Parris Island, South Carolina
Located just five miles south of Beaufort, South Carolina, Parris Island is a small, undeveloped island that boasts sandy beaches, deep-water creeks, and marshes. While this sounds like a common description of other Coastal Southeast islands, this particular island is unlike any other destination in the area — it is the location of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island. This world-famous military base trains thousands of marine recruits each year, transforming them into highly-skilled, honorable United States Marines. Attracting over 120,000 civilians each year, Parris Island has become a highly memorable spot to visit in South Carolina.
What is Parris Island Known For?
Parris Island is a world-renowned military base that gives the Lowcountry a strong feeling of patriotism and pride, and it has been made even more famous for being the subject of many books, documentaries, and movies.
What Is Parris Island’s Role in Coastal South Carolina’s Military History?
- 1861
At the start of the Civil War, Union troops occupied the land and used it for U.S. Navy efforts. - 1891
The first Marines were stationed on the island, thus igniting the legacy it has today. - 1915
Parris Island was officially named a Marine Corps Recruit Depot. - 1929
The island boomed when a causeway and bridge made it possible to travel to the island by car. - 1939 – 1945
During WWII, the island trained more than 200,000 Marines.
What activities or events are popular on Parris Island?
- Tours of the training base
- The Legends Golf Course at Parris Island
- Tours of the Parris Island Museum
- Military Graduations
- Friends and family are invited to the island to partake in Family Day, the ceremony, and the parade
Airport Near Parris Island
Whether you are looking for flights to Parris Island for a graduation, golf trip, or to simply see the famous training center for yourself, the Savannah/Hilton Head International airport near Parris Island makes getting to the Lowcountry easy. With a variety of airlines, many nonstop destinations, and daily direct flights to desirable destinations, SAV gives you more options to choose from when you plan your trip. With Parris Island just a short drive away, Savannah/Hilton Head International is your gateway to the island.
Getting to Parris Island
As the closest airport to Parris Island, Savannah/Hilton Head International puts you just a 45-mile drive away. To make getting to and from Parris Island a seamless trip, the airport offers a variety of on-site car rentals, taxi, and rideshare options to choose from.
Driving Directions:
When driving from SAV to Parris Island, take I-95 to Exit 8 towards Beaufort/Hilton Head Island. You will then turn left onto SC-141, and then left on SC-170 N/Okatie Hwy for another 10 miles. Then take a right onto Savannah Hwy/SC-802 and continue following SC-802 until you see a sign for Parris Island. The off-ramp to Parris Island is on the right side of the road, and it will take you to the front gate.