5 Reasons to Book Your South Carolina Beach Vacation Early
With the holidays complete and much of the country engulfed in winter weather galore, many people are starting to plan their spring or summer South Carolina beach vacation. This is a good thing :)! When you book early, you get the worm!
We’ve got 5 reasons why you should book your beach vacation early to make sure you get the most out of your Hilton Head trip:
1) Savings! The first ( and best!) reason to book early is because you will save money. Who could argue with that?! Right now, Palmetto Dunes is offering 20% off Hilton Head vacation homes or villas plus FREE bikes for stays through 3/15/13. If you’re coming in summer, get 10% off all Hilton Head vacation rentals for stays 3/15-9/1/13, as well as free tennis! When you book your Hilton Head golf tee time in advance, you can save up to HALF off our regular resort rate. Those savings won’t last forever!
2) Take your pick – When you plan ahead of time, you get YOUR pick of Hilton Head vacation homes and Hilton Head golf tee times, as well as for activities such as dolphin cruises, charters, golf and tennis lessons and more.
3) Confirm your reservations – During our peak periods like spring break and the summer months, we often sell out of Hilton Head bike rentals and our most popular tee times and cruise times. By booking now, you can ensure you’ve got all the activities confirmed that your family would like to do ideally at the times you want to do them.
4) Time to plan – Want to take a day trip to Daufuskie Island or down to Savannah, planning to meet your friends from across the country for dinner, not sure whether to drive or fly? Planning now lets you take your time working out all the fine details, lets you research the most cost-saving options and ensures you’ve thoroughly looked into all the options and picked the right ones for your group.
5) Time to dream! – Of course, a big benefit of booking early is plenty of time to dream about your Hilton Head vacation. Snow piling outside the window? No worries! You’ll be in Hilton Head this spring or summer and it will all melt away. If winter’s really got you down, take a look at our webcams to give you a little pep in your step. Your vacation will be here before you know it!
Can we help you plan your spring or summer Hilton Head vacation? Call us today at 866-744-7558 and we’ll make sure you start the planning process early, get the best Hilton Head vacation villa for your needs, reserve plenty of bikes and get in all the activities your family wants to do at the time you want to do them. See you soon!
I’ll Be … Edwin McCain Stops By Hilton Head HarbourFest
Shannon Tanner has been rocking Shelter Cove all summer long during HarbourFest. His show has kids and families singing and dancing and is a Hilton Head summer staple. But last week, the audience got an unexpected surprise. He was joined by a special guest: musician Edwin McCain!
Tanner’s long-time friend took the stage to perform several songs, including his smash “I’ll Be.” McCain also sang a new song he wrote for his daughter called, “I’ll Take That Long Walk with You.” “It’s so much fun for him to come play,” says Tanner, who has a close relationship with McCain and his family, and played a role in helping McCain get his music career started. Tanner booked McCain’s very first gig at Wild Wing Café on the island!
Watch the video below to see a sample:
HarbourFest is the signature summer event at Shelter Cove Harbour, held mid-June through mid-August. The family-friendly festival offers nightly fun and entertainment, and the fireworks show every Tuesday night is extremely popular. This is Tanner’s 24th season playing. He performs Monday-Friday with two shows at 6:30 and 8 p.m. through Labor Day. His show is filled with a variety of children’s and family songs, including lots of sing-a-longs and audience participation.
“This is a very unique show at Hilton Head,” Tanner says. “I’ve been doing it for 24 years and it’s become an integral part of people’s summer memories. That’s not lost on me or taken lightly. I love what I do and I love that kids I played to years ago are now grown up and bringing their kids to see the show.”
Ahoy Mateys!
In addition to enjoying his HarbourFest shows, families can also set sail with Tanner on his Most Excellent Pirate Expedition. The pirate ship sails from Shelter Cove Wednesday and Friday mornings. The morning includes pirate stories, pirate songs and dances, and of course a search for lost pirate treasure. For more information and tickets, please visit www.piratekidzofhiltonhead.com. You can also visit (and “Like”) the Pirate Expedition Facebook page.
Shannon Tanner App
Just because you have to get back to reality after your vacation, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the songs of summer. You can keep up with Tanner’s live performances and new material by downloading the free Shannon Tanner App to your smart phone!
“I get tons of emails and Facebook posts about people who enjoyed my show,” Tanner says. “With this app, they can listen to songs and watch videos. They can see where I’m performing, and even download some free music.”
But there’s nothing like seeing Tanner live, so be sure you catch him at HarbourFest before the season ends. The last fireworks show will be Aug. 14, though Tanner and the ever popular Cappy the Clown will continue to perform at Shelter Cove Harbour through Labor Day. View the complete schedule.
Surf’s Up at Palmetto Dunes: Learn to Surf on Your Hilton Head Vacation
How cool would it be to tell friends and family you learned to surf while on your summer Hilton Head vacation? Maybe even throw around a little lingo, “The waves were waist to head high and glassy.”
The experts at Hilton Head Outfitters at Palmetto Dunes will teach you everything you need to know during a week-long Surf School, from how to paddle and pop-up, to picking the right wave and finding your balance while riding a frothy white wave into shore.
With an emphasis on safety and the basic fundamentals, Hilton Head Outfitters’ surf school is held throughout the summer. The Hilton Head surfing school specializes in teaching kids to surf, but the camp is open to all ages. Entire families have even signed up!
Each day, you’ll spend one and a half hours on the beach in a small group session ($80 p/p). You also can choose from a private lesson for one-on-one instruction ($125 p/p). The staff will help you choose between 7-foot and 9-foot soft-top boards, which are better for learning than a hard fiber glass board.
While on the sand, instructors like Captain Logan will help you learn the basics of paddling out and popping up on the board. They’ll show you the perfect positioning for your feet and work on your balance.
When you’re ready to hit the waves, rest assured, the camp is held in shallow water, which is perfect for youngsters. Wipeouts are totally part of the experience, but when you get in the zone and ride in that first wave, it will be an experience you’ll never forget … and a story you’ll probably tell for ages. Recent surf campers have even been doing headstands on paddleboards and riding tandem together!
Registration is required, but you just need to call (866) 650-4132 to reserve your spots. Need a little more information and inspiration? Watch this fun video below about the camp. You’ll be ready to hang 10 for sure!
Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza Opens at Palmetto Dunes
Palmetto Dunes has come up with a new place for families to unwind inside the resort for breakfast, lunch or dinner or for golfers to enjoy a meal after a round or two of golf. Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers and Pizza overlooking the Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course is now open seven days a week for a casual breakfast, lunch or dinner.
In addition to barbecue, burgers and pizza, we also have plenty of Southern dishes, soups, salads, seafood and steak, as well as a kids’ menu. Not only did we tap the culinary talents of Jim Self, one of the developers of Palmetto Dunes, and his Tennessee slaw and barbecue sauce, we took to heart suggestions from our guests for a spot where families can gather for a relaxing meal that won’t bust the budget.
At Big Jim’s, you’ll find big-screen TVs for catching the latest golf tournament, happy hour specials and live entertainment from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It’s also a perfect vantage point for Tuesday night fireworks launched all summer long as part of HarbourFest at Shelter Cove Harbour.
Big Jim’s is in the heart of the resort close to the beach, Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center and Hilton Head Outfitters. It’s a perfect spot to dine after a day of swimming, playing tennis, kayaking the lagoon or cruising around on bikes. It adds to the mix of restaurants our guests already enjoy: The Dunes House for lunch and dinner, pre- or post-round meals at Arthur’s Grille and the Fazio Grille at our two other golf courses, or fine dining at Alexander’s.
Join us this summer at Big Jim’s for a relaxing meal on our outdoor deck. You can also call us at 843-785-1165 for take out or catering. See you around!
Active Summer Programs for Kids at Palmetto Dunes
Here at Palmetto Dunes, we love families. Nothing lights up our day like seeing a child enjoying the wonders of our resort and summer fun is definitely one of our specialties. After all, we’ve racked up a wall’s worth of plaques naming us one of the world’s best resorts for family vacations.
We have children and teens programs and activities for all ages and all skill levels. Some are a few hours, some a few days. Some are fairly structured, some aren’t. All offer lots of activity and plenty of fun!
For little golfers, try our “Little Swingers” program, which teaches golf basics while singing songs. More intensive is the five-day Palmetto Dunes Junior Golf Academy and, in between, we have clinics for various ages, practice rounds with an instructor and special prices for golfers under age 17 to play our three designer golf courses. We even have Family Golf School, which whole families can do together. Watch the video below to see some little golfers in action.
We’re proud of our tennis programs for the younger set, too. Our tennis clinics start with players ages 4 and up and includes Junior Tennis Camp for ages 9 to 17 and the Junior Grand Slam for tournament-level players. There are lots of clinics, tournaments and practices to choose from, as well. Here’s another great video clip of our tennis program for kids:
We take advantage of the fact we’re on an island, too, with all kinds of boating and fishing activities that set sail from Shelter Cove Marina. You can see science in real life here in Hilton Head. See dolphins up close on our dolphin cruise or learn how to crab with our Lowcountry experts. How about family ski day where you have your choice of ski instruction, kneeboarding or tubing or let them try out paddleboarding with a few lessons in our calm inland lagoon system.
No matter what strikes your kids’ fancy, they’re sure to find something at Palmetto Dunes that will keep boredom at bay, as well as keeping them active and engaged during your Hilton Head vacation.
Get to Know: CaptainTrent Malphrus
If you’re looking for a fishing guide, lesson and just someone to talk fish with, Trent Malphrus, we like to call him “Captain Trent,” is your man! He’s been fishing since he could walk and started working as a guide when he was 12 years old.
Growing up on Hilton Head Island, Trent had some of the best fishing surrounding him and he literally knows every nook and cranny of our waterways. We’re so pleased to say he truly believes the best Hilton Head fishing is in our 11-mile lagoon system!
February is a tough month to catch inshore fish so we’re thrilled that March is only a few days away! Trent says that March is just the beginning of some of the best fishing for the year. The longer days and shorter nights lets the fish know spring is on its way and the water begins to warm up slowly but surely.
What Trent is most interested in is all the live bait still left in the creeks. Since the winter was not cold enough for the bait to migrate to warmer water, they have remained here in Hilton Head’s creeks. What he does know is that our lagoon system will start to see Black Drum, Red Fish and Speckled Trout, all for you to catch!
The lagoon system in Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort holds some of the biggest trout on the east coast and there’s a lot of them. Trent’s largest catch ever was in the lagoon, a Red Drum that weighed in more than 50 pounds!
Captain Trent has worked with people of all ages and can help anyone reel in a big one. When his son was just 3 years old, Trent helped him snag a Red Trout and Black Drum. His oldest client was a 91-year-old fly fisherman who caught three Tarpon, which Trent says was an amazing experience.
Want to know more about Trent? Head over to Hilton Head Outfitters and set up a fishing excursion with him. It’s well worth it!
Wildlife Abound in Hilton Head
The people of Hilton Head have worked hard to preserve the beautiful beaches and landscape and it’s apparent in the amount of wildlife that inhabit our Island. From the ocean to the lagoon to the marsh, there are amazing creatures that love Hilton Head as much as we do! Let us give you a sneak peek into some of the wildlife you could come across on your next vacation.
Birds Galore
When you get off your plane or out of your car, look to the sky and you’re sure to see birds everywhere. From seagulls to the beautiful ibis, Hilton Head is full of winged friends. Shelter Cove Harbour and other piers will have brown pelicans waiting to glide above the water looking for a small fish dinner. While sun tanning or playing on the beach, you’re likely to see large birds like ospreys or even bald eagles.
Spot a Gator, But Leave Him Alone
One of the beset known reptiles on Hilton Head is the alligator. They mainly live within lagoon systems so we’ve seen quite a few here at Palmetto Dunes, but if you leave them alone, they won’t bother you. You might even see one lazing in the sun off the side of one of our golf courses.
A Rainbow of Fish
The lagoon is also full of large, beautiful fish, such as red fish, trout, bluefish, black drum, flounder and even tarpon. The smooth, calm waters of the lagoon system make fishing and crabbing excursions fun and successful at the same time.
The Friendly Dolphin
Head into the big water on one of our dolphin cruises to catch a glimpse of their majestic beauty. Many of our dolphins are very people friendly and may swim alongside the boat or come up to the boat for a bite to eat. We’ve even heard tales of dolphins coming right up to people in our marsh creeks. You could swim with dolphins without even planning it! But always remember, they are wild animals.
Turtles and More
During the spring and early summer, if you walk the beach at night you might see a loggerhead momma turtle waddling up to the dunes creating a nest for her babies. Hilton Head has laws to protect the little guys and to make sure they have a safe hatching season and can make it to the ocean.
There are plenty more animals on the Island, like deer, frogs, toads and plenty of crustaceans. So the next time you’re here, take a minute to look around you and enjoy all the wildlife surrounding you on our beautiful island.
Let’s Go Shopping at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
There’s some great shopping throughout Hilton Head but within Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort there are some must see shops.
Shelter Cove Harbour doesn’t just host HarbourFest, Shannon Tanner and summertime fireworks; it’s also the home of a variety of interesting shopping. Located on beautiful Broad Creek, the waterfront shopping at Shelter Cove Harbour makes for a fun day! Here are some of the stores you need to peruse the next time you’re in town.
Clothing and Accessories
Camp Hilton Head- This cute store has great Hilton Head hats, tees and beach bags. If you’re looking for a vacation souvenir, this is the place.
Neptune’s Kids- Carries a wide variety of clothing, games and gifts for kids of all ages. Your children will surely fall in love with this store.
Taffeta- If you’re looking for a beautiful outfit for a special night out or want to check out the latest fashions from Europe, come on in.
Home and Garden
Christmas on the Harbour- Get in the holiday spirit year round with some of the best Christmas decorations like ornaments, nativities and holiday stem wear.
Neptune’s Niche- Unique home and garden accessories as well as a selection of glassware, artwork, jewelry, woodwork, ironwork, pottery and textiles by Lowcountry artists.
Art and Photography
The Golf & Boat Club/ Bolton Smith Gallery- Original artwork by R. Bolton Smith and resort wear.
LaBelle Image Fine Art Gallery- A popular art gallery featuring original work by artist Richard Riverin and unique art to complement the existing décor of your home.
Legacy Design Photographers- Looking to capture your family vacation memories? The team at Legacy can create beautiful images of your children, engagement photos or family reunions!
Nash Gallery- This gallery showcases some beautiful wood, metal, glass, ceramic and handmade jewelry from North American artists.
Salon
Salon Shelter Cove- If you’re looking for a new do, a blow out or even a Keratin treatment while in town, this salon will help you out. Walk-ins welcome!
Shelter Cove has something for everyone and we hope you spend a day walking in the sun from store to store enjoying the day. Don’t forget that there are also 7 wonderful restaurants for you to sit and have lunch and dinner! What’s your favorite store in Hilton Head?
Wake up in Hilton Head with a Great Cup of Coffee
Close your eyes and imagine yourself waking up to no alarm clock, throwing on your flip flops and sitting on your porch to enjoy your morning with a hot cup of coffee. Doesn’t that sound pretty amazing? We know that even on vacation many enjoy starting their morning off with a great cup of “joe” and we want to help you find the perfect coffee shop on Hilton Head.
For those of you who don’t want to leave Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, we totally understand and that’s why our homes and villas come with a coffee pot in them. You bring your favorite brand of beans and let the coffee pot do the rest. If you’d like to take a little morning walk or bike ride, The General Store serves up a great cup of coffee, and if you’re the first to check-in on Foursquare in the morning, you could get your cup for free! Both hotels located in Palmetto Dunes also have wonderful breakfast buffets and plenty of coffee.
If you’d like to get out and about in Hilton Head, here are some great local coffee shops to try:
- Frosty’s in Shelter Cove Harbour doesn’t just serve Italian Ice and fudge, they also pour a great cup of coffee.
- If you’re a Starbucks addict, you can get your fix on Hilton Head! There’s one in the Piggly Wiggly on Shelter Cove Lane, as well as bigger stores with seating and WiFi on either end of the island, including one at 430 Highway 278 and the other at 11 Palmetto Bay Road.
- Pino Gelato won Hilton Head’s Small Business of the Year award in 2010 and they’re still going strong! Beyond amazing gelato, crepes and cannolis, they serve espresso and coffee drinks!
- If you’re headed to Coligny Plaza, try Java Joe’s, Sweet Carolina Cupcakes or Ronnie’s Bakery at Coligny! All three locations serve up a mean cup of joe.
We hope to help you wake up each morning of your Hilton Head vacation with the best jolt possible. Do you have a favorite coffee shop here in Hilton Head that we didn’t mention? We’d love to hear!
10 Insider Tips from the Palmetto Dunes Team
From the golf course to where to eat and drink we’ve compiled tips and information from the staff at Palmetto Dunes to help you get the most out of your visit to our resort.
Golf
- “Golf shots at Palmetto Dunes Resort feel different than in many parts of the country for two reasons: the grass is different and so is the soil.” – Doug Weaver, Head of Golf Instruction
- “When putting on Bermuda grass at Palmetto Dunes Resort, you have to consider the grain of the grass, which is influenced by slope, sunset and nearby water. Lessons with the instruction staff can lead to significantly improved putting.” – Doug Weaver, Head of Golf Instruction
Tennis
- “Guests at the resort don’t have to travel with their racquets. Our demo racquets are available for use in all our clinics, lessons and round robins and can even be rented for personal play.” - Brian Kiggans, Head Tennis Professional
- “Starting the first Monday in March, the Tennis Center begins their Monday Night Pro Exhibitions at 5:30 p.m. During that time, we offer a discount on retail merchandise in the Pro Shop. Starting the first Tuesday in March, the Tennis Center kicks off Demo Days at 2 p.m. and demo day discounts are offered as well.” – Jackie Reynecke, Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center
Dining
- “It’s 5 o’clock and you’re on the beach; just walk directly up to The Dunes House and enjoy a beachy cocktail. No shoes required!” – Chris Fleury, Director of Food & Beverage
- “You have to try the fried chicken, green beans and macaroni at The General Store. They cook all items fresh each morning!” – Frank Gaston, The General Store and Hilton Head Outfitters
- “The grill at the Arthur Hills Course makes Liz’s homemade New England clam chowder daily! It’s delicious.” – Amelia Johnston, Marketing Coordinator
Activities
- “When the weather is warm, the best time to go fishing is in the morning; you’re bound to get more bites. Also, a great tip for fishing inshore during the colder months is that the first quarter and last quarter moon produce more fish.” – Captain Trent Malphrus , Palmetto Lagoon Charters
- “When you book your accommodations through Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, you get the best deal on the whole island on golf, bikes, tennis, kayaks and so much more.” – Karen Morris, Director of Sales
Misc
- “Visit the Rotunda, also known as the Welcome Center. We have an on-site concierge available seven days a week to answer all your Hilton Head questions.” – Jennifer Carlin, Revenue Manager
If you’ve never stayed with us before, feel free to ask us any questions you have by emailing customerservice@palmettodunes.com or you can “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and we’ll answer your questions there.
Do you have a great tip for visiting Palmetto Dunes?
Palmetto Dunes is Gearing Up for Spring and Summer in Hilton Head
We’ve heard from so many of you who are already counting down the days, weeks or months until you hit the beaches here in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Spring break is right around the corner for most and summer will be right behind! We’re getting just as pumped as y’all about the beach season and to get you even more in the mood, we’ve come up with a list of must-do activities while you’re visiting us at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort.
One of the most beloved Palmetto Dunes locations, The Dunes House, plans to re-open in late February, just in time to feed the spring breakers and summer vacationers the best fish tacos and drinks around with an unbeatable oceanfront view.
March not only brings us the spring breakers but also the Tennis Welcome Exhibition and Happy Hour and Demo Days. Every Monday night at 5:30 p.m., we get our employees and guests together to enjoy cocktails and lemonade while watching our tennis pros play on Centre Court. If you really enjoy tennis, then our Tuesday 2 p.m. Demo Days is the perfect way to test the newest equipment and ask our pros any technical questions you may have.
Summertime brings lots of activities unique to Palmetto Dunes like stand up paddle boarding and our amazing surf school. Learning to paddle board can be tough in the ocean waves so we provide lessons on our calm 11-mile lagoon system!
Our surf school has taught tons of people to hang-10 over the past few years and it’s back this year to teach a whole new crew. Even if you’ve never even attempted to stand on a board, our instructors will have you surfing before you know it. Just check out these young surfers.
Summer wouldn’t be complete without HarbourFest at Shelter Cove Harbour and nightly performances by Shannon Tanner, a Hilton Head summer tradition that families return to enjoy year after year.
We can’t wait to see you all this year and hope you’ll enjoy all the Palmetto Dunes classics, while also trying a new activity or event! Oh, and you might have so much fun that you see fireworks!
Sail Away in Hilton Head with Palmetto Dunes
When most people think about Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort they think about the beautiful beaches, three amazing golf courses, miles of paved bike paths and exceptional tennis. While we’re incredibly proud to be known for all of these activities, we also want you to take advantage of our many sailboat charters out of Shelter Cove Harbour just across the road. We have two exquisite sailboats and three fun filled cruises that will please the whole family.
The Schooner “Welcome” offers a variety of options, including a relaxing sunset cocktail and hors d’oeuvres cruise ideal for catching the marsh breeze and enjoying the amazing views of Hilton Head. For those interested in the wildlife surrounding our island, the Eco Cruise is for you. Hitting the seas each afternoon allows you to encounter a wide variety of marine wildlife like sea turtles, marsh birds and majestic dolphins. Finally, the “Welcome” provides a fun-filled family experience with the Pirates Adventure Cruise. Sail the high seas with a pirate as your guide while learning to hoist the sails and steer the ship. Ahoy matey, it’s a good time indeed!
If you’re looking for a more private sailboat charter, we have the smaller 40-foot “Special-K”. Take your time sailing around Hilton Head Island with an experienced captain and crew. Whether you’re interested in learning more about how to sail or you want to surprise your spouse with a romantic private ride, the “Special-K” is a great choice.
The next time you’re in Hilton Head consider taking an adventure to the high seas and come aboard one of our fabulous sailboat charters!
Get the Family Together in Hilton Head, South Carolina
January is the month where many Americans are gung-ho with their list of New Year’s resolutions. Lots of people are hitting the gym and checking out the health food isles at the grocery store, but we’ve also heard many people say they also resolve to spend more time with family. If you’ve been trying to get your immediate, or extended, family together for a while or want to plan a family reunion, why get the gang together at Palmetto Dunes?
Between our beautiful homes and villas, three world-renowned golf courses, tennis, bikes, fishing, shopping and the beach, every person in your family will be happy and entertained. What many people don’t realize when deciding where to stay Hilton Head is that when you stay with Palmetto Dunes, you get the best deals available on all the activities at the resort, as well as lagoon activities and boat charters out of Shelter Cove Harbour. You also get two free hours of tennis time each day!
Shelter Cove Harbour, just across the road from the resort, is also a great place to take the fam, because there are plentiful restaurants to enjoy each night and a variety of shops to peruse. Our group planners can even help create a special dinner at The Dunes House or a more formal party to celebrate your family reunion.
So, ring up your family, start matching up calendars and settle on a date. Then give us a ring at 866-744-7558 or click here and we’ll handle the rest.
We hope to see your whole gang here soon!
Travel Tips for 2012
We’re gearing up to see lots of people on the Island and throughout our resort in the next several months. Between Valentine’s romantic getaways, spring break travelers and summer vacationers, we’re going to be seeing lots of you.
But you’ve got to get here first and so we’ve gathered some great tips on packing, as well as traveling with children to help you get here without a hitch.
Packing tips for the pros:
- Ladies protect your bras by using these cleaver cases by CupCase. This way you won’t have to bend the underwire or worry about creases. They’re stylish too and can be put in the suitcase or carried alone as a bag.
- If you don’t want the soles of your shoes to touch your clothes while in your suitcase, place them in a cheap shower cap.
- Pack your bikinis in one of these cute bags so they’re easy to find and they’re also waterproof so you can pack wet suits at the end of your trip.
- Pack baby powder because it’s known to get sand off your skin quickly and easily!
- Also, don’t worry about packing your beach chairs, umbrellas or fishing rods because Hilton Head Outfitters has all of those for rent!
Here are also just a few awesome traveling with children tips:
- Want to pack healthy strawberries as a snack but don’t want the mess with the kids biting the tops off? Go ahead hull strawberries quickly with just a plastic straw!
- If your kids love cut apples but they brown too quickly, cut the apple and while it’s still all together place a rubber band around it to prevent browning.
- It seems like everyone has an iPad and iPhone these days and here’s a great lists of travel game apps that will certainly keep the kids -- young and old -- busy!
Do you have any great packing tips or ideas for traveling with kids? Please share! We hope to see lots of you in the next several months!
Celebrate Gullah Traditions in Hilton Head
The Gullah culture is all around us here in Hilton Head but it’s in full bloom each February when we celebrate Gullah Heritage month. Gullah is more than a language or the name of the people; it’s a way to preserve the traditions and struggles of those West Africans who were brought to South Carolina and Georgia as slaves.
Since 1996, The Gullah Celebration has been celebrating and honoring all things Gullah on our Island by holding daily events from February 1- 25. The overall goal of the Celebration is to raise awareness and funds to support minority-owned businesses and to bring this historic culture to tourists.
Each event showcases an aspect of the Gullah culture, such as food, music, arts and history. You’ll be amazed at the beautiful voices of Gospel singers, the intricate weavings of sweetgrass to make a basket and the amazing tales coming from a group of storytellers.
Put on by the Native Island Business and Community Affairs Association, Inc. and Native Islanders Property Owners Association, these events are sure to provide entertainment for your whole family. Saturday, February 4 will bring one of the most popular events, The Taste of Gullah, which gives you the opportunity to taste classic Gullah dishes for only $10.
Many events are free and open to the public, and we hope you’ll check out the complete list of all the happenings during Gullah Celebration Month. If you’ll be with us in February, be sure to make time taking in a little bit of the history that truly makes Hilton Head something special!
Hilton Head Weddings at Palmetto Dunes
It’s said that 1 in 5 grooms propose to their wife each holiday season. With all the love and joy in the air between Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year’s, it’s no surprise to us! If you’re one of the lucky couples who’ve decided to head to wedded bliss this holiday season, you might want to consider a Hilton Head wedding as the perfect place to tie the knot.
Whether you want a quiet beachfront affair surrounded by close friends and family or a lavish event in a beautifully-decorated venue with hundred of guests, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort can help. Anne Graves, our catering and events manager can make your wedding dreams come true. If you’d like to see some of the beautiful Palmetto Dunes weddings we’ve had throughout the resort, take a look at our online testimonials.
We also encourage you to keep connected with us on Facebook and Twitter as one bride, Marie, did. She was able to ask questions each day the week in advance of her Hilton Head wedding on Twitter, tweet us updates on the excitement while they were in town and then post all their amazing pictures on Facebook and Twitter to share with our online family. We enjoyed Marie’s wedding both online and offline!
We hope to hear from all you newly-engaged couples so we can help create your dream wedding. Please give Anne a call at 866.650.4130 or you can fill out a request form. Happy wedding planning from all of us at Palmetto Dunes!
Celebrate Winter With Activities at Hilton Head’s Palmetto Dunes
While most of the country is bundling up and sitting by their fireplaces, here at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort we’re out and about playing in 70-degree weather. From tennis and golf to fishing and kayaking, the activities don’t slow down here in Hilton Head when winter rolls in. To keep our winter visitors, active we’ve got some great seasonal deals for the tennis, golf or outdoors fanatic.
Hilton Head Outfitters is offering unlimited biking, kayaking and canoeing throughout the winter. For $49 per person you can rent a bike for the whole month or you can buy a bike for 25% off! Guests can also buy a year membership for $300 per couple or $199 per person, and enjoy unlimited kayak and canoe rentals!
Winter is actually the best time to start fishing in our lagoon system, because red fish, speckled sea trout and sheephead are bountiful. Head on over to Shelter Cove Harbour to take one of the many fishing charters with Captain Trent Malphrus. You’re sure to reel in a big one!
If tennis is more up your alley, you can purchase a monthly membership through February for only $200 per person that includes two hours of court time per day. Finally, if you’d like to play with us AND stay with us, we’ve got a 30-night resort accommodations package that includes golf, bikes, kayaks and tennis starting at only $1,200 per person. We think that’s a deal!
Call us 866-744-7558 and find out all the ways you can save this winter season!
Christmas + Vacations = Some Great Holiday Movies
December is a month full of shopping, decorating, eating and being with family. Watching movies together is a holiday tradition for many families who gather and watch the same flick year after year. Here at Palmetto Dunes some of our favorite holiday movies are, of course, based around a vacation! Check out our list and see if any of our favs are on your list too!
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) - This is the ultimate holiday vacation movie that will have the whole family in hysterics! The Griswolds prepare for Christmas by inviting their entire family to their home. As all the family members arrive from their travels you quickly see the Griswol’s genuinely just have the worst luck!
Home Alone (1990) - A true holiday classic, Home Alone is based on the McAllister family and their decision to vacation in Paris, France for Christmas. Things go haywire for their son, Kevin, when he’s left home alone on accident. While being home without his whole family seems incredibly fun at first, Kevin ends up spending Christmas Eve protecting his house from two crazy burglars!
The Holiday (2006) - If you and your family are more into romantic comedies, then this contemporary Christmas movie will do the trick. Two heartbroken women decide to switch houses in different countries for the holiday. Iris leaves her home in London to move into Amanda’s LA home, and Amanda travels to London to stay at Iris’ cottage. Both women might start their season off with boy-troubles but by Christmas they have both fallen in love!
So, hit the TV guide, Red Box, Netlfix or your movie collection and enjoy. Happy Holidays!
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort: A Brief History
We thought it would be fun to share a little bit of history about the resort that so many of you call home, home away from home or vacation heaven.
It all started for Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort back in 1967 with the first major project being the development of the lagoon system. One year later, in 1968, development began on our championship Robert Trent Jones golf course
The early 70’s brought the addition of the Inn Villas, Beach Villas, Water Oak Villas, the Chimney Cove development and the groundbreaking of the Hyatt Hotel. In 1973, the Fazio course was started and the Jones pro shop was expanded. The following year our wonderful Tennis Center was completed and the end of the 70’s allowed us to finish Ocean Cove Villas, Turnberry Village and the Fazio Tennis Courts. We ended the decade with the acquisition by Greenwood Development Corporation.
The 80’s brought more growth in our accommodation arena by adding Captain’s Walk, Captain’s Cove, St. Andrew’s Common and more. In 1980 construction began on Shelter Cove Marina, making it an exciting year for us! Three years later came the dedication of Shelter Cove Harbour and the popular King Neptune sundial, the largest working figurative sundial in the world... In 1986, the Arthur Hills Course opened, completing our acclaimed, award-winning golf trifecta.
Over the past ten years, the resort built a new Tennis Center in 2001, and in 2002, the Robert Trent Jones course was completely renovated.
Look how far we’ve come since 1967! Who knows what will be in our future, but we look forward to all the great things to come and providing our guests with more activities than ever.
Palmetto Dunes Holiday Gift Guide: The Perfect Tennis Bag for Women
Lots of women come through the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center each year, and one complaint that we’ve heard a lot is about their tennis bags. They are often too large and bulky for the average woman to haul around. That’s why we started carrying the very stylish and sleek Life Is Tennis JETPAC bag.
Designed by a female tennis player for women, these bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes while also allowing you to pick from lots of fun patterns. The Winter collection provides prints such as Enchantment, Reptilian and Silver Vogue. Here at Palmetto Dunes we carry many different styles, including small and large slings, as well as totes.
So this holiday season give the gift that will make dreams of days spent in our tennis clinics and nights spent on our lighted tennis courts. The Life Is Tennis bag is a must-give this holiday season for all the lady tennis players in your life!
Palmetto Dunes Holiday Gift Guide: The Perfect Fishing Shirt
Reel in the right holiday gift this year for the fishing fanatic in your life. The Palmetto Dunes Ships Store has the perfect fishing shirt: Bonehead by Columbia. The Bonehead collection is made of cotton poplin, creating that lived-in comfort feeling. It also features mesh-lined vents on the shoulders to help keep you cool when you’re reeling in the big one!
For those super sunny fishing days, you can always use the hook and loop on the collar to keep the sun off your neck. If all these features aren’t enough, there’s also a hook and loop closed fly pocket at the chest, a utility loop, a rod holder loop and a tool holder all on this shirt to help keep your hands free to work with your rod lines and lures.
This amazing shirt is available for men and women, short and long sleeve and in several colors. If you order or pick up this gift before December 31, you can also take advantage of a 20% discount at The Ships Store.
Stocking Stuffer Special: If you need a fishing stocking stuffer to go with the Bonehead shirt by Columbia, you should pick up a Tervis tumbler. We have a large selection of cups, lids and handles here in Hilton Head!
Holiday Happenings on Hilton Head Island
It’s quickly becoming that time of year when you sit at the table to give thanks, hear holiday music on the radio and spend hours of your weekend wrapping gifts. The holidays are full of fun here on Hilton Head Island, and if you’re planning a trip here before 2012, you won’t be bored or disappointed.
The holiday excitement begins with Thanksgiving here at The Dunes House in Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. We’re serving up a traditional style Thanksgiving Day feast so if you’d be thankful for no cooking and no clean up, this is the perfect option for your family! If you’re staying that weekend, The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina is hosting the Community Christmas Tree Lighting to move us directly into the Santa spirit.
Come celebrate this joyful season with us at Shelter Cove Harbour Friday, November 25 by getting your picture with Santa, live entertainment and even free ornaments from Christmas on the Harbour for the first 200 children. The fun continues into Saturday with holiday sales and amazing deals from many of the shops in Shelter Cove.
Want to feel like you’re walking in a winter wonderland while you’re here on the Island? Then the Hilton Head Winter Wonder Festival on December 9 is a must-add to your calendars. From 4-8 p.m. at Shelter Cove Park, you can roast marshmallows, create holiday crafts or even hunt for the golden candy cane. This event is a wonderful family-friendly festival that allows parents and grandparents to come for free with their children!
For more information on events happening while you’re here on a fabulous winter vacation, click here!
Palmetto Dunes Holiday Gift Guide: The Perfect Getaway
It might be freezing outside and you’re thinking more about wearing scarves than swimsuits but this Christmas why not get the family a present that will warm everyone’s heart? A trip to Hilton Head Island!
Here at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort you can find the perfect home or villa located near the ocean, golf course or lagoon depending on how your loved ones want to spend their vacation.
2118 Windsor Place has an oceanfront view and plenty of space for your whole family. The large open balcony is a great place to drink your coffee in the morning or wind down at night to the sound of tbhe ocean breeze. Enjoy views of the ocean from your private balcony overlooking an oceanfront pool with a spa, barbecue area and children's pool.
We know that many families love to gather in the kitchen and this unit has a spacious kitchen that’s open to the living and dining room. Another great feature is that all four bedrooms have their own private bathroom, making it easy for everyone to clean up and get ready after a day in the sand. The Arthur Hills golf course is a short walk away for all the golfers in the family, and you can enjoy two hours of free tennis court time each day you stay with us!
So call us now at 866-744-7558 and get the whole family a gift they will truly enjoy. Also, when you book early, you’re eligible for some really amazing deals!
Find Your Way Around Hilton Head Island
We don’t want your vacation in Hilton Head to feel like an episode of Gilligan’s Island or Lost. We know that sometimes it can be confusing to get around the Island, and we want to provide you with the best Hilton Head maps to help you navigate the perfect vacation.
If you’re looking for a general map of Hilton Head Island, try the Chamber. Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort and Shelter Cove Harbour are located directly in the middle of Hilton Head Island off of 278 West. Once you make it in the resort, the Welcome Center can provide you with helpful maps of the resort, Shelter Cove or directions to any location on the Island.
For those who want to prepare in advance, we have several maps that will let you know your location at all times. If you’re staying with us at Palmetto Dunes, we have maps for each section of the resort from the villas at Windsor Place to Captains Quarters. If you’re coming to participate in many of the activities, we provide this map can help you get to all three golf courses, Hilton Head Outfitters and even the Conference Centers. We even have a special map for all the bikers out there outlining all the biking trails on the entire Island!
So the next time you’re here don’t spend any of your time wondering how to get to Shelter Cove Harbour or The Dunes House, let us do the work for you!
Palmetto Dunes Highlights: Austin DeGroot
Here at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort we love our guests! Whether you stay with us year-round, visit for a week or come for the day to enjoy our activities we value you all. One special guest, Austin, touched our hearts when he came for a fishing excursion with Captain Trent Malphrus.
For more than six years, Austin has been battling acute lymphocyte leukemia, which he was diagnosed with at 8 years old. After three years of treatments, his love of basketball was taken from him but a newfound passion for hunting, fishing and music was awakened inside him. The Make-A-Wish foundation granted his wish and sent the DeGroot family to Hawaii on a deep-sea fishing adventure. Due to strong winds and intense waves, they were unable to go on the fishing trip.
Since then the family has found their outdoor retreat a little closer to home, here in Hilton Head Island. They’ve been coming to the island for the past five years and Austin has gone after the “big catch” each year. On the last visit they came to visit us at Hilton Head Outfitters and we set them up with fishing extraordinaire, Captain Trent. Finally, Austin was able to reel in the big one: a redfish!
After a great day on the Palmetto Dunes lagoon fishing, Austin said “Mom, my life is fulfilled I've done everything I've ever wanted to do!” We’re very thankful to have been a part of Austin’s big day and great catch and hope to see the DeGroot family on the island for many more years to come!
Spend Thanksgiving at Palmetto Dunes
There are so many things to be thankful for here in Hilton Head, South Carolina. The gorgeous weather, the beach, fishing, biking, great golf and tennis and all the amazing people! If you’re looking to skip the early snow this year and have a warm Thanksgiving, come celebrate with us at Palmetto Dunes. The average temperature here in November is upper 60’s to mid 70’s, making it great weather to hit one of our three golf courses, walk the beach or to play tennis all day!
Thanksgiving Day will be celebrated in a big way at our beach front restaurant, The Dunes House! On Thanksgiving, Nov. 25, from 11 am - 5 pm you can enjoy a huge Thanksgiving buffet your grandmother would be proud of. You can also pre-order a meal for carry-out. Just call us at 843-686-9623 or email us at carryout@palmettodunes.com. The best part is you don’t have to cook or clean up when you’re done!
The buffet is $27.95 per person plus tax and gratuity and $13.95 for kids 12 and younger. Here is the menu for Turkey Day:
Thanksgiving Menu at The Dunes House:
Mix Greens Salad with House Dressings
New England Clam Chowder
Citrus Brined Deep Fried Tom Turkey
Oven Roasted Organic Free Range Turkey
Corn Bread Stuffing
Green Bean Casserole
Honey Glazed Baked Bone in Spiral Ham
Miss Liz's Three Cheese Mac and Cheese
Candied Yams
Garlic Mash Yukon Gold Potatoes
Fennel and Rosemary Crusted Prime Rib
Desserts include: Frankie Mae's Famous Pumpkin Pie, Keylime Pie,
Southern Bourban Pecan Pie, Sweet Potatoe Pie and Cookies.
Regular menu will not be served at this time.
We’ll also be hosting a holiday kick-off celebration the day after Thanksgiving and we’ll be sharing information soon with all the details. Whether you join us or celebrate at home, happy Turkey Day!
Get Your Sweat On: Where to Work Out in Hilton Head Island
You work hard to stay in shape when you’re at home, and you certainly don’t want to let all that hard work go to waste by stopping on vacation. No worries. When you come to Palmetto Dunes, we’ve got you covered. Hilton Head Island is the perfect place to run, bike or even try something new, like beachfront yoga! Here are some options to help you return with the same, or better, beach bod that you arrived with:
Hilton Head Outfitters offers a wide variety of bicycles to rent. Guests can bike through the smooth streets, which are perfect for a calm, breezy ride. If you’re up for more of a challenge, try a vigorous ride on the beach, which can burn up to 500 calories an hour! Another Palmetto Dunes activity that really gets the blood flowing is Cardio Tennis!
If you are a yoga enthusiast, you’ve got plenty to choose from. With many yoga studios around the island, you’re sure to find the right fit! Our favorite is oceanfront yoga. What could be a better workout than practicing poses with the waves crashing serenely in the background? Beach Yoga is available in front of the Dunes House on Palmetto Dunes taught by Pamela Eaton.
If you’re interested in visiting a more traditional gym, there are several on the island to try. We have an Anytime Fitness, Beach City Health and Fitness and Players Club Fitness Center to name a few. But, if you’re looking for an awesome challenge we suggest trying CrossFit. Our own tennis maven, Jackie, attends each morning and highly recommends it!
So whether you’re into tennis, biking, running or lifting here in Hilton Head Island, we’ve got all you need to get your sweat on! Let us know if you try any of our suggestions and how they “work out”.
Great Beach Books for Kids
Are your kids dreaming of their spring or summer spent at Palmetto Dunes? Reading a book about the beach is a great way to bring those memories to mind, while encouraging a love of reading at the same time.
Head to the library or the bookstore and turn it into a fun outing as you look for your “beach book.” Here are a few children’s books set at the beach that we highly recommend.
- Great for younger children, Seashells by the Seashore by Marianne Berkes, tells the tale of a little girl collecting seashells at the beach. Filled with colorful illustrations, the book teaches children to count the shells the girl collects.
- At the Beach is another great beach-inspired read. Written by Anne and Harlow Rockwell, this book is a fun way to excite your child for an upcoming vacation to the beach. It’s full of images explaining all the many activities you’ll enjoy by the sea.
- Perhaps our favorite pick takes place not exactly at the beach, but in the ocean itself. The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister is a classic for children of all ages. The spectacular illustrations combined with a great moral about sharing make this a must-read!
So cozy up with your little ones this fall and dream of days at beach. Happy reading!
Let Palmetto Dunes Inspire Your Halloween Costume
Halloween is in just two short weeks, which leaves little time to find a costume. For those who are super busy and don’t want to spend a lot of time or money on a cool get-up for Halloween, we’ve got you covered with some Palmetto Dunes-inspired costumes for the whole family!
1. Dad as a golfer:
-polo shirt
-khaki shorts/pants
-golf shoes
-sweater to tie around your neck
-golf glove
2. Mom as a tennis player:
-tennis skirt/dress
- visor
-tennis shoes
-racket
3. Child as a Surfer:
-bathing suit
-cover up
-surfboard: can be made out of cardboard and painted by your child
-shell necklace or a lei
4. Toddler as a Sea Turtle:
- green hooded sweatshirt
- green sweatpants
- 2 large sheets of dark green felt
- light green and tan felt
- 2 large googly eyes
- pillow stuffing or newspaper
- fabric glue
This costume requires a little more work than the other three but is still very easy and super inexpensive to create. Follow these simple steps from HGTV and don’t be afraid to get a little creative with it!
These are just a couple ideas that are fun and can be pulled together with items in your closet. Got more cheap and easy costume ideas? Tweet us an idea or a picture @PalmettoDunesSC or post to our Facebook page!
Palmetto Dunes Highlight: The General Store
Visiting Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort and need to stock up on groceries for the week? Look no further than the Resort’s own Palmetto Dunes General Store! Palmetto Dunes General Store, located at 1 Trent Jones Lane, is a great place to pick up anything you need for your Hilton Head vacation.
Open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., Palmetto Dunes General Store has everything you need from groceries to a fine selection of cigars. It’s the island’s one-stop-shop with something for everyone. The store offers a large selection of ice cream and candy for those young at heart. And for those with more discerning tastes, Palmetto Dunes General Store has a great wine and beer section. The store is even the perfect place to pick up a few gifts! It’s always stocked with T-shirts and hats that make great souvenirs.
The Palmetto Dunes General Store is not just your average market. It also offers some delicious meals. Breakfast and lunch are served every day starting at 6 am. The store has a large menu full of Southern classics and unique specialties. Stop by for a homemade cinnamon roll or have a plate of the “Best Fried Chicken” on the island.
The Palmetto Dunes General Store is the best place on the island to pick up anything you may need for your stay. We hope to see y’all there!
Golf with an Ocean View: Robert Trent Jones Golf Course Profile
Our Robert Trent Jones Course was the first golf course built at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, and it’s a favorite of many. In fact readers of Golfweek magazine voted it among their favorite courses in the Southeast. The course offers 18 holes, 11 of which wind alongside an 11-mile lagoon system. The Jones course is most famous for its par-five 10th oceanfront hole, one of only two on the Island.
Built in 1967 by Robert Trent Jones and significantly reconstructed in 2002 by longtime protégé Roger Rulewich, this course aims to please. After reshaping tees, elevating fairways and improving the drainage system, the course re-opened and was named the 2003 Golf Course of the Year by the South Carolina Golf Course Owners Association and is ranked four stars by Golf Digest. The Jones course plays 7,005 yards from the championship tees.
And that’s not all! The course also claims the largest pro-shop at Palmetto Dunes, and one of the largest on the Island. From Nike and Adidas to Burberry and Travis Mathew, we have it all. After you purchase those new clubs make sure you hit our free custom club fitting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday! We hope to “tee” you soon.
The Bayou Comes to Hilton Head Island
Got a hankering for a Louisiana PoBoy or some authentic Cajun gumbo? Hilton Head Island may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of these down-home delicacies; however, this month, The Island Recreation Association will be bringing the Bayou to us!
Starting at 11 a.m. on October 15, Shelter Cove Community Park will turn into Bourbon Street for the annual Cajun Food Festival. The fest is chock full of fun for the whole family. There will be Cajun cuisine sure to please everyone from fried oysters to red beans and rice.
Keep your children happy by letting them hit the “Kid’s Zone”, complete with moon bounces, arts and crafts. While the kids are having a blast, don’t forget to visit the Outdoor Business Expo, which is new to this year’s festival. During the Expo, businesses from around the area will be showcasing new products and services throughout the day.
Proceeds from the Cajun Food Festival will benefit the Island Recreation Association’s Scholarship Fund, which assures that every child, regardless of financial hardship, will be able to participate in recreation. Good food, good people and a good cause? What more reason is there to check out this year’s Cajun Food Festival? For more information visit www.islandreccenter.org or call (843) 681-7273. We hope to see you at our version of the Bayou!
Bluffton Arts and Seafood Festival, A Great Daytrip for Palmetto Dunes Visitors
Hilton Head is full of events, activities and wonderful restaurants, but we’re also only a short drive from historic Bluffton, S.C. The week of October 16-23 will bring the perfect opportunity to visit Hilton Head and check out the Bluffton Arts and Seafood Festival too! In its seventh year, this festival celebrates local seafood, history, art and, most importantly, Southern hospitality.
The 15-minute drive to downtown Bluffton is a great day trip and you can participate in events such as kayak tours, Iron Chef competitions or oyster roasts. Make sure you take your children too, because the Palmetto Animal League will have pets to adopt or play with. If you’re more of the workout junkie, this festival has you covered with a 5K on Saturday, October 22.
The days and evenings will be filled with tons of entertainment from jazz musicians and singers to best selling authors. Your children will be amazed by the juggling work of Ben Matthews and the Carolina Clowns from Charlotte, N.C. Don’t miss Saturday nights’ fireworks spectacular that will be the perfect end to a great event.
Let us know if you go and what you enjoyed the most!
Palmetto Dunes Rental Roundup: 951 Inverness
The weather is starting to cool down which means it’s a great time to get a group of friends or bring your loved one on a golf getaway here at Palmetto Dunes. There’s no better time to play golf than in the fall here in South Carolina. We have tons of beautiful Hilton Head rental homes and villas that overlook one of our three award winning golf courses but 951 Inverness is a must-see villa!
Remodeled in 2009 and situated on the 12th hole of the George Fazio course, this three-bedroom, three- bath villa is perfect for a group or a family. After a morning on the fairways you can cool off in the community pool that’s only a short walk from your villa or chill out by watching TV on the flat screen in the living room!
Make sure to take advantage of our other activities, such as the two hours of free tennis court time and discounted bike rentals, that you receive when you book your villa through Palmetto Dunes. Another great bonus of renting with Palmetto Dunes is that you can enjoy lunch, dinner or mid-afternoon cocktails at The Dunes House!
951 Inverness is ready to make your fall golf outing perfect, so check out its availability, gather up your gang of guys or group of gals and call us at 866.380.1778. Fore!
Hilton Head: There’s an App for That
Vacations used to be a time to turn off your phones and completely get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. These days, it’s tough to get away without turning off your smart phone!
Our advice: Put your phone on silent but keep it charged just enough to take advantage of these apps to make your Hilton Head vacation more interesting, informative and less expensive!
- Hilton Head Island - The Official App: Released by the Hilton Head Visitor Convention Bureau, this free app allows you to book dinner reservations, find the best hotel or resort for your trip and look up Island events.
- Foursquare - This popular geo-location tool is used by our team here at Palmetto Dunes to reward our wonderful guests. Check in at our golf courses, tennis center or Shelter Cove for great deals on all our activities!
- TideApp - Our guests are always curious about high and low tides and this smart phone app lays it all out for you so you don’t come back from a beach walk to find your towel floating in the ocean!
- Twitter - Having this social media application can truly help you have a great Hilton Head vacation! By following us, you can ask questions about where to eat, drink, activities to try or anything else you might want to know. We’re on seven days a week, so even if you’re here on the weekend we will be able to help you out! Tweet us today @PalmettoDunesSC!
So on your next adventure to Hilton Head keep your phone on and connect with us to create your perfect trip! We hope to see you soon.
Hilton Head Island Gets Artsy
If you’ve been to see us for a summer vacation, spring break or quick getaway in the last year and a half then you’ve probably seen the famous Charles Fraser statue. The life-sized bronze statue of Charles Fraser and his alligator, located at Compass Rose Park, is part of the public art fund created by The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry in 2010. The goal of the fund is to install public art and sculptures to beautify our Island.
This year the public art fund is bringing 20 pieces of outdoor sculpture to the Coastal Discovery Museum from September 25 through December 31. There will be works of art from local, national and international artists, and by the end of the year one piece will be selected to remain in Hilton Head and become a permanent part of our public art collection.
If you’re planning a visit between now and the end of the year, this is a free, must-see walking tour of some fantastic art. So whether you’re into modern, classic or contemporary, come to Hilton Head this fall and winter and get artsy with us!
Fresh Food Galore at Hilton Head Farmer’s Markets
What’s more Southern than peach pie and tomato sandwiches? To be sure you don’t miss out on your trip to Hilton Head, we want to fill you in on some of the area’s best farmer’s markets.
Every Tuesday from 2-7 p.m. through Dec. 22, the Farmer’s Market in historic Bluffton, S.C. offers up fresh fruits, veggies, chocolates, peanut brittle and dry aged beef. Make sure to also check their website for some recipes straight from the farm to your vacation table.
Beyond the amazing produce and goodies you can buy, they have amazing BBQ meals, fresh-squeezed lemonade, delicious kettle corn made to order and fun activities for the whole family!
If you’re looking to stay a little closer to Palmetto Dunes, the Hilton Head Island Farmer’s Market at Historic Honey Horn is a must try. It’s held each Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. through October 31. They will also have several Holiday Markets if you’re in town during November or December. Shop for fresh eggs, lettuce and watermelon from the people who actually grew them!
So get out there and take the family to enjoy a wonderful day of excellent food and great times. Let us know what you pick up and what delicious meal you whip up when you get home to your villa!
Enjoy One Last Summer Getaway to Hilton Head on Labor Day
What does Labor Day mean to you? Is it the official end of summer, a day off work, the last day to wear white or the beginning of college and NFL football season? Well, here at Palmetto Dunes it means one last chance at a summer getaway for the family. Labor Day weekend is full of fun activities here at the resort, specially crafted with your entire family in mind.
This Labor Day treat your loved ones to learning a new skill or polishing up an existing one. How about three days of our Family Golf School? Golf is a timeless skill to learn, and one of your kids will thank you for sooner or later. The program was designed by our resident golf pro and former PGA tour professional Doug Weaver. We also have great opportunities to practice your tennis skills with our junior and adult clinics.
After all that practice, it might just be nice to spend this last weekend of fun and summer biking or kayaking our 11-mile lagoon system. Sometimes just telling you how fun our activities are just isn’t enough, you have to see it yourself! Check out this video highlighting the adventurous family fun here at Palmetto Dunes!
Don’t you just want to hop in the car now and head our way? We understand… Come on down!
The Perfect Hilton Head Vacation Villa: 755 Queens Grant
Most people know Palmetto Dunes by the amazing array of activities we offer, like our world class golf. You can pretty much do anything you want without ever leaving our resort. What some don’t know is that we directly manage many of the beautiful homes and villas on the property, as well. By renting your Hilton Head vacation rental through us, you get great discounts on all those activities you love like bikes, kayaks, tennis and tee times!
If you’re still looking for that last-minute summer vacation with your family, we have just the villa for you! 755 Queens Grant is a completely updated unit featuring two bedrooms and two baths. It’s been remodeled with plenty of upgrades, such as new flooring, appliances and cabinetry.
This unit also features three beds and a sleeper sofa so you can fit the whole family! It’s walking distance from golf, tennis, shopping and, of course, the beach. When you come home from a long day of fun and sun, you can relax in the living room that comes complete with a flat screen TV, DVD player and Direct TV.
The best part is this villa still has a few availabilities in August and September! So give us a call at 866-744-7558 and we’ll set you up!
“Hang 10” at Palmetto Dunes
If your kids are looking to try something new and exciting this summer then head down to Hilton Head Outfitters and sign up for our surf camp! The classes are 90 minutes long and available for all ages. Captain Byron Sewell gives private attention to all attendees and brings his radical experience to the class!
Captain Byron was born on Hilton Head Island and has been a competitive surfer for 12 years. He has 5 State Championship titles and has even won an East Coast Championship. When he’s not in Hilton Head helping your child catch a wave, you can find him either in Hawaii or in Costa Rica from November through May running a surfing adventure guide.
Every class starts with a 10-minute yoga stretch to get everyone loose and in the right frame of mind. All classes are full of laughter and he ends each session with a watermelon seed spitting contest! So get your children out there for fun in the surf so they can tell everyone they’ve been surfing in Hilton Head. Cowabunga dudes!
Fun Beach Games for the Whole Family
There are lots of great activities to do on the beach from swimming and building sand castles to jogging and surfing, but a great way to get in some family bonding time is to turn the beach into a game board!
A Day of Art on the Water
With a backdrop itself a work of art, Hilton Head will host the annual Art Festival at Shelter Cove Harbour Memorial Day weekend May 28 and 29. The free event runs 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day .
Hilton Head Island: Beyond the Beach
When you think of Hilton Head Island, what comes to mind? Beautiful beaches? Relaxing getaway? We want you to think lots and lots of stuff to do when you think of Hilton Head, and especially Palmetto Dunes.
Tickle Your Ribs at Hilton Head’s Rib Burnoff
If you’re headed down to Hilton Head in May, we hope you’re here in time to catch a local favorite annual event, the Rib Burnoff and Barbeque Fest. This year’s event will be Saturday, May 14 from Noon-4 p.m. at the Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive.
Bike Safely on Hilton Head!
Did you know you can ride your bike almost anywhere in Hilton Head? The island has more than 50 miles of paved paths and, of course, plentiful beaches for exploring on two wheels.
Prepare for the Hilton Head Triathlon at Palmetto Dunes
On Saturday, May 21, 450 athletes will test their strength, endurance and mental toughness by participating in the Hilton Head Triathlon presented by CalU. Beginning at 7 a.m., you’ll see these men and women complete a 500-meter swim, 20-km bike ride and finish up with a 5k run.
Shorter is Better – At Least for Young Tennis Players
As with just about any sport, music instrument or creative endeavor, kids gravitate toward what offers early successes. That’s one reason why kids playing tennis at Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center will appreciate the kid-sized tennis courts.
A Nod to Mother Earth
Every April, the world stops and gives thanks for the beauty that is Mother Earth – and one of her greatest gifts, we believe, is Hilton Head Island.
5 Don't Miss Spots at Palmetto Dunes
When you vacation at Palmetto Dunes, you’ll be hard pressed to find yourself bored. But just in case there’s a moment that finds you wondering what to do next, we have 5 great don’t-miss activities that are part of the ultimate Palmetto Dunes experience. Stay tuned for future posts on more top activities at the resort!