Summer mornings in the South Carolina lowcountry often begin with the quiet sunrise over the May River casting its gentle rays upon the picturesque town of Bluffton, South Carolina, where adventure awaits at the one-of-a-kind Palmetto Bluff resort. Nestled amidst the pristine Lowcountry landscape, this enchanting destination offers the perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in outdoor adventures, explore the local attractions, or indulge in culinary delights, this oasis of tranquility will leave an indelible mark on your soul.  Palmetto Bluff is a vacation destination where time slows down and feels like a family resort getaway reminiscent of the 1950’s in the Catskills.

The Water Beckons

The sultry summer weather of Bluffton is a hallmark of South Carolina at this time of the year  The sun casts a shimmering glow upon the pristine waters of the May River, and beckons you to spend an afternoon motoring around in the resort’s vintage Hinckley 36 Picnic Boat. The marshes and tidal waterways that form as tributaries for the May River, offer up some of the best fishing in the lowcountry. You can book a fishing charter with May River Excursions, and cast a line for largemouth bass, red drum, spotted sea trout, and flounder, or learn how to cast a net for shrimp.

The resort is nestled amidst sprawling oak trees draped with Spanish moss and adventure beckons around every corner. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the miles of scenic nature trails, where lush greenery surrounds you. Discover the picturesque Wilson Lawn, a vast expanse of manicured grass in the heart of the resort’s Wilson Village, lined in ancient oaks and offering up river views. Engage in a game of tennis or pickle ball at Wilson Lawn and Racquet Club, where you’ll even find two pristine croquet lawns on the property. Challenge yourself with a round of golf on the world-class Jack Nicklaus-designed May River Golf Course. If water activities entice you, embark on a kayaking or paddleboarding expedition, or leisurely navigate the tranquil waters of Palmetto Bluff’s inland waterway with family and friends in a Duffy Boat.

The Charm of Historic Bluffton

Beyond the borders of the resort lies a treasure trove of local attractions waiting to be explored. Uncover the rich history and charm of Bluffton’s historic district, where you’ll discover captivating art galleries, restaurants and boutiques that dot the town. Summertime in Bluffton calls for a trip to the popular and locally loved Bluffton Farmers Market held on Thursdays along Calhoun and Lawrence Streets.

Remote Lowcountry Islands

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the nearby Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge promises breathtaking views of diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Here, visitors can enjoy wildlife-dependent activites such as hiking, bicycling, and wildlife watching. Or, head to the beach at Dafuskie Island. Accessible only by boat, Dafuskie offers three miles of secluded beaches, for a day that will undoubtedly offer you a true sense of what it’s like to be on a dreamy, remote, and sparsely populated island.

Bites & Sips

Palmetto Bluff tantalizes the taste buds with a delectable assortment of dining options, each offering a unique culinary experience. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Buffalo’s, located in Wilson Village, where farm-fresh ingredients combine to create mouthwatering Southern-inspired dishes.

Grab a sandwich lunch to-go at the Canteen in Moreland Village, and plan a picnic at the top of a sprawling treehouse, then grab an ice cream cone at Melt for a refreshing afternoon treat. In the evening, conclude your day with a sumptuous dinner at the award-winning River House, where culinary artistry meets Southern hospitality. This refined waterfront restaurant offers a menu brimming with innovative dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

Palmetto Bluff beckons travelers with its idyllic beauty, luxurious details, impeccable service and abundance of activities that make for a perfect summer vacation. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway,  the tranquility of nature and the warmth of Southern hospitality converge here to create an unforgettable experience.

With its vast nature preserve and resort style amenities, Palmetto Bluff has both a quaint, small-town feel and a sense of understated luxury. 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.

Charleston SC is a favorite year round travel destination and for good reason. With gorgeous, centuries-old historic homes, streets that tell the stories of deep-rooted, Southern history, a mild climate, and miles of sunny beaches, there truly is something for everyone in Charleston. While Charleston offers top events throughout most of the year, in the summer, the city comes alive with the blooms of azaleas, dogwoods, honeysuckle, Jasmine, roses, and wisteria. The longer days wrapped in Carolina blue skies that melt into fiery pink & orange sunsets make for the perfect backdrop for some of the season’s highly anticipated events and festivals. This time of year is chock full of fun and festivities, from bustling farmers markets and lively sporting events to world-class art festivals and historic celebrations.   

Read on to learn more about Charleston’s upcoming summer and fall events in 2023. For more information about the best things to do during your visit, request a free copy of our Insider’s Guide!  

9 of the Best Charleston Summer Events and Fall Festivals

Charleston Farmers Market | Every Saturday 

Farm-fresh produce, local artworks, and delicious eats make the Charleston Farmers Market the best place to be every Saturday between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.  

Festival of Houses and Gardens | March 15–April 16  

Admire some of the Holy City’s most iconic architectural gems and magical gardens during the Festival of Houses and Gardens. Tours take place in the historic districts of Downtown Charleston.  

Charleston Jazz Festival | April 20-23

The Charleston Jazz Festival draws music-lovers from around the globe to Charleston, SC for a four-day celebration of the Holy City’s jazz heritage. The festival is a draw for regionally and internationally renowned musicians all while celebrating and preserving Charleston’s rich history in jazz.

Firefly Distillery Spring Concert Series | May 26 – August 3 

Live, outdoor concerts are returning to Firefly! This year, the distillery hosts the Spring Concert Series, which is mindful of social distancing while still being plenty fun. 

Spoleto Festival USA | May 28-June 13  

The Spoleto Festival USA celebrates the arts through live music, theatre, dance, and more. Impressive performances bring people to Charleston from all over the world.  

Piccolo Spoleto Festival | May 28-June 13 

While the Spoleto Festival USA focuses primarily on an international scope, the Piccolo Spoleto Festival shines a spotlight on local, Southeastern artists.  

Charleston Riverdogs Baseball at “the Joe”  |  April 12 – September 3

Head out to the ball game for some peanuts and crackerjacks, and the zany, ball-field antics of the Riverdog’s mascot Charlie T. RiverDog. Opened at the start of 1997 season, Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park is one of the premier atmospheres in Minor League Baseball. Named after the city’s longest-serving mayor, “The Joe” is the best place to spend a family friendly, fun-filled night in the summer.  Check out the RiverDogs 2023 Schedule, grab your tickets and don’t forget to bring your glove!

Charleston Restaurant Week | Fall Edition

Charleston Restaurant Week takes place in mid-September. Experience the incredible culinary scene here in the Holy City and enjoy dining at some of our finest restaurants.  

The Fall Tours – Preservation Society of Charleston  | October 11 – November 4, 2023

The Preservation Society of Charleston’s annual Fall Tours in experiencing Charleston’s historic houses and gardens during the annual Fall Tours of Homes, History & Architecture. The historic beauty and charm of Charleston come alive this October as friends of the Preservation Society of Charleston welcome you inside the private interiors to discover the rich history of some of the nation’s most exceptional historic houses.

Elevate Your Charleston Experience When You Stay with Luxury Simplified Retreats  

In a city known for its vibrant culture, rich history, delicious food, and beautiful setting, it comes as no surprise that some incredible lodging options are available. Spend your days attending the best Charleston summer events of 2021, then return to enjoy some rest and relaxation in a Luxury Simplified Retreats vacation rental. Our stylish accommodations, located on Folly Beach or in the heart of Downtown Charleston, set the scene for an unforgettable Lowcountry getaway. Additionally, our expert concierge services team is more than happy to help you plan your trip, make reservations, and even stock your refrigerator.  

Allow us to make your visit to the Holy City unforgettable. Contact us to start planning your trip today! 

There’s a good chance that when you plan a vacation getaway to the exclusive resort of Palmetto Bluff, located in Bluffton, South Carolina, it just may be one of the most remarkable destinations you’ll ever experience. Nestled along the banks of the May River, Palmetto Bluff is home to lush forests, pristine wetlands, marshes and miles of trails. This picturesque backdrop offers a stunning array of natural beauty, from forests thick with loblolly pines, to inland waterways, lagoons and tidal creeks, ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss and river views. Here’s a closer look at what you can plan to explore during your stay:

It’s all about the Outdoors

Planning a trip to this breathtaking resort should include an itinerary that means you are exploring everything this extraordinary resort has to offer – outdoors. The 20,000 acre resort was designed as both a luxe vacation destination and a private enclave of neighborhoods for families who desire a lifestyle designed for the sportsman and sports lover both.  From fishing excursions on the May River to horseback riding and golfing, Palmetto Bluff offers a plethora of activities for residents and guests to enjoy. The resort also boasts an impressive 13-mile trail system for hiking and biking, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. For the water-lover, The May River provides endless opportunities for  fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing, you can even book a boat tour to nearby Dafuski Island, the exclusive island getaway that can only be reached by boat.

Palmetto Bluff is home to a variety of shops, from the upscale boutiques of Wilson Village to the immersive art experience that awaits at FLOW Gallery + Workshop, home to Palmetto Bluff’s Artist in Residence program curated collection of southern artists. There are also plenty of special events and festivals, and The Palmetto Bluff Conservancy, whose mission it is to educate visitors and to protect the lush maritime forests and winding tidal creeks that are vital to the South Carolina lowcountry.

Explore a Treehouse

If your vacation includes children, or a group that’s simply “young at heart,” The resort boasts two incredible tree houses to explore and take in the views. One is centrally located in an area nearby to Wilson Village. There’s a small zip line that younger children will love, especially if they haven’t tried zip lines before. The other is located at Moreland Landing in the Moreland Village community.

Have a Bite to Eat

Foodies will appreciate the dining options available at Palmetto Bluff, including several restaurants and bars serving up a variety of cuisines. In Palmetto Bluff’s iconic Wilson Village, there is a selection of both fine dining and casual restaurants, from the variety of ice cream flavors offered up at Melt ice cream shop, to the upscale Southern-inspired cuisine at the Buffalo’s Restaurant and the mouth-watering cuisine served at Octogan, located within the resort’s hotel. Some other notable restaurants include the River House for an intimate culinary experience, or the popular Canteen eatery located in Moreland Village.

Porching &  S’mores

“Porching” becomes a verb that is the hallmark of the south, and it’s alive & well in Palmetto Bluff!  Head to River House in the late afternoon for tea or lemonade, and find a comfy spot on one of the gracious porches, or stay at home and enjoy this decidedly southern tradition hosted by our guest Concierge team.

At sunset, head to the fire pits in Wilson Village for some serious S’mores and incredible May River views. Depending on the time of year, you’ll experience a selection of flavored marshmallows like mint, caramel, and chocolate along with the classic flavor and milk and dark chocolate wafers for melting.

Take a Day Trip

While Palmetto Bluff is an attraction in and of itself, there are also plenty of nearby attractions to explore. The charming town of Bluffton is just a short drive away and offers a variety of art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants. With its scenic waterfront, walkable historic downtown, a list of upscale of shops and restaurants that grows longer every year, and a popular Farmer’s Market you’ll be sure to find something that makes for a memorable time exploring this quaint southern town.

Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina, are also within driving distance, both steeped in history and offering some simply incredible shopping and dining, each making for a incredible day trip you should add to your itinerary.

Stay in Luxury

The resort community of Palmetto Bluff offers an incredible vacation experience for anyone seeking relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both. With the spectacular backdrop of the surrounding lowcountry, luxurious accommodations, world-class culinary offerings, and a wide range of activities, you’ll never run out of things to do. And, with nearby attractions such as Bluffton, Savannah, and Charleston, your vacation can be as varied as you want it to be. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Palmetto Bluff has something for everyone. Explore our portfolio of luxury vacation rentals in Palmetto Bluff. Book your stay with Luxury Simplified Retreats today and let our Concierge team help you to start planning the vacation of a lifetime.

Isle of Palms is a charming beachfront town located on the slender barrier island of the same name. Located just off the coast of historic Charleston SC, and surrounded by the lush landscape of the South Carolina lowcountry, Isle of Palms is a vacation destination unlike any other. Just 7 miles long and 1 mile wide, Isle of Palms is known for its wide, sandy beaches, making it a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.  Spend a day exploring the storied history of downtown Charleston, discover the beauty and awe of coastal birds of prey, paddle board with dolphins along iconic Shem Creek, or simply spend your days on the beach with nothing planned but to relax and unwind.

Every Vacation starts with Great Dining

In addition to six miles of beaches, Isle of Palms includes a quaint downtown retail and dining district along Ocean Boulevard.  Popular restaurants and cafes along this stretch of the island offer a wide variety of delicious seafood and other local specialties, including Coda del Pesce, Coconut Joes Beach Grill, Acme Lowcountry Kitchen and the locally loved Sea Biscuit Cafe, that serves up only breakfast, but is well worth the wait.

You will find other upscale dining options dotted throughout the island, including Long Island Cafe which is located right beside Harris Teeter, The Boathouse, located on the water overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway and Islander 71. Situated on the point where Morgan Creek meets the Intracoastal Waterway, Islander 71 overlooks the water and has spectacular views. With dock access available for boaters, a waterside bar, indoor-outdoor dining, and an outdoor stage with live music, Islander 71 is an island vacation must do.

Something for Everyone

Isle of Palms proximity to Mt. Pleasant, Charleston’s fast-growing suburb just over the Isle of Palms Connector, provides easy access to some great family friendly activities. Boone Hall Farms offers strawberry picking, a farmers market, a pumpkin patch, and haunted house (seasonally).  There’s nothing like a ordering a hotdog with all the fixings and a hand dipped shake at Jack’s Cosmic Dogs, or taking a drive to Mt. Pleasant’s Old Village for a picnic on the Pitt Street Bridge. Whether you just want to spend some time relaxing on the beach, or are eager to go swimming, fishing and try out some water sports, Coastal Expedition is a local company that offers kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals, so you can explore the waterways and tidal creeks around the island. The island is also home to many kid-friendly attractions, such as the Wild Dunes Resort and the Charleston County Park and Playground.

Water Water Everywhere

For the water lover who seeks adventure, the island is surrounded by the Intracoastal Waterway, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. At Breach Inlet, the sliver of water that separates Isle of Palms from nearby Sullivans Island, you’ll find the skies above the Atlantic are often filled with the colorful kites of kitesurfers, as this end of the island delivers a strong and consistent ocean breeze.

In addition to the some of the popular spots in and around Isle of Palms, your vacation wouldn’t be complete without booking an excursion with Coastal Expedition to the nearby nature reserve at Bulls Island, where you will see alligators, herons, and other wildlife. The largest of four barrier islands found within the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, Bulls Island is a 5,000 acre maritime forest with fresh and brackish water impoundments and a beach area. The six-and-a-half mile uninhabited island remains virtually untouched and is home to countless wildlife and endangered species. Just 45 minutes north of Isle of Palms, this makes for a great daytime outing to experience a breathtaking part of the coastal lowcountry.  The Intracoastal Waterway and the tidal creeks around Isle of Palms also offer up some great spots for dolphin watching.

Music under the stars

When the sun sets and the night is heating up, head to the ever popular The Windjammer beachfront bar.  Founded in 1972 and with a devoted following of locals and visitors alike, this longtime bar was the local home to Hootie & the Blowfish in the band’s early days, and with a reputation as a destination for great live music, the club has hosted other well know acts like Edwin McCain, Sister Hazel and the Zac Brown Band. Add in endless ocean views and The Windjammer will quickly become your favorite spot for enjoying bar bites and cold drinks while listening to live music at the beach.

Proximity to Charleston

It’s just about a thirty minute drive into Charleston from the Isle of Palms. If you’ve never been to Charleston before, with its wide variety of cultural and historical attractions and legendary southern charm, then spending a day in Charleston is a must. Explore cobblestoned alleyways, discover manicured gardens tucked behind intricate iron gates, browse the legendary shopping along King Street, dine at corner cafes along East Bay Street and experience harbor views from a scenic rooftop.

Luxurious Accommodations

Start planning your vacation getaway to Isle of Palms, by booking a luxurious Isle of Palms vacation rental just steps from the beach.  The team at Luxury Simplified Retreats goes above and beyond to offer guests an outstanding experience with beautiful beach rentals and unparalleled concierge services. Browse our Experience Packages to consider making your trip especially unique, then sit back, relax, and leave all of the planning to us. You’re going to love Isle of Palms laid-back, small-town vibe.