Beaufort Is a Literary Pilgrimage for Fans of Pat Conroy

I fell in love with the Lowcountry twice: once during my first visit to Charleston, and again when I read Pat Conroy's description of it. One of the most prolific authors from the region, Pat Conroy left behind a remarkable literary legacy. Many of his books, including The Water Is Wide, The Prince of Tides, and The Great Santini, were made into films—two of which were nominated for Oscars. His work captures the American South so atmospherically that one can easily get to know the place without ever having visited. But, of course, you'll want to visit, if only to spend some time in Beaufort and see the Pat Conroy Literary Center.

Why This Destination Is Perfect for Pat Conroy Fans

Having spent decades of his life there, Pat Conroy always considered his true home to be Beaufort, South Carolina. Its quintessential Lowcountry landscape is a common thread seen in many of his most noteworthy works. Conroy attended Beaufort High School and cited his high school English teacher, Ann Morse, as a major influence in developing his voice and writing style.

Arriving in Beaufort, you may feel as though you've landed in a plotline of one of Conroy's books. The preserved historic district, tidal rivers, and salt marshes will feel like old friends if you're familiar with his writing. And, in turn, the town has embraced its connection with the author, hosting annual festivals and tours in his honor.

What You Can See and Experience

A trip to the Pat Conroy Literary Center is a must, not just for fans of the author but for anyone inspired by storytelling. I had the opportunity to visit this literary destination in Beaufort a few years ago, and it deepened my appreciation not just for the writer but for his work ethic. Conroy famously wrote all of his drafts by hand on yellow legal pads, believing the pen to be an extension of his mind. He preferred this slow, deliberate method to typing and could easily fill seven to eight pages a day. The center features a recreation of Conroy's office and desk, giving visitors the ability to easily picture the author immersed in his work.

Of course, to really feel a connection to the author and his writing, simply spend some time outside and notice it all: the feel of the air, the warmth of the sun, the smell of the salt marsh. Reflecting on this place so vital to his upbringing and writing, Conroy once wrote, "Its beauty was a shining thing and a living thing that would never leave me as long as I was true to that starry, everlasting river-fed country of my art. That was Beaufort’s gift to me. I can’t write an English sentence without breaking out in song praising the everlasting summons of these shining sea islands we call home."

If you're curious to learn more about this writer and his impressive collection of stories and essays, visit the official Pat Conroy Literary Center online. It's a wonderful resource for planning your trip to Beaufort and experiencing a slice of literary legacy. While you're in town, be sure to stop by Nevermore Books, a beloved local shop for new and used books. Who knows—you might just be introduced to your next favorite local author.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to the Lowcountry using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.