Mommy and Daddy