There’s an enchanting place that feels like time stood still, tucked along the southern coast of South Carolina and surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of the lowcountry. There’s something about this classically southern escape that instantly relaxes you as soon as you drive through the gates and wind through the avenue of majestic live oaks and longleaf pines. Maybe it’s the charming hospitality and next-level service. Maybe it’s the history, the emphasis on lowcountry culture, and the stunning South Carolina nature. This is Palmetto Bluff, a luxurious resort located in Bluffton SC that beckons those looking for an adventure-filled sporting getaway, and a place where time seems to move a little slower.
Explore
With 20,000 acres, there are endless ways to explore and immerse yourself in lush surroundings where activities are limited only by the number of hours in a day. Fish. Boat. Kayak. Golf. Bike. Paddleboard. Ride a horse. Swim. The activities are endless. Palmetto Bluff is a playground for outdoor lovers, designed with miles of walking and biking trails that wind throughout the resort, and is a place where golf carts are definitely the best way to get around!
This is a destination where kids can swim all day, chase fireflies at night, head to a conservation classroom to learn about the flora and fauna of the surrounding lowcountry, and enjoy s’mores around the fire pit as the evening ends. Spending the afternoon relaxing on the porch is a long-standing Palmetto Bluff tradition. Front porch sitting and sweet tea sipping – does it get any more Southern than that?
Adventure among the treetops
Whether you’re young in age or young at heart, who doesn’t love climbing the steps to an enchanting spot among the treetops? The treehouses at Palmetto Bluff are legendary. The Moreland Village treehouse at Moreland Landing offers spectacular views of the marsh and tidal creeks of the May River. This is the original Palmetto Bluff treehouse with 5 stories and 55 steps to the top.
Dining and a hidden Speakeasy
There are multiple restaurants in “The Bluff,” from iconic brunch spots like Buffalos in the heart of Wilson Village, or one for knocking down the pins after dinner at Cole’s in Moreland Village, the options for delectable dining are plentiful. A notable favorite among guests is River House. With expansive floor to ceiling windows that provide diners with an unobstructed view of the gorgeous May River surrounded by sweeping oak trees. For an after dinner cocktail or to end another perfect day in the Bluff look for the secret entrance below the River House that leads to the best kept secret in Palmetto Bluff, Hush, which also happens to be the only speakeasy bar in all of the Lowcountry.
History around every turn
As if all of the incredible outdoor lifestyle amenities aren’t enough, visitors to Palmetto Bluff who possess a keen interest in history will appreciate its proximity to both Savannah, GA and Charleston, SC. The intoxicating beauty and mystique of Savannah is just 25 miles away and all of the sights, shopping and dining of historic downtown Charleston is just 90 miles away. It’s easy to add a day trip to either of these iconic Southern destinations – and if you’ve never been to either, you definitely should!
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.
From an expansive coastline to winding waterways, Charleston offers countless ways to cool off on hot summer days. As a peninsula, downtown Charleston is surrounded by water and with miles of Atlantic beaches on the surrounding sea islands, a visit isn’t complete without exploring on the water. Whether you are a sun seeker, adventurer, or workout enthusiast, Charleston’s waterways has activities for all levels of water lovers. With warm summer days right around the corner, here are the best ways to cool off from Folly Beach to Isle of Palms!
Test your balance
The eclectic little beach town of Folly Beach is home to some of the best surfing on the East Coast. Whether you are a professional ready to ride the SC waves, or a beginner eager to leaner the sport, Folly can fulfill your surf dreams. You can join (or just watch!) the experienced surfers at Folly’s renowned surf spot, “The Washout” at the north end of the island. And if you want to hop on a board for the first time, you can take a lesson from Isla Surf School– they’ll teach you to surf like a pro in no time!
For a more leisurely board ride, paddleboard through the endless creeks and rivers on the backside of Folly Beach. Or on the Mt. Pleasant side of downtown, Shem Creek offers another picturesque place to start your paddle tour or rental with Coastal Expeditions – you’ll likely have pods of dolphins popping up next to your board! If you’re looking for more of a workout, SUP Safaris offers paddleboard yoga.
For the adrenaline junkie
If you have a need for speed, jet skiing through Isle of Palms high grass marshlands and intercostal waterways is an absolute MUST. The words “guided tour” may turn off the adrenaline junky, but with Tidal Wave Water Sports, they know how to show you a good time on the water.
A new sport is talking the water sport community by storm. Flyboarding is your chance to hover up to 20 feet above the water’s surface. HydroFly brings you out on the water with their floating tiki hut on the Ashley River that not only allows you to try this thrill seeking sport, but is also the perfect place for you and your friends to spend an afternoon on the water.
Hit the open water
There is no doubt that Charleston summers can get a bit warm, so one of the best ways to remedy the summer heat is a day on the boat. Charleston offers both fishing tours or boat charters that zip you around the Intracoastal Waterway and to beaches you can’t get to by car. Cruising on a boat while sipping on a cold one is the perfect way to spend the day in the South. Want to experience Charleston’s STUNNING sunsets with a drink in hand? Hop aboard a catamaran, The Palmetto Breeze, or a sailing yacht, Fate, for a private sunset cruise you won’t soon forget.
If your idea of a water sport is more along the lines of lounging by a pool, you can choose from our portfolio of luxury vacation rentals with their own private pools.
Stay in Luxury
The charm of this coastal city is that a vacation to Charleston offers something for everyone, the history lover, the foodie, but especially the water-lover. Whichever way you decide to stay cool in Charleston, just remember to pack your swimsuit! For any of these water excursions, our Luxury Simplified Retreats Concierge team is on hand to make all of the arrangements and provide a worry-free vacation while you’re in town. With a selection of luxurious homes located along Charleston’s beloved beaches, let the team at Luxury Simplified Retreats help you plan a getaway filled with water-centric activities. Contact us today to start planning!
Nestled among the lush, verdant landscape of the South Carolina lowcountry, Palmetto Bluff stands as a testament to refined luxury and natural splendor. As you journey through the gates into this luxurious 20,000 acre resort, located just a short distance from the history and allure of Savannah, you’re greeted by a scene straight out of a Southern fairy tale. Moss-draped live oaks line the winding roads, their gnarled branches reaching skyward as if in silent salute to arriving guests and residents alike. The air is thick with the heady perfume of magnolia blossoms, and the sounds of nature—chirping birds, rustling leaves, and the gentle lapping of water against the riverbanks—all designed by nature to create a symphony of pure serenity.
Before you start planning a getaway to this luxurious, lowcountry resort, we’ve gathered some of the top things to know, see and explore during your stay. While it’s true, some simply incredible experiences await behind the gates of Palmetto Bluff, you might also enjoy exploring Old Town Bluffton during your stay.
lodging
Within the backdrop of the renowned Palmetto Bluff resort, a diverse tapestry of lodging options awaits, each offering its own unique charm and allure. Wilson Village boasts classic, lowcountry-style homes, with modern amenities and expansive views of Wilson Village’s iconic waterfront and picturesque village square. For those seeking a more intimate retreat, the cottages nestled along the lagoons and inland waterway offer a cozy sanctuary and soothing backdrop to your stay. Meanwhile, the secluded enclave of Moreland Village beckons, where rustic retreats and vistas overlooking the vibrant marsh and tidal creeks that meander from the May River, provide the perfect backdrop for a serene getaway.
adventures
So what makes Palmetto Bluff a destination like no other? Many guests agree that it’s the abundance of adventures that await around every corner. Whether you’re exploring the winding trails on a leisurely bike ride or setting out on a boat excursion along the May River, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this idyllic setting. Explore the tranquil waters of the May River, where kayaking adventures offer glimpses of playful dolphins frolicking in their natural habitat.
For fishing enthusiasts, cast your line and discover the thrill of fishing for any of the many variety of fish that call these waters home. The May River offers a bounty of opportunities to reel in a variety of local fish species, from speckled trout and redfish to flounder and sheepshead.
Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts can hone their skills on the prestigious Jack Nicklaus-designed May River Golf Course, where greens and fairways are framed by panoramic views of the surrounding beauty, or the newly opened 9-hole course, Crossroads. This unique, nine-hole course created by King-Collins is reversible, and has a layout that encourages players to create their own style of play.
Treehouses
And then there are the treehouses—elevated escapes that offer a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding canopy that provide the perfect vantage point for taking in the breathtaking vistas. These enchanting Palmetto Bluff treehouses, perched high above towering pines and oaks, offer a secluded retreat amidst the verdant display of the surrounding canopy. Climb the stairs, step inside and discover the detail that defines each treehouse and experience the panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see.
conservation
But perhaps what sets Palmetto Bluff apart more than anything else is its unwavering commitment to conservation. Through the efforts of the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy, the resort is dedicated to preserving the natural habitats and fostering biodiversity within its borders, ensuring that future generations will be able to enjoy the same pristine beauty that draws visitors from around the world. Explore the pristine wilderness that surrounds the resort, from the majestic live oaks, loblolly pines, southern magnolias, Southern red oaks, laurel oaks and water oaks are intermingled, and the fragrant eastern red cedar.
Much of the low growth understory is a mix of wax myrtle and yaupon holly trees, both of which provide a fresh punch of greenery throughout the seasons, along with a mix of palms. Learn about the vital conservation efforts underway to preserve and protect this precious ecosystem for generations to come, from habitat restoration projects to initiatives aimed at fostering biodiversity.
dining
Indulge your palate at one of the resort’s eight dining venues, where culinary masterpieces, from sumptuous seafood feasts to decadent desserts, each crafted from the freshest local ingredients celebrating the rich culinary heritage of the region. Tantalize your taste buds with a culinary journey that reflects the flavors of the lowcountry. In Wilson Village enjoy the casual fare and family friendly atmosphere at Buffalos, or plan a dinner highlighted by exquisite, elevated Southern cuisine at the luxe, River House restaurant. The kids can indulge in ice cream cones from Melt. The Montage Hotel includes the world-class Octogan restaurant.
In Moreland Village, you’ll appreciate breakfast and lunch offerings at the Canteen, or a dinner at Coles, adjacent to the popular Boundary Bowling Alley.
time honored rituals
At Palmetto Bluff, luxury transcends mere extravagance – it’s a place where you often are begging for time to stand still. That’s why, no visit to Palmetto Bluff would be complete without time spent relaxing on the porch. Quiet afternoons invite the time-honored, southern tradition of spending time on a covered southern-style porch, seamlessly easing into happy hour as the evening approaches. And, as the sun sets on another day, gather around a fire pit for the nightly tradition of s’mores overlooking river views. These traditions are woven into the fabric of daily life at Palmetto Bluff, creating moments of pure magic that linger long after your vacation has ended.
stay in luxury
You’re sure to enjoy your stay in Palmetto Bluff when your trip includes all the comforts offered with a stay booked in our portfolio of luxury vacation homes. Our collection of rentals features incredible amenities and superb locations. There are so many things you can do on the property and the scenic, breathtaking backdrop of the Lowcountry surrounds you in Palmetto Bluff, with gorgeous oak trees, vast waterways and a laid-back, serene lifestyle. 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.
In the end, Palmetto Bluff is more than just a destination—it’s a sanctuary for the soul, where luxury and nature converge, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable experience amidst the timeless beauty of the Lowcountry. Every moment is an invitation to indulge your senses, nourish your soul, and forge memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to Palmetto Bluff, where extraordinary experiences await at every turn.
Its prime location on the Atlantic coast makes Charleston, South Carolina, a haven of pristine ecosystems just waiting to be explored. There’s nothing quite like taking in the downtown sites and getting out on the open water and see dolphins all in the same day. Charleston is a versatile destination that offers up miles of coastal nature alongside the all the history and charm of the downtown historic Charleston peninsula. When you’re here with a heart for the great outdoors, there are a few stops you won’t want to miss along the way to navigate Charleston and make the most of every minute you’re here. From boating out into the Atlantic for a deep sea fishing excursion and exploring Charleston’s inner waterways, there’s an array of things to do for the nature lover, and at the end of each adventure-filled day you’ll be searching for the best places to eat, stay, and relax.
The Ultimate 3-Day Nature and Wildlife Itinerary for Charleston, SC
Day 1: Sandlapper Water Tours
Operating out of the Charleston Maritime Center, Sandlapper Water Tours is a well-loved Charleston Harbor tour company that aims to customize cruises to the many visitors that make their way to Charleston each year. Hop aboard the Palmetto for an unforgettable experience at sea. This 45-foot catamaran can host up to 49 passengers at a time, and you can book it for everything from a nature tour complete with a naturalist onboard, to a sunset cruise or ghost tour. In addition, you can count on pelicans, herons, crabs, and playful dolphins being a common sight during your tour aboard this vessel, sure to deliver an insider’s view of these thriving waterways, so many creatures call home.
Charleston Maritime Center
10 Wharfside St Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 849-8687
Day 1: Dine along the Waterfront
Fleet Landing
186 Concord Street Charleston, SC
Charleston’s Best Waterfront Restaurant has a view that is a distinctive destination unto itself. Housed in a 1940s retired naval building on the east side of the Charleston peninsula, Fleet Landing Restaurant features classic and contemporary Southern seafood fare in a setting that celebrates the area’s waterfront heritage. Locally-owned, this locally-loved waterfront restaurant with jaw-dropping views overlooking Charleston Harbor, features a menu loaded with regional seafood and a commitment to freshness, quality, and sustainability.
Day 2: Angler Management
For those visitors who equate a wildlife adventure with a hook and line, Angler Management is a one-for-all solution. Providing options for customized nature tours and fishing charters, guests can personalize them based on their age and ability. Experience these beautiful waterways through the eyes of a local fishing expert. You can decide between opportunities to fish inshore, nearshore, or take to the waters with an eye on the sharks. Follow up your fishing excursions with a dolphin-spotting cruise or bird-watching tour to top off your outdoor experience. Regardless of whichever route you go, it’s sure to be a day you won’t soon forget!
1581 Kentwood Circle
Charleston, South Carolina 29412
(843) 259-1489
Day 2: Dine at the beach
Rita’s Seaside Grill
2 Center Street, Folly Beach SC
Just steps away from Folly Beach & The Pier, with American fare, from burgers to seafood, served with drinks in a casual setting, you can dine indoors or alfresco at Rita’s Seaside Grill. You’ll love to gather with family and friends on the inviting dog-friendly patio, home to live music and outdoor flatscreen TVs to watch the big games.
Day 3: Audubon Swamp Garden
Those looking for a wildlife encounter unlike any other will want to make their way towards Audubon Swamp Garden. This cypress swamp that lies on the Magnolia Plantation sprawls over 60-acres and is home to some of Charleston’s most exotic animals and plant species. Well-integrated walking paths make for a smooth meander through these lush lands as heron, waterfowl, and egrets’ nest nearby. Take time to enjoy the wide variety of turtles that rest on rocks rising out of black water surrounding miniature islands. Tupelo Gum trees provide a scenic backdrop of this truly unique place that aims to keep nature in its most pristine condition.
Magnolia Plantation/Audubon Swamp Garden
3550 Ashley River Rd. Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 571-1266
Day 3: Dine downtown along a cobblestone street
Sorelle
88 Broad Street, Charleston SC
Inspired by Italy’s all-day cafes, abundant markets and rich culinary traditions, Southern Italy meets Southern hospitality at Sorelle. Sorelle is a dining destination like no other on Charleston’s storied Broad Street.
Let the Adventure Continue with Luxury Simplified Retreats
The beauty of Charleston continues well beyond its natural wonders and when you’re here, be sure to let the team at Luxury Simplified Retreats help you find a luxurious getaway that speaks to a spirit of exploration. Our team of experts brings passion into the vacation rental search and is dedicated to helping you find that beachfront retreat or urban residence that speaks to a personalized sense of style. Contact us today to start planning!