Hotel Snapshot
The Old Town Bluffton Inn is Old Town’s beating heart, disguised as an elegant boutique hotel. Just 10 minutes from Hilton Head, South Carolina, the first and only inn in the historic district offers an experience that’s both exclusive and deeply authentic, curated by a family that extends true Southern hospitality. Forget impersonal check-ins; here, you're greeted like a friend who's finally come to visit. The property masterfully blends the grace of a historic Southern home with the crisp luxuries of a modern build, offering a vibe that is elegant but completely unstuffy—think champagne on arrival and an open pantry of gourmet snacks that invite you to make yourself at home. It’s the kind of place you check into for a weekend getaway and immediately start planning your return trip before you’ve even unpacked. It’s intimate, impeccably designed, and strikes the perfect balance between serene escape and in-the-know destination.
Design & Character
The Old Town Bluffton Inn nails the “new-build-with-an-old-soul” aesthetic. Built in 2019, the property channels the charm of the Lowcountry’s storied estate with wide verandas, classic columns, grand windows, and exterior gas lanterns that cast a cozy glow at night. Inside, the design walks a beautiful line between British colonial and French antique influences. Every detail is considered, from the ornate moldings to the curated heirloom-style furnishings that give the property a distinct, residential feel. The public spaces are intimate and inviting, encouraging you to pour a drink and settle into a plush armchair in the parlor. The character here is one of quiet confidence—it’s sophisticated without being pretentious, and historic in spirit without feeling dated.
The Rooms
The inn’s 14 guest rooms are serene, one-of-a-kind private sanctuaries. Each one is uniquely decorated with bespoke, custom-designed French Heritage furniture and rich fabrics. The beds are dangerously comfortable, dressed in high-quality linens that practically guarantee a late morning. Bathrooms are modern and immaculate, stocked with L'Occitane amenities, plush towels, and the kind of water pressure you only wish you had at home. The walls are so solid you’d never know you had neighbors.
Food & Drink
While the inn doesn't have a formal restaurant, its food and beverage offerings are still on point. The complimentary breakfast is a delectable spread of Southern-inspired bites, from homemade quiche and sausage balls to fresh pastries and fruit parfaits. The real showstopper, however, is the 24/7 guest pantry, affectionately known as "The Snackery." This isn't just a sad bowl of apples; it's a fully stocked haven of gourmet snacks, local goodies, sweets, and beverages, all available whenever you please. The lobby bar generously offers complimentary drinks as well as spirits from the nearby Burnt Church Distillery. Thanks to its central location, the inn is walkable to over 26 restaurants.
The Amenities
The beauty of the Bluffton Inn is that its amenities feel less like a checklist and more like thoughtful gestures from friends who are fantastic hosts. This warmth radiates from owners Danielle and Vince, who are often found mingling with guests, making you feel as if you’ve been welcomed into the Harrison's own beautiful home. Their team shares this spirit, acting as your personal guides to the Lowcountry—whether that’s pointing you to a nearby boutique or arranging a tee time at one of the dozen world-class golf courses just a short drive away. The breezy, wraparound porches essentially serve as the inn’s outdoor living room—an open-air invitation to slow down. (Porch chairs and haint-blue ceilings? Check and check.) All the modern essentials are handled flawlessly, from the reliable high-speed Wi-Fi to free parking.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
You couldn’t ask for a better location. The inn is situated right on the main artery of historic Old Town, meaning the best of Bluffton is literally just steps from the front door. For a historic moment, visit The Church of the Cross, a stunning example of Gothic architecture right on the river bluff. For beautiful sunset views over the May River, walk down to the public dock at the end of the street or wander down Calhoun Street and pop into the numerous art galleries like La Petite Gallerie and SOBA Gallery. Bluffton is also the ideal home base for exploration of the broader Lowcountry area, with many Southern destinations within reach: Savannah, historic Beaufort, and Charleston are all easy day-trips.
Fast Facts
Location: Bluffton, South Carolina
Vibe: Timeless Southern elegance meets modern luxury. A warm, intimate escape where you feel like a treasured guest in a beautiful home.
Rating: Five-star
Room Count: 14 rooms (2 are ADA-accessible)
Pricing: Rates start at $400 USD
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The 24/7 Snackery. It's a small detail that speaks volumes about the inn's philosophy of generous hospitality.
Dining (off-site): The Pearl Kitchen & Bar, Bluffton Oyster Factory, Burnt Church Distillery.
Amenities: Complimentary Southern bites breakfast, all-day snacks at “The Snackery,” and drinks at the living room bar.
Nearby Attractions: The Heyward House Museum, The Church of the Cross, the art galleries of Calhoun Street, Wright Family Park, Bluffton Oyster Factory Park, the May River public dock, the Bluffton Farmers Market, Old Town Dispensary, the Society of Bluffton Artists Gallery, and numerous golf courses. Walkable to over 26 restaurants and shops.
Closest Airport: SAV—Savannah International Airport
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