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or those who know Port Royal, they understand its rare appeal. It’s approachable, authentic, and deeply connected to the water and its history. Port Royal is coastal not just in name, but in access and opportunity. Located on a peninsula bordered by the Beaufort River (ICW) to the east and Battery Creek—the deepest natural channel on the Eastern Seaboard—to the west, the village offers unmatched proximity to the water.
The Deepest Natural Channel on the Eastern Seaboard
Port Royal is located on the Intracoastal Waterway, offering seamless access to Beaufort, Hilton Head, and surrounding coastal destinations. Boaters enjoy effortless outings with opportunities for watersports, inlet and inshore fishing, and cruising the scenic waterways. With unobstructed passage to the Atlantic Ocean—free of bridge restrictions—offshore access is straightforward. Store your boat in the dry stack for the ease of service and comfort of covered storage, launch your boat yourself at the Sands Beach, or keep your boat at the future marina.
Dry Stack Storage
The 240 rack Drystack Boat Storage offers the best in convenient hassle-free boating. Call ahead and staff will drop your boat into the water and return your boat to covered and secured storage.
Public Boat Ramp
The public three-lane concrete ramp and L-shaped courtesy dock is conveniently located at Sands Beach.
240-Slip Marina
A 240-slip marina on the deepest natural channel on the Easter Seaboard will be able to accommodate even the deepest keel sailboats. Coming soon.
For Nature Lovers
Port Royal offers a charming network of scenic trails and boardwalks woven throughout the historic Old Village. Whether you prefer walking, running, or biking, these peaceful paths invite you to explore the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. Wander through a vibrant rookery alive with coastal birds, follow the tranquil riverside as gentle breezes roll off the water, and travel beneath the sweeping canopy of majestic live oak trees draped in Spanish moss. It’s the perfect way to experience the town’s unique blend of history, wildlife, and coastal landscape at your own pace.
The Tower and Boardwalk
Located adjacent to Sands Beach, the Tower offers spectacular views of The Village, Parris Island, and waterways. Take a stroll down the Boardwalk or stop and cast a line.
Cypress Wetlands
Take a stroll along the boardwalks through this rookery and observe the many different species of birds, the herons, eagles, owls, geese, ducks and other migratory waterfowl. An amphitheater is located at the entrance.
Spanish Moss Trail
The Spanish Moss Trail is currently being extended through Port Royal and will end at Sands Beach. It is a trail open for non-motorized activities and is part of the East Coast Greenway.
For the Foodies
Port Royal is celebrated for its bounty of local produce and fresh, flavorful seafood, and the town’s restaurants proudly showcase these ingredients in every dish. From farm-to-table creations to coastal delicacies caught just offshore, dining here is a true celebration of the Lowcountry’s culinary heritage. Each meal is an opportunity to savor the freshness, quality, and creativity that make Port Royal a food lover’s paradise.
Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning at the Port Royal Naval Park come enjoy the best locally grown produce, locally harvested shrimp and oysters, as well as local culinary creations that you can stack up to anywhere in the world. The Lowcountry is known not only for its fresh seafood but incredible small farm agriculture.
Dine with a Sunset View
Sunset views from the outdoor bar at Fishcamp on 11th Street or the Adirondack chairs at Shellring Ale Works are hard to beat. There’s nothing quite like ending the day watching the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying fresh seafood and a locally brewed beer.
Shellring Brewery
Enjoy a locally brewed beer with a sunset view over the river, a small-plate weekly rotating menu, and some live music or participate in game night.
Activities
Port Royal is packed with activities for every interest. Tee off at one of the area’s premier golf courses, soak up live music at local venues, spend a sun-filled day on the beach hunting for shark’s teeth, explore scenic trails by foot or bike, or learn a new skill at one of the town’s artisan classes. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, there’s always something to do in this vibrant Lowcountry town.
Golf
South Carolina is well known for its outstanding golf courses, and Port Royal is home to one of the best public courses in the state. Legends Golf Course, located on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, is open to the public and offers a beautiful Lowcountry golfing experience. Play along the river, beneath towering live oaks, and among the natural beauty and wildlife that make this area so special.
Sands Beach
Spend the day at The Sands Beach enjoying the sunshine, strolling along the boardwalk, climbing the observation tower, searching for shark’s teeth, or trying your hand at fishing or crabbing.
Educational Events
Port Royal’s local businesses offer weekly events that blend learning and entertainment—from artisan classes at Windhorse Gallery to live music at Fishcamp, Shellring Ale Works, and Windhorse Gallery. Activities like painting workshops, Reiki sessions, and performances create community connections while sparking creativity.
For the History Buffs
Port Royal was first settled in 1562, making it one of the earliest European settlement sites in North America—predating St. Augustine, Jamestown, and Plymouth. With roots stretching back more than four centuries, the town is steeped in a rich and fascinating history. From early exploration and colonial struggles to its role in shaping the Lowcountry, Port Royal’s past can still be felt in its historic landscapes, waterfront views, and enduring sense of place
Fort Frederick
Built in 1733 by the British colonists, Fort Frederick is the oldest surviving tabby fort in South Carolina. The first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in the South was read here in 1863. Wander among the tabby ruins or picnic by the water.
Historic PR Foundation
Explore the rich history of Port Royal, from the arrival of French explorer Jean Ribault in 1562, to Harriet Tubman’s Civil War encampment on the bluff. The town’s story also reflects its deep connection to the coastal waters, highlighted by the establishment of the Maggioni Oyster Company in 1870, an early symbol of the area’s enduring oyster harvesting tradition.
Parris Island Museum
Discover the proud legacy of the United States Marine Corps at this free museum on Parris Island. Through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories, visitors can explore the history of the Marines and gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to become one. From the challenges of recruit training to the traditions, courage, and commitment that define the Corps, the museum offers a powerful glimpse into the life and history of a Marine.
For more information or to schedule a private tour of the property, contact Whit Suber at 803-518-3888.
And while you’re here, take time to explore the many other incredible places and hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Port Royal. From fresh seafood restaurants and charming boutique shops to talented local artisans, year-round activities, and vibrant community festivals — there’s always something to experience. Enjoy waterfront dining at restaurants with open-air decks where you can relax and take in a breathtaking Lowcountry sunset.