Savannah GA to Bluffton SC: Fast Drive & Travel Tips

Thinking about the Savannah GA to Bluffton SC drive and want to know what to expect before you go? 

I’ve taken this route myself, and if you’re reading this, you want clear, no-guesswork details.

In this guide, you’ll get a quick look at distance, drive time, route choices, travel options, and the best time to go, without overthinking it.

I’ve kept everything practical, accurate, and experience-based, so you can trust that your planning questions will be answered and your trip will feel easy from the start.

Let’s get started.

Savannah, GA to Bluffton, SC- The Basics

Savannah and Bluffton are close and easy to travel between. 

Bluffton, South Carolina is about 23 to 25 miles from Savannah, Georgia when driving, making it a common choice for day trips and short visits.

The drive usually takes 35 to 45 minutes under normal traffic. In light traffic, it can be closer to 30 minutes. 

Travel time may increase during rush hours, summer weekends, or major events near Hilton Head.

This route is short and does not require stops or special planning. It works well for:

• Day trips
• Dinner plans
• Hotel transfers
• Airport pickups

Overall, the trip is direct, simple, and suitable even for first-time visitors.

Savannah GA to Bluffton SC Distance Breakdown

The distance between Savannah and Bluffton depends on how it is measured. 

A map may show one number, while the actual drive shows another. Knowing both helps set clear expectations before you travel.

Straight-Line vs Driving Distance

The straight-line distance between Savannah, GA and Bluffton, SC is about 17 to 18 miles. This measures the direct path without considering roads, rivers, or land features.

The actual driving distance is around 23 to 25 miles. 

Roads follow waterways and developed areas, which adds extra miles compared to the straight-line measurement.

Distance by Travel Method

The distance between Savannah and Bluffton stays nearly the same no matter how you travel. Driving, taking an Uber or taxi, or using a rental car all cover about 23 to 25 miles. 

Biking or walking would also follow a similar distance, but these options are not practical or recommended due to road conditions and travel time.

This breakdown shows why Savannah and Bluffton feel close, even though driving adds a few extra miles. 

No matter how you travel, the distance stays nearly the same, making the trip easy to plan.

How Long Does It Take to Drive From Savannah to Bluffton?

The drive from Savannah to Bluffton usually takes 35 to 45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. 

In light traffic, the trip can be as quick as 30 minutes, while moderate traffic may extend the drive to around 50 minutes. 

During heavy traffic or peak rush hours, travel time can reach about 60 minutes. 

Several factors can affect how long the drive takes:

• Weekday morning and evening rush hours
• Summer weekends and holiday travel
• Traffic near Hilton Head Island exits
• Road construction or lane closures
• Weather conditions such as heavy rain or fog

Driving From Savannah, GA to Bluffton, SC

Driving is the easiest and most reliable way to travel between Savannah and Bluffton. 

The roads are well maintained, and the route is simple even for first-time visitors.

Best Driving Route

The most common route uses I-95 North and US-278 East. 

From Savannah, drivers take I-95 North toward South Carolina, then exit onto US-278 East toward Hilton Head Island. This road leads directly into Bluffton without complex turns.

This route covers about 23 to 25 miles, takes 35 to 45 minutes on average, and has no tolls. It stays mostly on multi-lane highways and is the fastest option for most travelers.

Alternative Routes 

Alternative routes are helpful when traffic builds up on US-278 or during accidents and road closures. 

One option uses SC-170 and SC-46, which avoids the US-278 corridor and passes through quieter Lowcountry areas. This route adds 10 to 15 minutes but offers a calmer drive.

Local back roads through Hardeeville are another backup option. 

These roads require GPS navigation and take longer, but they can help avoid major delays when the main highway is congested.

Alternative Ways to Travel From Savannah to Bluffton, SC

Driving is the most practical option for this route. Other travel options mainly affect cost and comfort, not distance.

Uber or Lyft is widely available in Savannah and at the airport. The ride takes about 35 to 45 minutes, with average fares between $50 and $80, depending on demand.

Taxi services are available but less common. They usually cost more than ride-shares and work best when booked in advance.

Rental cars are a good choice for travelers flying into Savannah. They offer flexibility and are useful if you plan to visit Bluffton or nearby areas.

Private car services provide scheduled pickups and a more comfortable ride. These are best for groups or special occasions but come at a higher cost.

Public transportation does not operate between Savannah and Bluffton. There are no buses or trains for this route.

Biking or walking is not recommended due to highway traffic, limited safe shoulders, and long travel times.

Best Time to Travel From Savannah GA to Bluffton SC

The drive is short, but timing can still affect how smooth it feels. This simplified table groups travel times by category to make planning easier.

This breakdown makes it easier to choose the best travel window and avoid unnecessary delays.

Things to Do Along the Way

The drive is short, but a few stops can make the trip more enjoyable if you have extra time. These places are easy to reach and fit naturally along the route.

• Hardeeville, SC: Stop for fuel, quick meals, or outlet shopping near the I-95 exit
• Honey Horn Plantation: Free walking trails and open green space just before Bluffton
• Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge: Short detour with flat trails and marsh views
• Local Seafood Spots: Casual roadside places serving fresh shrimp, oysters, and crab
• Historic Markers: Small pull-offs explaining Lowcountry and Civil War history

These stops are optional, but they add variety to an otherwise quick drive. If you have extra time, they offer an easy way to stretch your legs and enjoy the Lowcountry scenery.

Conclusion

I’ve taken this drive myself more than once, and if you’re planning the Savannah GA to Bluffton SC route, you now know what to expect before you go.

The trip is short, direct, and easy to manage, even when you’re working with a tight schedule. You can travel without stress and focus more on enjoying where you’re headed.

Plan your Savannah GA to Bluffton SC drive today and turn a short trip into a smooth, well-timed Lowcountry experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bluffton SC north of Savannah GA?

Yes, Bluffton, SC is located north-northeast of Savannah, GA. The drive involves heading north on I-95 before turning east toward Bluffton.

Do you change time zones when traveling from Savannah to Bluffton?

No, both Savannah, GA and Bluffton, SC follow Eastern Time. There is no time change during the drive.

Are there rest areas between Savannah and Bluffton?

There are no official highway rest stops on this route. Gas stations and food stops near Hardeeville are the best alternatives.

Is the Savannah to Bluffton drive safe at night?

Yes, the route is well marked and commonly used at night. Traffic is usually lighter, making the drive smooth and calm.

Can rental cars from Savannah be driven into South Carolina?

Yes, rental cars can cross state lines without restrictions. No special permission or extra steps are needed.