Best Things to Do Near Palmetto Dunes, Hilton Head Island

Palmetto Dunes sits in the middle of Hilton Head Island, which means just about everything worth doing is either inside the resort or a short ride away. Here are the standouts, all within easy reach of Villamare 3424.

1. The beach — three miles of it

Palmetto Dunes fronts three miles of wide Atlantic beach. From Villamare you're steps from the sand, and the resort's free Dunes Buggy shuttle (8 a.m.–9 p.m. daily in season, 843-689-4222) will run you to the beach access if you'd rather not walk.

2. Championship golf, right in the resort

Three championship courses — Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront, Arthur Hills, and George Fazio — are all inside Palmetto Dunes. Read our full Hilton Head golf guide for the rundown on each.

3. Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

The resort's waterfront hub: dining, shops, live music, dolphin cruises, and fireworks on summer evenings. The Dunes Buggy serves it, or it's a quick drive. Across the street, Shelter Cove Towne Centre has Kroger for groceries plus Belk and more shops.

4. Pickleball and tennis

The Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center offers court time by the hour — $25 mornings, $20 afternoons, $20 lighted evenings, or $15 walk-on from noon–4 p.m. Monthly memberships are available for longer stays.

5. The Dunes House

About a 10-minute walk from Villamare, this oceanfront spot at 14 Dune House Ln is steps off the beach — known for fish tacos, frozen drinks, and live music on select evenings. Open 11 a.m.–6 p.m., weather permitting. More in our where-to-eat guide.

6. Kayak the lagoon system

Palmetto Dunes is threaded with lagoons. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and you'll likely spot herons, egrets, and the occasional alligator sunning on the bank.

7. Bike the island

Hilton Head has over 60 miles of public bike paths, and Palmetto Dunes connects directly to them. Rentals are available throughout the resort — flat, shaded, and an easy ride for all ages.

8. Dolphin cruise from Shelter Cove

Several operators run dolphin-watching and sunset cruises out of Shelter Cove Harbour. Evening sails are the move in summer.

9. Harbour Town in Sea Pines

Worth the 20-minute drive: the Harbour Town Lighthouse, marina shops, and the Liberty Oak. Go late afternoon and stay for sunset.

10. Just stay at the pool

Villamare's own amenity deck has a family pool, a children's area, an adults-only serenity pool, two outdoor hot tubs, plus an indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna. Some days the best plan is no plan.