The Pat Conroy Literary Center honors the writing and teaching legacy of one of America’s most beloved storytellers, the author of The Water Is Wide, The Great Santini, The Lords of Discipline, and The Prince of Tides. As South Carolina’s only affiliate of the American Writers Museum and the second American Library Association Literary Landmark, the Center is dedicated to celebrating literary arts and fostering a love for reading and writing. It is also proud to be recognized as TripAdvisor’s top-rated destination in Beaufort, South Carolina, and the recipient of Beaufort’s 2019 Civitas Award for Tourism Leadership.

Admission is free, donations are welcome.

Open to the Public Thursday – Sunday
Noon – 4 pm

Make a Weekend of it!

Nestled among winding, historic streets framed by natural foliage and centuries-old, moss-draped live oak trees, Beaufort is not just a hidden Lowcountry gem; it’s a charming coastal town that inspired Pat Conroy to call it home. This delightful destination is perfect for a weekend getaway, especially for Conroy fans. Here are some recommendations to enhance your visit:

1. Start at the Pat Conroy Literary Center: Kick off your weekend by exploring the museum, where you can immerse yourself in the life and works of Pat Conroy.

2. Visit The Penn Center: Just a 15-minute drive south, this landmark was one of the first schools for formerly enslaved people and the site where Pat Conroy met with Martin Luther King Jr. on four occasions. https://www.penncenter.com

3. Take a Boat Ride to Daufuskie Island: Experience a guided tour with Sallie Ann Robinson, a former student of Pat’s, to learn about the island’s rich history and the inspiration behind The Water Is Wide. https://www.sallieannrobinson.com

4. Join a Pat Conroy Golf Cart Tour: Discover Pat’s deep connections to Beaufort on this unique guided experience, which highlights the settings and stories that influenced his writing. https://www.beauforttoursllc.com/golf-cart-tours

For more information on local attractions, accommodations, dining, and activities in Beaufort, visit beaufortsc.org (https://www.beaufortsc.org/).