Waterside Getaway

Don't miss this idyllic town on the way to Hilton Head Island.

Blink and you might miss the road to Bluffton, South Carolina. But make the trip, and you'll find plenty of quaint shops, casual eateries, and colorful people, including native Genie Pickney Roach. "Most people who vacation in Hilton Head don't know about Bluffton," she says. They should-this small town has a unique coastal charm.

Sipping and Shopping

Start at the Sippin Cow Café. We love their tarragon chicken salad rollup ($4.95), followed by a dip of Oreo ice cream. Yum. "We make everything right here in the back, so you know it's fresh," says owner Lyndee Simoneaux, who runs the place with husband Adam; (843) 757-5051.

After lunch, head out of the Sippin Cow, and turn right down Calhoun to Church Street, where you'll find the shop and studio for potter Jacob Preston. He's happy to show off his talents, as he effortlessly spins a beautiful clay vase on his potter's wheel. The small shop occupying the front of the room displays pieces for sale. An 8-inch blue bowl goes for $75; (843) 757-3084.

After visiting with Jacob, make your way back onto Calhoun, and stop in Fluff Mudd. Inside is a gallery featuring coastal-thetned statuary, paintings, jewelry, and other unique items; (843) 757-5551. Another icon is The Store, a nearby shop selling antiques, art, collectibles, and yard art; (843) 757-3855.

Sunset Over the Water

Watch the clock; your goal is to be at the public dock, also on Calhoun, at sunset. The dock sits atop a former steamboat landing and is framed by live oaks covered with Spanish moss. Sunsets just don't Come any prettier. If your final destination is Hilton Head, stop for dinner at the Cornerstone Grill, located in Tanger Outlet #2, a few miles south of Bluffton off U.S. 278; (843) 837-5765. Try Tanner's chicken wings ($7.95), named after the local sheriff. MARK G. STITH

For more information: Contact the Heyward House Historic Center, 70 Boundary Street; (843) 757-6293 or www.heywardhouse.org. Directions: From 1-95, take Exit 8 (U.S. 278) toward Hilton Head Island. After 15 miles, look for the Bluffton signs directing you to turn right on State 46; the town is about a mile ahead.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Aug 2004
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