The concept of “Town and Country” living is exemplified at Palmetto Bluff. Created from a parcel of land that is approximately 2/3 the size of Hilton Head Island and with a development plan of approximately 2,800 homes at completion, this spectacularly beautiful area features both small villages and multiple acre properties.
One might say that Palmetto Bluff is a step back to a simpler time. Wilson Village is the center of the community anchored by the Inn at Palmetto Bluff. Sited on the May River, the Inn is reminiscent of an old plantation home with sweeping verandas and expansive lawns. The ruins of the mansion built by Mr. and Mrs. R. T. Wilson around 1910 remain on the front lawn, leaving to the imagination the days of lavish parties and an extraordinary lifestyle they must have enjoyed.
It has been said that Wilson Village is “stuck in time” as it is a picture-perfect small town representative of the best of our childhood memories or as described by our grandparents. Children bicycle freely and adults enjoy travel by golf carts. The local post office provides a great meeting place for neighbors to catch up. Buffalos Restaurant, also located on the square, offers a wonderful start to the day with breakfast favorites and luncheon delights overlooking the river and Waterside Chapel.
The walkways in town lead to clusters of inviting homes with large porches. Parking areas and garages are located off rear alley ways typical of urban design more than 70 years ago. Imagine walking to R. T.’s Market to pick up a few items or to your neighbor’s home for dinner and never thinking of your car.
Palmetto Bluff also offers some of the finest amenities in the coastal area. The owners’ pool, fitness center, boat storage, and docks are located in or near the village. The spa is a short distance away on the other side of town. The elaborate tennis center is conveniently tucked away adjacent to R. T.’s.
The spectacular Longfield Equestrian Center includes boarding services, youth programs, riding lessons, and facilities for training in all disciplines. Because of the extensive protected nature areas within Palmetto Bluff, there are excellent riding trails available. Hayfields neighborhood near the stables is an ideal choice for residents who prefer a country setting with a pastoral view.
The May River Golf Club meanders through a lovely natural habitat. The course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, has received numerous awards and is consistently ranked among the best in South Carolina. Membership to the course is optional with a fully refundable initiation fee. It is a family membership that includes children until the age of 25. Although much of the course winds along the banks of the May River and past ancient live oaks, homesites are also available with spectacular golf settings.
For those who love a water view, homesites are offered that range in size from ½ acre to 30 acres overlooking the May River and adjacent waterways. Private docks are not permitted in an effort to protect the ecological balance. However, boaters are readily accommodated at the marina and boat storage center. In these locations, the eight foot tidal change twice a day produces an ever-changing panorama that makes keeping a camera and binoculars nearby a necessity.
Nearly a third of the 20,000 acres has been put into preservation that is governed by a trust and will be remain undisturbed. The trust will insure the protection of the abundant wildlife, flora, wetlands and waterways. The nature trails throughout provide owners and visitors an opportunity to enjoy all facets of the natural beauty that Palmetto Bluff offers.
So much can be written about this community, but most importantly, Palmetto Bluff is about a lifestyle and preservation of nature. Like other areas in the developmental stage when the economy floundered, there are some excellent purchasing opportunities available here.
Pricing on homes currently begins at $600,000. One property that has only the 2 bedroom carriage house (guest house) completed is offered at $467,500. This would be an ideal second home or weekend retreat. While there are not many homes for sale, lots are offered as low as $135,000. If you would like additional information about the community or properties available, please click thru here.
As mentioned numerous times in the past, communities are like people who have different personalities. They each offer something unique and the first step in relocation is choosing the lifestyle and the community that feels right. Many Palmetto Bluff owners say, “We feel like we are on a permanent vacation.” What a great way to experience life!
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Charles Fraser developed Sea Pines, the first plantation in the area, in 1957. He also instituted a master land use plan to retain the natural beauty of the island for other areas which was largely followed by later developers.
Shipyard Plantation is located at the south end of Hilton Head Island between Sea Pines and Palmetto Dunes and is approximately 800 acres in size. With easy access to Highway 278 and Pope Avenue, it is one of the island’s most convenient locations.
Recently, members passed a vote to make major changes and improvements to the clubhouse. It will be very exciting to watch for the changes as they unfold. It is here that neighbors meet to share friendships, entertain family and friends, and enjoy a variety of clubs that match their interests.