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.

Real Estate
Two-Bedroom Homes in Palmetto Bluff: Small Spaces, Big Advantages

Two-Bedroom Homes in Palmetto Bluff: Small Spaces, Big Advantages At Palmetto Bluff, life moves at a more thoughtful pace, one centered around nature, community, and well-designed spaces that invite you to slow down and savor the moment. Within this disti...

Jul 2025
coore and crenshaw

Sporting Life
What to Expect from the New Coore & Crenshaw Golf Course

Take a Peek at the Coore & Crenshaw Course at Palmetto Bluff Golf has always been more than a game at Palmetto Bluff. It is a way of experiencing the land, connecting with nature, and building community through quiet competition and shared moments. With t...

Jul 2025

Club Life
More at Moreland: An Enclave for Active Lifestyles

Moreland Village is centered around an active lifestyle that’s easily accessible to homeowners. With the Movement Studio just steps away from the Conservancy Classroom, residents can grab a coffee from Canteen, partake in pilates, then join a bluebird research...

Jul 2025
brian bryne

Conservation
Behind the Bluff with Land and Wildlife Manager: Brian Byrne

Brian’s Journey to Palmetto Bluff If you’ve ever spotted a feral pig along a trail, heard the call of a hawk overhead, or taken a peaceful walk through the Bluff’s maritime forest, you’ve likely experienced the quiet impact of Brian Byrne’s work. As the Palme...

Jul 2025
palmetto bluff home

Real Estate
Why Palmetto Bluff is the Perfect Place for a Second (or Third) Home

Why You Should Consider Investing in a Palmetto Bluff Home Some places feel like a getaway. And then there are places that feel like coming home. Palmetto Bluff manages to be both. Tucked between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, this 20,000-acre haven in t...

Jul 2025

Culture
Wild Island

This Manhattan-sized, Gilded Age enclave and National Seashore off the Florida-Georgia coast is so much more than a beachcomber’s delight.  By Alexandra Marvar “There’s one. Oh, and there’s one.” He bends down to pick up a shark tooth. Then another, and anot...

Jul 2025
south carolina food

Food & Wine
A Foodie’s Guide to the South Carolina Lowcountry

Best Things to Eat in South Carolina’s Lowcountry When it comes to Southern cuisine, no place captures the heart (and appetite) quite like the South Carolina Lowcountry. Rooted in history and layered with coastal influence, this region serves up a culinary id...

Jul 2025
palmetto bluff marissa wolf

Culture
Behind the Bluff with Membership Manager: Marissa Wolf

Marissa’s Journey to Palmetto Bluff At Palmetto Bluff, hospitality goes beyond service; it’s a way of life. For Members and visitors alike, there’s a quiet charm to the place that draws you in, makes you feel at ease, and leaves a lasting impression. Few peop...

Jul 2025

Culture
Paradise Found: Hidden Nature Trails in Palmetto Bluff

Top 7 Palmetto Bluff Nature Trails Do you ever get the feeling of wanting to escape and wander into a serene paradise? The nature trails at Palmetto Bluff afford opportunities to roam and admire the vastness of the Bluff’s 20,000 acres. Throughout the communi...

Jun 2025

Architecture & Design
Moreland Village: Laid Back Luxury

Palmetto Bluff’s Moreland Village feels a world away from the more traditional architecture of the iconi...

Jun 2025

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