Year after year, summer travelers flock to the Palmetto Bluff resort, the serene sanctuary nestled along the May River in the South Carolina lowcountry. This ultra-luxurious resort is an idyllic vacation destination for the traveler that loves a sporting lifestyle, a slower pace, a nostalgic small town feel, and activities that feel both uncomplicated and luxurious all at the same time. While there’s simply nothing like the luxe vacation lifestyle that is offered up inside the gates of this breathtaking resort, outside the gates there are a wealth of elevated activities in and around the Bluffton area to experience and explore.
From private river cruises to spa indulgences, in this part of the coastal lowcountry, the days unfold with gracious Southern charm and unmatched sophistication. That’s why we’ve curated the ultimate 5-day itinerary—one that blends the familiar luxury of the resort with new, elevated experiences in nearby Old Town Bluffton and the rising New Riverside community just a short drive away.
Day One: Arrival & Lowcountry Welcome
There’s nothing quite like arriving at Palmetto Bluff and breathing in the salt-tinged air under the canopy of live oaks. Check in to your luxurious, private vacation home and kick off the afternoon with a scenic bike ride—meander along quiet, oak-draped paths that lead to Moreland Village and back to Wilson Village.
As the sun begins to set, settle in for Happy Hour on the Porch where your attentive Concierge team has set up custom charcuterie boards, snacks and beverages, followed by a sunset cruise where you can enjoy a champagne toast as the sky turns lavender over the May River. Or, end the evening with cocktails at Hush, the sophisticated speakeasy located at The River House where you can indulge in a fireside moment roasting s’mores —a tradition never to be missed!
Day Two: Tennis, Golf & Poolside Bliss
Begin the day with a private tennis lesson at the Wilson Lawn & Racquet Club — where the coaching is exceptional. This impeccable facility tucked among the oaks includes eight Har-Tru tennis courts, six pickleball courts, two bocce courts, four courtside shelters and a well-equipped pro shop and pavilion. True to its name, not only is it a place that offers racquet sports for all types, but they also maintain two pristine croquet lawns!
If your group prefers a round of golf, book a tee time and head straight to the May River Golf Club for a round on the Jack Nicklaus-designed course, where caddies can help advise on shots to keep you in the fairways and out of the sand.
Afternoons are made for the Canoe Club pool, where poolside service includes chilled rosé and citrus-marinated shrimp. Linger on a shaded chaise lounge, and relish in the relaxation and how every moment feels easy and indulgent. As evening falls, dinner at the Canoe Club awaits, with popular menu items like oysters on the half shell and a perfect Lowcountry bouillabaisse.
Day Three: Exploring New Riverside’s Luxe Side
Curious about Bluffton’s emerging scene? Venture to New Riverside, a thoughtfully developed area just outside the gates of Palmetto Bluff. This 35-acre development of homes, shops, restaurants and a park beckons as a destination of its own. This charming village-inspired center is home to The Grind Coffee House, The Bluffs Spa, Local Pie, a wood-fired pizzeria and an outpost of the locally-loved Burke’s Pharmacy. At The Franklin, indulge in bespoke health, wellness and aesthetics. End the day with a private yoga session on the community green and dinner at Café Al Dente, a scratch made Italian restaurant tucked into the growing New Riverside Village.
Day Four: Heritage Meets High Style in Old Town Bluffton
Old Town Bluffton has a charm all its own, with cobbled sidewalks, ancient oak trees, and artisan shops tucked into historic homes. Begin the day with brunch at Nectar Farm Kitchen, followed by a private guided tour of Bluffton’s most iconic properties: Heyward House, Seven Oaks, and the Church of the Cross.
In the afternoon, I browse local art galleries on Calhoun Street and then embarked on a private river cruise with May River Excursions. Dinner at FARM Bluffton features a chef’s tasting menu spotlighting regional flavors, and every bite feels like a love letter to the Lowcountry.
Day Five: Bike Trails & Boutique Finds
For your final morning, hop on a cruiser bike and pedal the scenic trails that wind through Palmetto Bluff’s pine forests, along the edges of vast marshes, tidal creeks, and quiet lagoons. Spend the rest of the morning browsing the shops of Wilson Village, picking up curated finds and sipping a latte from the charming Buzz coffee cafe at River House. Linger over a long lunch at Buffalos, overlooking the water. Looking out over the May River, you’ll feel restored, inspired, and already dreaming of next summer’s return.
Stay in Luxury
If you want to experience true Lowcountry luxe, plan to stay in luxurious comfort within the Palmetto Bluff resort where your vacation can include days filled with adventure. Our collection of vacation rentals in Palmetto Bluff features incredible amenities and superb locations. Let our Concierge team plan a fishing charter for you and your friends, or have a private chef waiting to cook your catch-of-the-day while you sit around the fire pit with a cocktail, telling stories of the big one that got away. And, while you’re there, why not plan a southern-style happy hour on the porch, or travel by private water taxi to explore the Bluffton Farmers Market? With our Guide to Exclusive Experiences, these are just some of the ways you customize your stay for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind vacation – and we have a team of people ready to help you plan it all.
