Boulineau's Ace Hardware in Beaufort: A Locally Rooted Hardware Store

A locally owned Ace Hardware with roots in the Lowcountry

Boulineau's Ace Hardware is a family-owned store in Beaufort, South Carolina, that has operated as an independent Ace franchise for decades. Unlike the big-box chains, Boulineau's is run by people who know Beaufort and the surrounding Lowcountry—they understand the specific needs of the region, from salt-air corrosion to hurricane preparation to the quirks of older homes common to the area.

The store carries the full Ace Hardware inventory—paint, tools, plumbing supplies, electrical materials, lawn and garden equipment, and seasonal items—but the real difference is the staff. Boulineau's employees tend to stay long-term, which means they can answer questions about local building codes, recommend products that hold up in coastal humidity, and point you toward solutions rather than just ringing up a sale. The store is located at 1410 Lady's Island, Beaufort, SC 29902, and is open six days a week. Hours vary by season, so calling ahead at (843) 524-3143 is worth the minute if you're making a special trip.

Key Takeaways

• Boulineau's is a family-owned Ace Hardware franchise in Beaufort with staff who understand Lowcountry building and weather challenges.
• The store stocks standard hardware inventory—paint, tools, plumbing, electrical, and lawn supplies—plus seasonal items for hurricane season and coastal maintenance.
• Staff can advise on local building codes, material durability in salt air, and solutions specific to older Beaufort homes.
• The store is located on Lady's Island and open six days a week; calling ahead confirms current hours and whether specialty items are in stock.

What you'll find in the store

Boulineau's carries paint from Ace's house brand and premium lines, with color-matching services and advice on finishes that resist coastal salt spray. The tool selection includes both budget and professional-grade options—hand tools, power tools, and rental equipment for larger jobs. If you need something specific and don't see it on the shelf, staff can often order it through Ace's network.

The plumbing and electrical sections stock common sizes and types, and the staff can help you identify what you need if you're not sure. Lawn and garden supplies include seasonal plants, soil amendments, and equipment maintenance products. In late summer and early fall, the store stocks hurricane preparation items—tarps, plywood, generators, batteries, and supplies for securing outdoor items. Boulineau's also participates in Ace's rewards program, which offers discounts on purchases and special promotions throughout the year. Ask about it when you check out.

Why locals choose Boulineau's over chain stores

The main reason is knowledge. The staff at Boulineau's have worked on Beaufort homes, dealt with salt-air damage, and know which products actually hold up in the Lowcountry climate. When you ask a question, you get an answer from someone with experience, not a script. For many people in the area, that matters as much as the products themselves.

The store also supports the local community—it sponsors youth sports, participates in Beaufort events, and treats regular customers like neighbors rather than transactions. Ace Hardware as a brand also offers a price-match may provide, so if you find a lower price elsewhere on an identical item, Boulineau's will match it. That removes the pressure to shop around and keeps your money in a business that knows your town.

When to call ahead

If you need a specialty item—a specific paint color, a particular tool, or something seasonal—calling (843) 524-3143 before you go saves a trip. The staff can tell you whether it's in stock and, if not, how long an order would take.

During hurricane season (June through November), the store can get busy with people stocking up on supplies. If you're preparing for a storm, going early in the day or calling to ask what's currently available helps you plan. For large projects, you can also ask whether the store offers delivery or whether they can recommend a contractor who shops there regularly.

Parking and accessibility

The Lady's Island location has dedicated parking, and the store is accessible to customers with mobility needs. The layout is straightforward—paint and supplies toward the back, tools and seasonal items toward the front—so you can usually find what you need without asking.

The store's position on Lady's Island makes it convenient for residents throughout Beaufort and the surrounding areas. If you're coming from downtown Beaufort or St. Helena Island, the drive is short enough that calling ahead to confirm hours or product availability is practical.

Tool rental and services

Ace Hardware locations typically offer tool rental for items like pressure washers, tillers, and other equipment for projects that don't justify a purchase. Boulineau's can tell you what's available and current rental rates when you call, as inventory changes seasonally and availability varies.

The store also offers paint mixing and color matching—bring a paint chip, fabric swatch, or photo of the color you want, and the staff can mix it for you. For large projects or questions about whether a product will work in your specific situation, the staff's experience with Beaufort homes and coastal conditions makes them a resource worth using before you buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Boulineau's hours?

The store is open six days a week, but hours vary by season. Call (843) 524-3143 to confirm current hours before making a trip, especially during off-season months or around holidays.

Can I return items I bought at Boulineau's?

Ace Hardware has a return policy that generally allows returns within 30 days with a receipt. For specifics on items without receipts or returns outside the standard window, ask the staff when you visit or call ahead.

Does Boulineau's carry specialty items for coastal homes?

The staff can recommend products designed for salt-air environments and help you choose materials that resist corrosion. Call or visit to discuss your specific project, and they can point you toward what works best in the Lowcountry.

What's the best time to shop if I want to avoid crowds?

Weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be quieter than weekends. Saturday mornings are busy, and late afternoon can see a rush of people stopping by after work.

Does Boulineau's offer delivery for large purchases?

For large projects or bulk orders, ask the staff whether delivery is available. They can also recommend local contractors who shop there regularly and may be able to help with installation or advice on your project.