Bluffton, SC–A Golfer's Paradise Set in an Idyllic Waterside Town
By Steve Fiske and Sally Anne Dishong

The Lowcountry of South Carolina is a golfer’s and a lover’s paradise, with literally dozens of challenging courses scattered across the Bluffton area amidst a natural lush environment laden with moss-covered trees reminiscent of the old south. One almost expects to see Rhett Butler and Scarlett O’Hara, hand-in-hand, strolling along the many pathways that lead into the tree lines. However, this is the new south and Georgian mansions have given way to modern developers who have blended the historical architecture of the past with impressive contemporary designs, while maintaining a harmonious appearance with their pristine surroundings.

With its temperate climate and year-round sunshine, Bluffton is the perfect place to tee off and enjoy a round of golf. It also offers a waterside getaway with a quaint historic feel that’s off the beaten path. Check out http://www.bluffton.com/ on the web for more information.

Island West Golf Course in Bluffton is a great public course located off Highway 278. Away from the crowds of Hilton Head Island, this course has fairways that vary between wide open and tree lined. Built in 1992, this 18 hole course was designed by Fuzzy Zoeller & Clyde Johnston, with Bermuda grass on the fairways and greens. The greens are medium-sized and in excellent shape. Water hazards (ponds and creeks, along with the occasional alligator) come into play on ten holes. We played the course and found it excellent for couples, beginners, as well as the more experienced golfer. The couples visiting from out-of-state whom we met outside the clubhouse (shown below) agreed whole-heartedly. For more information, call the pro shop at (843) 815-6660.

You’ll also want to visit the quaint shops and eateries in Bluffton. One of our favorites is the Sippin’ Cow Café, owned and operated by a wonderful young couple, Lyndee and Adam Simoneaux. (843) 757-5051. If you’re hungry for bargains, check out the Tanger Outlet #2 mall, located a few miles south of Bluffton off U.S. 278. (843) 837-5765.

Directions to Bluffton:
From I-95, take Exit 8 (U.S. 278) toward Sun City/Bluffton/Beaufort/Hilton Head Island. After about 14 miles, watch for the Bluffton signs. Take a right on SC 46/Bluffton Rd., and you’ll see the town about a mile ahead.

On the way to or from Bluffton, you won’t want to miss two of our favorite side trips. One is to the GA Pig in Brunswick, Georgia. Located just off of I-95 at Exit 29—Jekyll Island Exit. They bill themselves as “Bar-Be-Que At Its Best” and you’ll agree that they know what they’re doing! The place looks like a real dump, let’s just call it rustic, on the outside, (there’s even a mock outhouse) but don’t let that fool you. Venture inside for some awesome barbecue at great prices in a clean, fun atmosphere with picnic tables inside and a huge fireplace. The casual atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for travelers. (912) 264-6664. It’s definitely a “photo op” for you and the kids (young or old)!

Another great side trip to or from Bluffton, SC is Savannah, Georgia. There’s so much to do there you’ll want to go back. Lovely shops and galleries are everywhere and history abounds. If you only have an hour or two to spend as you are traveling through, be sure to have lunch or dinner at The Lady & Sons restaurant. You will experience true down-home, family-style southern cooking at its best. From sweet tea, to collard greens to macaroni & cheese and crab cakes, there’s something for everyone. “The Lady” is Paula Deen, now a TV and cookbook phenom, who started out as a working mom and taught her sons the restaurant business. “Lady Deen” taught her boys more than how to run a successful restaurant, they both are congenial and frequently greet their guests with respect and southern charm. The popularity of this local establishment is apparent when witnessing the line of guests who arrive from near and far to enjoy the traditional Southern fare.

The Lady & Sons is located at 102 W. Congress St., Savannah, GA. (912) 233-2600. Reservations are recommended. Visit them on the web at www.ladyandsons.com.