Bluffton, South Carolina, is more than a destination — it’s a way of life. Beneath the sprawling oaks and along the scenic May River, each neighborhood and community tells its own story. From the historic cottages of Old Town to the refined enclaves of private riverfront clubs, Bluffton’s charm lies in its blend of heritage, artistry, and Southern warmth.
Whether you’re wandering the walkable streets or exploring beyond, here is our insider guide to Bluffton’s neighborhoods and communities that capture its unique Lowcountry soul.
Historic Bluffton: Where the Story Began
Start your exploration in Old Town Bluffton Inn, the beating heart of the community. This is where Bluffton began — a collection of lovingly preserved homes, centuries-old churches, and shaded streets where time seems to slow.
Notable Historic Homes & Sites:
- Heyward House Museum & Welcome Center: Built in 1841, this antebellum home offers guided tours and glimpses into 19th-century Bluffton life.
- The Church of the Cross: Overlooking the May River, this 1857 Carpenter Gothic gem remains a cherished local landmark.
- Garvin-Garvey Freedman Cottage: A rare surviving Freedman’s home from the Reconstruction era, now beautifully restored in Oyster Factory Park.
- Squire Pope Carriage House: A graceful historic structure that hints at Bluffton’s riverfront legacy.
- Patz Brothers House & Allen-Lockwood House: Stunning examples of 19th-century architecture that showcase Bluffton’s craftsmanship and charm.
- Stroll Calhoun Street: You'll find art galleries, antique shops, and cafés tucked into historic storefronts — a living blend of past and present.
Residential Charm: Living the Bluffton Way
Bluffton is known for its balance of small-town spirit and luxurious living. Neighborhoods here range from family-friendly communities to elegant estates, all grounded by a shared love of the Lowcountry lifestyle.
Beloved Bluffton Neighborhoods & Private Communities:
Bluffton is home to some of the most prestigious neighborhoods and private communities in the Lowcountry. Each offers a distinct experience — from world-class golf to deep-rooted camaraderie and unspoiled natural beauty.
- Old Town Bluffton: A blend of residential cottages and thriving local businesses — perfect for those who love walkable charm and community connection.
- Belfair: An elegant golf community featuring two Tom Fazio-designed courses, a modern clubhouse, and scenic views of the Colleton River.
- Berkeley Hall: A haven for golf enthusiasts, with twin courses designed by Tom Fazio and a strong sense of club tradition and Southern hospitality.
- Colleton River Club: Offers both Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye signature golf courses, as well as unparalleled May River and marshland views.
- Palmetto Bluff: A world unto itself — a vast, luxurious community of cottages, riverfront homes, and the iconic Montage Palmetto Bluff resort. It blends nature conservation with architectural beauty, miles of trails, and waterways for kayaking, biking, and exploration.
- Oldfield: An amenity-rich private community offering many membership benefits from tennis, equestrian sports, and golf.
The Character of Bluffton: Art, Nature, and Heart
Beyond its neighborhoods and private enclaves, Bluffton thrives on character — the kind you feel as you stroll through shaded streets or listen to the hum of conversation under café lights.
Unique Parts of Town That Capture Bluffton’s Essence:
- Calhoun Street & The Promenade: Bluffton’s social core, where locals gather for dining, shopping, art walks, and live music under string lights.
- The May River Waterfront: Bluffton’s natural heartbeat, perfect for scenic walks, fishing, and sunset cruises with our partners at Outside Brands.
- Oyster Factory Park: A community gathering place for festivals, picnics, and riverfront sunsets.
- The Bluffton Farmers Market: Every Thursday, Old Town comes alive with fresh produce, live music, and the true spirit of community.
Together, these spots paint the picture of Bluffton — artistic, welcoming, and steeped in Southern soul.
Heart of the Lowcountry - Design & Build Program
Call the Old Town Bluffton Inn home while you build yours! While you design and build your Lowcountry masterpiece, find your home away from home at the Old Town Bluffton Inn. Central to interior design offices, custom woodworking, and home design offices, let our central location be your command center for your dream home project. Inquire about pre-packed stays, which feature our best available rates to welcome our new neighbors to the community.
Discover the Neighborhoods, Discover Bluffton
From the quiet beauty of historic homes to the grand design of private clubs, Bluffton offers endless ways to experience its charm. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for a lifetime, the neighborhoods here invite you to connect — to the people, the land, and the river that define the Lowcountry way of life.
At Old Town Bluffton Inn, we’re proud to be part of this story — ready to help you explore, unwind, and fall in love with every corner of our town.
