The Ultimate South Carolina Lowcountry Elopement Guide

Your soulmate said yes! But now what? If you’re thinking about planning a small elopement with the love of your life and a couple close friends and family, your options are suddenly limitless. You could run off into the woods for an outdoorsy wedding or rent out an entire restaurant or host your ceremony at the inn of your dreams. South Carolina’s Lowcountry has an elopement venue for everyone that can make your special day even more incredible than you ever imagined. 

 

Where to Elope

Hunting Island

For the idyllic beachfront wedding of your dreams, head to the sandy beaches on Hunting Island. Hunting Island State Park Beach is a sandy oasis that is significantly less crowded than Hilton Head Island. Have your ceremony out on the beach or set up in between the palm trees or use the Hunting Island Lighthouse as your backdrop. You can get some incredible photos with the beach or head over to the Marsh Boardwalk Trail for a unique setting and the best sunset views in the area for your photography session. (Contact us in advance. It takes approximately one week to have your permit application approved.)

Out on the Waters

Hop on a boat and get married in the coastal waters around Beaufort. Beaufort River Tours takes guests out to explore the idyllic Sea Islands around town.  You may charter The Prince of Tides, which can accommodate 24 passengers and allows you to customize the boat, including flowers, music, and everything else you need to celebrate your special day.

 

On Horseback 

Camelot Farms Equestrian Center offers horseback rides around their plantation and down to the waters. Take a scenic horseback ride out to your favorite spot on the plantation or to the beach, conduct your ceremony, and take some unique photos along the way. All trail rides must be accompanied by a guide provided by the farm. 

 

Cuthbert House 

Plan your special day at Cuthbert House Inn, a historic antebellum mansion with bay views. Have your ceremony in the Charleston-style courtyard, under the huge moss draped live oak, or on the front lawn with the sailboats bobbing in the bay. In cooler weather or on a rainy afternoon, host your ceremony inside by the fireplace in our common area. The stunning  18th century property allows for several backdrops for your photo shoot. The Cuthbert House Inn offers a bridal package including venue, a small cake, a champagne toast, a dozen roses, two wine glasses, and a numbered and signed print of a watercolor of the venue for $600. The innkeepers can also help organize the rest of your day by making dinner reservations, or recommending a  photographer, florist, and/or officiant .

Where to Celebrate

Saltus River Grill 

On the waterfront in downtown Beaufort lies one of the best seafood restaurants in the Lowcountry. This sophisticated restaurant is intimate and modern, offering you a wonderful celebratory dinner that may be the best part of your day. Indulge with sushi or steak, but don’t miss out on their incredible wine list that has something to suit any taste.

Breakwater Restaurant & Bar 

In the heart of downtown Beaufort, Chefs Lang and Shaw focus on bringing out the comforting and soul-warming flavors of the South into modern day dishes. Fresh, local, sustainable, you won’t miss the old-school deep fried fare when you taste all of your favorite flavors elevated into culinary masterpieces. This modern eatery is the perfect final touch for a southern elopement. 

 

Where to Honeymoon

When you are already in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, why would you leave to honeymoon somewhere else? You have beautiful beaches, critically acclaimed restaurants, and romantic accommodations right at your fingertips. Spend your honeymoon in the luxurious Cuthbert House Inn and focus on what really matters, each other. Every room in the inn is intimate and boasts plush amenities like bay views, whirlpool tubs, and extravagant decor. 

Few places are as romantic and picture-perfect as South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Run off with the love of your life and say ‘I Do’ in one of the most beautiful places in the country. Whether you want an idyllic beach wedding, an outdoor gathering, or a small ceremony at a historic property, the Lowcountry has the perfect place for you. Find yours today.

 

Want to elope in South Carolina’s stunning low country? Book your stay at The Cuthbert House Inn, an upscale B&B in a pre-Civil War mansion with unique Bay views in the heart of Beaufort, SC.