13 Fun Things To Do In St. Helena Island, South Carolina

St. Helena Island, South Carolina is a beautiful and unique place to visit with plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy. From beachcombing and bird watching to taking a tour of the Penn Center, there is something for everyone. Here are 13 fun things to do in St. Helena Island, South Carolina that will make your trip to the island one to remember!

Penn Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Penn Center
Type	Museum in Saint Helena Island, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 452
Address	16 Penn Center Cir E, St Helena Island, SC 29920
Phone	(843) 838-2432
Hours	Tuesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Sunday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Monday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

The Penn Center was founded in 1862 as the Penn School for the education of freed slaves. It was the first school of its kind in the United States, and it was attended by more than 3,000 freed slaves during its early years. The school was named for the Quaker abolitionist and educator, Thomas Penn. The Penn School was a model for other schools in the South that were established to educate freed slaves.

Today, the Penn Center is operated as a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the Gullah/Geechee culture and promoting education, economic development, and community service within the local Gullah/Geechee community. Visitors to the Penn Center can explore the history of the school, its founders, and the Gullah/Geechee culture. The Center also offers a variety of workshops, lectures, and exhibits.

The Penn Center is a great place to explore the Gullah/Geechee culture and history. Visitors can take part in the traditional Gullah/Geechee storytelling, visit the Gary Hunt Heritage Gallery, and explore the Penn School’s historic buildings. Visitors can also explore the Center’s museum and library, and attend lectures and workshops on the Gullah/Geechee culture.

Visitors should also plan to attend the Penn Center’s annual Gullah/Geechee Nation Cultural Arts Festival. This event celebrates the Gullah/Geechee culture through traditional music, dance, and storytelling. The festival is held in October and is a great way to experience the culture and learn more about the Penn Center.

When visiting the Penn Center, visitors should plan to stay in a nearby hotel or bed and breakfast. There are a variety of lodging options available in nearby Beaufort, Port Royal, and Lady’s Island. Visitors should also plan to bring their own food as there are limited restaurants in the area.

The Penn Center of St. Helena Island is a unique and historically significant destination. This site offers visitors a chance to explore the Gullah/Geechee culture and history, as well as a variety of workshops and lectures. Visitors can also attend the annual Gullah/Geechee Nation Cultural Arts Festival and experience the culture firsthand. With plenty of nearby lodging and dining options, visitors are sure to have a memorable experience when visiting the Penn Center.

Hunting Island State Park

The most popular activity at Hunting Island is beachcombing. With over five miles of beaches, visitors can explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. With crystal clear waters and an abundance of wildlife, beachcombing is a great way to spend an afternoon. In addition to beachcombing, visitors can also enjoy fishing in the surf and pier. With various species of fish, such as pompano and whiting, anglers of all ages will be able to find something to catch.

For those looking to stay overnight, Hunting Island has a campground with over 100 sites. Visitors can choose from tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. There is also a lodge and restaurant on-site. Other amenities include picnic areas, boardwalks, and bike paths.

In addition to the outdoor activities, Hunting Island also offers a variety of educational programs. From ranger-led hikes to beach walks, visitors can learn more about the history and ecology of the area. There are also guided tours of the lighthouse, which is the only lighthouse in South Carolina that is open to the public.

The island is home to a number of endangered species, including the loggerhead sea turtle and the bald eagle. Visitors can take part in a variety of conservation programs and activities that help protect these species.

With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and diverse wildlife, Hunting Island State Park is an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, Hunting Island will leave you with unforgettable memories. From beachcombing and fishing to camping and wildlife watching, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So come explore the natural beauty of St. Helena Island and Hunting Island State Park.

St. Helena Island Historic District

The island was originally inhabited by the Gullah/Geechee people, descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the island to work on the rice, indigo, and cotton plantations. Today, the island is home to a vibrant and diverse community of people and is home to many historic sites and buildings.

The St. Helena Island Historic District is a National Historic Landmark, and is home to more than 20 original buildings, including churches, schools, and homes. The district is also home to a number of historically significant sites, such as the Penn Center, a school founded in 1862 to educate freed slaves. The Penn Center is now a museum and cultural center, and hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year.

One of the most unique aspects of the St. Helena Island Historic District is the culture and traditions of the Gullah/Geechee people who still live on the island. Visitors to the island can experience the Gullah/Geechee culture through storytelling, music, and cuisine. The island is also home to the Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, which is dedicated to the preservation of the Gullah/Geechee culture, and the Penn Center offers a variety of programs focused on the Gullah/Geechee culture.

During your visit to St. Helena Island Historic District, be sure to take a tour of the historic buildings and sites. The Penn Center offers guided tours, as well as a variety of educational programs about the island’s history and culture. If you’re looking for something unique to do, consider taking a boat tour of the island, or visiting the nearby beach.

Fort Fremont

Visitors to Fort Fremont can explore the fort’s rich history and learn about its role in the Civil War. The fort features a museum, with exhibits about the fort’s past and its role in the conflict. The grounds of the fort also feature a number of historical markers and monuments, including a monument to the Union soldiers who died defending the island.

For those who want to take a more active role in exploring the fort, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fort, or explore the grounds and museum on their own. There are also several hiking trails around the fort, offering spectacular views of the island and the surrounding area.

The fort also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including historical reenactments and living history events. These events are a great way to learn more about the fort’s history and the island’s culture.

In addition to the fort, visitors can also explore the surrounding area. St. Helena Island is home to a number of other historical sites, including plantations, churches, and museums. There are also several restaurants and shops in the area, offering visitors a chance to sample local cuisine and shop for souvenirs.

Beaufort National Cemetery

Characteristic	Description
Name	Beaufort National Cemetery
Type	Military cemetery in Beaufort, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 52
Address	1601 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29902
Phone	(843) 524-3925
Hours	Tuesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Wednesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Thursday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Friday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Saturday - Closed Sunday - Closed Monday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 4:30 PM
Profiles

The cemetery is open to the public and provides visitors with a unique opportunity to pay their respects to those who have served. The cemetery grounds are meticulously maintained, and visitors can pay their respects to the fallen by walking through the cemetery and reading the names of those who have been laid to rest. Visitors can also take part in special ceremonies that are held throughout the year in honor of the veterans.

The cemetery also serves as a source of education, as visitors can learn about the history of the area and the contributions of the men and women who served in the military. There are plaques that tell the stories of soldiers and their families, as well as markers that indicate the location of battles fought in the area. The cemetery also houses a museum that displays artifacts and photographs that tell the stories of those who served.

When visiting the cemetery, be sure to take some time to explore the grounds. Visitors can take in the beauty of the vegetation and wildlife that inhabit the area, as well as take part in activities such as fishing, bird watching, and nature photography. There are also several monuments and memorials that commemorate the veterans who have been laid to rest.

Visiting Beaufort National Cemetery of St. Helena Island, South Carolina is an experience that is sure to inspire and move you. It is a place of reverence and respect, and a reminder of the price of freedom and the sacrifices of those who served their nation. Whether you are visiting the cemetery to pay your respects or to learn more about the history of the area, it is sure to provide you with a memorable experience.

Sea Island Golf Club

For those looking to take a swing at Sea Island Golf Club, the best time to visit is between April and October. The course is open to the public during these times, and visitors can even take advantage of the club’s special packages and discounts. From beginner to experienced golfers, Sea Island Golf Club offers a range of tee times and options to accommodate all levels of play. For those looking to take a break from golfing, the club also offers a variety of activities such as tennis, swimming, spa treatments, and more.

When playing at Sea Island Golf Club, it is important to remember that the course is not just a golf course - it is a living, breathing tribute to the history of the sport. As such, visitors should always be respectful of the club’s rules and regulations. It is also important to remember that the course is not just for golfers - it is a place for all to enjoy. From the picturesque views of the Atlantic to the friendly staff, Sea Island Golf Club is a great place for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to its world-class golf, Sea Island Golf Club also offers its guests a variety of amenities and services. From pro shops to restaurants, the club offers a range of services to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. The club also has a variety of special events throughout the year, such as the annual Sea Island Golf Classic and the Sea Island Cup.

St. Helena Island Marina

When visiting St. Helena Island Marina, visitors can take advantage of the many activities and amenities offered. Boating and fishing are popular activities. The marina provides boats and fishing gear to help visitors get started. There is also a beach nearby where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and relax. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there is a kayak tour available.

When it comes to things to do while visiting the marina, visitors can take advantage of the many nearby attractions. The marina is located near the historic Fort Fremont, which was built during the Civil War. Also nearby is the St. Helena Island Nature Center, which offers visitors a chance to learn about the ecology of the island. Additionally, the town of St. Helena is a great place to explore. There are several shops, restaurants, and galleries that offer visitors a chance to explore the local culture and history.

No visit to St. Helena Island Marina would be complete without experiencing the unique local cuisine. Visitors can sample the seafood delicacies of the island, such as crab cakes, conch fritters, and more. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes located in the area that serve up delicious local dishes.

So, if you’re looking for a unique and exciting experience, head to St. Helena Island Marina. Here, you can take in the beauty of the island and explore the local culture and history. Whether you choose to relax on the beach or explore the many attractions nearby, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. Come to St. Helena Island Marina and explore a place that’s truly unique and unforgettable.

St. Helena Island Library

The St. Helena Island Library has been around since the early 1900s. It was built to serve the needs of the local community and has done just that ever since. The library has an extensive collection of books, magazines, and other materials, as well as a great selection of videos and DVDs.

In addition to the library’s collection, the library also provides a variety of programs and events throughout the year. From storytelling sessions to music and art classes, the library offers something for everyone. The library also offers fun and educational activities for children, such as puppet shows and hands-on science experiments.

One of the most popular events at the St. Helena Island Library is the storytelling sessions. Every Saturday, local storytellers come to the library to share their stories with the community. This is a great way for adults and children alike to learn about the history and culture of St. Helena Island. The storytellers often tell stories of the island’s past, which help to create a better understanding of the island’s present.

Visitors to the library will also find plenty of other activities to keep them busy. Many local artisans display their work in the library’s gallery. There are also music performances and lectures from local experts.

If you’re looking for a place to relax and read, the St. Helena Island Library is the perfect spot. With comfortable seating and a peaceful atmosphere, this library is an ideal spot for reading, studying, or just enjoying the peaceful environment.

The St. Helena Island Library is a great place to visit for anyone looking for an enjoyable and educational experience. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to read, or a lively atmosphere to participate in activities, the library has something for everyone. So come visit the St. Helena Island Library and discover the wonderful world of books, music, art, and stories!

Mitchelville Freedom Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
Type	Park in Hilton Head, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 425
Address	229 Beach City Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone	(843) 255-7301
Hours	Tuesday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 9 PM Wednesday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 9 PM Thursday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 9 PM Friday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 9 PM Saturday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 9 PM Sunday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 9 PM Monday - opens at 6 AM and closes at 9 PM
Profiles

The park was named for Brigadier General Ormsby Mitchel, who established the town in 1862 as part of the Port Royal Experiment. It was intended to be a model of self-governance and economic independence for the newly freed African Americans. This experiment was short-lived, however, and the town was abandoned in 1863.

Today, Mitchelville Freedom Park is a living history museum and educational center that commemorates the town's history and culture. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the town's history through interactive displays and interpretive programs. The park includes a replica of the town's original barracks, a replica of the Mitchel home, and a cemetery with graves of some of the town's original residents.

For travelers looking to immerse themselves in the history of Mitchelville, the park offers a variety of activities and programs. There are guided tours of the grounds and buildings, living history demonstrations, and lectures on the town's history. The park also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, and nature hikes.

For those looking to experience the culture of Mitchelville, the park offers a variety of events throughout the year. The park hosts the annual Mitchelville Freedom Festival, which celebrates the town's history through music, dance, and storytelling. There are also storytelling events and lectures on African American heritage and the history of the town.

Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge

Visitors to Cat Island will be able to experience the stunning beauty of the marshlands and the surrounding environment. The refuge is an important habitat for many species of birds, fish, and other wildlife. Visitors can take a guided kayak tour to explore the refuge and get up close to the wildlife. The refuge is also a great spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds that call the refuge home.

The refuge also offers a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. Fishing is a popular activity in the refuge, with a variety of species available such as red drum, striped bass, and croaker. Boaters can explore the marshlands, and campers can stay at the refuge’s campground. Hikers can take advantage of the refuge’s trails, with several miles of trails available.

The refuge also has a unique history. The island was once home to a small African-American fishing community, who fished the waters of the refuge until the early 1960s. Today, visitors can still find artifacts of the community, such as old fishing nets, pottery, and other items.

St. Helena Sound Maritime Center

The center is home to a variety of hands-on displays and interactive exhibits, highlighting the area’s diverse maritime heritage. Visitors can learn about the region’s fishing industry, the role of oysters in the local economy, and the many different types of boats that are used for recreational and commercial fishing. The center also has a collection of historic photographs and artifacts, which provide an interesting look into the past.

The St. Helena Sound Maritime Center also offers a number of educational programs and workshops. Participants can explore the local waterways with a guided kayak tour, discover the secrets of the local seafood industry with an oyster-tasting course, or learn about the area’s unique maritime history with a lecture series. The center also offers art classes and workshops for those interested in exploring their creative side.

The center is open year-round and is a great place to visit any time of the year. During the summer months, visitors can take part in a variety of outdoor activities, such as swimming, boating, and bird watching. In the winter, the center is a great place to warm up with a hot cup of coffee or tea while admiring the view of the sound.

No matter what time of the year you visit, St. Helena Sound Maritime Center is a great way to explore the area’s maritime heritage. From educational activities to outdoor adventures, the center has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day or an exciting experience, the center has it all. So, if you’re looking for a unique and educational experience, be sure to check out the St. Helena Sound Maritime Center.

Penn Center Heritage Trail

Characteristic	Description
Name	Penn Center
Type	Museum in Saint Helena Island, South Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 452
Address	16 Penn Center Cir E, St Helena Island, SC 29920
Phone	(843) 838-2432
Hours	Tuesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Sunday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Monday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

The Penn Center Heritage Trail of St. Helena Island in South Carolina is an unforgettable journey through the history of the Gullah/Geechee culture and its significant role in American history. Established in 1862, Penn Center is the nation’s oldest African American educational institution and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. The Trail offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the rich history of the island, its people and its culture.

The Trail begins at the Penn Center Historic District, the heart of the island, and takes visitors on a 4-mile journey to the southern end of the island. Along the way, visitors learn about the Gullah/Geechee culture, which was shaped by the African slaves who were brought to the island in the early 1700s. Visitors can stop at various sites to view historical artifacts, listen to stories of the past, and participate in traditional Gullah/Geechee activities.

At the historic Penn School, visitors can learn about the role the school played in educating African American children during the Reconstruction period. The school was founded in 1862 by a group of Quakers who sought to provide education to the island’s African American children. The Penn School is also the site of the annual Penn Center Heritage Days Festival, a celebration of the Gullah/Geechee culture, which takes place in April each year.

On the way to the southern end of the island, visitors can visit the Penn Center National Historic Landmark, the first of its kind in the nation. Here, visitors can learn about the history of the island from the earliest days of slavery to the present day. Visitors can also view the original Penn Center buildings and the first African American library in the nation.

At the southern end of the island, visitors can explore the beach and the nearby lighthouse. The lighthouse is a popular spot for fishing and for viewing the sunset. Visitors can also visit the Old Sheldon Church ruins, which date back to the 1750s and are the oldest ruins in the state.

The Penn Center Heritage Trail is an amazing way to explore the history and culture of St. Helena Island and its people. From the educational significance of the Penn School to the beauty of the beach and the nearby lighthouse, the Trail is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the Gullah/Geechee culture. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique travel experience, the Penn Center Heritage Trail is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Fort Howell

Visitors to Fort Howell can explore the fort and its grounds, which include earthworks, a parade ground and a magazine. The fort is a great place to learn about the history of the island and the Civil War. Visitors can also take in stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and St. Helena Sound.

One of the best things to do at Fort Howell is to take a guided tour. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the fort's history and can provide insights that you may not get from reading a book. Tours typically last about 45 minutes and cost around $10 per person.

If you're interested in the history of St. Helena Island, Fort Howell is a great place to visit. The fort is located near the Penn Center, a former school for freed slaves, which is also a popular tourist destination. The Penn Center offers walking tours that tell the story of the island's African American heritage.

For an even more immersive experience, visitors can attend one of the many re-enactments that are held at Fort Howell throughout the year. The re-enactments often feature period-specific costumes and weapons, and visitors can watch as the Civil War battles are re-enacted.

Frequently asked questions