Indulge Your Inner Fashionista at the Finest

Women's Clothing Boutique in Bluffton, SC

When it comes to the latest trends in women's apparel, there's no better place to shop till you drop than Downtown Chucktown. And if you're searching for the finest threads in Bluffton, look no further than Copper Penny - the Lowcountry's go-to shop for anyone that has a passion for fashion.

We have been dressing women in Bluffton for over 34 years and offer upscale designer collections curated with a Southern eye. Here, women from around the United States discover sophisticated, effortless beauty for every season. Whether you're looking for a sassy new dress to impress that special someone or the perfect outfit for your next vacation, your options are endless at Copper Penny.

With easy-to-find locations close to Bluffton's hottest spots, our curated selection of the newest, most popular women's clothing lines reflects the effortless glamour of Bluffton. Whether you're a tidy professional or a fierce trend-setter, our goal is to help you find the perfect look for your own unique style. With designer brands like CK Bradley and Holst & Lee on hand year-round, finding your new look is easy and fun when you visit Copper Penny.

Our clothing lines give ladies a refreshing mix of one-of-a-kind authenticity with real wearability, allowing them to shine with confidence and style all year long. So, go ahead and spoil yourself - you deserve to look like a million bucks!

Boutique Clothing Bluffton, SC

Find the Perfect Dress to Impress

Diamonds are pretty and all, but honestly? Dresses are a girl's best friend. Dresses are fun, comfortable, and versatile. At Copper Penny, they're also fashionable and cute. We have a huge selection of women's dresses in Bluffton, SC, from stylistic sheath dresses to drop-waist styles that will make your girlfriends jealous.

We offer several styles and shapes from which you can pick. Not sure what style fits best?
Boutique Dresses Bluffton, SC

It all starts at the waist:

Cloths Shop Bluffton, SC

A-Line Waist

These dresses are made to fit your waist and then gradually flare out towards the hem. A-line dresses are excellent for minimizing thighs, hips, and midsections while pulling the eyes to your bust. This style of dress is a great fit for almost any body type. There's a reason why so many brides settle on A-Line dresses for their big day! With plenty of varieties, this is a kind of dress that you can wear again and again.

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Cloths For Women Bluffton, SC

Empire Waist

Like the A-Line style, empire dresses are made to fit through your bust. Rather than creating a distinctly angular shape like the A-Line, the Empire style flows from the bust down. This is another kind of dress that fits many body types. From curvy to apple body shapes, the Empire draws focus to your bust and minimizes everything else. For lovely ladies on the shorter side, this style defines your silhouette, especially if you choose a maxi length dress.

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Clothing Stores Bluffton, SC

Drop Waist

A throwback to the roaring 20's style flapper dresses, Drop Waist dresses look best on lean, athletic bodies that don't have too many curves in the hip area. The key to pulling off a Drop Waist style dress is to ensure that it's not hugging you. This dress is best worn when it is able to hang freely on your body.

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Once you know the kind of waist that fits your body type, it's time to find your shape. A few of our most popular dress shapes include:

Fit & Flare Dresses in Bluffton

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Fit & Flare Dresses in Bluffton

Any clothing store for women in Bluffton, SC, worth its salt, will have plenty of fit & flare dresses for you to try. This common-shaped dress is one of the most popular on the market, mainly because they look great on every woman, regardless of age or shape. A timeless choice, fit & flare dresses fit through the bodice and flare out just below your hip. This helps develop a balanced, slimming silhouette for most women. If you want to accentuate your best assets and hide everything else, ask our experienced fashionistas to show you some the most popular fit & flare dresses at Copper Penny.

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What body types are best for fit & flare?

Time to start doing your happy dance! Fit & flare dresses have very balanced proportions, making them a true winner for every body type. Women with athletic builds love this dress for the extra curves. Women with apple-shaped bodies love how fit & flare dresses define their waistlines. Because this dress already looks like an hourglass on the hanger, it will be a natural fit for ladies with such a figure.

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Fashion Boutique Bluffton, SC

Shift Dresses in Bluffton

What is a shift dress?

Shift dresses are typically rectangular in shape and tend to be comfy and forgiving since they aren't fitted. Also called a column dress, the shift dress is a great choice for polished professionals needing a conservative, fashionable outfit for work.

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What body types are best for shift dresses?

These dresses look fabulous on women with athletic, lean shapes and women with an apple-like figure. This kind of dress doesn't work well with a belt, so ladies with an hourglass figure may not be able to show off their curves in a shift. Try pairing this dress with a nice pair of heels for a beautiful new look!

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Wrap Dresses in Bluffton

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What is a wrap dress?

Wrap dresses are one of the most popular styles on the market, because they give ladies of most shapes and sizes a flattering, fashionable dress option.

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What body types are best for wrap dresses?

If you have an hourglass, apple, or generally curvy body shape, you're going to love wrap dresses. This style of dress offers a natural waist while placing emphasis on your bust. Wrap dresses give you a balanced silhouette and, with a knee-length fit, are great for any type of color or style, both day and nightwear.

Ladies Clothing Bluffton, SC

Timeless Tops for Every Style

Unless you're feeling extra sassy, chances are you're wearing a top at this very moment. Tops are garments that cover the top half of your body. At Copper Penny, we have an endless selection of tops in a wide range of styles - from basic tees to blouses and everything in between. If you're looking for the highest quality women's tops in Bluffton, SC, you just hit the jackpot!

With that said, finding the right top for the right occasion is easier said than done. However, at Copper Penny, we make finding the right top fun. Whether you're looking for a top that makes a statement or you need a classic button-down for a subdued style, we've got your back. We only carry the most popular tops from the best brands and designers around the world.

Online Boutique Bluffton, SC

Here are just of our most popular tops:

Boutique Bluffton, SC

Women's Poplin Tops in Bluffton

Sometimes called broadcloth tops, poplins have classic characteristics and are often woven with an over/under weave. This kind of weave gives more substance to your top while also giving you room to breathe. Poplin shirts are typically soft and smooth, and are great for everyday business attire, some formal occasions, and for certain ceremonies. Sweet and feminine, our Bruna poplin eyelet bib top features ruffles at the sleeves and an eyelet lace yoke at the front. Pair your poplin with your favorite pair of shorts or jeans for a contemporary, relaxed look.

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Boutique Clothing Bluffton, SC

Women's Wrap Tops in Bluffton

Great for wearing solo or layered over a camisole or tank top, wrap tops are lightweight, versatile, and great for many different occasions. Wrap tops go well with jeans, maxi dresses, and high-waisted jeans or trousers. Our V-Neck Wrap SLV Top by Jayden is uber-popular at Copper Penny and the perfect choice for dressing down or dressing up. The choice is yours!

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Boutique Dresses Bluffton, SC

Women's Off the Shoulder Tops in Bluffton

For a dose of feminine fashion, be sure you add an off-the-shoulder top to your everyday wardrobe. A casual, sexy choice, off-the-shoulder tops have unique necklines that cut across your upper arms and chest, leaving your shoulders bare. The result is a flirty flash of skin, which elongates your neck and gives a relaxed, "daytime casual" look. Our Nola off-the-shoulder top pairs perfectly with shorts or even a flowy skirt and is hand-woven in Spain using Jacquard fabric.

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Cloths Shop Bluffton, SC

Women's Tank Tops in Bluffton

Who doesn't love a good tank top?! Tank tops are lightweight, versatile, and equally great for lounging in the yard or running errands on weekends. Tank tops lend an air of simplicity to your outfit and can be styled in endless ways. Take our Velvet Heart Victory Tank, for instance. This tank is a refreshing update on our classic sleeveless tank top, complete with fray details and a scoop neck. Throw in the fact that it's machine washable, and you have a wardrobe winner.

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Having trouble finding the best top for your size and style? As the most trusted women's clothing boutique in Bluffton, SC, Copper Penny has helped women discover new looks in the Lowcountry for more than two decades. We take pride in providing a personalized, boutique experience for our customers. If you have questions, give us a call or swing by one of our locations. We would be happy to give you our professional opinion.

Until then, here's a quick guide you can follow to help you find the right fit for your women's top in Bluffton:

Need help measuring?

Swing by Copper Penny and ask one of our friendly sales associates to help you out! While you're there, don't forget to check out our huge selection of women's tops in Bluffton, SC.

Looking to take your style to the next level? You can also get in touch with a personal stylist directly from our website. With a personal stylist by your side, you can find stunning looks for specific occasions, using comfortable clothing in your favorite colors and cuts. Copper Penny is your one-stop-shop for fashionable, fun, fabulous designer clothing in Bluffton. But don't take our word for it's come see for yourself!

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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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