City Loft Hotel leads with a 9.7 location score and is steps from Bay Street’s restaurants and shops. For historic charm, Best Western Sea Island Inn sits right on the waterfront with a 9.8 location rating. Both put downtown Beaufort within easy walking distance.
Beaufort’s historic waterfront and oak-lined streets make it a prime base, but choosing the right hotel means nailing the walk-to-Bay-Street balance. Here’s where to book.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed **12 properties** near Beaufort, sifting through **3500+ total verified guest reviews**, to build this list. Every hotel here earned an average guest score of **8.6/10** or higher.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Highest reviewed: #10 Magnolia Court Suites→ Rates
#11 607 Bay Inn Downtown Beaufort→ Rates - Best location (walkable to Bay Street): #2 Best Western Sea Island Inn→ Rates
#9 City Loft Hotel→ Rates - Best value: #10 Magnolia Court Suites→ Rates
- Pet-friendly: #3 Hampton Inn Beaufort→ Rates
#6 Hilton Garden Inn Beaufort→ Rates - Cleanest: #10 Magnolia Court Suites→ Rates
- Best for long stays (full kitchen): #12 James Cottage→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Tru by Hilton Beaufort, Sc | (650+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 2. Best Western Sea Island Inn | (400+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 3. Hampton Inn Beaufort | (350+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 4. Home2 Suites By Hilton Beaufort | (350+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 5. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Beaufort | (300+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 6. Hilton Garden Inn Beaufort | (300+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 7. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Beaufort at Highway 21 | (300+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 8. Oasis Inn | (250+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 9. City Loft Hotel | (200+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 10. Magnolia Court Suites | (50+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 11. 607 Bay Inn Downtown Beaufort | (50+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 12. James Cottage | (30+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
Detailed Reviews: Hotels Near Beaufort SC Reviewed: The Full Breakdown
1. Tru by Hilton Beaufort, Sc
The Vibe
Located just off Trask Parkway, Tru by Hilton sits about 3 miles from Beaufort’s historic waterfront — a 7-minute drive to Bay Street. Guests consistently flag the staff (9.2) and free breakfast as standout perks. Cleanliness scores 9.0, so you’re getting a fresh, modern room without premium rates.
What You Actually Get
This 3-star property delivers free parking, a fitness center, and free bikes to explore the area. The breakfast goes beyond standard continental — reviewers call it “excellent” and “a good variety.” Tru’s compact, efficient rooms work well for solo travelers or short stays. Note that pets are not allowed here, and groups booking 9+ rooms face separate policies. The location sits on Trask Parkway near several chain restaurants within walking distance, but you’ll drive to reach downtown Beaufort’s dining and shops.
Choose this if: You want a reliable 3-star with a strong staff reputation and a solid included breakfast.
2. Best Western Sea Island Inn
The Vibe
With a 9.8 location score, this is the best-placed property in the list for Bay Street walkability. It’s directly adjacent to Waterfront Park, meaning you step out the door onto Beaufort’s premier promenade. The 9.0 cleanliness and 9.4 comfort scores back up the position — guests describe it as “excellent location, truly no problems encountered.”
What You Actually Get
This 3-star hotel packs an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, free WiFi (8.6-rated), and an extended grab-and-go breakfast from 7-9:30 AM. Private parking is available on-site — a serious plus given that downtown Beaufort parking can get tight. The rooms run smaller by design, but the comfortable beds scored 9.4. Pets are not allowed in standard rooms, but some rooms are pet-friendly with a $35 first-night fee and $10 per night thereafter, one-dog limit. Groups booking more than 3 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You prioritize a prime waterfront location and want to walk to everything on Bay Street.
3. Hampton Inn Beaufort
The Vibe
Hampton Inn Beaufort sits on Boundary Street, about 3 miles from Waterfront Park — a 7-8 minute drive to downtown. The 8.8 staff score is the standout here; guests call the desk “friendly” and highlight the “very good” breakfast. Cleanliness scores 8.4 and comfort 8.5, making it a reliable mid-range pick for Beaufort.
What You Actually Get
This 3-star property offers an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, and free WiFi that reviewers rated a perfect 10.0 for connectivity. Pet-friendly policy allows pets with potential charges. The breakfast is rated “very good” and included. Rooms come with standard Hampton Inn amenities, and sea views are available from select rooms — though “sea view” here means the Broad River/marsh vista, not open ocean. The hotel is 3 miles from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort and about 20 minutes from Parris Island.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a pet or need consistent Hilton-standard quality near the highway.
4. Home2 Suites By Hilton Beaufort
The Vibe
Home2 Suites on Trask Parkway scores an 8.7 overall, with cleanliness leading at 9.2. It’s roughly 3 miles from downtown Beaufort — a 7-minute drive to Bay Street. Guests highlight the “excellent” breakfast variety and the front desk team’s genuine care. The ADA rooms get specific praise for accommodating disabled guests well.
What You Actually Get
This extended-stay Hilton brand delivers suite-style rooms with kitchenettes — think full-size fridges, microwaves, and sinks. Sofas are full-size sleeper sofas, perfect for families. The seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center, and free parking round out the offerings. Pet-friendly with a fee (max two pets per room). The hotel also offers a military discount. The breakfast is included and described as “wonderful” by guests. The location is just off the highway near a strip of chain restaurants and retail.
Choose this if: You need extra space and kitchen amenities for an extended Beaufort stay.
5. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Beaufort
The Vibe
Location scoring 9.2 is this SpringHill Suites’ strongest card — it’s on Boundary Street, a 5-minute drive from Waterfront Park and downtown Beaufort. The river-view rooms overlook the marshlands and Broad River, giving it an edge over strip-mall neighbors. Staff scored 9.1, with guests calling them “exceptional” and “kind.”
What You Actually Get
This 3-star Marriott offers an outdoor pool, free private parking, and free WiFi (7.1-rated — weaker than competitors). The “exceptional” breakfast is included in the rate. Rooms feature either a king bed with a twin trundle or two queen beds with a twin trundle — no pull-out sofas here. Pets are not allowed. Early departure policies apply — check fine print at check-in. The hotel is about 29 miles from Confederate Monument but draws strong reviews for cleanliness (8.9) and comfort (8.9).
Choose this if: You want river or marsh views without paying boutique prices.
Check Tonight’s Price for SpringHill Suites by Marriott Beaufort →
6. Hilton Garden Inn Beaufort
The Vibe
Three minutes from downtown Beaufort via car — that’s the big pitch here. Hilton Garden Inn sits on Queen Street, a straight shot to Bay Street and Waterfront Park. Cleanliness scores 8.6 and the staff 8.5, with one guest praising a “phenomenal” front desk agent. It’s a solid Hilton-brand property with a slightly higher price than some Boundary Street options.
What You Actually Get
This 3-star property features an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and fitness center. Pets are allowed with potential charges. Free WiFi scores 8.0. Parking is available on-site, and the hotel allows boat parking on three sides — notable if you’re exploring the Lowcountry waterways. No age restriction for check-in. The on-site restaurant serves dinner and breakfast, and the hotel is near the Beaufort Town Shopping Center for retail needs. Guest reviews are strong on value (7.9) but note WiFi could be better.
Choose this if: You want the convenience of an on-site restaurant and a short drive to downtown.
7. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Beaufort at Highway 21 by IHG
The Vibe
Boundary Street location with marsh-view rooms — that’s the Holiday Inn’s differentiator. Staff scores 8.7, and guests rave about the “beautiful marsh view” from rooms and the “amazing” comfortable beds. It sits close to Parris Island and is a short drive from historic downtown Beaufort. Location scores 8.7.
What You Actually Get
This 3-star IHG property offers an indoor pool, hot tub (note: the hot tub was not operational as of recent guest reports), and an on-site restaurant. Good breakfast is available for $13 extra or included in certain rates (up to $25 breakfast included). Free parking is included. Pets are not allowed. You must be at least 21 to book and check in. The comfort score (8.5) and cleanliness (8.5) are consistent. The property is near the highway but set back enough for marshside quiet.
Choose this if: You’re visiting Parris Island and want a marsh-view room near the base.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Beaufort at Highway 21 by IHG →
8. Oasis Inn
The Vibe
This 2-star motel-style property on Boundary Street is the most affordable option in this list. It’s a straight shot to Parris Island (5 minutes), making it popular for Marine Corps graduations. Location scores 8.4, and the staff 8.5. Guests describe it as “safe, clean, comfortable, good value, and close to downtown.”
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (7.5-rated) and free private parking are included. Breakfast is available but described only as “exceptional” by the property — expect basic continental. No pool. No pets. You must be 21 to check in. The value score (8.1) is the strongest category here. There are no frills, but the cleanliness (8.2) and comfort (8.3) meet expectations for the price tier. It’s a short drive to downtown Beaufort’s restaurants and shops.
Choose this if: You want the lowest price near Beaufort and Parris Island and don’t need frills.
9. City Loft Hotel
The Vibe
City Loft Hotel is the downtown champion — location 9.7 puts it right on Carteret Street, a block from Bay Street. The “stylish urban design” and coffee shop on site create a boutique feel rare among Beaufort’s chain-heavy options. Guests call it “fantastic location walking distance to everything.” Wi-Fi scored a perfect 10.0 and cleanliness is 9.5.
What You Actually Get
This 3-star hotel offers free private parking (limited to guests only — a huge downtown perk), a fitness center, and a restaurant open for breakfast, brunch, and cocktail hour. The coffee shop on premises gives guests a coupon for coffee. Rooms feature soaking tubs — a standout bathroom detail. One wheelchair-accessible room is available. Pets are allowed on request with potential charges. No age restriction for check-in. The property is 4 miles from Parris Island. The City Loft is a rare boutique option where you can walk to Bay Street dining, shopping, and Waterfront Park.
Choose this if: You want downtown walkability and a stylish, design-forward room.
10. Magnolia Court Suites
The Vibe
Magnolia Court Suites is the highest-rated property in Beaufort — 9.7 overall with a near-perfect cleanliness score of 9.9. This apartment-style accommodation sits on Pigeon Point Road, close to downtown but in a quieter residential pocket. Guests rave: “The cottage was immaculate, beautiful and was well equipped with everything we could possibly need.”
What You Actually Get
This 4-star apartment offers free WiFi (10.0), free private parking, a garden view terrace, and barbecue facilities. The suites are fully equipped — think beach chairs, umbrella, towels, and a cooler provided. It’s 5 miles from Parris Island, making it a prime spot for graduation gatherings (the owner notes hosting 50+ families). The cancellation policy is strict: 100% charge if canceled within 15 days. Pets are not allowed. Children of all ages are welcome. The property has no pool or fitness center, but the landscape and terrace make up for it.
Choose this if: You want exceptional cleanliness, more space, and proximity to Parris Island.
11. 607 Bay Inn Downtown Beaufort
The Vibe
607 Bay Inn sits right on Bay Street — the heart of Beaufort’s historic district. With a location score of 9.8 and direct views of the Intercoastal Waterway, the position is unmatched. The 9.8 staff score and 9.9 comfort score speak to a property that understands hospitality. Guests describe it as “wonderful experience, great place, great location.”
What You Actually Get
This 3-star hotel offers free WiFi (10.0), free private parking, and rooms with Intercoastal Waterway views — the King Rooms with Sea View are on the front of the building facing the water. Note: this is a river/waterway view, not ocean. Check-in is strict (3-7 PM) — you must communicate arrival time in advance. Children are not allowed. Pets are not allowed. No military discount offered. The terrace provides a pleasant outdoor space. Cleanliness scores 9.7 and facilities 9.7.
Choose this if: You want direct Bay Street access and water views for a romantic or adult trip.
12. James Cottage
The Vibe
James Cottage is a standalone 950 sq ft villa — you get the whole place. It’s on James Street, a quiet residential road a few minutes’ drive from downtown Beaufort’s Bay Street. Value scores 9.6, cleanliness 9.5, and comfort 9.4. Guests love the door-code entry and the well-stocked kitchen and bathroom.
What You Actually Get
This 3-star villa is your own private space: 950 sq ft with a full kitchen, washing machine, and air conditioning. Free WiFi (10.0-rated) and restaurant reservations support are available. The property speaks English, Romanian, and Russian. No age restriction for check-in. Pets are not allowed. Children of all ages are welcome. Check-in uses a door code — no front desk interaction. The location is a short drive to Bay Street dining and Waterfront Park. The value score (9.6) reflects the spacious private setup for the price.
Choose this if: You want a private, home-like stay with a full kitchen for longer visits to Beaufort.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#9 City Loft Hotel
Location 9.7 and a 9.3 overall rating make it the best all-around choice for walkable downtown Beaufort stays.
💰 Best Value
#10 Magnolia Court Suites
Exceptional 9.7 rating with a 9.9 cleanliness and 9.7 value — apartment amenities at a hotel price.
🏖️ Best Beach Access
#11 607 Bay Inn Downtown Beaufort
Bay Street frontage and Intercoastal views plus hunting Island State Park a 15-minute drive.
How We Ranked These Beaufort Hotels
We evaluated 12 properties near Beaufort, South Carolina, cross-referencing 3,500+ verified guest reviews across Booking.com to find hotels with proven track records. The average guest score across this list sits at 8.6/10.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.6+ overall and 30+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and staff scores — the categories that predict repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Proximity to Bay Street, Waterfront Park, and Parris Island for the most common Beaufort trip types
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotels near Beaufort have the best Bay Street walkability?
For direct Bay Street walkability, Best Western Sea Island Inn (1015 Bay Street, location 9.8) is adjacent to Waterfront Park and a short stroll to Bay Street shops. City Loft Hotel (301 Carteret Street, location 9.7) is one block from Bay Street. 607 Bay Inn Downtown Beaufort (607 Bay Street, location 9.8) is directly on Bay Street with Intercoastal Waterway views. All three let you park once and walk to dinner, shopping, and the waterfront.
Are there pet-friendly hotels near Beaufort?
Yes. Hampton Inn Beaufort (booking 3+ rooms triggers different policies), Home2 Suites By Hilton Beaufort (max two pets, fee applies), Hilton Garden Inn Beaufort (pets allowed with charges), and City Loft Hotel (pets on request with charges) all welcome pets. Best Western Sea Island Inn allows dogs in some rooms ($35 first night, $10 each additional night, one-dog limit). Always confirm the fee structure at booking — some charge per night, not per stay.
Which Beaufort hotels offer free parking?
All 12 properties on this list include free parking. Most offer private on-site parking. City Loft Hotel has limited guest-only parking, which is a key perk given downtown Beaufort’s tight street parking. Tru by Hilton, Home2 Suites, SpringHill Suites, Holiday Inn, Oasis Inn, and James Cottage all feature free private parking. Best Western Sea Island Inn offers private parking on-site as well.
What’s the best time to visit Beaufort, South Carolina?
March through May and September through November offer the most comfortable weather for exploring Bay Street and Waterfront Park — temperatures range from 60-80°F with lower humidity. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid but brings peak season energy and events. Winter (December-February) is mild (40-60°F) with lower hotel rates. Parris Island graduations happen year-round, so weekends can book up regardless of season — the Oasis Inn and Magnolia Court Suites are popular choices for base visits.
Can I check in late at any of these Beaufort hotels?
Most properties accept late check-in with advance notice. Tru by Hilton and Home2 Suites have 3:00 PM check-in with 24-hour front desks. 607 Bay Inn Downtown Beaufort has a strict 7:00 PM check-in cut-off — you must communicate a late arrival. James Cottage uses a door code system, so late arrivals are seamless. Best Western Sea Island Inn check-in starts at 4:00 PM. Always call ahead if arriving after 10 PM.
How far are these Beaufort hotels from Parris Island?
Parris Island is about 5-10 minutes from most Beaufort hotels. Oasis Inn is approximately 5 minutes from MCRD Parris Island. City Loft Hotel is 4 miles from the base. Magnolia Court Suites is 5 miles from the base and has hosted over 50 families for graduation gatherings. Holiday Inn & Suites on Highway 21 is near Parris Island and offers marsh views. All properties are within a 15-20 minute drive of the base.