Palmetto Dunes Homes
Oceanfront, Golf & Lagoon Properties on Hilton Head Island
Palmetto Dunes is one of Hilton Head Island’s most recognizable oceanfront communities—blending beach access, championship golf, marina living, and resort-style amenities within a 2,000-acre gated environment.
Originally developed in the 1960s with a focus on preserving natural beauty, Palmetto Dunes remains one of the island’s most dynamic real estate markets. Buyers here range from second-home owners to investors to full-time residents seeking a coastal lifestyle.
While Palmetto Dunes includes strong short-term rental activity in certain sections, there are also highly private residential enclaves within the community that attract long-term owners.
Real Estate in Palmetto Dunes
Palmetto Dunes offers a wide range of property types:
Oceanfront Homes
- Direct Atlantic frontage
- Private pools
- Expansive outdoor living areas
- Strong short-term rental potential in designated sections
Second-Row & Oceanside Homes
- Steps to beach access
- High rental demand
- Custom-built estates
Golf Course Homes
- Positioned along the Robert Trent Jones, George Fazio, or Arthur Hills courses
- Fairway and lagoon views
- Larger custom residences
Lagoon Properties
- Waterfront access along the 11-mile lagoon system
- Kayak and small craft access
- Quiet interior settings
Villas & Condominiums
- Oceanfront complexes
- Golf-view villas
- Shelter Cove harborfront properties
- Entry-level to luxury price points
Palmetto Dunes Community Overview
Located in the middle of the island, Palmetto Dunes offers:
- Three miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront
- 11-mile inland lagoon system
- Three championship golf courses
- 25-court tennis center
- Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
- Central access to shopping and dining
Its location provides convenience without sacrificing coastal atmosphere.
The Three Distinct Residential Areas
Palmetto Dunes is divided into several identifiable sections:
Mariners Side
- Closer to the main gate
- Mix of villas and single-family homes
- Strong rental activity
Inverness Side
- Golf-oriented
- Oceanfront villa complexes
- Established residential presence
Leamington
- Private, gated subsection
- Short-term rentals restricted
- Private beach club
- Select homes with lagoon or golf views
Golf at Palmetto Dunes
Palmetto Dunes is home to three championship courses:
- Robert Trent Jones Course (oceanfront holes)
- George Fazio Course (strategic, bunker-heavy layout)
- Arthur Hills Course (scenic Lowcountry routing)
These courses support both resort play and residential golf living.
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
Shelter Cove is a defining feature of Palmetto Dunes.
- Deepwater marina access
- Harborfront dining and shopping
- Yacht basin
- Waterfront townhomes and villas
This marina village enhances the lifestyle appeal of the community.
Market Positioning
25+ Daily Clients
Palmetto Dunes spans a wide pricing spectrum due to its diversity of product types.
Value drivers include:
- Ocean proximity
- Rental performance history
- Golf or lagoon frontage
- Renovation level
- Gated subsection (Leamington premium)
Because of the rental market presence, buyers must evaluate properties differently here than in purely private communities like Long Cove or Wexford.
Investment Considerations
Palmetto Dunes can serve three distinct buyer profiles:
- Primary residence buyers seeking beach access
- Second-home owners who may offset costs with rentals
- Active investors focused on short-term rental income
Understanding zoning, rental history, and HOA structure is critical before purchase.
Contact Ocean Front Sea Pines
If you are considering purchasing or selling luxury real estate in Hilton Head Island or Palmetto Bluff, work with a specialist who understands the nuance of these markets.