Bluffton Travel Guide

Bluffton, South Carolina is a small town packed with culture, nature, and adventure. Read our comprehensive travel guide to explore this hidden gem of South Carolina and plan your next vacation.


Introduction to Bluffton

Bluffton is one of the hidden gems of South Carolina, located in the Golden Corner region of the state. It’s a small, quaint, and charming town that boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and exciting outdoor adventures. Bluffton is a great destination for travelers who want to take a break from bustling touristy crowds and explore something unique and authentic. In this comprehensive travel guide of Bluffton, we’ll take you on a virtual journey to discover the best of this hidden gem and help you plan your next South Carolina adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Bluffton

Here’s a list of must-visit places in Bluffton:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Heyward House Historic Center: The Heyward House is a historic home that has been beautifully restored and houses a museum and gift shop. Here, you can learn about the town’s rich history and culture and admire the beautiful architecture.
  • The Church of the Cross: This stunning church dates back to the 1850s and is a great example of Gothic Revival architecture. It’s a must-visit for architecture and history lovers.
  • Bluffton Oyster Factory Park: This historic location was once a bustling oyster factory and is now converted into a park overlooking the May River. You can take a self-guided tour of the site and enjoy the beautiful views.

Natural Attractions of Bluffton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • May River: A trip to Bluffton wouldn’t be complete without exploring the beautiful May River. You can take a boat tour, kayak, or paddleboard to explore the pristine waterways and enjoy the stunning views.
  • Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge: This wildlife refuge is the perfect place for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Here, you can explore the plains, marshes, and forests to spot various species of birds and wildlife.
  • Palmetto Bluff: Palmetto Bluff is a sprawling luxury resort that offers a range of outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bluffton

Bluffton is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking and biking. Here are some of the best trails to explore:

  • Bluffton Parkway Trail: This paved trail runs along the Bluffton Parkway and offers stunning views of the wetlands, forests, and waterways.
  • New River Linear Trail: This 10-mile trail is great for hiking and biking and takes you through the woods, wetlands, and fields.

Best Things to Do in Bluffton: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Bluffton:

  • May River Excursions: Take a boat tour of the May River to explore the waterways, admire the stunning views, and spot wildlife.
  • Palmetto Bluff Conservancy Tour: This tour takes you through the Palmetto Bluff nature preserve to learn about the local flora and fauna and spot some wildlife.
  • Old Town Bluffton Walking Tour: Take a walking tour of the historic Old Town to admire the beautiful architecture and learn about the town’s history and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bluffton

If you’re planning a week-long vacation in Bluffton, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Bluffton and explore Old Town
Day 2 Take a boat tour of the May River
Day 3 Visit the Heyward House Historic Center and Church of the Cross
Day 4 Explore the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
Day 5 Go on a Palmetto Bluff adventure (fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, etc.)
Day 6 Take a walking tour of Old Town Bluffton
Day 7 Depart from Bluffton

Food and Drink Scene of Bluffton

Bluffton has a thriving food and drink scene that’s worth exploring. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lowcountry Boil: This classic Southern dish is a seafood lover’s paradise and includes shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes.
  • She-crab Soup: This creamy soup made with crabmeat, cream, and sherry is a local favorite.
  • Gullah Cuisine: Gullah cuisine is a unique blend of African, Caribbean, and Southern flavors and includes dishes like okra soup, red rice, and conch stew.

Local Beverages

  • Bluffton Beer: This locally brewed beer is a must-try for beer lovers.
  • Sweet Tea: This Southern classic is a refreshing beverage that’s perfect for hot summer days.
  • Palmetto Moonshine: This locally distilled moonshine is a favorite among whiskey lovers.

Where to Stay in Bluffton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bluffton has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some options for where to stay in Bluffton:

  • Montage Palmetto Bluff: This luxury resort is located on the banks of the May River and offers pristine accommodations, spa services, and outdoor activities.
  • Candlewood Suites Bluffton-Hilton Head: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable and spacious suites with kitchenettes.
  • Bluffton Inn: This charming inn is located in Old Town Bluffton and offers comfortable rooms, a courtyard, and a complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Bluffton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some local products that you can bring home from Bluffton:

  • Gullah Sweetgrass Baskets: These handmade baskets made by the Gullah people of South Carolina are beautiful and unique souvenirs.
  • Bluffton Oyster Company Merchandise: The Bluffton Oyster Company is one of the town’s oldest businesses, and you can buy merchandise like T-shirts, hats, and oyster knives.
  • Local Art: Bluffton has a thriving arts community, and you can buy paintings, sculptures, and other artworks by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Bluffton

Bluffton has a rich cultural heritage that’s deeply ingrained in its people, food, music, and art. The Gullah people, who are descendants of enslaved Africans, have a strong presence in the town and have influenced its culture. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and you’ll often hear music and see art in public spaces.

Best Time to Visit Bluffton

The best time to visit Bluffton is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, like kayaking and hiking, then the spring and fall months are perfect.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bluffton

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Bluffton:

Do:

  • Explore the natural beauty of Bluffton
  • Learn about the town’s history and culture
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the locals or their culture
  • Litter or harm the environment
  • Ignore safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Bluffton

Bluffton is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always wise to take basic safety precautions like locking your car and avoiding unlit areas at night. If you’re participating in outdoor activities, like hiking and kayaking, then make sure to follow the safety guidelines and wear proper gear.

Health in Bluffton

Bluffton has several medical clinics and hospitals to provide medical care to tourists and locals. It’s always wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies before traveling to Bluffton.

Getting to Bluffton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bluffton is easily accessible by air, road, and rail. Here are some options for getting to Bluffton:

Airports Near Bluffton

  • Hilton Head Island Airport
  • Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

Bus Stations Near Bluffton

  • Greyhound Bus Station
  • Palmetto Breeze

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Southbound or from the South comes to Savannah, GA, which is about a 45-minute drive from Bluffton.
  • Uber and Lyft both operate in Bluffton, and there are also traditional taxicab companies available.

How to Get Around in Bluffton

Bluffton is a walkable town with beautiful Old Town Historic District with a few airlines of dining, shopping, and sightseeing. Biking and hiking are also popular options for getting around. For those who need or prefer driving, they can rent a car or use ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Bluffton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to explore from Bluffton:

  • Hilton Head Island: Hilton Head Island is a popular vacation destination and is located only 10 miles from Bluffton. Here, you can explore beautiful beaches, golf courses, and other outdoor activities.
  • Savannah, GA: Savannah is a stunning historic city located just 20 miles from Bluffton. Here, you can explore history, culture, art, and amazing food.

Conclusion

Bluffton, South Carolina is a small town packed with culture, nature, and adventure. In this comprehensive travel guide, we hope we have given you all the information you need to explore this hidden gem of South Carolina and plan your next vacation. Whether you love history, the outdoors, or amazing food and drink, Bluffton has something to offer everyone.

Clockwise from top: the May River, the Heyward House, a gravel path, CareCore Dr, a Post Office, Myrtle Island, and The Store Clockwise from top: the May River, the Heyward House, a gravel path, CareCore Dr, a Post Office, Myrtle Island, and The Store