Is there a train to Charleston?

Amtrak serves Charleston, but there is no rail connection from Bluffton.

How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 2 hours.

What is the best way to travel?

Driving is the most convenient and flexible option.

There are no tolls on the direct US-17 route.

Is it safe to drive at night?

Yes, but be alert for deer and other wildlife on rural sections of the highway.

Bluffton

Charleston

Driving

Bluffton to Charleston

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Bluffton to Charleston covers 160 kilometers, primarily via the scenic US-17 North. This route takes you through the heart of the South Carolina Lowcountry, passing through towns like Beaufort and Walterboro. Driving takes approximately 2 hours, offering flexibility to stop at roadside markets. While no direct train exists, private shuttle services operate for those preferring not to drive. The journey is defined by moss-draped oaks and coastal marsh views.

Total Distance: 160 km driving, 140 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via US-17 is the fastest method, taking roughly 2 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own car is the most economical choice for this 160 km trip.

Compare Bluffton to Charleston Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

2 hours

Avg Price

$25-$35 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

US-17 North through Beaufort and Walterboro.

US-17 is a two-lane highway in many sections; watch for speed limit changes.

Travel Tips

Route Choice
US-17 is more scenic than I-95, though it has more traffic lights.
Parking
Use the Visitor Center parking garage for easy access to the historic district.
Walking
Charleston is best explored on foot; wear comfortable shoes for the uneven cobblestones.
Dining
Book your dinner reservations weeks in advance for top-rated Lowcountry cuisine.
Tours
Take a carriage tour to learn about the city's complex history from local guides.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Be cautious on US-17 at night due to limited lighting and wildlife crossings.
Flooding
Check local weather reports for 'king tide' warnings which can cause street flooding in Charleston.
Hydration
Carry water, especially during the humid summer months while walking the city.
Emergency
Keep your phone charged and have a physical map as a backup for rural stretches of US-17.