The attack on Port Royal changed the Union strategy, with the major win, the Union strengthened the blockade of the Southern ports. Port Royal was located at the area between Charleston and Savannah, it's occupation gave the Union a base for the rest of the war, they used the bay as a supply depot and coaling station. This was a major political and morale-boosting victory.
The Confederates were outnumbered and the coast was too long and vulnerable with no resources. This changed the Confederates strategy, they decided to concentrate defenses inland, nearer the coastal railroads.
