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Port Royal, South Carolina is a senior travel destination and retirement community.

Port Royal SC History

In 1514, the first landing at Port Royal was by Pedro de Salazar. Spaniards used this area as a base in their explorations, and eventually tried to make it the center of their North American empire. In 1562, Captain Jean Ribaut led a group of 50 French Huguenots to the area to found a colony. In 1565, Spain destroyed the French colony. In 1629, England claimed the area, but did not colonize it until 1670 when Charles II gave the territory to eight of his friends (the Lord Proprietors) in appreciation for helping restore him to the throne.

From 1710 to 1715, settlers had many difficulties with the Indians, the Spaniards and the French. They also had to contend with pirates who infested the coast, hurricanes and epidemics of small pox and yellow fever. In 1779, the British were defeated when they attacked Port Royal during the Revolutionary War. During the Civil War, Union occupation spared Port Royal from destruction. In 1893, a great hurricane and tidal wave was responsible for the loss of thousands of lives in Port Royal and the surrounding vicinity.

Port Royal South Carolina – Renovated Historical Sites

Today, Port Royal South Carolina is recognized as one of America's leaders in small town New Urbanism. The town has renovated its historical sites and undergone a redevelopment boom. Senior visitors enjoy the beauty and atmosphere of this historic small town.