Bluffton, SC
Bluffton is ideal for families who want a more mellow Lowcountry vibe, while still being close to Hilton Head Island and the beach.
With that first brave bite, my daughter had opened a world of flavor, and from one simple expression, we could tell that seafood was no longer as scary as she'd imagined.
The best part of seeing her try something new? Watching it become her favorite.
South Carolina’s Lowcountry is made for family vacations. On Hilton Head Island and in nearby Bluffton, wide beaches, shady bike paths and calm waterways create an easygoing setting where kids can explore and parents can truly relax. Add in dolphin sightings, outdoor adventures, hands-on museums and laidback meals, and you’ve got a destination that works for everyone.
Accommodations
If your family wants to be close to the beach with plenty to do on-site, Hilton Head Island delivers.
Set right on the beach, Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island is a favorite for families thanks to its expansive pool area, easy beach access and spacious rooms. Kids love the splash-friendly pools, while parents appreciate the walkability and laid-back atmosphere that makes settling in effortless.
If you’re looking for more space, Marriott's Grande Ocean offers villa-style accommodations with full kitchens and separate living areas. Multiple pools, direct beach access and organized activities make it easy to spend an entire day without ever leaving the property.
Bluffton is ideal for families who want a more mellow Lowcountry vibe, all while still being close to Hilton Head Island and the beach.
With expansive grounds, outdoor activities and plenty of room for kids to roam, Montage Palmetto Bluff feels like a destination unto itself while still being close to Bluffton and Hilton Head attractions.
Holiday Inn Express Bluffton at Hilton Head Area is a reliable, budget-friendly choice for families, offering free breakfast, a pool and comfortable rooms. Its central location makes it easy to explore Bluffton, Hilton Head Island and nearby beaches without long drives.
Arrival, Beach Time & a Relaxed First Night
Arrive on Hilton Head Island in the early afternoon and get settled into your accommodations. Once the bags are down, there’s no need to overthink the first afternoon—head straight to the beach.
Coligny Beach Park is popular among families due to its expansive shoreline, gentle waves and easy access to restrooms and showers. Children can enjoy the interactive fountain, while adults unwind on nearby benches. Matting leading to the water ensures the beach is wheelchair accessible.
When hunger hits, walk over to Coligny Plaza, where a cluster of casual restaurants makes dinner stress-free. Whether your crew is craving pizza, seafood or classic American fare, everyone can find something they’ll enjoy without a long wait or formal setting.
Embrace island time. Life here moves more slowly, which adds to its charm. Allow extra time for biking, beach walks and spontaneous stops.
Bikes, Harbor Views & Lowcountry Discovery
Start the day with a classic Southern-style breakfast at Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe, where your family can try Lowcountry favorites like shrimp and grits or their famous stuffed French toast.
After breakfast, it's time to rent some bikes and explore the island. Hilton Head is crisscrossed with beautiful, easily accessible bike paths that weave beneath moss-covered trees, along the marshes that make Hilton Head so beautiful and right to the island’s wide, sandy beaches.
If you’re unsure where to start your biking adventure, check out the bike trails at Sea Pines Resort, a popular spot on Hilton Head Island. This trail is perfect for beginners and features a 15-mile network of paths with various points of interest. Along the way, you can visit several attractions like the Sea Pines Forest Preserve and Stoney Baynard Ruins, among others.
For lunch, pedal your way toward Harbour Town, an iconic venue with some of the island’s best restaurants and more than 20 locally owned boutiques, galleries and gift shops.
Families can climb the iconic lighthouse, stroll along the pier to watch the boats come and go and enjoy seasonal performances by Gregg Russell under the Liberty Oak.
Slow the pace down in the afternoon with a visit to the Coastal Discovery Museum. Boardwalks wind through marshland, butterfly gardens buzz with activity and interactive exhibits help kids connect the dots between the island’s wildlife, waterways and history.
As the sun dips lower, head toward the water for dinner. Skull Creek Dockside is a go-to for families seeking sunset views and space to relax. Outdoor seating, a lively atmosphere and a kid-friendly menu make it easy to linger while watching the sky change colors over the creek.
Bluffton Charm & Time on the Water
While only a bridge away from Hilton Head Island, Bluffton offers a different twist on the Lowcountry experience with a funky, let-your-hair-down attitude they proudly call the Bluffton “State of Mind.” This small tidewater community is known for its hospitality, historic homes, artisan shops and wonderful restaurants.
Start your day at Nectar Farm Kitchen in Bluffton, where every dish is crafted with locally sourced Lowcountry ingredients. Whether you have adventurous eaters or just need some tried-and-true stand-bys, there’s something for everyone on their menu.
After breakfast, spend the morning exploring Old Town Bluffton. Calhoun Street leads down to the river, where breezes and open views invite an unhurried stroll. Shops and galleries are easy to pop in and out of, and there’s plenty of space for kids to explore along the way.
For lunch, locals often point families toward Cahill's Market, a longtime favorite for Southern comfort food. Fried chicken, fresh sides and casual counter service make it an easy stop before the afternoon’s main event.
Later, get out on the water with a guided dolphin cruise by May River Excursions. These family-friendly tours are engaging without being overwhelming, blending wildlife sightings with simple stories about tides and the Lowcountry way of life.
End your day with a visit to the Bluffton Oyster Company. Located at the end of Wharf Street along the May River, the Bluffton Oyster Company is the last remaining hand-shucking oyster house in South Carolina. Owned and operated by the Toomer family since 1913, it is locally known as “Bluffton Oyster.” This spot is renowned for its stunning river views and fresh, local seafood. It’s definitely worth a visit to stand on ground created by the discarded shells of oysters shucked over the last 200 years.
For dinner, head just a few blocks away to the Toomer family’s restaurant, Bluffton Seafood House. Here, you can enjoy shrimp, oysters, mussels, clams and fish, all cooked and delivered fresh from the trawler.
Whether you prefer your oysters steamed, fried or straight from the shell, fresh South Carolina oysters are some of the best you’ll ever taste. This makes it the perfect opportunity for curious eaters to take their first bites—or slurps—of these delicious delicacies.
Oyster Roasts
Salty, sweet and earthy, South Carolina oysters are as unique as they are delicious. Each fall, these local favorites take center stage at restaurants and oyster roasts across the state.
On Hilton Head Island, Sea Pines Beach Club's restaurant Coast, Oceanfront Dining hosts weekly Saturday oyster roasts from 1 – 4 p.m., weather permitting. The special menu features fresh, local oysters roasted on-site from Maggioni Oyster Company, along with peel-and-eat shrimp served by the half pound or pound.
Freshly shucked oysters are also the main attraction at the annual Hilton Head Oyster Festival every November, where the menu extends beyond oysters to include seafood chowder, chili, pulled pork and other crowd-pleasing favorites.
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