10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Bluffton, South Carolina
If you’re looking for a Lowcountry getaway with charm, history, and great food,
Bluffton, South Carolina deserves a spot on your list. Tucked along the May River in
Beaufort County, this small town sits just inland from Hilton Head Island and about 30 minutes from Savannah, Georgia.
Bluffton has that relaxed, front-porch feel, but there’s also plenty to do nearby. Whether you love the outdoors, local art, or simply eating your way through vacation, this area has you covered.
Below are
10 of the best things to do in and near Bluffton to help you plan your trip.
1. Stroll Through Old Town Bluffton
Start with the heart of it all:
Old Town Bluffton. This historic district is walkable, laid-back, and full of character.
You’ll find:
- Tree-lined streets with moss-draped live oaks
- Colorful cottages turned into art galleries and boutiques
- Cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating
Grab a coffee and just wander. Pop into a local art gallery, then duck into a shop selling sweetgrass baskets or Lowcountry-themed gifts. If you like photography, you’ll want your camera out the whole time. Every corner seems to have a porch, a picket fence, or a quirky sign that just feels like “real” South Carolina.
Tip: Try to visit during the week or earlier in the day if you want quieter streets and easier parking.
2. Relax at the Bluffton Oyster Factory Park
If you want a classic
Bluffton on the water experience, head to the
Bluffton Oyster Factory Park on the May River.
Here you can:
- Walk along the riverfront boardwalk
- Watch boats come and go from the public dock
- Enjoy a picnic with a view of the marsh
On a calm evening, the sunset over the river is hard to beat. The live oaks, the soft light, and the sound of boats in the distance create that peaceful Lowcountry moment you might be craving.
If you’re traveling with kids, it’s also a great open space for them to run around while you relax on a bench and soak in the view.
3. Step Back in Time at the Church of the Cross
Bluffton may be small, but it has big history. One of the most beautiful historic sites in town is
The Church of the Cross, standing above the May River since the 1800s.
This striking pinkish Gothic-style church offers:
- Riverfront views from the bluff
- Gorgeous stained glass and woodwork inside
- A peaceful garden and grounds
Even if you’re not into history, it’s worth a visit just for the view from the bluff and the peaceful atmosphere. If you enjoy old buildings and stories from the past, you’ll appreciate how well this church has been preserved.
Travel tip: Check ahead for visiting hours or tours, and please be respectful if a service or event is taking place.
4. Eat Your Way Through Bluffton’s Local Restaurants
Let’s be honest. One of the best things to do in Bluffton is
eat.
The town and the nearby area are known for:
- Fresh oysters and shrimp
- Lowcountry boils
- Shrimp and grits
- Southern comfort food with a coastal twist
You’ll find everything from casual seafood shacks to cozy bistros and riverfront dining. Many Bluffton restaurants focus on local ingredients, so the menu often changes with the seasons.
If you’re not sure what to order, it’s hard to go wrong with:
- Fried or grilled local shrimp
- Oysters on the half shell when they’re in season
- Shrimp and grits for a true Lowcountry classic
Think of Bluffton as a smaller, quieter cousin to Charleston’s food scene—still big on flavor, but more relaxed.
5. Explore the May River by Boat or Kayak
You can’t visit Bluffton and ignore the water. The
May River isn’t just a backdrop; it’s where the town truly comes alive.
Popular ways to enjoy it include:
- Guided boat tours along the river
- Kayak or paddleboard rentals
- Dolphin-watching and eco-tours
On the water, you get a front-row seat to the marshes, hidden creeks, and maybe even a few playful dolphins. You’ll see oyster beds at low tide and birds gliding over the water.
If you’re not an experienced paddler, consider a guided tour. Local captains and guides usually share stories about Bluffton’s past, plus helpful info about the wildlife and tidal patterns. It turns a simple outing into a memorable part of your Bluffton vacation.
6. Browse the Bluffton Farmers Market (Seasonal)
If you’re in town on the right day, the
Bluffton farmers market is a fun stop. Markets can change locations or schedules, but many visitors and locals love this weekly event, usually held in or near Old Town.
You’ll typically find:
- Fresh produce from nearby farms
- Local honey and jams
- Handmade crafts and art
- Food trucks and live music
It’s a simple way to get a taste of local life. Grab a snack, listen to a musician, and chat with farmers or artisans. If you’re staying in a rental with a kitchen, this is a great place to pick up fresh ingredients for dinner.
Hint: Check current market days and times online before you go, as they can shift with the seasons.
7. Visit Hilton Head Island’s Beaches (Just a Short Drive)
One big advantage of staying in Bluffton is how close it is to
Hilton Head Island. You can enjoy the beaches and attractions there while still coming “home” to a quieter town.
Hilton Head is about a 20–30 minute drive from much of Bluffton, depending on traffic. Once you cross the bridge, you can:
- Spend the day on wide, sandy beaches
- Rent bikes and ride on miles of paved paths
- Try water sports like parasailing or jet skiing
If you love the idea of the ocean but don’t necessarily want to stay right in the middle of a resort area, Bluffton is a nice base. You get easy beach access without being in the thick of it 24/7.
8. Play a Round (or Two) of Golf
If you’re a golfer, the Bluffton area is a treat. The Lowcountry landscape—marshes, live oaks, and winding waterways—makes a beautiful backdrop for a round of golf.
In and near Bluffton, you’ll find:
- Multiple golf courses and clubs
- Courses at different difficulty levels
- Plenty of options within a 20–30 minute drive
Many people think only of Hilton Head when they think about golf in this part of South Carolina, but Bluffton has its own share of fairways and greens. Just remember to book tee times ahead, especially in spring and fall when the weather is ideal.
9. Take a Day Trip to Savannah or Beaufort
Bluffton sits in a great spot for exploring more of the Lowcountry—and even dipping into Georgia.
Two excellent day trips are:
- Savannah, Georgia – roughly 30–45 minutes by car, depending on traffic
- Beaufort, South Carolina – usually about an hour away, give or take
In Savannah, you can walk the historic squares, explore River Street, or take a ghost tour after dark. In Beaufort, you’ll find waterfront views, historic homes, and a slower pace that pairs well with Bluffton’s vibe.
You can easily spend all day in either city and still make it back to your Bluffton rental in time for a late dinner.
10. Discover Local Art and Festivals
Bluffton has a strong creative side. Artists, makers, and musicians all help give the town its character.
Around Bluffton and Beaufort County, you’ll find:
- Small galleries featuring local painters, sculptors, and photographers
- Shops selling handmade jewelry, pottery, and crafts
- Seasonal festivals celebrating art, food, and music
Events can include art walks, seafood festivals, and outdoor concerts. These change by season, so it’s worth checking the town’s event calendar before your trip.
If you enjoy bringing home something unique instead of a typical souvenir, Bluffton’s creative scene is perfect. A small painting, a piece of pottery, or a handmade ornament can remind you of your time here long after the vacation ends.
Planning Your Bluffton, SC Getaway
Bluffton, South Carolina may not be a huge city, but that’s part of its charm. You get:
- Easy access to Hilton Head beaches
- Short drives to Savannah and Beaufort
- A walkable historic district with real local flavor
- Plenty of outdoor activities on the May River
From wandering Old Town to paddling through quiet creeks, there’s more than enough to fill a long weekend—or even a full week—without feeling rushed.
If you’re craving a Lowcountry escape with good food, water views, and Southern charm, Bluffton is a great choice.
What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite Bluffton Spots
Have you spent time in
Bluffton, SC or around
Beaufort County?
- Do you have a favorite restaurant or coffee shop in Old Town?
- Is there a tour, beach, or park you always recommend?
- Any hidden gems first-time visitors should know about?
Drop your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. And if you know someone planning a trip to Hilton Head, Savannah, or the South Carolina Lowcountry,
share this guide to help them add Bluffton to their list.
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