Waterways // 3 min Read

Slow Boat to Beaufort

Written by Palmetto Bluff

Photography by Gately Williams

Cruise Control

Palmetto Bluff lies at the heart of the vast network of rivers and creeks that connect the South Carolina Lowcountry’s barrier islands. A stone’s throw from the notable cultural and historic hubs of Savannah, Beaufort, and Hilton Head Island, Palmetto Bluff is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the natural, cultural, and historical riches of the area. But while day trips by car are easy and scenic, why drive when you can boat?

This thirty-seven-foot Hinckley is the pride and joy of the Wilson Landing Boat Club. Designed for luxury, Miranda has all the amenities for a comfortable ride.

Getting There

While the options are endless, our local favorite is a slow sojourn to the historic town of Beaufort, South Carolina, with a couple of must-see stops. The ride from Palmetto Bluff takes you south along the May River and into the Calibogue Sound, across the vast Port Royal Sound, and into the Beaufort River. As a straight shot, this is about an hour-and-a-half trip, though we recommend a few scenic stopovers.

 

Banana Island

With white sand beaches dotted with palm and coconut trees, Banana Island is reminiscent of the wild scenery of Robinson Crusoe. Situated in the vast Port Royal Sound, this wild barrier island is home to various bird and turtle species, alive with a cacophony of animal life. Anchor along its stunning sandbar for a picnic, or anchor and wade ashore to explore.

Arriving

Motor up to the Day Dock at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort, a dock open to the public from 6 am to 1 am. From there, it is an easy one-block stroll into the heart of Beaufort for a quick bite, shopping, and sightseeing.

Bites Along the Way

Blackstone’s Cafe is a cornerstone of Beaufort. Housed in a historic building, this charming cafe is an institution of Lowcountry warmth and classic breakfast fare. Locals and visitors alike love Blackstone’s for its signature shrimp and grits and other Southern staples. 

A few minutes down the road, Herban Market and Cafe blends healthY dining with local charm. This casual cafe sources organic ingredients for an eclectic menu of salads, wraps, and inventive dishes. An outdoor patio is just steps away from the waterfront. Try the Snickerdoodle Whoopie Pie!

Nestled in the quaint town of Port Royal, Fishcamp on 11th Street is a seafood lover’s paradise. From peel-and-eat shrimp to perfectly grilled fish, each dish reflects the region’s rich maritime heritage. With a laid-back atmosphere and outdoor seating overlooking the water, Fishcamp on 11th Street offers a delightful blend of delicious seafood, waterfront views, and the relaxed charm that defines the coastal dining experience in Port Royal.

palmetto bluff real estate co

Real Estate
Behind the Bluff: A Journey with Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Agent Martin Roache

Martin’s Journey to Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Situated in the heart of Bluffton, South Carolina, Palmetto Bluff is more than just a community—it's a place of magic and wonder. For Martin Roache, a dedicated sales agent with the Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Com...

Dec 2024
fishing in the lowcountry

Sporting Life
Cast a Line: Guide to Fall & Winter Fishing in the Lowcountry

Fishing in the Lowcountry is a beloved pastime year-round, but fall and winter bring a unique charm to the waters of South Carolina. With cooler temperatures, serene surroundings, and the promise of a great catch, the autumn and winter months offer some of the...

Dec 2024

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

Sporting Life
4 Tips for Winterizing Your South Carolina Golf Game

Ways to Enhance Your Winter Golf Game Winter is quickly approaching, which means peak golf season is coming to an end. Although this is a slow time for golf, it doesn’t mean you can’t play or even enhance your game during this season. To keep your game in top...

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

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