Need a Lowcountry getaway filled with Southern charm and scenic river views? Head to Bluffton! Tucked along the May River near Hilton Head Island, Bluffton is a charming town full of art, oysters, and antebellum beauty. Whether you're meandering under moss-draped oaks or savoring seafood by the water, Bluffton is warm, walkable, and wonderfully relaxing.
Bluffton, SC Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Kayak the May River – Paddle past oyster beds, dolphins, and peaceful tidal creeks with local guides.
- For History Buffs: Tour the Heyward House Museum – Step inside a preserved 1841 home for a glimpse of Bluffton’s antebellum roots.
- For Shoppers: Browse Old Town Bluffton – Discover art galleries, handmade jewelry, vintage finds, and Southern gifts in a walkable historic district.
- For Couples: Enjoy oysters and wine at a riverfront bistro – Sunset dining and local fare make for the perfect Lowcountry date night.
- For Families: Stroll the Bluffton Oyster Factory Park – Picnic, fish, or watch the shrimp boats come in along this peaceful riverside park.
🌤 When I like to visit Bluffton, SC
The best time to visit Bluffton is from March to May and September to early November. These months offer warm weather and smaller crowds, perfect for outdoor dining, festivals, and riverfront activities. Summer is lively but hot and humid.
🗺 My tips for getting to Bluffton, SC
- If you are traveling by car: Bluffton is off U.S. Route 278, about 25 minutes from Hilton Head Island and 40 minutes from Savannah, Georgia.
- By Air: Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), just 35 minutes away. Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH) is also nearby for regional flights.
- By Shuttle: Several shuttle and taxi services offer transport from Savannah and Hilton Head airports to Bluffton.
🏬 Where I like to stay in Bluffton, SC
- Recommended for Families: Hampton Inn & Suites Bluffton-Sun City – Comfortable and convenient with free breakfast, pool, and proximity to downtown.
- For Couples: Montage Palmetto Bluff – Luxury resort with romantic cottages, spa services, and waterfront dining in a forested setting.
- For a Boutique Stay: Old Town Bluffton Inn – Elegant, family-run hotel with antique-style rooms right in the heart of Old Town.
😍 Best Things to Do in Bluffton, SC
1. Heyward House
♥
"Tour this historic home and discover sights from Bluffton’s early days."
Heyward House, a project of the Bluffton Historical Preservation Society, was originally constructed for a local plantation lord as his summer residence. Built around 1841, Heyward House is one of only eight remaining pre-Civil War homes in Bluffton. Given its excellent condition and the exhibitions and artifacts it houses, the estate provides a wonderful platform for learning about the history of the Lowcountry region. Heyward House offers four different tours: a guided house tour; a guide-led walking tour; a "living portrait" tour in which participants use their smartphones to bring the house's paintings to life; and finally, a tour led by a virtual docent.
Heyward House, 70 Boundary Street Bluffton, SC 29910, Phone: 843-757-6293
2. Farmers Market of Bluffton
💕
"Shop fresh produce and enjoy a fun, family-friendly local experience."
The Farmers Market of Bluffton is a weekly event that brings the entire community together, including both locals and tourists alike. The market was established in 2008 thanks to a local grassroots effort, and today it includes dozens of Bluffton growers and downtown vendors. These purveyors offer products like fresh fruit and vegetables, locally produced chocolates and cheeses, and artisan bakery and prepared foods.
The Bluffton Farmers Market regularly hosts area talent as well, with musical performances a common sight at the weekly events. The community gathering hosts several interesting events at the market—children can learn to become "little growers", while the adults can enjoy special dishes from the "chef at the market".
Bluffton SC Farmers Market, 40 Calhoun, Bluffton, SC 29910, Phone: 843-415-2447
3. May River Excursions
I like:
"Explore coastal waters and see exciting wildlife on a guided boat trip."
May River Excursions provides its passengers with several different boat charter options leaving from Bluffton's Old Town. Every trip is run by May River's own Captain Chris Shoemaker, who trained in the Coast Guard and is himself a Lowcountry native.
The boats the company owns and operates can hold up to 12 guests at a time, taking them around the beautiful waters near Hilton Head Island and Daufuskie Island. May River Excursions offers several types of tours—for those interested in getting their hands dirty and catching some dinner, crabbing, fishing, and shrimping trips are available. River tours and dolphin excursions, on the other hand, provide a less hands-on, more relaxing way to explore the region on the water. May River Excursions, Phone: 843-304-2878
4. Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve
♥
"Hike scenic trails and admire peaceful sights during a quiet weekend outing."
The 977-acre Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve provides a calm and beautiful spot for visitors who need a short break from the hustle and bustle of nearby Hilton Head Island. The preserve is dominated by woodland forests and contains a well-maintained 4-mile trail where visitors can hike and do some bird watching.
Along the way you will come across several swamps and salt water creeks which are well attended by a variety of birds. The trail is considered easy and will suit most members of the family. If you are lucky you may also catch a glimpse of white-tailed deer, fox and grey squirrels.
Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve, Sawmill Creek Rd, Bluffton, SC 29910, 803 734 3886
For a Quick Snack
5. Corner Perk Cafe, Bar, Roasters
Among my top 5:
"Savor small-batch coffee and relax in this affordable Bluffton favorite."
Corner Perk Cafe, Bar, Roasters is a local Bluffton coffee shop, roaster, and brunch restaurant with an award-winning reputation. The café has been voted the Lowcountry's best coffee shop for 6 years in a row, and it delivers quality coffee to its customers each and every day. Corner Perk marries urban and country, bringing both New York style and South Carolina flair in its interior and exterior décor.
The café brews only the freshly roasted beans it has prepared on site that very day, making for an excellent cup of coffee with every order. The brunch menu includes a litany of breakfast favorites like omelets, French toast, and a large selection of breakfast sandwiches.
Corner Perk Cafe, 1297 May River Road, Bluffton, SC 29910, Phone: 843-816-5674
6. New River Linear Trail
♥
"Walk along wooded paths and enjoy an easy, scenic outdoor escape."
The New River Linear Trail makes up part of the larger East Coast Greenway, an incredibly extensive trail that, when completed, will provide a route for non-motorized movement between Key West and the border between the United States and Canada.
The New River Linear Trail is an unpaved section of the Greenway and finds its southern endpoint at the New River. The trail includes scenic natural areas such as wetlands and historic places close to the town of Bluffton, which are marked with informative signs. The trail is open to both cyclists and hikers, and dogs are welcome along the route.
New River Linear Trail, 3809-3835 Okatie Hwy, Bluffton, Phone: SC 29910
Attractions and Activities for Couples
7. Cyrus Garvin House
💕
"Look at preserved history and explore this unusual African American landmark."
The Cyrus Garvin House is unique in that it is the only remaining example of a home built by a freed slave on the May River. The house was built around 1870, and remained the property of the Garvin family until 1960. However, it had been used as an oyster storage facility for many decades and was not in good shape. Today the Garvin House has been painstakingly restored to its original condition due to the efforts of the Town of Bluffton. You will find the house at the intersection of Bridge and Wharf Streets, in the historic Oyster Factory Park. Visitors can join a guided 30min tour of the house as part of a 90 minute tour of the Historic District.
Cyrus Garvin House, Oyster Factory Park, Bluffton, SC 29910, 843 757 6293
8. Old South Golf Links
💕
"Play a round and admire Lowcountry views on a spring golf trip."
Old South Golf Links is a Hilton Head-area golf course that allows golfers to play the links in a gorgeous Lowcountry setting. The course is planted squarely in the beautiful natural marshland setting of McKay's Creek and was designed by famous course architect Clyde Johnston. Surrounded by lush marshes, rolling hills, and arching treetops, golfers at Old South can even expect an encounter with local wildlife, which includes hawks, deer, and storks, to name just a few. Because it is a public course, the location is accessible to visitors. Nonetheless, it features country club amenities like a restaurant and has a strong reputation, having been named one of America's best new public courses by Golf Digest when it was opened.
Old South Golf Links, 50 Buckingham Plantation Drive, Bluffton, SC 29910, Phone: 843-785-5353
🥗 Where to Eat in Bluffton, SC
- Recommended for Families: Bluffton Family Seafood House – Casual, hearty portions of locally caught fish, shrimp, and oysters.
- For Fine Dining: The Bluffton Room – Sophisticated yet relaxed American cuisine with craft cocktails in Old Town.
- For a Casual Meal: Corner Perk Café – Coffee, brunch, pastries, and friendly service just steps from the river.
🎟 If you are interested in local events:
- For Foodies: Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival (October) – Week-long celebration of coastal culture with art shows, live music, and seafood feasts.
- For Art Lovers: Mayfest (May) – Family-friendly outdoor street fair with crafts, music, food vendors, and a pie-eating contest.
- For Holiday Fun: Bluffton Christmas Parade (December) – Local floats, festive music, and holiday cheer through the heart of Old Town.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–60 Minutes of Bluffton, SC:
- For Beachgoers: Hilton Head Island (25–30 min) – White sand beaches, golf courses, bike trails, and oceanfront dining.
- For History Buffs: Savannah, GA (40–45 min) – Explore cobblestone squares, mansions, and mossy parks in this charming Southern city.
- For Outdoor Lovers: Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge (20–25 min) – Hike, birdwatch, and photograph native wildlife in this peaceful preserve.
- For Culture & Food: Beaufort, SC (50–60 min) – Historic downtown, antebellum homes, and Lowcountry cuisine on the waterfront.
- For Golfers: Palmetto Dunes or Harbour Town Golf Links (30–40 min) – World-class courses on Hilton Head with beautiful coastal settings.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
-
Where is Bluffton located?
- Bluffton, South Carolina, is a quaint town in the state's famous Lowcountry region and a lovely complement to nearby beach destination Hilton Head Island.
-
What makes Bluffton a charming destination?
- The town is a cozy feast for the eyes, with antique churches, cute boutique shops, and antebellum homes lining its streets.
-
What natural beauty can visitors enjoy in Bluffton?
- Bluffton is filled with Southern charm, with grand, draping oaks and a beautiful view onto the waters of the May River.
-
What activities and attractions are available in Bluffton?
- Visitors love the town's many delicious mom-and-pop restaurants, opportunities for golfing and fishing, and its cultural and historical highlights.
-
What is the overall atmosphere of Bluffton?
- Bluffton has a little something for everyone—it is packed with fun, yet still maintains a relaxing and welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit Bluffton, South Carolina
- March to May – Pleasant spring temperatures, perfect for exploring Old Town and nature trails.
- September to November – Mild fall weather, ideal for scenic walks and outdoor activities.
- June to August – Warm summer months, great for enjoying nearby Hilton Head beaches.
- December to February – Cooler months, perfect for visiting art galleries and historic sites.
- Late April – Best time for the annual Bluffton Mayfest, a popular local event.
Getting to Bluffton, South Carolina
- By Air
- Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), about 25 miles away.
- Other options include Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH), about 12 miles away.
- By Car
- Drive from Savannah, GA in about 30–40 minutes via US-278.
- Accessible from Charleston, SC in about 1.5 hours via US-17 and SC-170.
- By Bus
- Limited bus services; driving or using a shuttle is the most convenient option.
- By Train
- Amtrak service is available to Savannah, GA, with a short drive to Bluffton.
Hotels in Bluffton, South Carolina
- Montage Palmetto Bluff – Luxury resort offering riverside views, fine dining, and outdoor adventures.
- Comfort Suites Bluffton – Comfortable accommodations with free breakfast and an outdoor pool.
- Hilton Garden Inn Hilton Head – Convenient stay with modern amenities and easy access to Bluffton.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Warm weather and blooming scenery, ideal for outdoor activities.
Montage Palmetto Bluff – A luxurious resort with scenic waterfront views.
Explore Old Town Bluffton – Enjoy charming shops, galleries, and historical sites.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and lively, perfect for water sports and coastal adventures.
Holiday Inn Express Bluffton at Hilton Head Area – Comfortable accommodations close to area attractions.
Kayak on the May River – Experience scenic views, wildlife, and dolphin sightings.
Fall (September-November) – Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for cultural events.
Comfort Suites Bluffton – Modern amenities in a convenient location.
Visit Old Town Bluffton – Explore galleries, boutique shops, and historic landmarks.
Winter (December-February) – Mild temperatures and a peaceful atmosphere with festive charm.
Hampton Inn & Suites Bluffton-Sun City – Friendly service and convenient access to nearby attractions.
Attend local holiday markets – Enjoy seasonal events and discover unique local gifts.
🖋 How did I do?
Is the article too broad, too narrow, or just right ? Do you like the presentation of photos and text? Let me know in the comments! If you want to see more in this location, I can put it on my editorial calendar. I'm listening!
Plan Your Trip