Around Town: Explore and enjoy Beaufort's parks

By Hannah Eastham | If you’re looking for something fun to do with your little ones during the warmer months in our little coastal town, look no further than the assortment of fantastic local parks that our area has to offer. From shady sanctuaries to waterfront views, Beaufort’s parks hold immense amounts of beauty, breezes, and fun to be had for all ages.

One of Beaufort’s best kept secrets lies before Bellamy Curve on your way to downtown in the little shaded streets of Pigeon Point. Pigeon Point Park has tall oak tree coverage, seaside breezes, and multiple playgrounds fit for all ages from the tiniest toddlers to grown adults featuring a picnic area, and lots of shaded swings and benches. Fenced in and with space to roam, this park can house many children for hours at a time who are seeking a break from the sun. With areas for snacks and lunch, you can make a day of it – bringing both food and friends to enjoy all that this park has to offer.

Each time I have visited this park I have seen so many smiling faces, camera flashes, and children playing in such a peaceful harmony that gives you the feeling of a true community park full of friends and neighbors.

Down at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park there’s another grand public spot fit for the adventurous type. Though not as shaded as its Uptown Beaufort neighbor at Pigeon Point, this park has dashing views of waves, sailboats, and seaside creatures (even gulls, pelicans and dolphins – oh my!)  There’s room for picnics, football games, bocce, and plenty of open space to throw out the blanket and soak up some Lowcountry sun. The playground is also a favorite, with lots of thrills and bathrooms right next door.  Convenience.

In addition to the views, this park has the accessibility of all of the amenities downtown has to offer. You can cool off with a cup of gelato at Common Ground Coffeehouse which is only a stone’s toss from the park. There are also a variety of restaurants, ice cream parlors, and air conditioned shops to peruse if you need to catch a break from the Beaufort heat that is omnipresent from May through September.

Some other great parks to check out are Lenora Park right off of Ribaut Road in Port Royal; Southside Park in Mossy Oaks; and the new park on Lady’s Island next to the Lady’s Island Boat Landing on Factory Creek, complete with a fishing dock, picnic tables, green space and more.