Rainy Day Plans in the Lowcountry: What to Do in Bluffton, Hilton Head & Beaufort When the Sun Takes a Break

So, you planned a sun-soaked Lowcountry getaway or weekend and—bam—rain clouds roll in. Before you resign yourself to scrolling social media from a rental couch or cancelling your plans altogether, take a deep breath. Rainy days in Bluffton, Hilton Head, and Beaufort? They’re just an opportunity to explore the charm that hides under the radar.

Here’s your go-to guide for rainy day activities locals and visitors actually enjoy—no poncho required.

1. Catch a Show or Film You’ll Talk About Later

Whether you’re into live theater or indie flicks, there’s something about being cozy in a dimly lit venue while the skies do their thing outside.

Arts Center of Coastal Carolina (Hilton Head Island): From Broadway-style productions to jazz nights and gallery exhibits, this venue is a cultural gem.
Coligny Theatre (Hilton Head): This retro theater screens indie, foreign, and classic films in a laid-back setting.
Park Plaza Cinema (Hilton Head): A locally loved independent theater with cozy seats, craft beer, and the occasional pup-friendly policy—yes, it’s as fun as it sounds.
May River Theatre (Bluffton): Nestled in the heart of Old Town Bluffton, this community theater offers intimate, high-quality productions that showcase local talent and southern storytelling.
USCB Center for the Arts (Beaufort): Offering live performances, film screenings, and art exhibits—perfect for locals and day-trippers alike.

2. Spend a Rainy Hour (or Two) in a Bookstore

There’s no better excuse to slow down than a rainy day—and few better places to do it than a charming, locally owned bookstore (or a cozy national favorite where you can camp out for hours).

Bluffton’s Storybook Shoppe: A delightful children's bookstore with a curated selection perfect for families.
McIntosh Book Shoppe (Beaufort): A treasure trove of local authors, regional history, and Lowcountry charm.
Book Nook at The Hilton Head Library: A great rainy-day outing for all ages—plus free WiFi and events!
Barnes & Noble (Hilton Head Island): Sometimes you just want to flip through magazines with a Starbucks in hand, recharge in the calm, and maybe walk out with a stack of books you didn’t mean to buy. We get it.

3. Warm Up with Coffee, Tea, or a Decadent Treat

Rainy days were made for sipping something delicious.

Corner Perk Café (Bluffton): A local favorite with great people-watching and even better lattes.
Harbour Town Bakery & Café (Hilton Head): Cozy up inside with a warm croissant and a view of the rain falling on centuries-old oaks.
Herban Marketplace (Hilton Head): Sip something organic, try a wellness shot, or relax with a superfood smoothie.

4. Go Thrift or Antique Hunting—It’s a Treasure Hunt, After All

Thrifting on a rainy day? It’s the Lowcountry equivalent of a European flea market stroll. And you never know what you’ll find.

Where’d You Get That? (Beaufort): Vintage finds, antiques, and décor that will spark conversation.
Palmetto Animal League Thrift Store (Bluffton): Guilt-free shopping that supports a great cause.
Treasure House Thrift & More (Hilton Head): Everything from furniture to funky coastal art.
Eggs ‘n’ Tricities (Bluffton): Equal parts funky and fabulous—fashion, home finds, and a whole lot of local flavor.

Read: Treasure Hunt: Best Resale, Antique & Thrift Stores in Bluffton, Hilton Head & Beaufort

5. Get Artsy (No Experience Necessary)

Tap into your creative side with some hands-on fun. Rainy days are perfect for play—whether you’re an adult seeking quiet expression or a parent looking for indoor fun with the kids.

The Art Café (Hilton Head): Paint your own pottery in a charming upstairs studio, with snacks and wine available.
Bluffton’s Corks & Canvas: Wine + painting = rainy-day therapy.
Coastal Discovery Museum (Hilton Head): Indoor exhibits on local wildlife, culture, and history.
Children’s Museum of Hilton Head (Celebration Park): This interactive museum is a hit with families, offering hands-on exhibits that encourage imagination, movement, and creativity—perfect for burning energy on a rainy day.

6. Spa, Relax, Repeat

Why not make the most of the slower pace with a little pampering? Rainy days are basically the universe’s way of saying, "Treat yourself."

FACES DaySpa (Hilton Head): A full-service spa that’s been winning “Best Of” awards for years.
Ahh Green Spa (Bluffton): A holistic experience using organic products and natural healing techniques.
Inner Peace Massage & Spa (Bluffton): A hidden gem offering deep-tissue, Swedish, and specialty massages.
Celadon Spa (Beaufort): Serene, luxurious, and the perfect spot for a rainy day reset.
Moor Spa (Hilton Head Island): Full service spa. Our favorite - need a warm-up and a tune-up? Reserve a private infrared sauna for yourself or a couples session. It’s low-key luxury—no bathrobe required.

7. Sip & Savor Indoors

If your plans were “wine on the porch,” bring them inside. The Lowcountry’s wine bars and tasting rooms deliver cozy vibes even when it’s pouring.

WiseGuys Wine Bar & Lounge (Hilton Head): Wine flights, tapas, and candlelight. Need we say more?
Burnt Church Distillery (Bluffton): Sip craft cocktails, tour the stills, or grab a bottle to go.
Old Bull Tavern (Beaufort): Known for moody lighting, seasonal plates, and seriously good martinis.

8. Get Moving: Rainy Day Fitness Studios, Yoga & Pilates

Not all rainy-day plans involve relaxing. Sometimes, a great workout is exactly what you need to shift your mood—and the Lowcountry has plenty of options.

Jiva Yoga Center (Hilton Head): A longtime local favorite with everything from power yoga to slow flow.
Move Fitness Studio (Bluffton): A boutique studio offering pilates, strength, and barre in a beautiful setting.
Pure Barre (Hilton Head): Low-impact and high-result—great for a rainy-day energy lift.
Burn Boot Camp (Bluffton & Hilton Head): Show up, work hard, and sweat out the storm.

Pro Tip: Make Rainy Days Feel Like Home

If you’re house hunting or prepping your home for sale, rainy days are a great time to see how a home truly lives—natural light, layout, warmth, even the sound of rain on the roof.

Homes that feel good on a gray day? They feel even better in sunshine.

Don’t Let a Little Rain Wash Out Your Lowcountry Fun

Whether you live here full-time or are just visiting, rainy days are part of the rhythm of coastal life. They give you permission to slow down, explore differently, and discover places you might’ve otherwise missed.

And if one of those places turns out to be a perfect new home or community you fall in love with, you know who to call.

Looking to Buy, Sell, or Just Daydream in the Rain?

Reach out to Allison Cobb and The Cobb Group, your go-to Lowcountry real estate experts. Rain or shine, we’re here to help you feel at home.

Written by Allison Cobb

The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or emissions in the content of this blog. The information provided on is an “as is” basis with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness.

Posted by The Cobb Group on June 9th, 2025