Recently my son MJ (National Special Olympics Golf Champion) and I had the opportunity to visit Palmetto Dunes Oceanside Resort located in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Having traveled all over the world, this 2000 acre gem on the Atlantic Ocean is definitely a place to put on your destination list. Many lucky visitors enjoy the vast array of activities, spectacular beauty and serene ocean setting. The warm and kind staff goes the extra mile to make your visit memorable and ranking high in the happy section of your memory bank.
Although many fortunate visitors are from the Eastern part of the country, the trip we made from California was easy and well worth the long voyage. We flew from San Francisco to Atlanta to Savannah. Savannah has a modern airport and Palmetto Dunes is an easy 45 minute drive.
Savannah is also the home of Paula Deens famous restaurant "A Lady And 3 Sons." It is a real treat to stop and enjoy some real home style Southern Cooking. Reservations are required and the all you can eat lunch buffet is $13.99 and dinner $17.99. Paula also has a store next to the restaurant that sells her books and various kitchen utensils.
When you arrive at Palmetto Dunes the friendly staff warms your spirits with smiles and fresh lemonade. Whether you are staying for 3 days or 3 months, the superior accommodations range from luxury villas up to 4 bedrooms and 4 baths or luxury homes from 3 to 8 bedrooms.
They have spectacular landscaped grounds nestled among the golf courses and on the ocean with all the modern conveniences of home. Additional accommodations are also available at the Marriott and Hilton Hotels located on the property. The Marriott also has a full service spa to get a soothing massage after a hard day on the links.
The resort has a feeling of genuine happiness as you see many of the guests riding bikes around smiling like they were 12 years old again. The resort amenities include "Something For Everyone."
For golfers there are 3 challenging courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, George Fazio and Arthur Hills. Former PGA Tour Pro and "Top Ten In South Carolina" Doug Weaver has a golf academy and offers programs for juniors, men and women. Doug also has a local TV show that is very informative for all skill levels. His knowledgeable, kind and patient demeanor is sure to help you lower your score.
For tennis lovers, Tennis Resorts On Line ranked Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center #2 in the world for "Best Instructional Programs and Events." Top teaching professionals offer daily clinics, camps and equipment to improve your game.
Kayaking is also available for a unique experience. There is a calm 11 mile lagoon system that is very fun. You can also rent bikes and canoes at Adventure Headquarters.
For the fishing enthusiasts, you can use a fly rod or light tackle to catch red fish, trout, or flounder on the salt water lagoon.
Feeling more adventurous? If you are 12 years or older you can learn to surf. Equipment includes 7 feet and 9 feet soft top boards.
Shelter Cove Marina offers the islands best deep sea fishing charters, sports crabbing, dolphin cruises, sailing excursions and nature tours.
Shelter Cove Harbour is perfect for shoppers offering boutiques, art galleries, and is known as Hilton Head's best loved shopping destinations.
Waterfront dining with a wide range of international and gourmet cuisine is available while overlooking Shelter Cove in a relaxed Mediterranean setting. Executive Chef Chris Mark brings 13 years of experience to Palmetto Dunes. He served as the sous Chef at the 5 Diamond Greenbriar Hotels in West Virginia. He also earned gold, silver and bronze medals at the American Culinary Food Competitions. MJ and I were lucky to attend a private dinner which featured some of his great food and famous "Berry Flambe Foster desert."
For your next meeting location, the Palmetto Dunes Conference Center features 4 conference rooms and a small boardroom. It is located next to the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course and the pool deck provides a casual option for entertaining.
Finally the Dunes House offers 800 square feet of covered interior space plus 1000 square feet of ocean decking that can accommodate up to 200 people for weddings or smaller events.
In conclusion, Palmetto Dunes is a warm and friendly resort that offers "Something For Everyone." For additional information or to make it your next vacation or business destination go to
