Social District

Social District offers a unique and enjoyable way to experience our vibrant downtown area.

Hours: Noon – 8 p.m. Friday – Sunday

About

The Downtown Social District will allow visitors to enjoy beer or wine while strolling within the designated district boundaries. Social districts have been implemented in communities across the United States as a way to support vibrant, walkable downtowns. Beaufort City Council has directed City staff and community partners to establish a social district within the downtown core commercial area, where beer and wine purchased from a licensed ABC permittee may be carried outdoors within the approved district boundaries.

A social district is a designated area designed to bring people together by encouraging gathering, exploration, and shared experiences in a welcoming public setting. Rather than focusing on alcohol, the emphasis is on community—through walkable streets, inviting public spaces, local shops and restaurants, arts and cultural activities, family-friendly events, and vibrant programming. A social district supports local businesses, enhances downtown vitality, and creates a place where residents and visitors can linger, connect, and enjoy the unique character of the area in a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment.

Social District Boundary Map:

Social District Hours:

Friday – Sunday 12:00pm – 8:00pm

Social District Rules:

Social District Hours: 12 PM – 8 PM Friday, Saturday & Sunday

  • Alcoholic beverages may be purchased by participating restaurants.
  • No Alcoholic Beverages allowed on thew grassy area of the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.
  • All beverages must be in designated cups with the Social District logo, business name and date.
  • Drinks can be consumed in the common areas of the Social District or in participating businesses.
  • Alcoholic beverages from one participating business may not be brought to another participating business.
  • Dispose of alcoholic beverages before leaving the district or entering a vehicle.
  • Retail shopping is encouraged while enjoying the district. Beverages are only allowed in businesses participating in the Social District and displaying a window cling drinks are WELCOMED HERE.
  • Social District beverages must be disposed of when leaving the boundaries.

“Door Decals”

Window clings will be displayed in businesses to
identify their status:

SOLD HERE NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL ALLOWED
Purchase Beer or Wine to drink in the Social District at these establishments; Outside alcoholic drinks not allowed.

NOT PERMITTED HERE
Drinks sold within the Social District are not allowed; Beer and Wine are not available for purchase.

WELCOME HERE
Beer and Wine sold within the Social District are welcomed in these non-ABC permitted establishments.

“Participating Businesses”

SOLD HERE NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL ALLOWED

  • HopDog
  • Lost Local
  • Sweetgrass Pantry and Provisions
  • Beaufort Wine Bar

WELCOME HERE

  • Cabana 22
  • Rustic Pup
  • Duffy’s
  • Safe Harbor Beaufort
  • Olive the Above
  • Carolina Me Crazy
  • Bay Street Treasures
  • Cook on Bay
  • Beaufort River Glass
  • Beaufort Emporium and Dry Goods
  • Modern Jewelers
  • Lowcountry Cider Co. & Superior Coffee
  • Lowcountry Stitch
  • Lulu Burgess
  • Beaufort Bell
  • Blue Heron Boutique
  • Sunshine & Sass Clothing Boutique
  • Bay Street Outfitters
  • Quartermaster
  • Retail Therapy
  • Indigo
  • Channel Marker
  • Barefoot Bubba’s
  • Rooted Clothing Company
  • Monkey’s Uncle

  • SugarBelle

NOT PERMITTED HERE

  • Beverly’s Off Bay
  • Recline and Unwind Social Spa
  • Southern Sweets Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop
  • Panini’s on the Waterfront
  • Hemingway’s Bistro

Social District Resources

For everyone’s
safety & comfort

Patron Requirements:

  • The possession and consumption of an alcoholic beverage in a social district is subject to all of the following requirements of South Carolina law:
    Only alcoholic beverages purchased from a permittee located in the Social District may be possessed and consumed.
  • Alcoholic beverages must:
    Only be in designated Social District containers
    Only be possessed and consumed during the days and hours set by the City

Additional Links