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.

Man Fishing from Fishing Excursion the May River

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.

ride an electric Duffy Boat on Palmetto Bluff inland waterway

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.

Exterior of the newly renovated Buffalos Restuarant in Palmetto Bluff

 

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.

 

The Canteen at Palmetto Bluff SC

 

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.