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.
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.
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.
Roughly two hours or so from Charleston down Hwy 17 gets you to Palmetto Bluff, or “The Bluff ” as it’s affectionately known. Charlestonians have their getaway places. In the summer it’s often to the mountains of North Carolina and in the fall there is simply no better place to be than The Bluff, located in Bluffton SC. This lowcountry getaway, drips old southern charm, offering up hospitality at the highest level and catering to a crowd that appreciates an outdoor-centric, sporting lifestyle. In Palmetto Bluff, this resort getaway designed for relaxation, time has the uncanny ability to actually feel like it is slowing down.
The South Carolina Lowcountry
Palmetto Bluff is 20,000 or so acres of old southern woodland stand, deer hunting tracks and timberland turned in to a resort and a surrounding planned community. The whole place is on a physical bluff some 20 feet above the May River almost guaranteeing a steady pleasant breeze, even in mid-summer. Like many of the exclusive resort communities along the coastal Carolinas it has its mix of permanent residents, returning vacation home owners and travelers in search of a unique (but still upscale) vacation experience, in a similar manner to many of the other Barrier Island communities. Kiawah without the opulence or the traffic, Defuski but with more polish. While it has its own resort within the development providing a superb range of amenities, the true appeal to the majority of vacationers is a stay in one of the luxury vacation rentals dotted throughout the resort and the chance to experience the lowcountry like a local.
A Love for the Outdoors
So just what does a vacation look like at Palmetto Bluff? A typical day might look something like this. Sleep late, enjoy quiet mornings with coffee on the porch, play with the children, and bicycle everywhere. Eat breakfast late, swim, read, converse and contemplate. Take the kids to explore an adventure-filled treehouse. Palmetto Bluff has two magical treehouse creations that would make even the Swiss Family Robinson envious.
The first is tucked away in the live oaks in Moreland Village, alongside the May River, With 55 steps, and unlimited views at the top, this 5-story tree house was designed to blend in with the surrounding Palmetto Bluff landscape. The second is 3-stories of climbing fun, featuring a spiral staircase, a slide, a wooden boardwalk, and a rope ladder. Fish from the Moreland Dock, or just about everywhere, or watch enormous Blue Herons fishing for themselves or Egret colonies roosting at dusk.
Wilson Village
The idyllic town square, Wilson Village, includes quaint shops, and restaurants, from Melt ice cream shop, dishing up twelve signature southern ice creams, to Octagon or The River House serving up exceptional lowcountry cuisine. There are old ruins to explore, nature trails, guided tours, golf courses, shooting classes, gyms and conservancy lessons. You can cruise the river into Bluffton proper or Savannah a little further off, or even kayak the river and its surrounding tidal creeks joined by the occasional frolicking dolphin.
You can roast s’mores at sunset and listen to live music play until bedtime, gaze at the stars and listen to the frogs. Crisp fall evenings call for cocktails around the fire pit, or a crackling fireplace on the porch.
All of this with a backdrop of just incredible lowcountry beauty. Shady tree-lined streets with ancient live oaks heavy with Spanish moss. Scenic views of the May River include the Grace, a perfectly restored 1913 motor yacht, tied up to the dock at Wilson Village waiting for afternoon excursions that include drinks at sunset, or the meandering Inland Waterway that makes a journey through many of Palmetto Bluffs neighborhoods. Marshes and tidal creeks teeming with trout, redfish, crabs and shrimp that beckon for exploration and a day spent fishing.
Plan your Palmetto Bluff Getaway this Fall
You’re sure to enjoy your stay in Palmetto Bluff when your trip includes all the comforts offered in our Luxury Simplified Retreats – Palmetto Bluff 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. But why not experience a vintage voyage in a 1930’s Bentley, 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.
