Savannah
It’s known for manicured parks,, horse-drawn carriages and antebellum architecture. Its historic district is filled with cobblestoned squares and parks such as Forsyth Park shaded by oak trees covered with Spanish moss.
Its about a 55 minute ride from Sea Pines to public parking at the City Market in the North Historic Downtown Savannah. We suggest taking the scenic drive via Route 46 through Bluffton to Hwy 17 South over to Savannah. You’ll pass through historic Bluffton, see low country landscapes, cross the Savannah River Bridge and before parking near the City Market in Historic Savannah. Explore City Market, walk up and back along W Bryan and W Congress Streets before “descending” down the steps to River Street and the Riverwalk.
Beaufort
Tucked into winding, historic streets framed by natural foliage and centuries-old, moss-draped live oak trees, Beaufort is more than a hidden Lowcountry gem—it's a transformative destination that has charmed visitors since 1512. The Beaufort waterfront is a scenic 45 minute drive from Sea Pines that offers expansive low country views along the way and as you cross the Broad River bridge into Beaufort.
Ideal for a short day trip, enjoy a nice lunch and walk leisurely along the waterfront sand explore the shops and cafes on Bay St.
An alternate and fun option is to park your vehicle at the Savannah Convention Center on Hutchinson Island and take the free ride “Savannah Belle’s Ferry” across to Savannah’s River Street. Its a convenient way to get in and out of Savannah, easier parking and you get a unique river view of Savannah and the port. Disembark ferry and stroll along the Riverwalk and walk “up the steps” and in a few blocks to explore the City Market along W Bryan and W Congress Streets. Return via the free passenger ferry to the convention center for easy exit.
The Savannah Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour includes 100 points of interest and 15 stops to enjoy exploring, shops and dining. A great way to get to see Savannah and minimize walking on the really hot and humid days. For those into history and architecture try the Narrated Historic Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour or an evening Ghosts and Graveyards Trolley Tour.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil fans might recall Bonaventure Cemetery and many will remember the famous “Box of Chocolates” scene in Forrest Gump set and filmed on Chippewa Square.
Lots of eclectic merchants, galleries, museums, cafe’s and souvenir shops are everywhere. Visit the Ray Ellis Gallery at 205 W Congress St for some of the best in low country landscape water color painting.
If you choose to drive to Savannah, crave the freshest in local seafood, and desire a true low country experience here’s a bonus for you. The Wyld Dock Bar. A short drive from the historic district thru the local’s Savannah to the dock located at 2740 Livingston Ave, Savannah, GA. Open from 12p -8p daily its super casual outdoor dockside seating. As you enter from parking lot, place your food and drink order first and then pick any table around back on the dock. A server will bring order to your table. Savor incredibly delicious and flavorful seafood while sitting dockside enjoying the picturesque low country landscape.
Bluffton
Bluffton is a beautiful quintessential Southern town located halfway between Hilton Head Island and Savannah. Often described as “eclectic,” the town is full of artists, art galleries, festivals and parades.. In 2016, Bluffton was designated a cultural district by South Carolina, formally recognizing the rich arts and culture of this community on the May River. You’ll find this history on display in the Old Town Bluffton Historic District with more than 80 contributing historic structures. Many different building styles are on display here, such as the gothic architecture of the Church of the Cross on Calhoun Street, initially built in 1857. Historic Bluffton is 20 minutes from Sea Pines.
Bluffton Farmers Market
Weekly Thursdays 10a-2p June thru August & 12p to 5p September thru May - 68 Boundary Street at Martin Family Park
Fresh, locally grown vegetables, fruits, flowers, plants and herbs abound at the Farmers Market of Bluffton, a weekly community event where locals and tourists gather not only to buy excellent produce but also to enjoy delicious food, listen to entertainment, and relax with friends. Located in historic downtown Bluffton along Calhoun and Lawrence Streets and through Carson Cottages, this family friendly market showcases local growers, local food vendors, local entertainment, local community causes and local information about the Bluffton area.
