December 31, 2020

Out and About: Things to Do in Bluffton, SC

Located just inland of South Carolina’s Hilton Head Island, the charming town of Bluffton is one of the Lowcountry’s best-kept secrets. It boasts a unique collection of pristine golf courses, culinary delights, memorable outdoor activities, and old-world charm that shows why locals say, “Bluffton is a state of mind.”

And with that, here are our top things to see and do in Bluffton, South Carolina.

Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival 

This weeklong festival is held each fall to celebrate local culture and raise awareness of the need to protect and maintain the pristine quality of the May River and the historic Bluffton Oyster Company. Live music, fresh seafood, road races, fishing tournaments, kayak tours, and a juried arts and crafts show highlight the annual festival activities.  

Mayfest / Bluffton Village Festival

More than 200 food vendors and artists gather in Bluffton’s historic district for the Bluffton Village Festival. Enjoy family-friendly activities, live music, and watch (or enter) the annual pie-eating and Ugly Dog Contests!

Montage Palmetto Bluff

This 20,000-acre resort community, located on the shores of the May River, boasts a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, eight dining destinations, spa and wellness services, and deluxe accommodations ranging from single rooms to private waterfront village homes with screened porches and marsh views

Tanger Outlets Hilton Head

If shopping is on your to-do list, Tanger Outlets includes almost 100 name-brand stores. They even offer digital coupon books to help you save even more money, and plenty of on-site restaurants, too. 

The Church of the Cross

Old Town’s 1850s-era The Church of the Cross continues to hold weekly services in the same building that withstood hurricanes and Civil War battles in the area. Although the church’s impressive 1850s, gothic-inspired architecture, and stunning bluff views have made it a popular spot for photoshoots and other events, all are welcome to worship at The Church of the Cross.

BONUS! Harbour Town Lighthouse

Just a short distance from Bluffton on Hilton Head Island sits the privately funded Harbour Town Lighthouse—a local landmark that has become a symbol of Hilton Head Island itself. The lighthouse is open to the public—climb 114 steps for a unique view from the top, and be sure to visit the Harbour Town Lighthouse Museum for a slice of local history. Virtual visitors can check out the view from the top at any time, thanks to a 24/7 webcam connection.


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