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.
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. There are 8 restaurants within the Palmetto Bluff resort – Buffalo’s, Cole’s, Fore & Aft, Canoe Club, Octagon, Canteen, River House, and Hush (a cleverly hidden speakeasy lounge) plus a cute little ice cream shop, Melt. In 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.
The breathtaking resort of Palmetto Bluff offers an endless array of experiences and amenities for those who love a sporting, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Fishing is one of the top activities for resort visitors who enjoy casting a line while exploring the scenic waterways in and around Bluffton, SC. From the sun-drenched shores of the May River to the tranquil waters of the Calibogue Sound, Bluffton offers some of the best fishing in the state. The beautiful coastal waters of the lowcountry offer an abundance of fish and wildlife, creating a paradise for anglers. The May River is home to an abundance of fish species and provides a fun and rewarding fishing experience for anglers of all ages and experience levels.
SPOTTED SEA TROUT, FLOUNDER, SHEEPSHEAD, TARPON
The May River is home to a diverse array of fish, including largemouth bass, red drum, spotted sea trout, flounder, sheepshead, black drum, tarpon, jacks, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and more. Anglers looking for a challenge should try their luck with the larger game fish, such as tarpon and cobia. Redfish are a popular target species among anglers, and they can be caught year-round in waterways in and around the lowcountry, but the optimal time to target these species is in the fall. These fish are known for their hard-fighting spirit, making them a great challenge for anglers of all experience levels. For red drum and spotted sea trout, anglers should target the shallow, grassy areas of the river, as these fish tend to feed on small baitfish in these areas.
Speckled trout are another popular target species, and they can be caught in the spring and fall when the water temperature is cooler. You can also find largemouth bass, spotted sea trout, and black drum. These fish are usually found in the deeper, slower moving sections of the river.
For those looking to catch largemouth bass, the May River is a great spot. The river is full of deeper pools with plenty of structure for bass to hide, making them easy to target. The best time to fish for largemouth bass is in the spring and summer months, when the water is warmer and the bass are more active.
ANY DAY SPENT ON THE WATER IS A GOOD DAY
The natural beauty of the river, with its lush marshlands, mangroves, and estuaries, provide a stunning backdrop for any angling excursion. Looking for a day of fishing with a knowledgeable guide that knows the intricacies of the waterways and some of the best places to cast a line? We highly recommend the crew at May River Excursions who have an ample fleet of available fishing charters, both inshore and river, and some of the top fishing guides in Bluffton and the surrounding waterways. For those who prefer to fish from the shore, the banks of the May River are lined with docks and piers, including the Moreland Dock located in Palmetto Bluff’s Moreland Village, offering plenty of opportunities for a successful catch. There are a variety of spots to cast your line, from the deeper waters of the river to the shallows of the estuary and the vast marsh and tidal creeks.
If you’re looking to cast your line when you’re vacationing in Palmetto Bluff you’re in for a treat. Fishing along the May River is not just about catching a big one, it is also about enjoying the backdrop of the surrounding tidal marsh, the abundance of coastal wildlife and the breathtaking beauty of the South Carolina lowcountry.
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.
Traditions are the staple of the holiday season, and after celebrating the holidays in the breathtaking resort of Palmetto Bluff, you may just start a new one that includes celebrating here year after year. Palmetto Bluff is one of those places that is a destination in and of itself, and this place is truly magical. It’s 20,000+ acres of natural, wild beauty set on the May River marshes that offers up exquisite luxury, and an endless array of things to see and do. You can soak up fun and family time on the expansive resort property, which includes a nature preserve, tree houses, miles of trails to explore and two charming villages.
While there are amazing activities and experiences to be had at Palmetto Bluff any time of the year, spending the holiday season here is like something out of a storybook. Holiday decor in the South Carolina lowcountry includes the traditional elements of pinecones and boughs from the long leaf pines, hollies and magnolias that are abundant here, plus a creative mixing in of the local flora and fauna, from feathers to antlers to oysters. The holidays are on full display in Palmetto Bluff including along the stunning bridges leading into Wilson Village, decked out in the most perfect Christmas decor that will have you singing, “Fa-la-la-la-la.”
Palmetto Bluff brings holiday spirit to the Lowcountry with events that include Breakfast with Santa, a Christmas-themed concert, and many other family friendly events. Christmas Eve holiday gathering in Moreland Village includes an oyster roast and low country boil. Restaurants in Wilson Village and Moreland Village offer sumptuous dining options and there is a chic spa should the holidays include time for a little pampering. Head to the River House for an dazzling, upscale night out and a sumptuous meal where you can choose to start with caviar or oysters and finish with decadent Hazelnut desserts or an espresso martini all while overlooking the May River.
For more casual fare, you’ll enjoy the “sporting club” atmosphere at Coles in Moreland Village, or the delectable dishes at Buffalos in Wilson Village, and then spend the afternoon window shopping in Wilson Villages charming boutiques.
The idyllic town of Bluffton, SC brings a magical holiday spirit all its very own, with a feeling reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting. With its close proximity and easy travel to & from Palmetto Bluff, the streets along the charming downtown historic district of Old Town Bluffton are filled with incredible restaurants and quaint local shops. The Bluffton Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony will begin at 5:30 p.m., Friday, December 2 at Martin’s Family Park and is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. The Town of Bluffton will be hosting its 51st annual Bluffton Christmas Parade, Saturday, December 2rd, 2023 at 10 a.m. through Bluffton’s Historic District. Beginning in front of Town Hall and parading through downtown Bluffton, the Bluffton Christmas Parade is an annual “must see” event and offers fun for the whole family. The parade starts at 10am, so bring a chair and get there early for a prime spot along the viewing route.
This exclusive lowcountry resort pulls out all the stops to sprinkle holiday magic and deliver holiday spirit to everyone that stays here during the holiday season. But why stop there? With dazzling lights, exquisite cuisine, and lots of Champagne, Palmetto Bluff is also the perfect spot for ringing in the New Year. The resort’s scenic setting and tranquil atmosphere set the tone for a prosperous and plentiful year and is the ideal backdrop to help you herald the start to a new year.
And, with Luxury Simplified Retreats, our team can create a holiday wonderland for your family in Palmetto Bluff before you even check in! Our portfolio of luxurious vacation homes make the perfect backdrop for your holiday festivities and we can have a glittering holiday tree decorated and waiting for you before you arrive, a holiday happy hour set up on the porch for your arrival, and your holiday dinner prepared by a private, local chef – simply inquire with our Concierge team after you book and they’ll take it from there. View our Guide to Exclusive Guest Experiences and start planning your holiday getaway today.
