BLUFFTON IS A STATE OF MIND

Sometimes referred to as “the last true coastal village of the South”, the best way to get to know Bluffton is through its waterways. Much of life in Bluffton revolves around the May River. You can’t leave the town without trying its fresh seafood (oysters, shrimp, and fish are all caught locally), or swimming, boating, or having a picnic.

From Old Town, it’s common to spot bottlenose dolphins splashing around, or locals fishing from the town’s docks.

Outdoor lovers will want to explore even further. Renting a kayak or canoe is a great way to explore Bluffton’s marshland. The views are spectacular, and you’re likely to spot more dolphins and seabirds on your paddle. Not feeling active? There are fishing and boat charters available.

Foodies will want to make their way to Calhoun Street on Thursday afternoons. The Farmers Market of Bluffton serves up locally grown vegetables, fruits, flowers, plants, herbs, and more. Fresh strawberries in the spring, peaches in the fall are just a few of the seasonal splendors you can sample. This is also where you pick up just-off-the-boat seafood to prepare your own feast—just like a Lowcountry local.

Bluffton is also home to several eateries that will please your palate. Local dishes you’ll want to try include Lowcountry boil, shrimp and grits, and local oysters. The Cottage’s sweet and savory menu makes for a tasty brunch spot to start your day.

We take locally-sourced dishes seriously here in Bluffton. Case in point: Chef Chaun Bescos of Red Fish Bluffton. Chef Bescos doesn’t just choose ingredients from local growers and fishers—he forages in the forests himself!

Seafoodies need to stop into The Bluffton Oyster Company. It’s the last hand-shucking house in South Carolina, and one of the town’s oldest family-owned businesses—it’s been in the family since 1899! During the months of September-May, the Bluffton Oyster Company carries local May River oysters, clams, and mussels. Pop by if you’re curious to learn more about how the fish are source and farmed. It’s hard to find a better view of the May River than from its docks.

Wash down these local delights by sampling Bluffton’s craft beer scene. Salt Marsh Brewing can be found in Old Town, and their beer list features quirky, only-in-Bluffton names like “State of Mind”, “Nana’s Puddin’”, and “Slo-Country”. At night, head to a local bar—you don’t want to miss out on the local live music scene.

Plan your visit in October, so you can savor Bluffton’s seafood and local art scene at the Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival. 

Souvenirs aren’t hard to come by in Bluffton. For a Southern take on “retail therapy” shop streets of Old Town. They’re lined with unique boutiques, antique shops, and specialized retailers. Art-lovers will want to spend an afternoon popping in and out of the town’s art galleries—home to oils, acrylics, pottery, woodcarvings, photography, and more. Bluffton holds a number of local and traveling exhibits and art shows throughout the year as well.  

Just 20 minutes outside of Bluffton, you’ll find Montage Palmetto Bluff. Set within an award-winning 20,000-acre community, the resort encompasses an extensive nature preserve, walking trails, the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, and beautiful views from its marina.

Lavish rooms, several restaurants, beautiful scenery, and a spa make for a luxurious vacation. Grab breakfast at Buffalo’s—one of the resorts six restaurants—and indulge in a spa treatment.  Feeling adventurous? Rent a bicycle and stop by the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy to learn about the land and wildlife on property. Finish your days by taking a dip in one of the resort’s three refreshing pools.