Just across the bridge from Hilton Head Island sits the quaint and charming town of Bluffton, South Carolina, atop a scenic bluff along the picturesque May River. Bluffton’s unique historic district is home to antebellum homes, eclectic art galleries, historic churches, one-of-a-kind shops, all enveloped in a canopy of trees draped with moss.
While Bluffton has retained its quaint and charming small town feel, it is also a rapidly growing community, with an increasing number of residential communities, luxury golf course communities, world-class amenities, shopping and restaurants. Bluffton is located within the Beaufort County School District, which boasts some of South Carolina’s best schools.
The relaxed lifestyle, strong sense of community and natural beauty associated with living in the Lowcountry are all found in Bluffton. And Bluffton is home to some of the finest private communities in the Lowcountry, including: Colleton River Plantation, Belfair, Berkeley Hall, Hampton Hall and Hampton Lake.
Hilton Head Island has a reputation as a world-class resort community and has been named one of the top 10 family-friendly beaches in the country. A barrier island that is approximately 12 miles long and five miles wide, Hilton Head Island features miles of pristine beaches and some of the finest golf courses in the country.
The island has a rich history that dates back more than 500 years, and development on the island has been structured to preserve both the history and the natural beauty of the environment.
A true resort community, Hilton Head Island offers award-winning dining, entertainment, shopping and myriad activities, including kayaking, water sports, world-class tennis, day spas and much more. Hilton Head Island is also home to several art galleries, art centers, museums and the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, bringing big-city culture to the island community.
Beaufort, South Carolina, is a historic seaside town approximately 30 minutes from Bluffton. Deeply rooted in Southern history, the tabby ruins and remnants of historic forts and Gullah culture and cuisine are reminders of Beaufort’s rich past.
Quaint shops and eclectic art galleries line the streets of the downtown historic district. Beaufort’s newly renovated Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is home to many festivals held throughout the year. And it is also a scenic place to enjoy a stroll through the park or a picnic while overlooking the numerous shrimp boats out on the beautiful Beaufort River. Fresh, local shrimp and other seafood are favorites in the town’s many restaurants.
The historic homes, natural beauty, golf courses and top entertainment the University of South Carolina Beaufort Performing Arts Center brings in adds to the rich culture of the town. Beaufort is also home to three major military installations: Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort and the Beaufort Naval Hospital.
Savannah, Georgia, is only a 30-minute drive from Bluffton. The cobblestone streets on the famed River Street are part of one of the largest urban historic districts in the country. Quaint, eclectic shops sell unique jewelry, clothing and other items. Boutique-type shops are also popular shopping destinations in the historic district.
Savannah, known for its southern charm and hospitality, is home to the quintessential Southern comfort food with The Food Network’s Paula Deen’s restaurant, The Lady & Sons.
The picturesque historic squares in the heart of the historic district have been featured in major motion pictures, such as Forrest Gump and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Home to Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah is an artistic and cultural community with many art shows, jazz and film festivals. In addition, the Savannah Civic Center brings some popular entertainment acts, and there are a number of local museums that showcase Savannah’s rich Southern history and traditions.
