Hunting Island State Park and beach, Beaufort, SC

Finding what is really important at Hunting Island Beach and State Park.

Hunting Island State Park is the
most popular and beautiful beach in
South Carolina. This 5,000 acre park and
its 3 miles of natural beach hosts more
than a million visitors a year. It's a place where you can truly "find yourself again".
A place where humans and nature co-exist.
Hunting Island State Park is located
just 16 miles east of historic Beaufort .

	Hunting Island got its name when the island was once used for hunting deer, waterfowl and raccoon. Hunting Island, as well as Beaufort, was a common layover for sailors and pirates, including Blackbeard. In the 1930's, the Civilian Conservation Corps built the State Park. Hunting Island has remained very conservative with the natural environment, but that does not mean you have to rough it. There are showers and dressing rooms on the beach, a 200 site campground, cabins, boardwalk, nature trails, lagoon, fishing pier and boat landing. In the center of the park stands a historic lighthouse which gives a magnificent view of the shoreline. Hunting Island is also a popular nesting ground for the Loggerhead turtle and the park has a hatchery for the study and preservation of the species. The weather is nice most of the year and the cool Atlantic breeze keeps the summer heat at an enjoyable level. The park hours are 6 am to 9 pm from April through October and 6 am to 6 pm from November through March.