Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort Hilton Head

Vacation Communities

Palmetto Dunes

2,000 acres, three miles of oceanfront, three championship golf courses

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Our Local Take

Palmetto Dunes is the resort that has it all — and means it. Spanning more than 2,000 acres with three full miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, this is one of the most comprehensive resort communities in the American Southeast. Whether you're a golfer chasing legendary courses, a family looking for a safe and beautiful beach, or a tennis and pickleball enthusiast, Palmetto Dunes was built with you in mind.

The three championship golf courses here — designed by Robert Trent Jones, Arthur Hills, and George Fazio — represent three distinct approaches to Lowcountry golf. The Robert Trent Jones course is the most celebrated, winding through lagoons and live oaks in a way that rewards strategic play. The Arthur Hills course is considered the most scenic, while the George Fazio layout is a favorite among serious golfers for its challenge. Staying within Palmetto Dunes gives you access to all three.

What sets Palmetto Dunes apart from other Hilton Head communities is the lagoon system. An 11-mile network of interconnected lagoons runs through the entire resort, and kayaking or paddleboarding through them is one of the most peaceful experiences on the island. Hilton Head Outfitters, based inside the resort, rents bikes, kayaks, and beach gear — and their staff know every inch of the property.

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, located on the Intracoastal Waterway side of the resort, is a destination in its own right. The marina hosts a weekly Tuesday night concert series in summer that draws locals and visitors alike, and the waterfront restaurants here offer some of the best sunset views on the island.

What to Do

Three Championship Golf Courses

Robert Trent Jones, Arthur Hills, and George Fazio courses — all within the resort

Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center

One of the top tennis facilities on the East Coast, with 23 courts

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

Waterfront dining, shopping, dolphin tours, and summer concert series

Lagoon Kayaking

11 miles of interconnected lagoons — rent from Hilton Head Outfitters on-site

Biking the Resort

200+ miles of pathways; bike under US-278 to reach Shelter Cove easily

Three Miles of Beach

Uncrowded, pristine Atlantic beachfront with full amenities

Insider Tips

  • 1

    Rent bikes from Hilton Head Outfitters on your first morning and do a full loop of the resort. It's the best way to get oriented and discover spots you'd never find by car.

  • 2

    Make dinner reservations at Alexander's Restaurant & Wine Bar well in advance — it's one of the best restaurants on the island and books up fast in summer.

  • 3

    The Tuesday night concert series at Shelter Cove Harbour is free, family-friendly, and genuinely fun. Locals pack the lawn — arrive by 6 PM for a good spot.

  • 4

    Bike under US-278 to reach Shelter Cove from the main resort area. It's a 10-minute ride and much more enjoyable than driving.

Dining at Palmetto Dunes

Alexander's Restaurant & Wine Bar
The Dunes House
Big Jim's BBQ & Burgers
Palmetto Dunes General Store
Shelter Cove waterfront dining

Quick Facts

Size
2,000+ acres
Beachfront
3 miles
Golf Courses
3 Championship
Tennis Courts
23 courts
Best For
Families, Golfers
Rentals From
Varies by season
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