Palmetto Dunes Hilton Head SC Community Information
Palmetto Dunes is one of Hilton Head Island’s premier resort and residential communities, offering oceanfront living, world-class golf, miles of inland waterways, and an exceptional quality of life. Stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the banks of the Shelter Cove Marina, Palmetto Dunes is composed of three distinct neighborhoods: Mariner’s Section, Inverness, and Leamington. Each offers a unique blend of vacation homes, luxury villas, and full-time residences—all within one of the most scenic and amenity-rich environments on the island.
Location and Gated Access
Palmetto Dunes is centrally located on Hilton Head’s southern corridor, with gated access points off Highway 278. Residents enjoy quick access to Shelter Cove Towne Centre, restaurants, grocery stores, and Hilton Head’s award-winning beaches. While the community is partially open to guests due to its resort components, Leamington is a private, residential-only section with its own gatehouse, making it ideal for full-time homeowners seeking additional privacy.
Community Amenities
- 3 Championship Golf Courses:
- Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course
- Arthur Hills Course
- George Fazio Course
- Tennis and Pickleball Center: 17 clay tennis courts and 24 pickleball courts with clinics and private instruction.
- 11-Mile Inland Waterway: Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic wildlife viewing.
- Private Beach Access: Multiple beachwalks and oceanfront pavilions available throughout the community.
- Bike Paths: Connect residents to Shelter Cove and scenic interior trails.
- Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina: Shops, restaurants, boating access, and seasonal waterfront events.
Real Estate Options
Palmetto Dunes features a variety of properties including:
- Oceanfront and ocean-oriented villas
- Golf course and lagoon view homes
- Primary residences and vacation properties
- Residential-only homes in Leamington (no short-term rentals)
- Select undeveloped lots
HOA and Regime Info
Palmetto Dunes is managed by the Palmetto Dunes Property Owners Association (PDPOA), which oversees general operations, security, and architectural guidelines. Each villa or condo complex also has its own regime fee that covers building maintenance and insurance.
- Annual HOA Fees (2025 est.):
- Homes: $1,850–$2,500+
- Villas: HOA + separate regime fee
- Leamington POA: Separate association with additional privacy and amenities.
Club Memberships
Club memberships are optional and available for both golf and tennis/pickleball.
- Multi-course golf packages and seasonal rates
- Tennis and pickleball plans available for singles and families
Short-Term Rentals
Palmetto Dunes allows short-term vacation rentals in many areas. However, Leamington is a non-rental section, ideal for full-time or seasonal residents looking for peace and privacy. If you’re planning to purchase a rental property, we can help you identify communities and buildings where rentals are permitted and profitable.
ARB (Architectural Review Board)
The Palmetto Dunes ARB enforces design and maintenance standards across the community. Leamington has its own separate ARB. All exterior modifications, landscaping changes, and new construction must be approved to maintain community aesthetics.
Lifestyle and Community Appeal
Whether you're an avid golfer, beachgoer, or simply enjoy Lowcountry scenery, Palmetto Dunes offers something for every lifestyle. It’s a favorite for retirees, second-homeowners, investors, and vacationers alike—with activities for all ages and an unbeatable central location.
Contact Russ for Local Insight
If you're interested in property within Palmetto Dunes or have questions about ownership, rental rules, or HOA details, I’d be glad to help.
Russ Fielden
(843) 812-8862
coastalrealtors@gmail.com