Nestled within South Carolina’s enchanting Lowcountry, Palmetto Bluff offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. For the discerning traveler seeking an exquisite weekend escape where relaxation is part of the appeal, this Live Oak-drenched resort promises that and so much more. Not only is it stunningly beautiful, but this incredible Southern paradise is exactly the kind of “relax and unwind destination” that makes you want to come back time and time again. With a portfolio of some of the most luxurious vacation rentals in the resort, our team has curated an array of unforgettable experiences that are designed to elevate your stay.
Come along with us as we share an itinerary for your Palmetto Bluff stay that offers up a recipe chock full of adventure and fun, with a healthy dose of relaxation added for good measure.
Friday
Friday Afternoon: Arrival and Settling In
Upon arrival, and after settling in, head out to explore everything the location of your luxurious accommodations has to offer. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque surroundings, immersing yourself in the natural beauty that defines Palmetto Bluff. In Wilson Village, you’ll appreciate its southern, “small village” charm with its manicured Village Green, upscale shops, delectable dining options, iconic Chapel and scenic May River views. In Moreland Village, you’ll find the wild elegance of a landscape that includes palmettos, loblolly pines, Live Oaks, sweetgrass and the beauty of Lake Bales.
To elevate your experience from the outset, our Concierge team can have our Signature Welcome Charcuterie waiting for you at your arrival —a luxurious spread of artisan meats, aged cheeses, nuts, seasonal fruits, and assorted crackers, beautifully arranged to delight your palate. This exquisite offering sets the tone for a weekend of indulgence.
Friday Evening: Private Chef Dinner
As you settle in for your first night tucked among the lush landscape of this 20,000 acre lowcountry resort, enhance your evening with a bespoke dining experience curated by a local Private Chef. The concierge team will arrange for a locally renowned chef to prepare a sumptuous dinner tailored to your preferences, allowing you to savor gourmet cuisine in the comfort of your cottage. There is nothing quite like an evening gathered around a table with family and friends for an intimate and memorable culinary journey.
Saturday
Saturday Morning: Time Spent on the Water
Start your day with an excursion along the pristine waterways of Palmetto Bluff. Our Concierge team is here to help plan a day where you can explore the serene tidal creeks and observe the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. From a guided kayaking excursion, to a private fishing charter, or an adventure filled expedition to see bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat, there are a variety of water-centric experiences waiting for you along the tidal creeks and estuaries of the May River.
Saturday Afternoon: Lunch at Buffalos
After your morning on the water, treat your taste buds to a culinary delight and indulge in a leisurely lunch at Buffalos. Located in the heart of Wilson Village, Buffalos is a favorite dining destination for a casual lunch or weekend brunch where lowcountry-inspired dishes tantalize in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Saturday Evening: Enjoy an Evening on the Porch
In true southern fashion, the porches of the lowcountry make the perfect backdrop for a memorable night under the stars. As the sun sets, indulge in An Evening on the Porch, where you can gather with friends to enjoy the river breezes. Our Concierge team will handle all the details for setting up custom wine and beer beverage bars accompanied by charcuterie trays on your grand southern porch. This curated experience allows you to relax and enjoy quality time with friends and family amidst the tranquil evening ambiance.
Saturday Night: Movie Under the Moonlight
Conclude your day with the Movie Under the Moonlight experience. From classics like Casablanca or a family friendly favorite like Beauty & the Beast, we invite you to enjoy an evening filled with the stars of Hollywood … under the starry skies of the lowcountry! Our Concierge team can arrange a private outdoor cinema setup, complete with a selection of classic films, plush seating, popcorn and gourmet snacks. Under the canopy of stars, this intimate setting offers a cinematic experience like no other.
Sunday
Sunday Afternoon: Biking Through Nature Trails
Embrace the morning with a leisurely bike ride through Palmetto Bluff’s extensive network of scenic trails. Our Concierge team can ensure that every member of your group has a bike, even the littlest one for a leisurely trailer ride along, allowing you to explore the lush landscapes at your own pace. The paths meander through ancient live oaks draped in spanish moss, loblolly pines and along serene waterways, offering a peaceful start to your day.
Sunday Evening: Firepit and S’mores
As your weekend retreat draws to a close, plan to enjoy a Firepit and S’mores experience around your private fire pit for a classic graham cracker + marshmallow + chocolate delight or a shmorgasboard of tasty s’more options for those who are feeling adventurous! The concierge will provide all the essentials, allowing you to indulge in this timeless treat under the starlit sky—a sweet ending to a luxurious getaway.
Stay in Luxury
From the verdant fairways of the golf course to the tranquil waters of the May River, plus adventures that include biking, tennis, pickleball, or fishing for reds along the tidal creeks all set amidst a breathtaking backdrop, Palmetto Bluff weaves a tapestry of experiences that captivate the senses and nourish the soul. Plan to stay in luxurious comfort with our collection of vacation rentals in Palmetto Bluff that feature incredible amenities and superb locations. A weekend at Palmetto Bluff offers more than just a getaway; it provides an immersive experience where luxury meets nature, and where your vacation can include days filled with adventure. And, during your stay, 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, you can rest assured our dedicated concierge team is at your service, ensuring every detail is meticulously arranged for exclusive experiences designed to elevate your stay. From organizing bespoke activities to securing dining reservations, their commitment to excellence guarantees a weekend of unparalleled luxury and relaxation.
Whether you’re a longtime oyster aficionado or are falling in love with them for the first time, you’ll notice right away that oysters from different regions have distinct flavors. Unlike most delicacies, oysters don’t get their flavors from a sauce or seasoning, they develop their unique salty brine from their environment. The coastal waters surrounding Charleston SC have their own ecosystem and produce oysters with a flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.
Local lore says, ” you should only eat oysters in months with the letter “R,” so help yourselves to all the oysters you can eat from September through April but take a break from them May through August.” While it’s true that “oyster season” used to be considered just the colder winter months, thanks to local oyster farmers working to support Charleston’s booming culinary scene, locals and visitors alike can now shuck locally harvested oysters year round.
For the freshest oysters, best variety, and enjoyable atmosphere, you’ll want to visit these 6 local oyster bars when you’re in the Holy City:
167 Raw is a New England style Oyster Bar in the heart of historic downtown Charleston, SC. You’ll keep coming back for the fresh seafood at this local-favorite hotspot that includes crispy oysters, scallop po’boys, pastrami’d swordfish sandwich or the lobster tostada, and of course, a best-in-class raw bar.
The Ordinary A Southern seafood hall and oyster bar with a commitment to support local and regional fishermen, crabbers, oystermen, farmers and producers. The sophisticated atmosphere in a restored, historic bank building reflects an upscale menu which features Smoked Mahe Pate, Vermillion Snapper, and their speciality, Oyster Moscow (a raw oyster topped with creme fraiche and caviar with a splash of vodka). Taste some of the best raw East Coast oysters with all the accoutrements, or crispy oysters with steak tartare, or even smoked oysters with hot sauce. Any way you slice it, The Ordinary is anything but that when it comes to local oysters and seafood.
Leon’s Oyster Shop An old school body shop turned casually sophisticated oyster & poultry spot, Leon’s has earn itself a James Beard nomination and a reputation for some of the best oysters in town. Designed with the comfort and ease of southern living in mind, the restaurant serves up flavorful oysters three ways (raw, fried, or Oysters Casino) alongside lowcountry staples including fried chicken and black-eyed pea salad. The casual yet intimate dining space, tasty menu, and variety of oysters are all topped off with a dessert of soft serve & sprinkles on Upper King Street.
Pearlz Oyster Bar This self-acclaimed “eclectic little oyster bar” in West Ashley or on downtown Charleston’s famed East Bay Street, offers a full raw bar with local and Gulf oysters and locally caught seafood. With oyster options from oyster sliders to southern fried, or even oyster shooters, you really can’t go wrong. Their full bar provides crafty cocktails, cold beers, and a lively environment.
Bowen’s Island Popular with Charleston locals, you could miss this gem if you don’t turn down the right dirt road on your way to Folly Beach. This authentic lowcountry oyster joint overlooks the water on a 13-acre island and serves up some of the best locally harvested oysters in town! Steamed or fried, you can get your local oyster clusters in full or half trays and shuck them like a local from any of the decks or event spaces. More than just oysters, the menu includes fried shrimp platters, homemade hushpuppies, and their take a on a lowcountry boil, Frogmore stew.
The Darling Oyster Bar Charleston charm meets vintage chic in this popular local oyster bar in downtown Charleston. Located in a restored 115-year-old storefront on King Street, its bright green booths give it the feel of a diner that might have operated in the same space 60 years ago. With a full 14-seat raw bar, The Darling offers 6 different types of oysters, both local and from afar, king crab, ceviche and more. The perfect spot for weekend brunch, serving up Shrimp & Grits, Lobster & King Crab Roll, and Chowder Fries (made with local clams).
If you’re planning a trip to Charleston and you want to put oysters on the menu, our concierge team can make a reservation at any of these local restaurants, or even arrange a private oyster roast for friends & family at any of our luxury vacation rentals. That’s about as classic lowcountry as you can get!
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. For the 4th of July festivities Palmetto Bluff comes alive with patriotic fanfare and small town Americana charm.
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. 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.
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.
Are you daydreaming of your next vacation? Look no further than Isle of Palms, SC, where sun-filled beach days meet thrilling water sports, world-class dining, and easy access to the historic gems of Charleston. Whether you’re an adventurer or a beachcomber, this itinerary will help you enjoy the best of the island lifestyle. From sunrises over the Atlantic to dinners at sunset, here’s how to plan your perfect trip to Isle of Palms.
Day 1: Welcome to the Island!
Your journey begins with checking into your rental and taking in the views of Isle of Palms’ natural beauty. You’ll immediately feel the allure of this coastal paradise, where the ocean stretches before you and marshlands add a touch of the surrounding lowcountry vistas.
Pro Tip: Be sure to catch a stroll along the beach at low tide. This is prime time for hunting for shark teeth, one of the hidden treasures of Isle of Palms! With soft sands and the gentle lapping of waves, it’s the perfect introduction to your island adventure.
After you’ve settled in and soaked in the views, it’s time to fill your belly at The Refuge, a local favorite for fresh, flavorful dishes. Known for its laid-back vibe and coastal-inspired menu, The Refuge will offer you a taste of what this island is all about—fresh, delicious, and local.
Day 2: Explore History and Coastal Charm
Start your day early with a stop at Sea Biscuit Cafe, a charming spot where you can indulge in freshly made pastries and locally roasted coffee. It’s a great way to fuel up before a day filled with both exploration and relaxation.
Once you’re caffeinated and ready, take a quick 20-minute drive over the iconic Ravenel Bridge to historic downtown Charleston. The bridge itself offers breathtaking views of the Cooper River, so don’t rush the drive—take it in! Charleston’s Waterfront Park awaits you with its charming oak-lined paths and famous Pineapple Fountain, a symbol of Southern hospitality.
After soaking up the history and charm of downtown, head back to Isle of Palms to experience some of the island’s finest dining at Coastal Provisions. This refined restaurant at the Wild Dunes Resort offers seafood dishes that reflect the bounty of the surrounding waters. Enjoy oysters, fresh fish, and local specialties while taking in the relaxed, upscale atmosphere.
Day 3: Adventure on the Water
It wouldn’t be a trip to Isle of Palms without some time spent on the water. The island is a haven for watersports enthusiasts. Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, or kite surfing, the island offers something for everyone. The winds and tides here make it an ideal destination for kite surfers, and Isle of Palms is often touted as one of the best spots in South Carolina for this thrilling sport.
To experience life like a local, start your day early and head to the Isle of Palms Marina. Here, you’ll rent a boat for a day of fishing or cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway. The marina is a fantastic launch point, with easy access to nearby barrier islands and Charleston Harbor. Spend a day exploring nearby Deweese or Capers islands. If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins playing in your boat’s wake!
After reeling in your catch of the day (or enjoying a leisurely cruise), head to Islander 71, located adjacent to the IOP Marina, serving up succulent seafood, local favorites, and simply breathtaking views of Morgan Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway.
Wrap Up Your Trip with a Tour
Before you head home, spend your last afternoon biking the palm tree-lined streets of Isle of Palms. The island is easy to navigate and offers scenic views at every turn. You’ll find beautiful beachfront homes, maritime forests, and quiet paths perfect for cycling. There’s something deeply relaxing about soaking in the sights at your own pace.
If you’re looking for a more structured activity, consider joining a guided eco-tour to Bull’s Bay to explore the island’s marshlands and learn about the local ecosystem. The island is teeming with wildlife, from seabirds to crabs to fish, making it a nature lover’s dream.
After a day spent exploring comes to an end, stop by Papi’s Taqueria for some well-deserved tacos. Located just steps from the beach, this casual eatery serves up creative takes on classic Mexican fare, with fresh ingredients and bold flavors and endless Atlantic Ocean views.
Why Isle of Palms?
Isle of Palms isn’t just a beach destination—it’s an adventure lover’s playground, a foodie’s paradise, and a history buff’s dream all rolled into one. You’re just minutes away from Mount Pleasant, a charming town that’s home to Shem Creek, still an active hub today for Charleston’s shrimping fleet, plus restaurants, shopping, and parks, and only a short drive from the historic wonder of downtown Charleston.
Whether you’re into watersports like kayaking and kite surfing or you prefer a more laid-back experience of boating and fishing, Isle of Palms offers a wide array of opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy Southern hospitality at its finest. With its gentle waves and pristine beaches, it’s the perfect setting for both action-packed days and long, lazy afternoons.
So, what are you waiting for? Bookmark this itinerary and get ready to experience the best of Isle of Palms! From beach walks and shark tooth hunting to savoring fresh seafood and experiencing the thrill of water sports, your ideal island getaway awaits. Book a stay at one of our Isle of Palms rentals and let our Concierge team help you plan a fun-filled Isle of Palms vacation.