Locals know to hit the Farmers Market on Thursday afternoons for the freshest oysters. You’ll find vendors like Mary, who’s been shucking at Bluffton Oyster Company for years, chatting with folks over piles of strawberries and homemade jams. It’s a weekly ritual that feels like a backyard cookout, only with better produce.
The market sits on Calhoun Street, where about 30 stalls pop up every Thursday from noon to 5 PM. Nearby, historic homes and quirky art galleries line the one-square-mile Old Town, home to roughly 1,000 residents. You’ll spot cyclists heading to the May River or families browsing for local pottery.
Welcome to Bluffton, South Carolina, a Lowcountry gem where history, art, and river life blend seamlessly. Just a 10-minute drive from Hilton Head Island, it’s known for its laid-back vibe, antebellum charm, and vibrant arts scene. Let’s stroll through its highlights like a friend showing you around.
Old Town Bluffton: History and Shops
Calhoun Street is the heart of Old Town, packed with spots like Eggs n Tricities for quirky gifts and Pluff Mudd Art for local paintings. The Heyward House Museum, built in 1841 at 70 Boundary Street, offers guided tours of Bluffton’s past. Stop by The Cottage Café for shrimp and grits, where servers like Emma share town gossip.
Flickr / Through Charlotte’s Lens
May River: Water Adventures
The May River defines Bluffton, perfect for kayaking or dolphin tours with May River Excursions. Captain Amber, a local favorite, leads boat trips that teach you about the river’s history while spotting wildlife. Rent a paddleboard from Outside Palmetto Bluff for a quiet paddle through mangroves.
Bluffton Shell Art Trail: Artsy Fun
This trail features 21 fiberglass oyster sculptures painted by local artists, scattered across Old Town. It’s free to explore, and kids love snapping photos with the colorful oysters. Check out the SOBA Gallery on Church Street, where artists like Jacob Preston display pottery inspired by the Lowcountry.
Oyster Factory Park: Community Hub
This 4.5-acre park on Wharf Street hosts events like the May River Cleanup on May 3, 2025, where locals like Sarah volunteer to keep the river pristine. The Garvin-Garvey Freedman’s Cottage, built in 1870, offers tours of post-Civil War history. It’s a great spot for picnics or just watching the river flow.
Practical Tips and Vibe
Bluffton feels safe and welcoming, with free parking in Old Town and budget-friendly eats like Corner Perk’s $10 brunch plates. The town’s flat streets are walkable, but bikes from Alljoy Bike Rentals make exploring easier since public transit is scarce. Check the Bluffton Chamber of Commerce for events like the Arts & Seafood Festival in October 2025.
Nearby Adventures
Drive 15 minutes to Hilton Head Island for beaches and the Coastal Discovery Museum. About 30 minutes away, Savannah’s River Street offers cobblestone walks and candy shops. Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, 10 minutes north, has 4,053 acres of trails for birdwatching.
Bluffton’s charm is its mix of history, art, and riverfront ease, all with a small-town feel that doesn’t overwhelm. Ready to visit? Stop by the Bluffton Chamber of Commerce’s website for updates, and start at the Heyward House at 70 Boundary Street. Grab a map and dive in!