// 6 min Read

Buying a Home Near Hilton Head? Consider Palmetto Bluff

Written by Palmetto Bluff

palmetto bluff activities

Get to Know the Lifestyle: Palmetto Bluff vs. Hilton Head

A resort town off the coast of South Carolina, Hilton Head is a popular seaside escape. With plenty of adventure to be had, it has remained a must-see destination for decades. However, if you’re looking for an authentic Lowcountry experience — one with a bit more scenery and a slower-paced lifestyle — Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, SC more than fits the bill.

When looking for a home on Hilton Head, buyers often turn to Palmetto Bluff, the region’s vibrant, yet easygoing counterpart. With its own unique perks in addition to its proximity to Hilton Head, the Bluff is a wonderful place to call home. Continue reading to learn more.

8 Reasons to Consider Life in Palmetto Bluff

1. Bluffton’s Historic Charm

    Since its incorporation in 1852, the town of Bluffton has managed to preserve its historic charm. It contains several districts, including a National Register Historic District and a thriving arts scene. At its core, the town possesses a tremendous amount of southern hospitality. Palmetto Bluff homeowners and visitors alike feel welcome in Bluffton, and that’s just one of its many charms.

    In comparison to Hilton Head, the community feels smaller and closer-knit. As Bluffton receives fewer visitors per year, it is more of a small-town destination than a vacation hot spot. Homeowners who wish to live somewhere with a unique, off-the-beaten-path charm will find Bluffton very appealing.


    2. True Lowcountry Culture

      Bluffton’s historic beauty has been shaped by its native roots — as are the grounds at Palmetto Bluff. The Lowcountry’s soul can be felt throughout, from the architecture to the oak trees that line the streets. It’s said that the May River and its bluffs have witnessed more battles than you can imagine. The area’s well-documented history dates back to the 1800s — though its soils had been long inhabited by indigenous peoples who occupied the area in the 1400s.

      The Lowcountry offers scenic landscapes, excellent cuisine, and a beautiful mix of cultures that captivate. As is the case for most southern states, oysters, crabs, and shrimp dominate the food scene. In addition, you can see references to the enduring Gullah culture and traditional Antebellum era.

      3. Central Location with Privacy

        Palmetto Bluff’s location off the coast allows easy access to destinations such as Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, and Savannah. One of the greatest benefits, however, is the privacy it affords. In the midst of the May River and surrounding marshes, homeowners can still enjoy the southern culture and coastal lifestyle in a more private and less populated environment. Bluffton’s location is ideal for those who value the natural environment and enjoy the area’s small-town feel.


        4. Elevated Coastal Architecture

          In comparison to other coastal towns, homes at the Bluff boast fine details that fully represent the story of the Lowcountry. From metal roofs to spacious porches, nature is once again the guiding force in the architecture at Palmetto Bluff. Elegant homes offer a part- or full-time escape for the luxury homeowner looking for a unique residence. Additional features such as open floor concepts and guest cottages ensure your time at the Bluff is filled with comfort and relaxation.

          View current listings for a peek at how Palmetto Bluff’s architecture differs from buying a home in Hilton Head.


          5. Dedication to Conservation

            Across Palmetto Bluff, the land is kept wild in order to make the most of the natural setting. From sweeping marshland to grassy-edged creeks, the landscape is dramatic and moving. The rich ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, both on land and in the water.

            Conservation entities such as the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy work to protect and preserve the Bluff’s beauty and wildlife. At Palmetto Bluff, nature is at the forefront of everything. There are two archeologists on-site and a team of conservationists ensuring that the land and its history shape the community’s past, present, and future.


            6. Waterway Access

              There are endless opportunities to get out on the water in Bluffton, just as there are in Hilton Head. With its many winding creeks that branch off from the May, Cooper and New Rivers, there is no shortage of adventure to be had — especially at the Bluff.

              Palmetto Bluff residents partake in water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, boating, sailing, fishing, crabbing, and wildlife viewing. Boaters have access to numerous deep water access points for navigating the Intracoastal Waterway, rivers, creeks, or the open sea.


              7. Dedicated Community Members

                In addition to its historic charm, Bluffton residents are friendly and welcoming. Those looking for a beautiful coastal town to live in will look forward to each stage of life here, from raising children to retirement.

                At Palmetto Bluff, members enjoy their community wholeheartedly, from playing golf with neighbors to participating in regular social events. As a community, the Bluff creates authentic Lowcountry experiences that connect like-minded residents with each other, with guests, and with the local community to foster opportunities for sincere interactions between people.


                8. Exclusive Amenities

                  Palmetto Bluff undoubtedly enhances the Lowcountry experience. Homeowners are able to take advantage of some of the lushest areas along the May River, as well as tidal creeks, marshes, and the Inland Waterway.

                  A variety of additional amenities are available. For example, Montage Palmetto Bluff is a premier gathering place for community members and their guests. Whether guests are staying here or residents want to relax after a day on the water or around town, this is the perfect place to recharge. Meanwhile, the May River Golf Course is a popular place for residents to practice their swing and enjoy a round of golf. A number of community-centric events are also created for residents and visitors alike, such as the Artist in Residence series.

                  Life at Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton

                  Those interested in buying a home in Hilton Head ought to consider the splendor that is Palmetto Bluff. While both locales offer wonderful experiences, each has a distinct feel. It’s up to you to determine which lifestyle is best suited for you.

                  The biggest difference between the two occurs at the intersection of land and community. In accordance with the community’s development agreement, no more than 4,000 homes can be built in its 20,000 unspoiled acres. That is the promise to you, the nature lover at heart. Click below for a closer look at Palmetto Bluff’s lifestyle.

                  Culture
                  2024 Wrapped: Top 10 Unforgettable Moments at Palmetto Bluff

                  Tis’ the season for wrapping, and we have plenty of gifts to share from 2024! This year was filled with exciting new beginnings and continued growth at Palmetto Bluff. From two new golf courses to awards for both Montage Palmetto Bluff and FLOW...

                  Dec 2024

                  Architecture & Design
                  Holiday Home Decor: Southern Charm and Timeless Traditions

                  Photos courtesy of Leah Bailey DesignPhoto credit: Kelli Boyd PhotographyAs the holiday season descends upon the Lowcountry, Palmetto Bluff becomes a festive haven, where classic Southern architecture meets personal style. Whether you prefer timeless elegance ...

                  Dec 2024

                  Food & Wine
                  From the Kitchen: Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe

                  Executive Chef Beth Cosgrove and Registered Dietician Lindsay Ford recently led a Healthy Cooking Demonstration for residents interested in cooking healthy, delicious food to promote wellness. Attendees left with new recipes and flavors to try at home. The But...

                  Dec 2024

                  Architecture & Design
                  Rare Form

                  Photographs by Anne CaufmannStory by Barry Kaufman The story of this house begins with another.Mike and Melissa Pereyo first visited Palmetto Bluff in 2010 to visit longtime friends Butch and Debbie Floyd. The Floyds built their home here when the fringes of t...

                  Dec 2024
                  lowcountry christmas

                  Culture
                  5 Must-Do Holiday Events in the Lowcountry

                  How to Spend a Lowcountry Christmas at Palmetto Bluff There's no better way to start anticipating the holidays than by making plans to spend time with family and friends. Now that the holiday season has arrived, many look forward to embracing the Christmas sp...

                  Nov 2024
                  palmetto bluff homes for sale

                  Real Estate
                  Real Estate Spotlight: Montage Residences at Palmetto Bluff

                  Explore 130 August Lane at Montage Residences Nestled in the heart of the Lowcountry, the Montage Residences at Palmetto Bluff offer an unparalleled blend of elegance, exclusivity, and Southern charm. This private collection of homes sits amidst the lush land...

                  Nov 2024

                  Culture
                  6 Best Places to See Winter Wildlife in the Lowcountry

                  Experience Winter Wildlife This Season at Palmetto Bluff The Lowcountry is a wondrous place to live, not only for its breathtaking scenery and historical significance but also for the wildlife that inhabits it. Winter wildlife in South Carolina includes a wid...

                  Nov 2024

                  Conservation
                  Noticing November’s Natural Shifts

                  As summer’s heavy air fades into fall’s cool breezes, our resident wildlife are busy preparing for another Lowcountry winter.In the fall, eastern wild turkeys move into habitats mostly dominated by hardwood trees such as oaks, hickories, beeches, cypresses, tu...

                  Nov 2024

                  Artist in Residence
                  An Intimate Evening with Clay Ross: Multi-grammy Winning Musician’s Performance at Palmetto Bluff

                  The Arts Initiative at Palmetto Bluff hosted an unforgettable evening in the May River Chapel this past October with our visiting Artist in Residence, multi-Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Clay Ross, founding member of the Billboard chart-topping band Ranky T...

                  Nov 2024

                  Culture
                  Celebrating Community and Creativity: FLOW FEST 2024

                  This year’s FLOW FEST was an unforgettable celebration of art, music, and community spirit. Held on a stunning autumn afternoon by the May River, our third annual arts and music festival, hosted by The Arts Initiative at Palmetto Bluff, brought together friend...

                  Nov 2024

                  CURIOUS ABOUT LIFE AT THE BLUFF?

                  Sign up for our newsletter

                  LIVE
                  Community Villages
                  Experience
                  Palmetto Bluff Club
                  On The Water
                  The Arts Initiative
                  Events
                  Conserve
                  About Us