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Wedding & Event Venue near Bluffton, SC

Your wedding day. Without a doubt, it's one of the most significant events you will ever experience - when you and the love of your life officially seal the deal and get married. On this day, your friends and family will gather to celebrate the next step in your life. Photographers will be running around snapping photos, catering plates delicious food for guests to enjoy, and the DJ sets the mood for a night of fun and libation. You've worked extra hard to make everything look perfect and run smoothly. You have examined every moving part down to the tiniest detail. At the center of all your effort is your wedding venue near Bluffton, SC.

Your event space can mean the difference between an unforgettable event and an average occasion. Capturing your uniqueness as a couple is paramount to a memorable wedding. But, without the right venue location and staff, your unforgettable event can turn into a painfully average occasion. Fortunately, at Abney Hall, you won't ever have to worry about dingy reception spaces and crummy chow halls.

Constructed in Greenwood SC, in 1962, Abney Hall is 15,000 square feet and sits on 500 acres of land, making it a large wedding venue unlike any other. Abney Hall was originally the home of Mrs. Josephine Abney, a Greenwood native who was a lifelong philanthropist. Mrs. Abney devoted much of her time and effort towards supporting charities, educational institutions, hospitals, and other noble efforts. Today, Abney Hall stands tall as a symbol of love, both in our community and for the couples who choose to get married here.

Abney Hall is an exclusive event experience unlike any other, surrounded by verdant forests and sparkling ponds. Our venue is a natural fit for several occasions, including:

Special Event Space Bluffton, SC

Weddings

Event Venue Bluffton, SC

Bridal Showers

Event Space Bluffton, SC

Bridal Portraits

Rehearsal Dinner Venue Bluffton, SC

Rehearsal Dinners

Bridal Shower Venue Bluffton, SC

Corporate Events

Business Event Space Bluffton, SC

Much More!

The Top Wedding Venue near Bluffton, SC

The beginning of your life starts at Abney Hall. With our team by your side, we can create the fairy tale wedding you have dreamed about since childhood. Whether you have 100 guests or 1,000, our waterfront ceremony locations and French-inspired courtyard are perfect for your big day. Celebrate in luxurious style surrounded by shady magnolia trees, a private forest, large ponds, and the beauty of Mother Nature. While our venue location and aesthetic have been praised far and wide, so too have the practical aspects of Abney Hall. Looking for a relaxing, comfortable spot for your bridal party to get ready in? We offer an entire floor in the Abney Hall residence to get the bridal party ready. Want to make your groomsman feel extra-special too? We've got a private, plush house just feet from a sparkling pond that is a proper hangout spot for the guys in your group.

To make life easier on you, we also offer Abney Hall as your go-to spot for rehearsal dinners. Why book an expensive restaurant or travel to another location when unmatched beauty and convenience are right at your fingertips? Abney Hall is just the place for that very important dinner the night before your big day. We are also happy to host your bridal shower at Abney Hall. Our venue makes for one of Bluffton's most unique bridal shower settings, where your family and friends can gather to give gifts and be merry before you walk down the aisle.

With such a large, magnificent house and a vast property, Abney Hall also makes for an unforgettable location for your bridal portraits and other wedding-related photography needs. Don't take our word for it - book a tour and see for yourself why so many new brides and grooms choose Abney Hall as their wedding venue near Bluffton.

Wedding Space Bluffton, SC

What Sets Abney Hall Apart from Other Wedding Venues near Bluffton?

You've already found the person you want to spend the rest of your life beside. The next step? Finding the perfect wedding venue for your ceremony, reception, and celebration of your lifelong commitment to one another. Remember, the backdrop for photos, dancing, eating, and all other activities will be at your wedding venue. That's why we work so hard to set Abney Hall apart from our competitors - so you and your guests can focus on love and living your new life while we work with your vendors and photographers to make your magic night a reality.

Here are just a few reasons why guests choose Abney Hall as their wedding venue near Bluffton, SC, along with some helpful tips from our experienced wedding venue staff:

Venue Size

Choosing the appropriate-sized venue for your desired guest count is a critical decision. A venue's capacity affects the number of people you need to consider having at your ceremony and reception. As you're first starting out, we recommend having a guest count in mind as you're searching for the right venue. Try to stick with that number. You may fall in love with a particular venue, but if its max capacity can't accommodate your guest count, it may be time to cross them off your list.

Wedding Venue Bluffton, SC
Abney Hall Pro Tip

Abney Hall Pro Tip:

Keep in mind that this is your big day. You shouldn't feel obligated to invite the college roommate you shared a dorm with for one semester. At the end of the day, your wedding venue should be one that can accommodate those closest to you. Abney Hall is equipped for both small and large weddings, consisting of 500 acres of forest, ponds, and lush natural beauty. Whether you want an intimate wedding with only your best friends or a grand ceremony with hundreds of people, we have the right amount of room to make you comfortable.

Location and Nearby Lodging

On your big day, you're likely to have friends and family traveling in from other parts of the state or country. These folks will need a place to stay during and even after your wedding. Accessibility and ease are important factors when it comes to choosing your wedding venue for both you and your guests.

Located near Bluffton, SC, Abney Hall is situated in a memorable, natural setting, giving your wedding a private vibe in the midst of Mother Nature. While we pride ourselves on having a secluded wedding event space, our venue is within an easy driving distance of hotels and vacation rentals.

Abney Hall Pro Tip

Abney Hall Pro Tip:

When you contact us for a tour, make sure to speak with our experienced venue manager about nearby hotels and shuttle service options. We understand that your guest's comfort and convenience are important, and we're happy to work with you to figure out the best way to get your guests to Abney Hall.

Venue Staff

At Abney Hall, our staff has earned its reputation as one of the industry's most friendly, accessible teams. We will provide you with a purpose-minded point of contact that can help answer questions relating to timelines, preferred vendors, and every aspect of your wedding. When you tour our wedding venue near Bluffton, SC, for the first time, we want you to feel like you have all the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision.

We would be happy to go over:
  • Venue Pricing
  • Ceremony Specifics
  • Reception Specifics
  • Catering Possibilities
  • Decorating Possibilities
  • Entertainment Options
  • Photography and Photo Opportunities
  • Venue Amenities
  • Bridal Party Needs
  • Groomsman Needs

At Abney Hall, our goal is to be your first resource when it comes to setting up and coordinating the details of your wedding day.

Decor

When it comes to your wedding's decor, you probably already have a few ideas in mind. We love it when our brides and grooms have a vision in mind because one of our greatest joys is turning that vision into a reality. At Abney Hall, our team is available to help you and your decorator fit, accent, and accommodate your fairy-tale wedding - whatever that may be.

Are you looking to dress up your wedding with decorations galore? Just want to add a few accents that tie into your preferred color palette? Abney Hall is versatile and ready to help however we are able.

Corporate Conference Hall Bluffton, SC
Abney-Hall-Pro-Tip

Abney Hall Pro Tip:

If you're thinking about bringing in your own greenery, lighting, floral pieces, and more, we recommend discussing your vision with us on your initial tour of our event space. That way, we can get a head start on making your big day exactly how you envision it.

Photo Opportunities

10 years from now, when you and your spouse are celebrating your anniversary, you will pull out photographs from your wedding and will reminisce about the unforgettable time you spent at Abney Hall. Your wedding photos will be with you forever, and as such, we work closely with you and your photographer to suggest extra-special photo op spots that you can only find on Abney Hall grounds.

From the grand staircase and French-inspired courtyard to our manicured gardens and lovely pond, there is no shortage of photo-op locations for your photographer to choose from. As one of the most popular wedding venues near Bluffton, SC, we have worked with dozens of photographers over the years.

Our experience has allowed us to cultivate a list of preferred photographers - all of whom have the talent to take your pictures to the next level in a setting they're familiar with. We encourage you to check out our gallery to get a sense of the scope of our wedding venue and gain inspiration from other happy couples.

Abney-Hall-Pro-Tip

Abney Hall Pro Tip

The gallery on our website is extensive but be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages as well. We keep our social pages updated with recent wedding photographs, giving you an incredible resource that you can use for your own photography purposes.

Reception Hall Bluffton, SC

The Premier Corporate Event Venue near Bluffton, SC

Abney Hall is known across the United States for our stunning weddings, but we also play host to some of the largest corporate events in South Carolina. Why choose a bland, lifeless meeting space when you can enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature coupled with a professional atmosphere? If you have an important team-building event or corporate conference that you have to coordinate, look no further than Abney Hall.

The epitome of class and style, our corporate event space is large, lavish, and chock-full of onsite amenities for you and your co-workers to enjoy. If your team needs a morale boost, don't bring them to the local Olive Garden for a cheap lunch. Treat them to a refreshing experience in our main dining room, where we can work with you to incorporate your catering options with the goals of your event.

When the hard work is done, and your team needs a breather, what better way to relax than with a quick dip in our pool? To burn off a little steam, head over to our brand-new tennis court - the perfect place to get some exercise in an ultra-private setting while you enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Don't forget to bring your fishing poles for a couple of hours of fishing. There's even an opportunity to go hunting if you wish.

Special Event Space Bluffton, SC

What Our Clients Are Saying

Elegance at Its Finest - Only
a Phone Call Away

If you're ready to learn more about Abney Hall as your wedding venue, don't hesitate to reach out. We would love to hear more about your plans, your vision, and your needs. We know that planning a wedding isn't easy. It takes time, attention to detail, and a whole lot of patience. Our goal is to help provide you with all the info you need to learn more about our venue. Once you decide on a date, we'll work closely with you and your vendors to craft a wedding experience that you will treasure for the rest of your life.

Our available dates for your big day are going quick, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Contact us today for a FREE initial consultation
Event Venue Bluffton, SC

Latest News Near Me Bluffton, SC

May River Endodontics of Bluffton, SC Announces Launch of New Website

BLUFFTON, S.C., Jan. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- May River Endodontics is pleased to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, https://www.mayriverendo.com. The new site reflects the practice's commitment to modern endodontic care while providing an improved online experience for patients and referring dental professionals.May River Endodontics is a specialty dental practice dedicated exclusively to endodontic care, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of issues affecting the dental pulp and surrounding structures. Th...

BLUFFTON, S.C., Jan. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- May River Endodontics is pleased to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, https://www.mayriverendo.com. The new site reflects the practice's commitment to modern endodontic care while providing an improved online experience for patients and referring dental professionals.

May River Endodontics is a specialty dental practice dedicated exclusively to endodontic care, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of issues affecting the dental pulp and surrounding structures. The practice is led by Dr. Andrew Bradley, whose advanced training and clinical expertise support a treatment philosophy centered on saving natural teeth whenever possible.

In addition to specialized clinical care, May River Endodontics places a strong emphasis on patient comfort and precision. The practice incorporates advanced diagnostic imaging and modern anesthesia technology to help ensure accurate treatment planning, efficient care, and a more relaxed experience for patients undergoing endodontic procedures.

"We're excited to launch our new website as a reflection of how we care for our patients every day," said Dr. Bradley. "The site makes it easier to understand our services, our technology, and our approach to endodontic treatment, while serving as a helpful resource for both patients and referring dentists."

The May River Endodontics team includes experienced clinical and administrative professionals who support patients throughout every stage of care. From scheduling and coordination with referring offices to post-treatment guidance, the team works together to provide a smooth and supportive experience.

Collaboration with general dentists is also a core part of the practice's philosophy. By maintaining clear communication and efficient referral processes, May River Endodontics helps ensure continuity of care and optimal outcomes for patients requiring specialized endodontic treatment.May River Endodontics offers a comprehensive range of endodontic services supported by specialized training and advanced dental technology, including:

About May River Endodontics

May River Endodontics is an endodontic specialty practice located at 255 New Riverside Village Way, Suite 203, in Bluffton, South Carolina. The practice provides advanced care focused on relieving pain, treating infection, and preserving natural teeth through specialized expertise and modern technology. Prospective patients and referring dental offices may contact May River Endodontics by phone at 843-949-4945 or visit the practice online at https://www.mayriverendo.com to learn more about available services and scheduling information.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/may-river-endodontics-of-bluffton-sc-announces-launch-of-new-website-302653197.html

SOURCE May River Endodontics

Your guide to New Year’s Eve fireworks, events, open restaurants in Hilton Head, Beaufort, Bluffton

Ready to ring in 2026?Residents and holiday visitors across the Lowcountry will have several chances to celebrate the New Year with events, ball drops, dinners and waterfront fireworks on New Year’s Eve.From Hilton Head Island to downtown Beaufort, communities are offering family-friendly events to welcome the year ahead.Here’s a running list of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day festivities taking place across Beaufort County:Hilton Head IslandOne of the area’s most popular N...

Ready to ring in 2026?

Residents and holiday visitors across the Lowcountry will have several chances to celebrate the New Year with events, ball drops, dinners and waterfront fireworks on New Year’s Eve.

From Hilton Head Island to downtown Beaufort, communities are offering family-friendly events to welcome the year ahead.

Here’s a running list of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day festivities taking place across Beaufort County:

Hilton Head Island

One of the area’s most popular New Year’s Eve celebrations, Harbour Town’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop.

Taking place at 149 Lighthouse Road, this event features entertainment, food and music. To celebrate the start of 2026, an illuminated ball will drop twice — once at 7 p.m. for families with younger children and again at midnight to welcome the New Year. The $9 Sea Pines gate fee is needed for entry.

In addition to the onshore festivities, guests can celebrate from the water aboard the New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise with Vagabond Cruise. The cruise runs from 5 to 7 p.m. and departs from the Harbour Town Yacht Basin. Dinner is included and reservations are required. Tickets are $109 for adults and $70 for children aged 3 to 12.

Beaufort

For those in search of fireworks, in Beaufort, the New Year will be welcomed with a fireworks display over the Beaufort River at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

Set against the backdrop of Beaufort’s historic waterfront, the display is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m., lighting up the sky with colorful bursts over the river.

Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the waterfront. This event is free and open to the public.

Restaurants to visit for New Year’s Eve

Below is a list of restaurants serving prix fixe meals or hosting New Year’s Eve celebrations. Click on each restaurant to be directed to the webpage.

If we missed a spot, please email amiller@islandpacket.com to have it added:

Hilton Head

Bluffton

Beaufort & Port Royal

New Year’s Day events

Hilton Head Island will host its annual Polar Plunge at Coligny Beach on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.

Held at 1 Coligny Circle, the event begins at 9:30 a.m. with activities and t-shirts. The plunge into the ocean is at 11 a.m. This event is free.

The 16th annual Pelican Plunge will take place on New Year’s Day at Hunting Island State Park, located at 2555 Sea Island Parkway.

Festivities begin with a costume parade at 12:30 p.m., followed by the official plunge into the ocean at 1 p.m. The event features prizes, food trucks and commemorative T-shirts for participants.

Tickets are required to take part in the plunge. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Can’t-miss Christmas events in Hilton Head, Bluffton & Beaufort this weekend

The Lowcountry is lighting up for the holidays and from Hilton Head up to Port Royal, the first full week of December is packed with tree lightings, parades, markets and family-friendly festivities.No matter if you’re looking to visit a winter wonderland, get a jump on holiday shopping or watch a boat parade, the Lowcountry has got you covered.Here’s a look at the holiday happenings in Hilton Head, Bluffton, Beaufort and Port Royal from Dec. 4 to 7:Hilton HeadChristmas Belles at Coligny Theater: D...

The Lowcountry is lighting up for the holidays and from Hilton Head up to Port Royal, the first full week of December is packed with tree lightings, parades, markets and family-friendly festivities.

No matter if you’re looking to visit a winter wonderland, get a jump on holiday shopping or watch a boat parade, the Lowcountry has got you covered.

Here’s a look at the holiday happenings in Hilton Head, Bluffton, Beaufort and Port Royal from Dec. 4 to 7:

Hilton Head

Christmas Belles at Coligny Theater: Dec. 4-14

This holiday comedy is full of festive chaos as the Futrelle sisters attempt to stage the ultimate Christmas pageant while dealing with squabbling siblings and production mishaps. Tickets can be found here.

4th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting: Dec. 10

This event has been rescheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 5:30 p.m. Folks will be able to watch the 30-foot Christmas tree come to life at Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue.

Christmas at Coligny Plaza: Dec. 6

Starting Dec. 6, folks can visit Coligny Plaza from 11:30 a.m. to 1p.m. to catch the holiday special Jevon Daily’s Kid Show and see Santa from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Coligny Center Stage. These events occur every Saturday throughout December and on Dec. 21, 22 and 23.

Winter Wonderland Festival: Dec. 6

Visit Shelter Cove Community Park from 3 to 6 p.m. for a free, family-friendly celebration with bounce houses, food and drinks, a DJ, and a visit from Santa.

Holiday Nights & Lights: Dec. 6-8

Take a drive through the glowing displays of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park from 6 to 8 p.m. as it becomes a winter wonderland.

Santa’s Workshop at Creative Escapes: Dec. 6 & 7

Kids can paint two Christmas ornaments, enjoy cookies, and take photos with Santa in this hands-on holiday experience. Tickets are required for entry. Begins at 1 p.m. at 20 Hatton Place, Suite 230.

Santa & Sirens: Dec. 1-16

Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue escorts Santa through neighborhoods beginning at 6 p.m. each night through Dec. 16. Folks can track Santa’s nightly route through the online Santa Tracker, available here.

Bluffton

3rd Annual Jingle Stroll in Old Town Bluffton: Dec. 4

Sip and shop your way through Old Town’s boutiques and galleries from 3 to 7 p.m. during this festive holiday stroll.

Bluffton Christmas Tree Lighting: Dec. 5

Starting at 5:30 p.m., folks can watch Bluffton’s Christmas tree come to life at Martin Family Park, located at 68 Boundary Street, followed by Santa’s Workshop at DuBois Park and an outdoor showing of “Arthur Christmas” at 6:30 p.m.

Bluffton Christmas Parade: Dec. 6

Starting at 10 a.m., the 54th annual beloved parade marches through Bluffton’s Historic District with festive floats, performances and community spirit.

Washington Square Holiday Makers Christmas Market: Dec. 6

Still in need of s holiday shopping spree? From 4 to 7 p.m., sip holiday drinks while browsing 40+ local vendors featuring handmade goods, art, clothing, jewelry, decor, wreaths and more.

Beaufort & Port Royal

Port Royal Tree Lighting: Dec. 3

Watch the sky glow over Paris Avenue as Port Royal lights its town tree to kick off the holidays at 6 p.m.

City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department Santa Visits: Dec. 4, 8, 11, 15 & 17

Santa will be visiting local neighborhoods with the Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department to spread holiday cheer. A full breakdown of select locations and neighborhoods can be found here. Keep an ear out for sirens and holiday music!

Beaufort’s A Night on the Town: Dec. 5

With a handful of holiday activities, music and food, this event also marks the official tree lighting to kick off the holiday season. Begins at 6 p.m. at 1301 Bay Street.

Gullah Taste of Christmas & Rice Cook-Off: Dec. 6

Enjoy the flavors and traditions of the Sea Islands at this culinary celebration featuring Gullah dishes and the beloved rice cook-off. Starts at 11 a.m. at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

Light Up the Night Boat Parade: Dec. 6

Celebrate the holidays in true Lowcountry fashion as decorated boats parade along the Beaufort River in one of the Lowcountry’s most iconic holiday traditions. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

Downtown Beaufort Christmas Parade: Dec. 7

Floats, performers, dancers, community groups, and Santa himself will bring festive cheer to downtown Beaufort starting at 3 p.m.

Beaufort County Black Chamber of Commerce Holiday Market: Dec. 7

The Beaufort County Black Chamber of Commerce hosts its second annual Holiday Market featuring local vendors and seasonal goods starting at 1 p.m. at 711 Bladen Street.

Christmas light displays in Bluffton, Hilton Head, Beaufort & more: Here’s your guide

From baking cookies and watching holiday movies to gathering with loved ones, the holiday season brings countless traditions.But a fan favorite — and often beloved family tradition — is decorating and seeing festive lights.Here are some fan-favorite locations across Beaufort County to visit Christmas lights and displays this holiday season.But, if we missed a spot, let us know by filling out this Google Form, and we’ll get it added to the list. Folks may also email their favorite Christmas light ...

From baking cookies and watching holiday movies to gathering with loved ones, the holiday season brings countless traditions.

But a fan favorite — and often beloved family tradition — is decorating and seeing festive lights.

Here are some fan-favorite locations across Beaufort County to visit Christmas lights and displays this holiday season.

But, if we missed a spot, let us know by filling out this Google Form, and we’ll get it added to the list. Folks may also email their favorite Christmas light display suggestions to amiller@islandpacket.com.

Hilton Head

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

With over 125,000 lights, Shelter Cove has all the holiday decorations for a Lowcountry-themed holiday. Folks can stroll the entire boardwalk to enjoy Christmas decor until Jan. 4, 2026. This display is located at 1 Shelter Cove Lane.

Fire Rescue Station #3

Hilton Head Fire Station #3 officially plugged in its holiday lights on Nov. 30. Located at 534 William Hilton Parkway, the fire station has been lighting up the island for years.

Dove Street Display

This annual display is located right off North Forest Beach, near the Coligny Circle. It’s beloved for its over-the-top decorations and easy drive-by experience. The lights are usually up until the end of December.

Harbour Town

Stroll through one of the most iconic spots on the island with the signature lighthouse, shops and dining locations all while enjoying an array of holiday lights, decorations and a Christmas tree. Located at 149 Lighthouse Road and available through Jan. 1, 2026.

Hilton Head Tree Lighting

Beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 5, folks will be able to watch the 30-foot Christmas tree come to life at Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue.

Beaufort, Port Royal & Lady’s Island

Cadd Family Holiday Light Display

Starting at 5:30 p.m. every night through Dec. 27, the Cadd family has been spreading holiday cheer across Lady’s Island. Located at 66 Springfield Road, this display features a walking area, music or just an easy drive-by experience.

Port Royal Tree Lighting

Watch the sky come to life at 1214 Paris Avenue on Dec. 3 with the annual Port Royal tree lighting beginning at 6 p.m.

Beaufort’s Night on the Town

With a handful of holiday activities, music and food, this event also marks the official tree lighting to kick off the holiday season. Begins at 6 p.m. on Dec. 5 at 1301 Bay Street.

Bluffton

Bluffton Christmas Tree Lighting

Starting at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 5, folks can watch Bluffton’s Christmas tree come to life at Martin Family Park, located at 68 Boundary Street. Santa’s Workshop and a movie showing will follow.

From fairway to freedom: Bluffton golf community rescues stranded manatee

What started as a routine Saturday round of golf at Crescent Pointe quickly turned into a wildlife rescue story the community won’t soon forget.Two golfers, teeing off on Hole 9 on Nov. 22, spotted something no one expected to see beached along the shoreline: a manatee.These gentle, elusive giants are no strangers to the shallow waterways of Beaufort County — but finding one stranded on a golf course is another story.The golfers immediately called the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, setting of...

What started as a routine Saturday round of golf at Crescent Pointe quickly turned into a wildlife rescue story the community won’t soon forget.

Two golfers, teeing off on Hole 9 on Nov. 22, spotted something no one expected to see beached along the shoreline: a manatee.

These gentle, elusive giants are no strangers to the shallow waterways of Beaufort County — but finding one stranded on a golf course is another story.

The golfers immediately called the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, setting off a coordinated response that soon included Crescent Pointe staff, local residents and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.

“I’ve never seen one other than at an aquarium, so this was a first for me and for the course,” said Crescent Pointe’s Director of Marketing, Dylan DeBellis, who helped lead on-site efforts.

Teeing off the rescue

As soon as the call came in, General Manager Ron Schiavone worked closely with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office to secure the area and redirect golfers, so the distressed manatee could be given space.

From there, the sheriff’s office maintained direct communication with SCDNR while they consulted with Florida partners to determine the safest plan.

“It was a bit high stress — we weren’t sure if it was going to make it,” DeBellis said.

Under SCDNR’s guidance, Cpl. Dean Entrup with BCSO began relaying step-by-step instructions to keep the manatee stable: gently misting its skin, keeping it covered with damp towels and making sure it stayed warm enough — never too much water, and never too cold.

DeBellis and a Crescent Pointe community member sprang into action, shuttling back and forth and hauling buckets of water to hydrate the animal until a better solution could be created.

Brian Roller, Crescent Pointe’s director of agronomy, rushed out and tapped into a sprinkler head, rigging a hose, so the manatee could be safely and consistently misted.

Community members Tommy O’Donnell and Ryleigh Durham also stepped in to assist, carefully following SCDNR’s instructions and ensuring the manatee wasn’t disturbed more than necessary.

Thanks to hours of patient teamwork, the manatee remained stable long enough for the tide to return. As the water rose, the massive but gentle animal was finally able to move on its own and glide back into deeper water.

“All he needed was the tide to come in and help take him back out,” DeBellis said.

Authorities later searched nearby inlets and confirmed the manatee could no longer be located — indicating it successfully returned to open water.

Manatees in South Carolina

The rescue comes during the tail end of South Carolina’s manatee season.

These large marine mammals typically travel north from Florida in warmer months and can be spotted in Beaufort County between April and November, especially in sheltered areas like inlets and marinas.

By late fall and early winter, they begin their migration south, where the water stays above their survival threshold of 68 degrees. Seeing one in late November or December in South Carolina can be a sign of trouble, according to Kelly Lambert, SCDNR’s manatee response coordinator.

If you spot a manatee in South Carolina waters in late fall or early winter, contact the SCDNR hotline at 1-800-922-5431.

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Event Space Bluffton, SC

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