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Bluffton SC travel tips

Getting Around Bluffton, SC

Bluffton is easy to navigate once you know the layout. Here's everything you need to know about driving, parking, getting to Hilton Head, and making the most of your time in the Lowcountry.

Navigating the Lowcountry

Bluffton is a car-dependent town for most of its geography, but Old Town is genuinely walkable once you're there. The key is understanding the layout: Old Town sits on a bluff above the May River, connected to the rest of Bluffton by a handful of main roads.

US-278 is the main artery connecting Bluffton to Hilton Head Island and to I-95. Bluffton Parkway runs north-south through the newer parts of town. May River Road connects Old Town to the broader area. Once you've driven these three roads, you'll have your bearings.

Getting to Bluffton

  • By air: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is the closest major airport, about 35 minutes from Old Town Bluffton. Charleston International (CHS) is about 90 minutes north.
  • By car: From I-95, take Exit 8 onto US-278 East toward Hilton Head. Bluffton is about 10 miles east of the interstate. Old Town is a left turn off US-278 onto May River Road.
  • Car rental: Available at SAV airport. Having a car is essentially required for anything beyond Old Town.
  • Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate in the area but coverage can be inconsistent, especially late at night. Don't rely on rideshare as your only transportation option.

Parking in Old Town

  • Parking in Old Town Bluffton is free. The Town of Bluffton maintains several public parking areas throughout the historic district.
  • The main parking lot is off Calhoun Street near the center of Old Town — it's the easiest place to leave your car and explore on foot.
  • Street parking is available throughout the historic district. On busy weekends and during events like the Arts and Seafood Festival, arrive early to secure a spot.
  • The Town of Bluffton Welcome Center on Calhoun Street is a good first stop — staff can point you to available parking and provide walking tour maps of the historic district.

Getting Around Old Town on Foot

  • Old Town Bluffton is genuinely walkable — Calhoun Street and the surrounding historic district are best explored on foot.
  • Bikes are a great option in Old Town — flat terrain, low traffic, and easy access to the May River waterfront.
  • Golf carts are popular in some residential areas near Old Town; check local rental options if you want a slower pace.
  • The Shell Art Trail winds through Old Town on foot — pick up a map at the Welcome Center and follow the oyster-themed public art installations.

Getting to Hilton Head Island

  • Hilton Head is about 20 minutes from Old Town Bluffton via US-278 East across the bridges.
  • There is no toll to enter Hilton Head Island from the Bluffton side.
  • Traffic on US-278 can back up significantly in summer, especially on weekends. Allow extra time during peak season.
  • Parking at Hilton Head's public beaches is free at most access points, though lots fill early in summer.

Getting to Savannah

  • Savannah is about 35 minutes from Bluffton via US-278 West to I-95 South.
  • Parking in Savannah's historic district is metered and can be competitive — arrive early or use a parking garage.
  • Savannah is very walkable once you're in the historic district; the squares are best explored on foot.

Practical Tips

  • Gas stations are plentiful along US-278 and Bluffton Parkway; Old Town itself has none.
  • Cell service is generally good throughout Bluffton; some marsh and creek areas may have spotty coverage.
  • The Lowcountry has no public transit to speak of — a car is essential for exploring beyond Old Town.
  • Speed limits in Old Town and residential areas are strictly enforced; 25 mph is common.

Distances from Old Town Bluffton

DestinationDrive time
Hilton Head Island (Coligny Beach)~20 minutes
Savannah, GA (Historic District)~35 minutes
Beaufort, SC~45 minutes
I-95 (Exit 8)~15 minutes
Savannah/HHI Airport (SAV)~35 minutes
Charleston, SC~90 minutes

Questions about getting here?

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