THE BEAUFORT INN
TUCKED AWAY IN
THE HEART OF TOWN
Let Beaufort’s irresistible go-with-the-flow rhythm wash over you as you settle into one of our historic buildings. Our property has welcomed guests for more than a century, offering unique experiences with every stay — from rooms with a view to spacious suites and fully equipped cottages — and playing a role in our town’s development with an independent spirit and an undeniable sense of place.
S’mores
Friendly
WELCOMING GUESTS FOR 100+ YEARS
Our reception building or Main Inn was built by William Sidney Smith as a summer retreat for his family.
Overnight guests were welcomed for the first time. The building was renamed The Beaufort Inn by Mrs. Gordon Black in 1930.
In 1999, The Beaufort Inn purchased two cottages and a loft. The following year we acquired the Tabby Garden and cottages along Scott Street. In 2001, the Main Inn building was bought by the Stewart family, who kicked off the modern era of restoration and renovation.
We converted an existing asphalt parking lot on West Street into what is now considered Beaufort's most iconic outdoor venue space, Tabby Garden. The space boasts a lush and luxe garden atmosphere designed for gathering.
After renovating and restoring an old grocery store, which sat vacant for nearly 20 years, we repurposed the space into an indoor event venue, Tabby Place. The following year, the second floor of 808 Bay Street was converted into a three-bedroom, two-bath residence overlooking the Beaufort River.
The Craven Building, a 12-room cottage that sits on a former gravel parking lot, is completed. As a result, the Historic Beaufort Foundation recognized The Beaufort Inn with the “Best New Construction/Infill” award.
EXPLORE THE GROUNDS
EST. 1897 Historic Property
Built as a summer retreat for Congressman William Sidney Smith, this mansion later welcomed Beaufort’s earliest overnight guests and became The Beaufort Inn in 1930. Today, it serves as the heart of the inn, thoughtfully restored to honor its past while welcoming modern travelers for over 100 years.
Port Republic Cottages
Located on Port Republic Street, relax and unwind in our one-bedroom suites, outfitted with a Lowcountry-style front porch, perfect for slow mornings with a coffee in hand
Caretaker’s Cottage
Enjoy a cozy stay in our 2 bedroom cottage. This lovely suite has a back porch overlooking the Lower Courtyard with a view into the Upper Courtyard and Tabby Gardens. Step out onto the front porch overlooking a private garden facing Scott Street for a peaceful view
Chisolm Cottage
Seek out extra privacy in this personal cottage with one, spacious King bedroom, offering an outside patio facing Scott Street
Garden Cottage
Facing the Garden Courtyard, wake up to sleepy oak trees in the morning or end the night with sunset views on your front porch, attached to each room.
Garden Studio
The Carriage House features our Garden Studio Rooms, offering an intimate retreat with a queen bed and private veranda overlooking the Lower Garden Courtyard.
EST. 1895 Historic Cottage
Originally built by the Female Benevolent Society to educate and care for destitute children, this historic cottage has endured many chapters of Beaufort’s past—serving as the Clover Club’s circulating library (1910–1917) and later as an infirmary during WWI. Today, you can experience history for yourself and book a stay.
EST. 1880’s Historic Cottage
This Colonial Revival cottage reflects Beaufort’s late-19th-century character, highlighted by its classic double porch. Named for the Scheper family—who helped shape the city’s post–Civil War era—it remains a peaceful retreat in the historic district.
EST. 1850's Historic Cottage
Originally Edmund Rhett’s office, the Articles of Secession were partially drafted in this cottage, playing a key role in the beginning of the Civil War. Later on, the office transformed into a voter registration center for several decades. Today, it stands thoughtfully preserved as part of the Beaufort Inn, connecting past and present through its enduring place in history.
Craven Cottage
Recently renovated in 2025, the Craven Cottage offers an elevated stay with modern furnishings and private porches. Each side of the building features a pleasant view of the property's courtyards or the historic homes on Craven Street.
Fisher House
Featuring a shared living room in the center of the cottage, the Fisher House makes the perfect bridal suite for your special day. Whether you’re saying ‘I do’ or checking in for the weekend, this house makes for a cozy stay.
Tabby Garden
Our expansive, lush green lawn facing the historic district makes the perfect backdrop for your special day. Host your ceremony, reception, or both in our outdoor venue and expect a night to remember.
Tabby Place
The Beaufort Inn’s largest event space, Tabby Place pairs an expansive indoor venue with a scenic courtyard beneath live oaks and Spanish moss, blending modern gatherings with Beaufort’s historic setting.
Old Bay Marketplace & Rooftop
Overlooking historic Bay Street, this indoor-outdoor venue space is perfect for weddings, corporate, or social events. Plus, sunset views are an added perk if your event slips into the evening hours.
Greyhound Flats
Situated off the main property block, these lofts are ideal for extended stays, offering modern furnishings and extra privacy.
Bay Street Loft
A three-bedroom private condo offering picturesque views of Waterfront Park and the Beaufort River from the primary suite balcony and main porch. Located just off Bay Street, the living room balcony looks out over historic downtown Beaufort.
MORNINGS MADE BETTER
We're excited to share that we are now offering breakfast at The Beaufort Inn. Wake up refreshed and join us in the Parlor Room for our daily breakfast bar from 7:00 to 10:00 am. Enjoy a self-service biscuit bar with accoutrements or build your yogurt bowl, topping it all off with coffee or tea. Offering both indoor and back porch seating, you choose where to start your morning.
