I cut this article out of, I think, AAA magazine. I’m not sure when.
The heart of South Carolina’s low country, Bluffton sits on a bluff overlooking the May River, and is just a short drive from Hilton Head Island. Named one of the South’s Best Small Towns and one of America’s Happiest Seaside Towns by a pair of lauded Southern magazines, we have to agree. From Kayaking on the May River and nearby Jarvis Creek, searching for dolphins, osprey and other wildlife to gallery-hopping in Old Town to historic tours that dive into the town’s backstory, you’ll find no shortage of ways to spend your day. Don’t miss October’s Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival, a week-long festival that shows off the best of the low country’s fresh seafood and the breadth of Bluffton’s quirky art community. The festival’s juried fine art show features more than 100 artists are vying for the top spots while artists and art lovers stroll the streets and sample food from dozens of restaurants. If you want a perfect shoulder-season weekend, try the last two days of the festival when live music keeps the energy high. Pamper yourself with a stay at Mantage Palmetto Bluff.
Bluffton is a Favorite
Southern Living named Bluffton one of the South’s Best Small Towns of 2019.
Coastal Living listed Bluffton as one of America’s 10 Happiest Seaside Towns of 2018.
Kayaking on the May River and nearby Jarvis Creek
Kayaks can be rented to explore the May River, the Calibogue Sound, Broad Creek, the Palmetto Dunes Lagoon Channels and Skull Creek.
Jarvis Creek is a small creek in the north end of Hilton Head Island. Naturalist guided kayak trips leave from the Coastal Discovery Museum. Explore the salt marsh of Jarvis Creek looking for dolphins and birds with a knowledgeable guide. You can also rent kayaks at Jarvis Creek Water Sports.
Bluffton History Tours
Old and New Bluffton Tours is a golf cart tour of historic downtown Bluffton. Bluffton Jack offers an Interactive Character Tour. And the Gullah Heritage History Tour includes some areas in Bluffton.