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!

Learn more about Palmetto Bluff and see all available listings in this community

The population of the Heritage Academy is as diverse as the pursuits of the individuals. The flex programming in student schedules allows for training or practice time to ensure the students can reach their potential. Small class sizes of 8 to 15 students are available for grades 5-12 offering close relationships between students and teachers.

Here are some programs with which the Heritage Academy is affiliated:

Smith Stearns Tennis Academy is located in Harbour Town providing high level tennis instruction. It is operated under the direction of Stan Smith and Billy Stearns, true legends of the tennis world.

Van Der Meer Tennis Academy has a commitment to academics as well as on-court training, physical and mental toughness, and nutrition. Coaches assist the players in every facet of their development. The Tennis Center is located in Shipyard Plantation.

Hilton Head residents are delighted to have the new Ivan Lendl International Junior Tennis Academy opening this fall. This will be full time tennis training and academics for promising players hoping to reach their ultimate potential or join the professional ranks. With Ivan’s guidance and experience, young students will have tremendous opportunity to grow on and off the court.

Hank Haney International Junior Golf Academy offers a full time program with a focus on mental and fitness training while emphasizing tournament toughness. In addition to learning master skills in golf, students can fully prepare for college. This academy has been producing champions since 1995. The IJGA offers students the opportunity to compete at many of America’s most prestigious golf courses with very challenging competition. They also offer 3 international events per year and all events are ranked by Golfweek and Junior Golf Scoreboard. Coastal Discovery Museum offers the Barrier Island Discoveries Program where students can gain knowledge about the culture, heritage, and ecology of the Lowcountry.

The Hilton Head Dance School offers ballet, tap, jazz and hip-hop instruction by a professional team of dancers. Students have the opportunity to perform at local events and productions at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina.

The Main Street Youth Theatre provides theatrical experience to amateur young talent with high quality instruction and productions. The theater is supported by local residents as a non-profit with contributions and attendance.

Hilton Head Island offers young people the chance to follow their dreams, get a quality education, and enjoy the benefit of a mild climate for year round training. Students have many options of study including honors and Fast Track programs to help them get into the school of their choice. Scholar athletes and performing artists increase their potential to earn a spot on NCAA sports teams or in quality art programs. Residents are able to follow some of these aspiring artists and outstanding athletes during their time in the area and throughout their college life into their professional careers.

Shipyard Plantationwas the second area to be developed by the Hilton Head Company in 1970 to compete with the Sea Pine’s hold on the golf and tennis market. They had planned it to be a sister to their Port Royal development but sold Port Royal later in 1971 due to economic hardships. However, they did proceed with the development in Shipyard by enhancing the existing landscape and beautiful surroundings.

The Hack family retained ownership of Shipyard as Fraser had done in Sea Pines and the McIntosh family had in Spanish Wells. The new Shipyard Racquet Club was directed by Billie Jean King to attract tennis enthusiasts – hopefully away from Sea Pines.

The Hilton Head Company had unfortunately sold off its oceanfront properties to support its other endeavors, but later realized the value to its development. They purchased 500’ along the water at a much higher price at that time noting that even a small shoreline was better than none.

The Mc Ginty and Dye architectural firm was hired to plan the community. They determined that there were to be no more than 5 units per acre to limit density.

Although the beach club is a more recent amenity, Shipyard remains much as it was originally designed. The tennis is now a Van Der Meer training center in addition to serving the community with great tennis programs as a racquet club. As a development, Shipyard had a much less trying history and drama then many of their neighboring plantations. In the down markets, they also struggled but have always managed to maintain a great lifestyle for the residents and guests.

Shopping, restaurants, banks, movies, and activities are minutes away. The Coligny Beach and Plaza is less than a mile from the Pope Avenue gate and can be easily visited by walking or biking on protected paths. Residents and visitors alike can park their cars and participate in many island happenings.

Shipyard has approximately 2,100 residential units including 255 homes and homesites, 1,000 condominium units, 400 interval ownerships, and 338 rooms in a beachfront hotel. Trails and paths wind throughout the plantation around scenic lagoons amid magnificent live oaks and tall pines. Joggers and bikers can be seen throughout the year enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

The most prized possession of the community is its seaside location. Hilton Head beaches were rated #3 in the U.S. by the Travel Channel. The Shipyard Beach Club offers a convenient access, restrooms, showers, and over 400 storage lockers that are rented to property owners. The lockers allow owners to ride their bikes for a day at the shore with beach supplies readily available.

The Van Der Meer Tennis Academy is located at the Shipyard Racquet Club. There are outstanding instructional programs, lots of social play, clinics, and private lessons available to residents and guests as well as juniors in training. There are a total of 20 courts, 3 of which are indoor, for rare occasions when the weather does not permit outdoor play.

Shipyard also features 27 holes of championship golf with 4 tee positions to accommodate all levels of play. The courses are open to the public. The 9-hole Clipper and Galleon courses feature long fairways and perilous hazards while the Brigantine winds around lagoons and beautiful terrain. “Stay and Play Golf” packages are available through “The Heritage Collection” program. Please contact me for more information regarding this program which can be designed to include other local courses in the area.

The Hilton Head Health Institute operates within the Shipyard gates delivering exceptional experiences in Weight Loss, Fitness, Nutrition, and more, for the individuals who want to embrace a lifestyle change. They are celebrating 35 years of service.

Located on the beach in Shipyard is the Crown Plaza Resort. There are lush gardens, indoor and outdoor pools, a 24-hour Fitness Center, business services, and restaurants which can add to the overall experience. Access to golf and tennis is just minutes away and the hotel offers seasonal programs for children.

Shipyard is a private residential resort with gated access. Whether you are considering purchasing a primary residence or second home or would like to own a vacation rental property, Shipyard has much to offer. See all Hilton Head real estate listings for Shipyard Plantation

This article was originally posted in Darle;s Pelican Briefs newsletter. Sign up now for additional insider articles and information.

Annie Bender, the winner of the HHSO Junior Concerto Competition in 2011, was the violin soloist. Although only 17, she exhibits a professionalism, confidence, and talent beyond her years. Her performance was truly one of the evening’s highlights.

We were pleased to have the Symphony Chorus share in this delightful evening. As one of the vocals, they performed the Hallelujah Chorus, clearly a favorite of all who were there to enjoy the celebration of the season.

Several things made the evening especially fun. Teddy’s passion for music was contagious to everyone in the orchestra and audience. The performance of the Nutcracker was met with so much enthusiasm that listeners couldn’t wait to the end to applaud in sheer delight. The premature appreciation changed from “uh-oh” to “OK – this is really great” and the applause continued.

For me a special moment was when the orchestra played Artistic Advisor and Concertmaster, Terry Moore’s arrangement of Silent Night as the closing piece with Annie Binder as soloist. It was truly magnificent! If there had been some way to take that music home with me, I would surely have done so.

Another sold out concert indicates the HHSO is the place to be. Don’t wait to get your tickets for upcoming performances – there is no need to miss out on this exciting season. www.HHSO.org

Residents enjoy tennis, boating, swimming, fishing, gardening, dining, and are involved in a wide array of community and charitable events. The island location is convenient to a multitude of great restaurants, cultural events, shopping, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the southeast. Although Hilton Head is a resort destination, when owners pass through the gate at Long Cove, they can enjoy a wonderful quiet retreat and are still within minutes of many bonuses and activities that only a resort can provide.

Avid golfers are in for a treat when they play the Long Cove Course. With 630 acres available to him, Pete Dye sculpted a remarkable course taking advantage of the moss-draped oaks, spectacular water views, majestic pines, and extraordinary saltwater marshes. He created a course that not only enhances the nature of the Lowcountry, but also captures its romance and charm. With a number of tee locations, this challenging course is both playable and enjoyable by golfers at all levels. Over the years Long Cove has received numerous awards from leading analysts.

The tennis center is nestled in a beautiful natural setting with 8 Har-Tru courts, 4 of which are lighted. The viewing terrace provides the social center for hosting a variety of tennis events including Inter-club and USTA. The club fields teams for competition but also organizes social play and lessons for players of all skill levels. Most importantly, the fun spirit of the game can be found at this premier facility.

Unlike many communities with outstanding golf, Long Cove also has a marina located on the Broad Creek for residents’ use. It is near the Shelter Cove Harbor and Marina and its restaurants and shopping. The Calibogue Sound is the adjacent large body of water that leads to the Atlantic Ocean. In addition to boaters, the dock is enjoyed by all residents who delight in the relaxation and natural beauty of the backwaters. While this special part of the landscape is deeply appreciated by all who live in the Hilton Head area, Long Cove owners especially enjoy the convenience of having this opportunity just a short walk or bike ride from their homes.

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.

While there is always a number of special attributes for each community, one that stands out in Long Cove is the Long Cove Club Community Endowment Fund. Being the first fund created by a club in the area, as a group the club makes a difference to people in need throughout the
community. Tax deductible contributions are collected from the members and then distributed by grants on an application basis.

Surveys of the residents of Long Cove produce similar results. While owners universally enjoy its beauty and excellent amenities, the highest marks are kept for their relationships with friends and neighbors within the community – a very high compliment, indeed!

Sean Newhouse was chosen by the League of American Orchestras as one of the brightest young American conductors in the music scene today. While he and five others performed at the Bruno Walter National Conductor Preview hosted by the Louisiana Philharmonic, Mary Briggs, President and CEO of the orchestra, and Ed Parrish, Chairman of the Board were fortunate enough to attend. They highly recommended to the search committee that Sean be invited to participate in this important season of guest conductors for the HHSO.

As additional background, Sean is the first American-born conductor in 15 years to be appointed assistant conductor to the Boston Symphony Orchestra. He accepted this position in 2010 at the invitation of the well-renowned, Maestro Levine.

This week’s program featured two trumpet soloists, Paul Lott and Michael Smith, who are members of the HHSO. The Lowcountry audience always appreciates the opportunity to listen to one of their own musicians in a starring role and this was certainly no exception.

The range of music from Renaissance to Baroque to Classical styles was challenging to the musicians. However, at the end of the evening, there was no doubt they were up to the task and were enthusiastic about having the opportunity to play under the direction of Mr. Newhouse.

The audience was furthered captivated by an informal session after the concert wherein the conductor spoke about the music of the period and answered questions. As a guest conductor, Sean Newhouse provided a skillful performance along with a most pleasurable evening and is certain to be invited to return.

Opening night of the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra has the community buzzing – especially after seeing the musicians perform under the direction of Principal Guest Conductor, John Morris Russell. The audience was brought to their feet several times throughout the evening showing an enthusiastic support and appreciation of the musicians and conductor.

The Masterworks Series was begun with a selection of romantic music including selections from Beethoven’s Egmont Overture, Op. 84, Sibelius Violin Concerto in D Minor, Op. 47, and Dvorak, Symphony No. 8 in G Major, Op. 88. The young, but highly accomplished, Bella Hristova played the violin solos in Sibelius with the orchestra. She was born in Bulgaria, but now lives in the United States playing orchestra engagements throughout the world. Her credits are too numerous to mention and, needless to say, the Hilton Head audience delighted in her superior performance.

As an observer, I was personally fascinated with the smiling faces of the musicians and Mr. Russell during the performance. The energy was everywhere and those of us in attendance did not want to be anywhere else. At the reception afterwards, I had the opportunity to speak to several of the musicians about their smiling while performing. They responded that sometimes it was caused by something Mr. Russell said to them during rehearsal that they were recalling, but mostly it was the sheer pleasure of playing the challenging music and knowing it was well done. They also noted that Mr. Russell asks much of them but they really like working with him.

All in all, this was a win-win for the orchestra as the new season begins. Subscriptions are going well, donations are up, musicians are happy, and the audience loves what they saw. Mr. Russell made the evening fun with his good natured spirit and comments while delivering a superior concert. The orchestra supporters, staff, board, and the community must enthusiastically pursue financial support to ensure its future. Culture is a key element in the Hilton Head lifestyle and truly the HHSO is a major cornerstone!

This “jewel in the crown of Hilton Head Island” is located in the middle of the island bounded by 3 miles of beautiful white sandy beaches on the Atlantic Ocean on one side, and a protected Intracoastal Waterway on the other. The interior 11 mile salt water lagoon system contributes to the natural beauty and wildlife preservation while creating spectacular water views for owners throughout the community.

The creation of the lagoon system required digging massive amounts of sand that provided nearly two million cubic yards of sand to the beach. The result was an increase in the depth of sand by nearly five feet and 120 to 150 feet in width more than before the project was begun. Protective dunes were developed at the same time and now residents and visitors enjoy one of the most beautiful and scenic beaches on the east coast.

The lagoon system has become a favorite for nature tours by electric powered boats, kayaks and canoes. Although many residents own their own craft, the Palmetto Dunes Outfitters Center offers both equipment rental and lessons in the calm waterways.

Palmetto Dunes

There are three world class golf courses where golf is both affordable and challenging. For many, this is an ideal combination created by allowing public play. A variety of memberships are designed for part time owners as well as full time residents. For more information on golf options, please

contact me.

The tennis center at Palmetto Dunes resort has received numerous awards. Tennis Resorts Online has selected it #5 in the World for Best Tennis Resort, Best Junior Program, and Best in Instructional Programs and Events. Tennis magazine also sees PD as one of the 50 Greatest Tennis Resorts in the United States.

The Shelter Cover Harbour and Marina has easy access to the intra-coastal waterway. Residents who choose the harbor front lifestyle can also enjoy the beach and all other Palmetto Dunes activities. There is live entertainment throughout the season, fireworks, and lots of activities for children of all ages. Outdoor cafes and upscale restaurants are walking distance in addition to specialty boutiques for shopping.

Shelter Cove Some villas are available as residences and others as rental – many with great views.

Dockage for private boats, sailboats, and luxury yachts is offered at Shelter Cove Marina. Charters are on site for off-shore fishing, dolphin watches, nature cruises and other outings. For those who enjoy biking, the entire Palmetto Dunes area is bike friendly with beautiful scenery everywhere. Biking is a great family activity that everyone can enjoy. For those too young to have a bike of their own, tandem bikes and bike trailers can be rented to allow everyone to join in the fun.

Consider stopping for lunch after a beachside bike ride at Dunes House within the plantation. They feature local seafood, burgers, salads and more and diners can enjoy awesome ocean views. Hopefully, this will be enough to tempt you to find out more. Diverse price ranges and types of properties truly offer something for everyone. If you are looking for a great island lifestyle and lots of fun, consider Palmetto Dunes.

This article was first published in Darle’s Pelican Briefs Newsletter. Register now on the Hilton Head real estate and MLS listings page to receive your monthly newsletter.

If you like antiques, this is a good place to begin. There are quaint little nooks and larger furniture shops but one thing is certain – it is a place you will find the treasure that has eluded you – even if you don’t know what that might be.

There are little boutiques for clothing and finding the perfect souvenir or gift for a friend. It is even possible to arrange a private shopping party at Gigi’s for some of your closest friends.

When it comes to dining, there are numerous choices so I will only mention a few. The Cottage on Calhoun Street serves daily breakfast and lunch and has recently expanded to include some evening opportunities. The menu is imaginative and you can enjoy eating outside most of the year.

Vineyard 55 is a fun place to stop for a glass of wine and light supper. They have great small items and excellent pizza. Some nights there is live music but it is delightful to have a glass of wine after dark on their veranda watching the people passing by. If you like specialty meats and cheeses, you can find some favorites to help you with your home entertaining.

In the Promenade, you can’t miss Captain Woody’s. Indoors and out, this is a locals’ favorite for casual dining – fish sandwiches and a variety of cold beers top the list for me.

There are so many favorites it is impossible to give them all the coverage they deserve. Pepper’s Porch, Downtown Deli, Sippin’ Cow, Corks, Bluffton BBQ, and lots of others I haven’t mentioned should be added to your list.

Recently, the Bluffton Oyster Company, the last full-time oyster shucking business, was named the Family Business of the Year for SC and the southeast region by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The factory was originally opened in 1899 at the end of Wharf Street on the banks of the May River. Larry Toomer purchased the business in 1995 and in 2002, the county purchased the site for preservation leasing it back to the Toomer’s. They have since opened the Bluffton Family Seafood House on Dr. Mellichamp Drive. Now they can provide the public with the prepared catch and diversify their business.

As you can see, Old Town Bluffton is a bustling place to visit. Don’t miss attending some of the special festivals and Thursday Markets where you can buy fresh local produce and more. Perhaps while you are there, you will capture the “Bluffton State of Mind”.