BEAUFORT
Beaufort Community
Original Content by Carl Johnson
Nestled on the Beaufort Inlet, the town of Beaufort, North Carolina, is a treasure on the Crystal Coast. Established in 1709, it proudly holds the title of North Carolina’s third oldest town, with a story that stretches back over three centuries. Originally known as Fishtown because of its thriving fishing industry, Beaufort evolved from a modest port and fishing village into a vibrant destination that balances small-town charm with rich cultural heritage and modern coastal living. (Town History | Beaufort NC).
CLICK HERE or watch the video below to see a fabulous video provided by the Beaufort Historic Site to learn and see more about this great town!
Nestled on the Beaufort Inlet, the town of Beaufort, North Carolina, is a treasure on the Crystal Coast. Established in 1709, it proudly holds the title of North Carolina’s third oldest town, with a story that stretches back over three centuries. Originally known as Fishtown because of its thriving fishing industry, Beaufort evolved from a modest port and fishing village into a vibrant destination that balances small-town charm with rich cultural heritage and modern coastal living. (Town History | Beaufort NC).
CLICK HERE or watch the video below to see a fabulous video provided by the Beaufort Historic Site to learn and see more about this great town!
Beaufort’s waterways are the lifeline of the town. The deep-water harbor made it a haven for sailors, fishermen, and merchants, and today it remains a focal point for beach recreation, sightseeing, and waterfront strolls. Today the town also thrives off of tourism and is a must visit stop at the Crystal Coast. Whether watching boats drift along the creek, dipping your toes in the sand beaches, or boarding a ferry toward the Cape Lookout National Seashore and Cape Lookout Lighthouse, visitors feel connected to the rhythms of the tide and the town’s maritime legacy.
Festivals and Events You Don’t Want To Miss
Beaufort’s community spirit shines brightest through its year-round festivals and local traditions. If you are traveling there as a tourist no matter the season you will want to take part in these fun events:
Christmas Candlelight Homes Tour – A cozy winter tradition where private homes decked out in holiday décor welcome visitors for guided tours in a vintage, candlelit ambiance
Historic Beaufort Christmas Candlelight Tour - Beaufort Historic Site
Beaufort Old Homes, Garden, and More Tour – A late-June tradition for over 60 years inviting guests to explore historic houses, gardens, and local landmarks at leisure.
64th Beaufort Old Homes Tour - Beaufort Historic Site (see past home tour info here to learn more)
Beaufort Wooden Boat Race - Annual show held in May is fun for all ages highlighting the art of wooden boats, from building them to racing them.
Home :: Beaufort Wooden Boat Show :: Beaufort NC :: Sponsored by the North Carolina Maritime Museum :: Annual Boat Show :: Top 20 Event
Historic Beaufort Road Race – A community favorite, this 5K/10K run draws runners of all ages and abilities through scenic parts of town and the historic district. It is a fun event for locals and tourist to take part in while enjoying the beauty of the town.
Beaufort Historic Road Race | Beaufort NC
Beaufort Wine & Food Fest - Beaufort also hosts food-centric events that highlight its culinary culture which brings regional chefs and winemakers together for tastings, dinners, and social gatherings every spring.
HOME | Beaufort Wine & Food
Local Spots for Munchies and Hangouts
Beaufort’s dining scene is a delicious blend of coastal fare, Southern comfort, and creative foods. Waterfront views, fresh seafood, and cozy cafes make exploring the town’s restaurants a highlight of any visit. See Carl’s favorites list below. Check out some great local spots:
Clawson's 1905 Restaurant & Pub: Home - Clawsons Restaurant
A historic favorite housed in a building dating back to 1905, serving classic American and seafood dishes with a welcoming atmosphere that echoes Beaufort’s heritage.
Blue Moon Bistro: Home - Blue Moon Bistro
A beloved spot featuring creative French American cuisine with upscale touches—perfect for a night out or special occasion. Locally sourced fresh food.
Beaufort Grocery: Beaufort Grocery Co.
A lively choice for lunch and dinner with great local flavors and a fun vibe right in the heart of downtown. Great outdoor patio seating, think French country bistro!
City Kitchen: City Kitchen
Casual New American fare with scenic marina views — ideal for waterfront dining.
Aqua Restaurant: Aqua
A chic seafood restaurant known for fresh catches and refined coastal dishes. Upscale dining with tapas, small plates, and big plate options.
Beaufort’s community spirit shines brightest through its year-round festivals and local traditions. If you are traveling there as a tourist no matter the season you will want to take part in these fun events:
Christmas Candlelight Homes Tour – A cozy winter tradition where private homes decked out in holiday décor welcome visitors for guided tours in a vintage, candlelit ambiance
Historic Beaufort Christmas Candlelight Tour - Beaufort Historic Site
Beaufort Old Homes, Garden, and More Tour – A late-June tradition for over 60 years inviting guests to explore historic houses, gardens, and local landmarks at leisure.
64th Beaufort Old Homes Tour - Beaufort Historic Site (see past home tour info here to learn more)
Beaufort Wooden Boat Race - Annual show held in May is fun for all ages highlighting the art of wooden boats, from building them to racing them.
Home :: Beaufort Wooden Boat Show :: Beaufort NC :: Sponsored by the North Carolina Maritime Museum :: Annual Boat Show :: Top 20 Event
Historic Beaufort Road Race – A community favorite, this 5K/10K run draws runners of all ages and abilities through scenic parts of town and the historic district. It is a fun event for locals and tourist to take part in while enjoying the beauty of the town.
Beaufort Historic Road Race | Beaufort NC
Beaufort Wine & Food Fest - Beaufort also hosts food-centric events that highlight its culinary culture which brings regional chefs and winemakers together for tastings, dinners, and social gatherings every spring.
HOME | Beaufort Wine & Food
Local Spots for Munchies and Hangouts
Beaufort’s dining scene is a delicious blend of coastal fare, Southern comfort, and creative foods. Waterfront views, fresh seafood, and cozy cafes make exploring the town’s restaurants a highlight of any visit. See Carl’s favorites list below. Check out some great local spots:
Clawson's 1905 Restaurant & Pub: Home - Clawsons Restaurant
A historic favorite housed in a building dating back to 1905, serving classic American and seafood dishes with a welcoming atmosphere that echoes Beaufort’s heritage.
Blue Moon Bistro: Home - Blue Moon Bistro
A beloved spot featuring creative French American cuisine with upscale touches—perfect for a night out or special occasion. Locally sourced fresh food.
Beaufort Grocery: Beaufort Grocery Co.
A lively choice for lunch and dinner with great local flavors and a fun vibe right in the heart of downtown. Great outdoor patio seating, think French country bistro!
City Kitchen: City Kitchen
Casual New American fare with scenic marina views — ideal for waterfront dining.
Aqua Restaurant: Aqua
A chic seafood restaurant known for fresh catches and refined coastal dishes. Upscale dining with tapas, small plates, and big plate options.
Aqua Restaurant | Home Page
Local Shops To Visit - Whether a Local, Tourist, or just Passing Through!
Beaufort’s historic Front Street is like stepping into an eclectic marketplace where every storefront tells a story. Boutiques offer coastal fashion, nautical gifts, artisan crafts, and more. See some popular spots below:
The General Store: Shop Online - The General Store - Hats, Apparel, Gifts & Fudge
Classic shop with delightful gifts and coastal treasures.
Sweet Lilly Ru: BeaufortGiftsNc - Etsy
Gift shop with beautiful items and local charm.
The Old Beaufort Shop: The Old Beaufort Shop | Beaufort, NC
A great place for books, souvenirs, and artisan crafts celebrating Beaufort’s heritage.
Calypso Cottage: Calypso Cottage - Luxury Resort Lifestyle Shop – Calypso Cottage- Luxury Resort Lifestyle
Boutique offering jewelry, apparel, and unique coastal finds.
The Olde Beaufort Farmers’ Market (HOME | farmers-market) is another local favorite, where fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts bring the community together under the shade of historic oak trees. They even offer a winter pick up market during the colder months so that the local goods can be enjoyed all year long!
Olde Beaufort Farmers' Market | Home Page
Beaufort’s charm lies in its blend of old-world history and coastal culture. From its beginnings as a quiet fishing village to its modern role as a vibrant community and tourist destination, the town offers something for every traveler and resident: history, recreation, great food, unique shopping, and a strong sense of place.
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