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What To Do on a Day Trip to Old Town Bluffton, S.C.

March 10, 2018 |

If you enjoy visiting Southern towns that are full of charm and personality, Bluffton is an idyllic spot! It's situated halfway between Hilton Head Island, SC, and Savannah, GA, and is about a 30-minute drive from either location. Should you decide to make a day trip, here are a few of my favorite things to do in Bluffton SC.

Learn what to do on a day trip to the charming small town of Bluffton, located halfway between Hilton Head Island in SC and Savannah, GA. | Things to do in Blufton SC | sandsunandmessybuns.com

If you find this post helpful, please share these Bluffton travel tips on Pinterest to help other travelers!

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Map of Old Town Bluffton // Things to do in Bluffton SC

5 Things to do in Bluffton SC 

Old Town Bluffton consists of a single square mile that has undergone significant renovation in recent years. The area includes some of Bluffton's oldest homes, the Historic District, and numerous shops and restaurants. I suggest beginning your trip at Heyward House, which was built in the mid-1800's and serves as the visitor's center.

NOTE: This post focuses on the Old Town Bluffton area only. More about The Promenade, Palmetto Bluff, and the rest of Bluffton coming soon!

See The Church of the Cross | May River

If you're seeking a picture perfect location, look no further than The Church of the Cross! It's located on a bluff overlooking the May River and boasts some of the most incredible views in Old Town Bluffton.

The church is well-preserved, with grounds manicured to near perfection. It's easily one of the most-photographed spots in Bluffton.

The Church of the Cross is one of the few structures Union soldiers didn't burn during General Sherman's “March to the Sea”.

Things to do in Bluffton SC // The Church of the Cross is a must see! Photo source ©geofotousa via FlickrCC
If you're looking for things to do in Bluffton SC, definitely take a stroll down to the Church of the Cross in historic Old Town Bluffton. It sits on the edge of the May River and the views are absolutely beautiful!

Things to do in Bluffton SC // Details at The Church of the Cross Things to do in Bluffton SC // The Church of the Cross is a must Things to do in Bluffton // The landscaping surrounding The Church of the Cross is always near perfect Things to do in Bluffton SC // The Church of the Cross Things to do in Bluffton // The Church of the Cross is beautifully landscaped Things to do in Bluffton // The Church of the Cross

Click on any photo to view it larger. The church celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2004. Main image source.

Be sure to walk to the edge of the property to catch beautiful sweeping views of the river. Calhoun Street (in front of the church) dead-ends at the public boat ramp.

⭐ Insider Tip: For a unique souvenir, pick up a jar of “Holy Honey” made from honey bees discovered in the rafters of the church.

Do a Walking Tour of Lowcountry Architecture

The architecture in Bluffton is so pretty! This town beckons you to slow down and relax the minute you set foot under the gorgeous old oaks dripping in Spanish moss. Nearly every home or storefront has a wide front porch with ceiling fans and multiple rocking chairs — ideal spots for sipping sweet tea.

Download a free walking tour map here.

Things to do in Old Town Bluffton: Go on a walking tour to see the coastal architecture and beautiful homes.
The homes in Old Town Bluffton are beautiful and many have a Southern coastal style/vibe. ©JPeeden via FlickrCC

Photo Source

You'll notice many front porch ceilings in Bluffton are painted light blue to mimic the sky. This is a very common throughout the South. The color is known as “Haint Blue”, and it's traditionally used in historic Lowcountry homes to ward off evil spirits, or “haints”.

In addition to scaring off ghosts and goblins, the blue color also tricks birds and wasps into thinking the ceiling is the sky so they'll construct their nests elsewhere.

⭐ Insider Tip: Did you know HGTV's 2018 Smart Home was located in Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton? It's designed with a lot of the typical features you'd expect to see in a Lowcountry home.

Enjoy a Picnic in the Park & Catch a Sunset

The Bluffton Oyster Co. sits adjacent to a beautiful park that makes a great spot for an afternoon picnic or to catch the sunset. There are numerous tables (some covered), and the entire area is shaded by moss-draped oaks. The park also has a fire pit for roasting oysters.

Park in their free parking lot and walk down to the docks to see pretty views like these…

Next time you're in Old Town Bluffton, be sure to wander on down to the May River and check out the shrimp boats and beautiful views in front of the Bluffton Oyster Factory.
If you're looking for things to do in Old Town Bluffton SC, make a stop by the park next to the Bluffton Oyster Factory to see beautiful views like this one.

Which way to Old Town Bluffton? This park along the banks of the May River is the perfect spot for a picnic in Bluffton SC. The greenery growing on the trunks of these old oaks is called "resurrection fern". It only appears after a good, long rain. Things to do in Bluffton SC: Head down to the park to see the Garvey House, built in 1870.

Things to do in Bluffton // Head down to the park to visit the Oyster Factory and check out the boats at the dock.
Things to do in Bluffton SC // Catch a sunset from the Oyster Factory Park

Click on any thumbnail photo to view it larger. Photo sources 1 | 2

The Garvey House is also located on the property and is a great example work accomplished by Bluffton's Historical Preservation Society.

Planning a day trip to Old Town Bluffton, SC, and wondering what to do? Here are a few must see spots! #bluffton #traveltips Click To Tweet

Shop the Boutiques 

Shopping in Old Town Bluffton is just as unique as the town itself; it's full of vintage stores and charming boutiques. In true small town fashion, many of the shops close at 5-ish, so keep that in mind as you're out and about.

  • Spartina 449 is full of purses, wallets, and jewelry inspired by the Lowcountry. The fabric pattern on each of their handbags is named after well-known Southern destinations and personalities.
  • Al-Harry Furniture & Design is chock full of beautiful home decor and custom furniture, in addition to accessories and coffee table books by local authors.
  • Eggs ‘N Tricities is housed in a former gas station and sells home decor, souvenirs, and clothing for women and children.
  • Gigi's Boutique is a charming shop offering women's clothing and accessories in a variety of price points. Some of the items are rather pricy, but they're interspersed with affordable pieces, as well.
  • The Cottage Cafe, Bakery & Tea Room: Stop in here for afternoon tea and a delicious snack when you're in need of a pick-me-up!

The Promenade is an easy walk from Historic Old Town and features newly built shops and restaurants. The Roost Host & Home, located in The Promenade, is my personal favorite store in Bluffton. They offer beautiful home decor, soaps, linens, and candles.

Visiting The Roost Host & Home is one of my favorite things to do in Bluffton SC. The owner is incredibly sweet and the store is filled with beautiful home decor items and hostess gifts.

The Roost Host & Home tops the list as my favorite home decor store in Bluffton. (Think hostess gifts, candles, soaps, home decor, and linens.) The owner is incredibly sweet and helpful.

Al-Harry Furniture Design in Bluffton, SC has an eclectic mix of furniture and home decor. There's a shop in the back where the owner refinishes many of the pieces herself!

Al-Harry Furniture & Design is another shop I'm always content to spend some time in whenever I'm in Bluffton. The owner up-cycles many furniture pieces by refinishing them in her workshop and selling them in the store, along with new items.

For those who prefer more conventional shopping, there's always the sprawling Tanger Outlet Center just outside of town (towards Hilton Head).

Watch out for gators in the water bordering the parking lot! You'll frequently catch them sunning on the banks within a few feet of parked cars.

Fill up at the Bluffton Farmers Market [Thursdays Only]

Each Thursday afternoon during the summer months, the town of Bluffton hosts a Farmers' Market from 1:00 – 6:00 p.m. The sense of community is strong on market days! Old Town Bluffton fills with laughter, live music, and the smell of Southern-style BBQ.

Be sure to ask if Farmer Joe is around! He always has a smile on his face and is a local favorite (in both Savannah and Bluffton).

If you're visiting Old Town Bluffton SC on a Thursday afternoon, then you're in luck! That's when they host the local farmers market and where you'll find fresh local nuts, produce, and enough BBQ to satisfy even the heartiest appetites!

Things to do in Bluffton // Visit the Farmers Market on Thursdays in the summer months. Things to do in Bluffton // Visit the Farmers Market on Thursdays in the summer months. Things to do in Bluffton // Visit the Farmers Market on Thursdays in the summer months. Things to do in Bluffton // Visit the Farmers Market on Thursdays in the summer months. Things to do in Bluffton // Visit the Farmers Market on Thursdays in the summer months.

Click on any photo to view it larger.

Bluffton is very hot in the summertime (temps in the 90's to low 100's are common), so dress accordingly. Luckily, there are sno-cones available for purchase at the market, and they're quite the necessity when you're hot and “glowing”. (Southern women don't sweat, they glow.)

Sno Cone Sampling in Bluffton, SC Sno Cone Sampling in Bluffton, SC Things to do in Bluffton SC // Be sure to stop by the local farmers market to pick up a sno-cone or two!

The Best Time of Year to Visit Bluffton

Bluffton is at its prettiest and has the best weather from March to early May. October is nice, too. If you're traveling by plane, the closest major airport is Savannah (SAV).

One of my favorite local events is Taste of Bluffton, which is a celebration of Southern cooking. The event definitely draws a crowd, but it's a great opportunity to sample some of the best dishes from local restaurants. Taste of Bluffton is typically held in April.

Where to Stay in Bluffton

There's no shortage of beautiful homes in Bluffton! My favorite (and the most popular) options are in Palmetto Bluff, but there are numerous vacation homes and a few large hotels throughout the area.

Here are a few of my favorite places to stay in area:

  • Luxury Hotel: Montage Palmetto Bluff
  • Budget-Friendly Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites
  • Home Rentals: These Vacation Home Rentals in Bluffton are Calling Your Name!

Related Reading: Here are a few great pointers for renting your next vacation home in Bluffton.

I highly recommend visiting if you're looking for a fun outing near Savannah or Hilton Head.

Continue reading more of my posts about the Lowcountry:

  • 7 Incredible Sunset Spots on Hilton Head Island
  • The Angel Oak: What to Know Before You Go
  • 2019 Charleston Bucket List Printable (Free Download!)
  • 50 Walkable Things To Do in Savannah's Historic District

Pin It for Later: Things To Do in Bluffton, SC

Signature reading XOXO, Erin

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Cover image photo sources 1 | 2 | 3

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Filed Under: TRAVEL, UNITED STATES |

About ERIN

Erin Clarkson is an award-winning photographer, Savannah-based blogger, and author of the Savannah First-Timer's Guide. She spends her days exploring the Lowcountry and writing about its unique beauty. A true Southerner, she'll stop to chat with anyone, and that gift of gab has led to many off-the-beaten-path discoveries. Learn more and connect on Pinterest.

Comments

  1. Brianne says

    January 29, 2018 at 11:34 AM

    Wow your photos are absolutely stunning! That church and mansion are especially beautiful. This town looks like such a cute place to visit.

    • Erin | Sand Sun & Messy Buns says

      April 7, 2018 at 12:43 AM

      Thanks Brianne! It’s definitely one of my favorite towns for taking pictures, and it’s an incredible vacation spot! I’m headed there this weekend for Taste of Bluffton.

  2. lisaandfam says

    January 26, 2018 at 5:20 PM

    Beautiful pictures! I’ve always wanted to visit these southern towns, they always seem to be so full of charm. Reminds me of Nicholas Sparks’ movies 🙂

    http://www.lisaandfam.com/

    • Erin | Sand Sun & Messy Buns says

      January 27, 2018 at 12:43 AM

      Yes, it’s exactly like something out of a Nicholas Sparks movie. You nailed it!

  3. Kori Evans says

    September 18, 2017 at 9:51 PM

    Your photos are stunning!!! I WILL be in the area next June!! And my family will have no choice but to visit here!! LOL!

    • Erin | Sand Sun & Messy Buns says

      September 18, 2017 at 10:51 PM

      lol Well it’ll be hot in June, but you’ll love it! The restaurants and shops will keep you busy. 🙂 Let me know if you need help picking out a place to stay!

  4. Cara Owens says

    September 18, 2017 at 12:17 PM

    That church is absolutely beautiful and I’m glad you all had fun! This is a great guide when visiting Bluffton, I’ll have to save it in case I ever get the chance to! 🙂

    • Erin | Sand Sun & Messy Buns says

      September 18, 2017 at 7:19 PM

      Hopefully you’ll be able to go since you’re moving to Georgia! It’s such a cute little town…and right on the water so there are tons of restaurants with really tasty fresh seafood (and plenty to suit non-seafood lovers, too. It’s becoming a bit of a foodie destination).

  5. aroundtheworldinkatydays says

    September 18, 2017 at 10:59 AM

    What a gorgeous little town! It reminds of the town where the show Hart of Dixie takes place! And that Rose Hill Mansion is simply heavenly. Dream home!

    • Erin | Sand Sun & Messy Buns says

      September 18, 2017 at 7:24 PM

      I don’t think Hart of Dixie was filmed there, but they did shoot an episode of The Bachelorette in Bluffton this season (when they went up in the hot air balloon). Not quite the same, I know, but it was still fun to see the local spots on TV. 🙂 Lots of scenes from The Legend of Bagger Vance were filmed in the area!

  6. Her vs. World says

    September 18, 2017 at 10:45 AM

    Bluffton looks like a cute little place! I live in NC and have always gone to Myrtle, Charleston, and Folly during the summer. Now you’ve gotten interested in checking out Bluffton. I also haven’t been to Hilton Head believe it or not! I’m gonna have to visit there as well.

    • Erin | Sand Sun & Messy Buns says

      September 18, 2017 at 7:29 PM

      I love both of them! My parents own a place in Hilton Head, so we’ve been vacationing there for 20+ years. Now that we live in Savannah, we can be in either place in less than an hour and we go fairly often because there are so many restaurants we love (in Bluffton and HHI). During the heat of the summer I prefer to escape to Asheville or somewhere in the mountains near you, though, bc it’s so hot in Georgia! We should trade houses! lol

  7. Linda Manns Linneman says

    February 14, 2016 at 8:41 AM

    I lived just outside Charleston for a few years and I loved it. I have never been to Bluffton. It sounds like a nice place to visit. Thank you so much for sharing. I will check this out the next time I am up there

    • Erin | Sand Sun & Messy Buns says

      September 18, 2017 at 7:30 PM

      Bluffton is a great place to visit 🙂 If you liked Charleston, it’s very similar, but with much more of a small-town vibe.

  8. Katrina Angele says

    February 11, 2016 at 11:25 PM

    I must say I prefer the term “glowing”…hahhaha going to use that in my hot Cali weather. I have an online friend who lives there who I’ve always wanted to visit….what a fun list of things to do….except the seafood…I will go with the BBQ…thank you….lol

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