The Inn at Palmetto Bluff is a Montage Hotels & Resorts property set within 20,000 acres of South Carolina Lowcountry landscape in Bluffton, near Hilton Head Island, at 476 Mount Pelia Road. The resort re-creates the atmosphere of a private Low Country village centered on the tidal May River, with white-columned village buildings, a general store, riverfront chapel, and a network of live-oak-shaded lanes connecting the cottages. The 200 cottages and village suites feature wraparound porches, wood-burning fireplaces, hardwood floors, soaking tubs, and spa showers; Riverfront Cottages with direct water views are the most coveted accommodations. The River House restaurant is the property's signature dining room, serving Low Country cuisine with a Southern farm-to-table emphasis and panoramic river views. A dedicated spa building offers comprehensive treatment menus including couples' packages and an outdoor relaxation garden. Recreational programming is extensive: guided kayaking and paddleboarding on the May River, golf at the Jack Nicklaus-designed May River Golf Club, guided birding walks through Audubon-certified habitats, archery, and cycling on the property's trail network. The concierge team arranges private boat tours and fishing charters on the May River. Bluffton's Old Town arts and dining district is 10 minutes by car, Hilton Head Island's resort corridor is 12 miles east, and Savannah, Georgia is 45 minutes southwest.
Room types
- River View Room
- Cottage
- Village Suite
- Riverfront Cottage
Amenities
- spa
- pool
- golf
- river activities
- fine dining
- fitness center
- bike rentals
- wifi
- private cottages
Location
476 Mount Pelia Road, Bluffton, SC 29910
32.2357, -80.9010 View on map
Highlights
- 200 Lowcountry cottages with wraparound porches, wood-burning fireplaces, and May River views
- May River Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus signature course set in Audubon-certified Lowcountry habitat
- Guided kayaking, paddleboarding, and private boat tours on the tidal May River
- River House restaurant with farm-to-table Low Country cuisine and riverfront views
- Full-service Montage spa with outdoor relaxation garden and couples' treatment packages
Tips for visiting
- Request a Riverfront Cottage when booking; the May River view at sunrise justifies the premium over interior cottages.
- The guided birding walks, led by naturalist staff, depart early morning and are one of the best free activities on the property.
- Book the River House restaurant for Sunday brunch; the Low Country spread is among the most celebrated meals on the property.
- Old Town Bluffton's local restaurants on Calhoun Street offer a significantly less expensive dinner alternative to on-property dining.
- The resort's shuttle runs frequently between the village and the marina; walking the live-oak lanes is also pleasant in the early morning.
When to visit
Spring and fall deliver the best weather for outdoor activities at Palmetto Bluff. Spring azaleas and wildlife activity peak in March and April; fall offers cooling temperatures and uncrowded conditions after summer families depart.
Accessibility
Palmetto Bluff provides accessible cottage accommodations with roll-in showers and mobility-friendly configurations. The village's paved lanes and boardwalks accommodate wheelchair users; the spa and River House restaurant are accessible. Contact the resort to confirm specific requirements.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Palmetto Bluff all-inclusive?
Palmetto Bluff is not all-inclusive. Room rates cover accommodation only; dining, spa, golf, and recreational activities are charged separately. Ask about packages that bundle select activities when booking.
How far is Palmetto Bluff from Hilton Head Island?
The resort is approximately 12 miles from the Hilton Head Island resort corridor, a 20-minute drive via US-278. Hilton Head Airport is approximately 15 miles away.
Is the May River Golf Club open to non-resort guests?
The May River Golf Club at Palmetto Bluff is semi-private. Resort guests receive priority tee times; limited public access is available but advance booking is required.
Are children welcome at Palmetto Bluff?
Children are welcome at the resort. A dedicated children's programming schedule includes nature exploration, archery, and kayaking instruction. The expansive grounds and outdoor focus make it particularly suitable for families.