To help plan your visit, here’s a Parris Island map highlighting key landmarks, local beaches, and nearby restaurants. Make sure to bookmarked this page or pin this photo for easy reference!
A Local’s Introduction to Parris Island, South Carolina
Parris Island, South Carolina, is full of pride, history, and hidden beauty. Having lived on the base for the past two years, I’ve experienced its breathtaking sunrises, peaceful ocean waves, and the unique charm of its palm-lined shores. Parris Island is one of the prettiest military bases I’ve seen, surrounded by marsh waters and natural beauty that make it feel like home every day.
Whether you’re visiting for a loved one’s graduation or you’re living there now or in the future and just looking for a guide to Parris Island, you’re in the right place.
Table of Contents
- Chapter 1 | Things to Do in Parris Island
- Chapter 2 | Best Views on Parris Island
- Chapter 3 | Where to Eat
- Chapter 4 | PCS to Parris Island
- Chapter 5 | Weather + Travel Planning
As I make my way home each day, I can’t help but admire the stunning palm trees that line the road to my neighborhood. Get ready to soak up the 66-degree (on average) sun on Parris Island with this handy ultimate guide.
9 Fun Things To Do On Parris Island (Besides Graduation) | Chapter 1
Parris Island, South Carolina, is home to many fascinating sights, particularly for those attending Marine Corps graduations. Beyond the base, there are several exciting activities for visitors. From Hunting Island State Park to the scenic alligator boardwalk in Port Royal, here’s a highlight of things to do on Parris Island that you can’t miss:
- Have a Picnic at the Park– Relax with a picnic surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful waters.
- Take a Long Walk on the Beach– Stroll along serene beaches with stunning views and gentle waves.
- Learn History While Walking the Nature Trails– Explore nature trails with breathtaking views, like the hidden plane wreck trail near the golf course.
- Enjoy a Night of Glow Bowling $- Have fun bowling under black lights for a unique twist on a classic game.
- Cool Off at the Inflatable Course Pool $- Dive into the inflatable pool course for an exciting, refreshing adventure.
- Keep it Tight at the Gym– Stay active with a workout session at the well-equipped gym.
- Play a Round at the Golf Course $- Hit the links for a relaxing golf day with beautiful views and a giant gator.
- Visit the Parris Island Museum– Explore the history and heritage of the Marine Corps at the informative museum.
- Go Fishing at the Pavilion– Cast a line and enjoy a peaceful day fishing at the pavilion.
1. Have a Picnic at one of the Parris Island Park Tables (With A Helpful Parris Island Map)
The best thing to do on Parris Island, South Carolina is begin your day having a delightful picnic lunch at one of the three parks on the base. Enjoy watching squirrels, fish, deer, and birds while enjoying the beautiful coastal weather.
- 📍Natural Resources Watchable Wildlife Area
- 📍Scout Island Park
- 📍Elliots Beach
There are plenty of benches and trash cans for your convenience. Pack a lunch and some drinks beforehand, or take your food to go, and then find a spot to relax and enjoy the scenery and wildlife. The parks are a great place to enjoy the nice weather and relax while basking in the great outdoors of the Lowcountry.
📍 Natural Resources Watchable Wildlife Area (Noted as Wildlife Viewing on Map Above)
How to get to the Natural Resources Watchable Wildlife area- Just past Archers Creek Bridge, you will show your ID and enter the base. Then, you will drive into a roundabout and turn right at the 3rd exit. The Natural Resources Wildlife Watching Area is located shortly after the exit on the right-hand side.
Once you’ve finished your delightful picnic lunch, it’s great to stroll through the woods and walk off that delicious dessert. You can explore the nature trail that winds through the trees and watch for the Parris Island mullets jumping out of the water in the pond by the boardwalk.
To help you find your way, refer to the Parris Island map above for more details about the location of this park.
📍 Scout Island Park (Noted on Parris Island Map Above)
How to get to Scout Island Park- After driving onto the base, you will take the exit at the 3rd roundabout (Malecon Dr), and the parking area it’s located shortly after the exit on the left hand side. You’ll know you’re there when you see the low-hanging tree branch waving you into the park (right photo).
This area features a stunning marsh view of the bridge and Port Royal. Bring your fur baby and play fetch because this area is secluded from the road.
See the Parris Island Map above for a more detailed view of the location near the entrance.
📍 Elliots Beach
This area is much deeper into the island than the first two; it’s located on its west side, making it ideal for sunset views. The above Parris Island map shows you where Elliots Beach is with the red location icon.
This brings me to number two on the list of things to do on Parris Island: walk along Elliots beach.
2. Go for a Walk Along the Beach
A top recommendation for things to do on Parris Island is to take a relaxing walk along Elliots Beach toward the end of the day. It’s a great way to get some exercise, and the sunset views from this side of the island are simply unmatched. I’ll let the photos do the talking.
3. Learn History While Walking the Nature Trails
If you’re searching for a tranquil but enjoyable way to spend your afternoon, consider taking a leisurely walk on the nature trails and discovering some of the island’s history. You’ll find that the trails wind through the Charlesfort – Santa Elena historic site, forest, and marsh, with various paths to choose from. Take in the highlights of this nature trail, including the crashed plane site, marsh boardwalk, and historical landmarks. Most importantly, remember to bring bug spray for this outdoor activity. Additionally, by referring to the Parris Island map above, you’ll notice that this is near the Golf Course.
4. Enjoy a night of Bowling
- Address: Building 203, 86 Samoa Street
Phone: (843) 228-1551 - Hours: Thursday [ 11am – 3pm ] during graduation weeks only
- Admission: Active Duty $5 | Civilian $5.50
- Glow Bowl: Friday and Saturday [ 8pm-11pm ] Active Duty $6 | Civilian $6.50
Whether you’re looking to spend a fun night out with your family or get more involved in bowling, there are plenty of options. The bowling alley can also be rented for birthday parties during business hours for $10-$12 per guest. Conveniently, there is also a Subway inside the building for those who need a quick bite.
5. Cool off at the Parris Island Pool
- Address: Building 165, 704 Cape Gaufert Street
- Phone: (843) 228-1506
On your mark, get set…have fun! The Parris Island pool is a huge inflatable water course testing your balance and coordination. Start a friendly competition of who can cross it the fastest without falling into the water. It’s a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon with the kids.
There are two courses, one for new and experienced swimmers. This is one of the best things to do on Parris Island in the summertime.
6. Keep it Tight at the Gym
- Address: Building 111, 676 Panama Street
- Hours: Monday – Friday [ 4am – 9pm ] Saturday – Sunday [ 8am – 5pm ]
- Phone: (843) 228-1579
The MCRD Parris Island Fitness Center is the best way to stay in shape because it doesn’t require the extra motivation of driving further away AND paying money to do so. It features all the amenities of a modern gym, like free weights, machines, racquetball courts, and classes.
There are seven group exercise classes, such as HITT, Ab Blast, and indoor cycling available including free personal training for active-duty personnel!
7. Play a Round at The Legends Golf Course and See a Giant Gator
- Address: 299 Belleau Wood Road
- Hours: Monday – Sunday [ 7am – 6pm ]
- Phone: 1 (843) 228-2240
- Admission: Active Duty $18 + on Military Monday’s all active duty military golfers receive 50% off the Green Fee & Cart Fee
It’s a beautiful day, so you play a round at the golf course. You’re having a great time, but you start to get tired around the 7th hole because you think you see a 12-foot gator casually walking past you. He hangs out around the final holes and seems to mind his business. Check out how massive he is on this Facebook video.
I have never played golf at this par-72 course, but it’s rated 4.6 out of 5 stars on Golf Pass and offers a convenient location for things to do on Parris Island. While I haven’t hit the greens, I’ve driven by to spot the big gator and enjoyed a meal at the Sand Trap Grill in the Pro Shop.
8. Visit the Parris Island South Carolina Museum
- Admission: Free
- Hours: Mon. – Wed. [ 10 am to 4:30 pm ] Thur. – Fri. [ 8am – 4:30pm ] Saturday [ 10am – 4:30 pm ]
- Phone: Museum 843-228-2951 | Gift Shop 843-228-2166
The Parris Island Museum is a must-see for things to do on Parris Island, offering several exhibits that let visitors experience what it’s like to be a Marine. You can explore uniforms and other artifacts from Marine Corps history, and don’t forget to check out the gift shop, though it closes early at 4 pm.
9. Go Fishing at the Pavilion
- Address: 208 Nicaragua Street
Enjoy the convenience of driving your car straight to your fishing spot on the Waterfront Pavilion. I am not much of a fisherman, but I enjoy boat-watching, and there are plenty of watercraft to gaze upon. However, this area is for residents only. The sunrise views from the MCRD waterfront pavilion are what dreams are made of.
Other Things To Do Near Parris Island, South Carolina:
- Beautiful Hunting Island State Park
- How To Explore The Best Of Port Royal
- Don’t Miss This Invigorating Sunrise Experience
- The Greatest International Scavenger Hunt
- Stick to the Script With This Free Savannah Travel Itinerary
Jump back up to the Table of Contents when you see this button for easy navigation through this extensive guide.
8 Top Sights On Parris Island, South Carolina
1. Parade Deck During Graduation Day
All 50 US state flags are displayed along the main road, Blvd De France, outlining the Parade Deck where the graduation ceremony commences. It’s a sight to behold.
2. Catch the Island’s Best Golden Hour Locations
The following locations are one of my favorite things to do on Parris Island, which is watching the sunset. The following locations are the best spots for viewing Golden Hour.
- Sunrise– Waterfront Pavilion
- Sunset– 3rd Battalion Pond + Elliots Beach
As the sun slowly moves across the horizon, a beautiful, colorful sky emerges on Parris Island. Listen as the waves lightly break in the distance. Stop for a moment to take in the peaceful scene and keep an eye out for deer sightings.
3. The 3rd Battalion Pond
How to get there: Just after the entrance, you go into a roundabout and take the 2nd exit. You will drive past the pond on your left; there are two pull-off locations to park and nature watching.
I have seen alligators, deer swimming on the island, birds, and mullet fish in this pond. A noticeable behavior in mullets is the tendency to leap out of the water, and they do not disappoint. Even if you are driving by, you will see multiple mullets jumping out of the water and making a splash.
Come here during sunset for a pastel sky with a flaming orange sun. The marsh is on the opposite side of the pond, stunning during sunset—noted by a camera icon on the Parris Island map.
4. Monument Checklist
Molly Marine Statue
The city of New Orleans and artist Enrique Alferez donated a replica of the statue to help recruit women after the birth of women marines in 1943.
Purple Heart Monument
How can man die better than facing fearful odds for the ashes of his fathers and the temples of his Gods?
Iron Mike Statue
A monument in memory of the men of Parris Island who gave their lives in the world war erected by their comrades.
Drill Instructors Monument
Dedicated to the Drill Instructors who commit themselves to making Marines. The Drill Instructor Creed is listed on the monument of a male and female DI statue that reads:
“These recruits are entrusted to my care. I will train them to the best of my ability. I will develop them into smartly disciplined, physically fit basically trained marines, thoroughly indoctrinated in love of the Corps and Country. I will demand of them and demonstrate by my own example the highest standards of personal conduct, morality, and professional skill.”
Iwo Jima Monument
The Iwo Jima flag-raising statue on Parris Island is prominently displayed at the Parade Deck. It depicts a famous photo of Marines raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi during the battle for Iwo Jima in 1945. The statue is dedicated to the marines who fought in the battle for Iwo Jima in World War 2.
5. We Make Marines Sign
Since 1915, Parris Island’s primary mission has been to train new Marines. Over a million men and women have trained at the Depot and have served the United States globally. An iconic sign across the main street, Blvd de France, reads “We Make Marines,” which is a great place to take a photo—noted by a camera icon on the Parris Island map.
6. Parris Island Entrance Sign
The red Parris Island entrance sign is located before you enter the base. After taking the exit for Parris Island, you will come up to the sign on your right side. A pull-off parking area near the sign is an excellent photo spot. Noted by a camera icon on the Parris Island map.
7. Scout Bomber Crash
A historical nature trail near the golf course parking lot has the remains of an old Brewster Buccaneer that crashed in 1943. Don’t worry though; the crewmen survived. The nature trail takes you through the woody footpaths and bridges that lead to a marsh boardwalk with another spectacular view—noted by a camera icon on the Parris Island map.
8. Under Archers Creek Bridge
This one is just off base as well. After exiting the guard gate, you come up to Archers Creek Bridge, and you can pull over to the right side. I see people fishing here all the time, but it’s also a nice place to take a photo of the marsh and enjoy the fantastic views of the island. Noted by a camera icon on the map of Parris Island.
If you’ve followed the Netflix series about the Murdaugh family, the Archers Creek Bridge is a notable location connected to the events involving Paul Murdaugh’s boating accident. This is the spot where his boat collided with the bridge during the incident.
Things To Do in Parris Island Include Seeing the 8 Best Sights Above
Where to Eat | Chapter 3
Restaurants hours of operation summary has been updated January1, 2025 and includes all of the places you can grab a bite to eat on Parris Island, South Carolina. The links take you to the restaurants website directly for more information.
- MCX Food Court– Open Monday- Wednesday 6am -2pm, Thursday 6am- 3pm (grad week) or until 2pm if normal week, Friday 6am- 2pm, and Sunday (liberty) 11am- 3pm.
- Subway (Located inside the Bowling Center)– Open Monday-Wednesday 9am- 8pm, Thursday 8- 7:30pm, Friday 9am- 8pm, Saturday- Sunday 10am- 5pm
- Java Café– Open on grad week Wednesday 8am- 2:30pm, Thursday 6am -3pm, Friday 6am -11am
Only open during graduation weeks. - Traditions Open Tuesday- Friday: Lunch- 11am- 1pm, Dinner 4pm- 8pm
- Brig & Brew Sports & Snack Bar– Open Tuesday 4pm- 7pm, Wednesday 4pm- 8pm, Thursday (Grad Week) 10:30am- 10pm, Thursday (Normal Week) 4pm- 10pm, Friday 4pm- 8pm
- Sand Trap Grill & Cafe– Open Monday- Friday 7:30- 1:30pm
Eating is probably on that list when considering all the things to do in Parris Island. Do yourself a favor and bookmark this page for later so you always know what’s open.
MCX Food Court
- Phone: (843) 228-1688
- Address: Building 409, 2766 Malecon Drive
- Call-In Orders : (843) 228-1687, (843) 228-1686
- Hours: Open Monday- Open Monday- Wednesday 6am -2pm, Thursday 6am- 3pm (grad week) or until 2pm if normal week, Friday 6am- 2pm, and Sunday (liberty) 11am- 3pm.
Asian Creations, Victors Flame-Broiled Burgers, and Smoothies.
Subway
- Address: Building 203, 86 Samoa Street
- Phone: (843) 228-3672 | Call-in orders not accepted until after 3pm on Family Day Thursdays
- Hours: Open Monday-Wednesday 9am- 8pm, Thursday 8- 7:30pm, Friday 9am- 8pm, Saturday- Sunday 10am- 5pm
It’s your friendly neighborhood subway station located inside the Bowling Center. They recently renovated the inside in the summer of 2022.
Java Cafe
- Address: Building 283, 521 Blvd de France
- Phone: (843) 228-4685
- Hours: Open on grad week Wednesday 8am- 2:30pm, Thursday 6am -3pm, Friday 6am -11am
Located in the Douglas Visitors’ Center, Java Café serves hot and cold beverages, Starbucks coffee, and grab-and-go snacks. Light sandwiches and pizza are served on Thursdays. Pre-Order Pizza and Wings for Family Day.
Traditions
- Address: Building 79, 830 Nicaragua Street
- Phone: (843) 228-1566
- Hours: Tuesday- Friday: Lunch- 11am- 1pm, Dinner 4pm- 8pm
Traditions is a sit-down restaurant and offers an experience like no other with its weekly-changing menu, quality ingredients, and exceptional employees. Open to military and civilians except for Thursdays which are reserved for active duty and DOD employees. Traditions also offers a venue space for indoor and outdoor events at the gazebo, providing spectacular marsh views. Pub night on Friday is a popular neighborhood hangout for socializing with peers.
Brig & Brew
- Address: Building 19, 72 Santo Domingo Street
- Phone: (843) 228-1544
- Hours: Open Tuesday 4pm- 7pm, Wednesday 4pm- 8pm, Thursday (Grad Week) 10:30am- 10pm, Thursday (Normal Week) 4pm- 10pm, Friday 4pm- 8pm
Brig & Brew is a historic recreation facility offering theater seating, TVs, darts, pinball machine, air hockey, free wifi, pool tables and more. There is a sports bar and snack bar available, and you may reserve a room for private events and parties by calling the number below.
Sand Trap Grill
- Address: Building 299, 2315 Belleau Wood Road
- Phone: (843) 228-4560
- Hours: Open Monday- Friday 7:30- 1:30pm
Located in the Legends Golf Course Pro Shop, the Sand Trap is a fast food grill with a place to sit down and enjoy your meal after a game of golf. They serve up a hot breakfast and lunch daily.
Things To Do In Parris Island | PCS Edition | Chapter 4
Family Housing on Parris Island
Once you receive your PCS orders, contact the Housing Office managed by Tri-Command Communities when looking for on-base housing. Tri-Command is a pet-friendly (2 max 😉) community with 3 different neighborhoods that share access to playgrounds, an outdoor pool, a tennis court, a fitness facility, and a soccer field. There may be a waitlist for your specific housing needs; we waited a month before moving here before the house was ready.
Housing Office
- Address: 402 Blvd de France
- Phone: (843) 228-2853
- Hours: Monday – Friday [ 7:30am – 4pm ]
Once settled in, you will enjoy the monthly happenings between Tri-Command and MCCS, the things to do on Parris Island are endless. Trick or treating is pretty popular, as is the Polar Express adventure. Santa comes out on the firetruck during Christmas and passes gifts to the neighborhood’s good little kids. The lending locker on base will assist you with borrowing the basics needed before your stuff has arrived from the move.
1. Wake Village
- Beds: 2–4
- Baths: 1–2.5
- Eligibility: E1–E5
Wake Village is the first neighborhood you arrive at and offers homes with one-car garages, screened-in porches, and fenced-in backyards. The neighborhood offers a community center, fitness facility, and a swimming pool.
2. Weapons Sound
- Beds: 2–4
- Baths: 1.5–2.5
- Eligibility: E6–E9
The homes in Weapons Sounds are located near the shooting range, hence the name. The homes feature a garage, fireplace, granite countertops, and large living rooms for family gatherings. The beach is in your backyard at Weapons Sounds.
3. Marsh Landing
- Beds: 4
- Baths: 2.5
- Eligibility: O1–O6
Marsh Landing is a premier neighborhood with beautiful views, featuring two-car garages, screened-in porches, and new Pergo flooring. It’s close to the restaurant Traditions and the gym.
Utilities
- Internet – Hargray is the only provider on the base.
- T-mobile works well here.
All utilities are included with rent except cell phone and internet.
Other Helpful Information
Depot Veterinary Clinic 843-228-3317
Parris Island ITT/All Points Travel
- Address: 192 Panama Street, MCRD Parris Island, SC 29905
- Phone, Travel: 1 (843) 228-3557, Tickets: 1 (843) 228-1540
- Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am – 5pm
Lending Locker Building 923, Room 27, Chosin Reservoir Road (same building as DEERS/RAPIDS).
We borrowed items from Lending Locker when we moved here last November. They have the basics: Cots, pots, pans, cooking utensils, cutting boards, silverware, plates, cups, and small appliances.
Facebook Groups & Pages To Follow
- ITT/All Points Travel
- Family Team Building
- MCCS Fitness Centers
- Dodea Bolden Elementary Middle School
- BEMS PTO
- Follow Vacation Script
- Each neighborhood also has its own facebook group
Parris Island South Carolina Schools
The only public school district in the immediate area of Parris Island is the Beaufort County School District.
Though there are no schools on Parris Island, DoDEA has three schools in the Laurel Bay district that offer school buses. Two elementary and one elementary/middle school serve pre-kindergarten through 8th-grade students.
For more information on DoDEA/DDESS schools, contact the region Superintendent at 912-408-3090. Alternatively, parents and guardians may call the MCRD Parris Island School Liaison Officer at 843-846-6128.
No more school uniforms for 2024!
School Name | School District | Phone Number |
---|---|---|
Bolden Elementary/Middle (3-8) | Laurel Bay/DoDEA SC/Ft. (ON BASE) | (843) 846-6112 |
Elliott Elementary (PK-2) | Laurel Bay/DoDEA SC/Ft. (ON BASE) | (843) 846-6982 |
Port Royal | Beaufort County School District (OFF BASE) | (843) 322-0820 |
Things To Do In Parris Island | Travel Planning | Chapter 5
Helpful resources to help you plan for your upcoming trip (or move) to Parris Island. Vacation Script has the scoop on the weather on Parris Island and what to wear to Graduation itineraries.
What’s the Weather like on Parris Island?
Current 7-Day Forecast of weather on Parris Island. In winter, the highs reach 60 degrees, and the lows are 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring and fall months have warmer temperatures in the 70s. In the summer, average highs reach the mid-90s.
What to Pack for Parris Island
Cool and comfortable clothing is your best bet for spring through fall. Bring light layers, just in case. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and casual, appropriate clothing is recommended. It gets pretty cold at the end of fall and winter, and I break out my puffy jacket and heated socks to stay warm.
There are some annoying bugs here that bite you repeatedly, called noseeums. The only bug spray that works to combat them is this exact Avon Skin So Soft.
Don’t forget to bring a valid U.S. government-issued photo identification card, vehicle registration, rental papers, and proof of insurance.
In addition, graduation guests are encouraged to wear specific colors to support graduate battalions. Each Recruit Training Battalion has a particular color, and some people go all out in matching tees to represent their new marine:
Parris Island Family Orientation and Graduation Itinerary
Friday | Graduation Day – The hour-long ceremony begins at precisely 9am. Afterward, enjoy lunch and explore Parris Island or Beaufort.
Tuesday Evening: Arrival
- Plan to arrive at Parris Island by Tuesday evening to ensure you’re ready for Family Orientation Day early Wednesday morning.
Wednesday: Family Orientation Day
- 10am– 12pm: Marine Corps 101 and “Behind the Scenes” Tour
- Location: Douglas Visitor’s Center
- Check-in by 9:30am to secure your spot (reservations required).
- 1:30pm– 2:30pm: Family Orientation Brief
- Location: Douglas Visitor’s Center
Note: Wheelchairs are available free of charge at the Douglas Visitor’s Center. Arrive early to avoid long lines at the gate.
Thursday: Family Liberty Day
- 7am: Motivational Run
- Location: Peatross Parade Deck and Boulevard de France
- 9:30am– 10am: Liberty Ceremony
- 10am– 3pm: Family Liberty
- Spend quality time with your Marine on the Depot. Recruits must remain on base.
- 2pm: Warrior’s Prayer
- Location: Recruit Chapel
- 4pm– 4:45pm: Meet & Greet with Depot Command
- Location: The Lyceum (Your Marine will not be present for this event.)
- 4:45pm– 6:30pm: Family Night Dinner with Depot Command
- Location: Traditions (Register via TicketSpice in advance.)
Friday: Graduation Day
- 7:45am– 8:15am: Morning Colors Flag Raising Ceremony
- Location: Barrow Hall
- 9am– 10am: Graduation Ceremony
- Location: Peatross Parade Deck
- Your Marine will escort you to graduation with their left arm to reserve their right hand for saluting.
Important Notes
Security and Holidays:
- Security alerts or holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas may adjust the schedule. For holiday graduations, substitute Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday for the typical Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday schedule.
Depot Rules:
- Avoid walking across the Parade Deck; it’s reserved for Marine Corps activities. Use the designated viewing areas (Reviewing Stands) to watch ceremonies.
- Avoid walking on the grass; use the designated sidewalk for walking.
- Dress appropriately: Bare midriffs are discouraged.
Enjoy this milestone event with your Marine!
Where to Stay near Parris Island?
You will most likely want to stay in any accommodation in the historic downtown Beaufort area. There is a gorgeous waterfront park you can walk to and explore the beauty of the Lowcountry with your Marine while you eat at one of the many restaurants in the quaint historical center.
Due to their regular Marine graduations on Parris Island, hotels nearby get booked quickly. Be sure you book your hotel early on to get the best options.
- Best in Downtown Beaufort- The Rhett House Inn– Sleeps 2 in a large double bed in a great location near the waterfront park and historic downtown restaurants.
- Best Runner Up- 2 Bedroom Home- Sleeps 6 in a small house near downtown Beaufort, walking distance to Starbucks and Wet Willies.
- Best In Port Royal- 5 Bedroom Home- Sleeps 12 for a full family affair in the small town of Port Royal with plenty of things to do and explore within walking distance.
- Cottage in Habersham- 2 Bedroom House- Sleeps 4 in this low country cottage with two large double beds. Habersham is a small community near Parris Island with a small village in the town square.
How to get to Parris Island, South Carolina
Closest Airport To Parris Island:
- Hilton Head Airport- located about 14 miles from the base
- Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport- located about 37 miles from the base
By Vehicle
There are no shuttles or public transportation from the nearby airports. If you are flying in, I recommend getting a rental car from the airport while you are here using Discover Cars, which is an easy-to-use car rental comparison for pricing and availability.
Your vehicle could get searched before coming on base. Expect long lines at the entry gate if you are visiting during graduation.
Driving Directions: First, start from I-95, and take Exit 8 to Beaufort/Hilton Head. Then take a left toward Beaufort on Hwy 170. After crossing Board River Bridge, merge to the right on Savannah Hwy. Finally, merge right onto Hwy 802, Parris Island Gateway, and take the exit to Parris Island.
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Plan Your Parris Island, South Carolina Visit Like a Pro
Loved these tips? Pin this guide to save it for later and share it with other Marine families planning their visit to Parris Island.
📌 Pin this guide now by clicking the Pinterest logo button in the photo’s bottom left corner, so you’re ready when it’s time to visit!
About The Author: Travel Expert Ashley Lauren DeFrees
Ashley Lauren, a Parris Island, South Carolina resident, is a dedicated travel enthusiast and military spouse. She brings firsthand knowledge of the island’s best spots, from hidden beaches to the iconic Marine ceremonies. Whether you’re visiting for Family Day or simply looking for things to do on Parris Island, she can guide you through the island’s unique offerings.
Ashley has spent countless weekends with her husband, a Navy Seabee, and two teenagers exploring South Carolina’s most breathtaking beaches, trails, and parks, creating lasting memories.
Her passion for finding hidden gems and creating stress-free experiences drives her mission to help other military members & families discover incredible travel spots near their duty stations.
Follow along to their next duty station in Sicily!
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