The Perfect 24 Hours in Bluffton or Hilton Head for the Young at Heart (55+ Edition)
If your pace is more “sip and stroll” than “sprint and sweat,” you’re in the right place. Bluffton and Hilton Head Island are perfect for active adults who appreciate good food, great views, and experiences that leave you feeling enriched—not exhausted.
This guide is tailored for the young at heart—whether you're visiting, retiring, or already living your best Lowcountry life. Expect a little luxury, a little leisure, and a lot of charm.
8:00 AM: A Slow, Sunny Start
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Begin your day at The Cottage Café in Bluffton. Sit on the porch, sip something steamy, and enjoy a slice of something sweet (yes, cake for breakfast is a thing here).
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Or think about grabbing a donut and coffee from Alljoy Donuts, then head down to Church of the Cross on the May River. This is a vista that never disappoints.
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Or if you're on Hilton Head, Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café is a local favorite for Southern breakfast classics with a view.
9:30 AM: Nature Walks & Water Views
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Take a gentle walk through Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching and nature spotting.
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Prefer paved and peaceful? Try the New River Linear Trail in Bluffton—flat, shaded, and full of Southern charm.
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If walking and shopping is more your thing, head to Palmetto Bluff for a coffee with a view at Buffalos, then enjoy some light shopping as you stroll through Wilson Village—charming, relaxed, and quintessentially Lowcountry.
11:00 AM: Creative Inspiration (and A/C)
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Stroll through The Society of Bluffton Artists or visit Pluff Mudd Art in Old Town Bluffton.
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Want air conditioning and something more interactive? Stop by the Coastal Discovery Museum for indoor exhibits, native flora, and historic oaks draped in Spanish moss.
12:30 PM: A Leisurely Lunch with Local Flavor
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Grab a table at Hudson’s on the Docks—fresh seafood, marsh views, and hush puppies that are practically a rite of passage.
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In Bluffton, The Pearl offers a quieter lunch with upscale options and sidewalk seating.
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For something a little less formal, try Alvin Ord’s for dynamite warm sandwiches or grab some of the best pizza in the Lowcountry at Dough Boys. (We’re partial to their chopped Greek salad too.)
2:00 PM: Spa Time or Porch Sitting (You Pick)
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Book a massage at Inner Peace Massage & Spa in Bluffton or unwind in the salt room at Pure Salt Studios.
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Or take a glass of iced tea and a good book to Bluffton Oyster Factory Park for some shaded serenity and waterfront breezes near Old Town Bluffton.
4:00 PM: Could You Picture Living Here?
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Many people start with a visit and end up staying for good. Tour a few neighborhoods or chat with Allison Cobb & The Cobb Group about what life could look like in the Lowcountry. Golf-cart-friendly, porch-swing-perfect communities are waiting.
6:00 PM: Golden Hour Glow
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Take in the sunset from Quarterdeck in Harbour Town—there’s nothing quite like watching the boats drift in as the sky turns peachy-pink.
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Or head back to Bluffton and dine at The Bluffton Room—classic, charming, and full of small-town sophistication.
8:00 PM: Light Entertainment to Close the Day
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Catch live music under the oaks with Gregg Russell in Harbour Town (seasonal but unforgettable).
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Or stop by Burnt Church Distillery for a nightcap and a little local storytelling over bourbon.
Q&A: Bluffton & Hilton Head for the Young at Heart
Is this a good area for retirees or second-home seekers?
Absolutely. It’s walkable, peaceful, and full of culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.
Are there good dining spots that don’t feel overly touristy?
Yes! Try The Pearl, The Bluffton Room, Hudson’s, or Nectar—they’re all beloved by locals.
What kind of real estate is available for 55+ buyers?
From low-maintenance villas to golf course homes and community neighborhoods, there’s something for every lifestyle.
Are there health and wellness options in the area?
Plenty—yoga studios, walking trails, massage spas, salt therapy rooms, and natural grocers all make wellness easy.
What’s the social scene like for active adults?
Friendly, welcoming, and relaxed—perfect for pickleball players, art lovers, golfers, and porch-sitters alike.
From Visitors to Locals (and Loving It)
If you're feeling at home already, trust your instincts. Many have fallen in love with Bluffton and Hilton Head for their beauty, ease, and unhurried charm.
Let Allison Cobb & The Cobb Group, brokered by eXp Luxury Realty, help you take the next step—whether that’s a second home, full-time relocation, or just more excuses to come back.
www.thecobbgroup.com
843-338-7256
Written by Allison Cobb
The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or emissions in the content of this blog. The information provided on is an “as is” basis with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness.
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