One of South Carolina's fastest growing towns is also one of the most peaceful. It may sound contradictory, but it's true, and this enchanting town has experienced massive growth in the last two decades. Twenty years ago Bluffton's population was approximately 1,000; today it's nearly 20,000. But as much of Bluffton continues to expand, it also manages to retain that small town charm.

Built on the bluffs of the May River and originally known as "Kirks Landing," or "Kirks Bluff," the community changed its name to Bluffton in the early 1840s and then incorporated as a town in the 1850s.

The original town was only one square mile. Today, Bluffton is the fifth largest municipality in South Carolina and is comprised of 54 square miles. As the population has grown, so has the land mass!

Although much may have changed in those other 53 square miles, Olde Town Bluffton has not. It's still peaceful and in fact may be the last true coastal village of the South.

Stroll through any number of streets in Olde Towne and you'll be walking alongside old houses either still lived in, or converted into quaint galleries and shops. Look up and you'll likely find you're walking under a canopy of Spanish moss swaying in the breeze from the oaks that line the street.

At the end of Calhoun Street, you'll find a jaw-dropping view and The Church of the Cross, an Episcopal church built in 1857. It was spared in the Civil War era, and is still open for services each week.

A typical day in Olde Town Bluffton dishes up many opportunities to get outside and play. The many shops and restaurants and galleries make Bluffton the perfect destination for a day trip.

Even the Visitor Center is located in a historic old home, the Heyward House. Stop in and view the many local and regional artifacts in the museum also housed here.

Just a few miles outside of Olde Town sits the historic Rose Hill Mansion. The opulent home predates the Civil War and is open for tours once per day. The stunning attention to detail and the decadent architectural style of the home are amazing. If you want to take a tour, then you'll need a reservation because the Mansion is located within a gated community. You can call (843)757-6046 for more information.

Speaking of mansions, if you want to spend the night in Bluffton, a great option is the Montage Palmetto Bluff, located seven miles from Olde Town Bluffton. Stay in the hotel or reserve one of the small cottages on the river. Either way, you'll spoil yourself with luxurious amenities and outstanding service.

Hungry? There are plenty of walk-up options to choose from in Olde Town, including the Squat and Gobble.

They're open for breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. seven days a week on May River Road.

You can also head to Cahill's Market & Chicken Kitchen a little farther down May River Road. It's a combination restaurant and market selling fresh produce and other items.

Many of the items on the menu are served with (you guessed it) chicken!

From charming tree-lined streets to gorgeous views of the May River, Olde Town Bluffton delivers a peaceful and serene respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

When was the last time you visited Olde Town Bluffton?

For a nearby excursion on your way to Bluffton, visit Old Sheldon Church ruins in the Lowcountry of South Caorlina.