Things to do nearPalmetto Bay Marina
Palmetto Bay Marina on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, offers a scenic coastal gateway with easy water access, boat rentals, and a relaxed Low Country atmosphere.
Palmetto Bay Marina sits on the shores of Broad Creek near the heart of Hilton Head Island, a barrier island shaped as much by its tidal marshes and waterways as by its famous beaches. The Low Country landscape here is defined by cordgrass flats, ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and the constant movement of tidal water through narrow creeks. The marina has long served as a working hub for the island's fishing community and recreational boaters, giving it a lived-in, unhurried character that sets it apart from more resort-oriented parts of the island.
Visitors to Palmetto Bay Marina can choose from a range of water-based activities. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are popular, especially among those wanting to navigate the quieter back-water creeks where wildlife is abundant. Dolphin sightings are common in Broad Creek, and the surrounding marshes attract a wide variety of shorebirds throughout the year. Fishing charters depart regularly, targeting species such as redfish, flounder, and spotted sea trout in the inshore waters.
The marina's relaxed atmosphere makes it a pleasant place to spend time even without a specific activity planned. Watching boats come and go, taking in the marsh views at dusk, and soaking up the pace of island life are pleasures in themselves. Palmetto Bay Marina captures something genuine about Hilton Head Island that rewards anyone who takes the time to explore beyond the beach.
7-day forecast
Chance of rainTips for visiting Palmetto Bay Marina
Visit during the early morning hours when the tidal creeks are calm and the light on Broad Creek is at its most photogenic.
Try a guided kayak or paddleboard tour to explore the surrounding salt marshes and spot herons, egrets, and bottlenose dolphins.
Bring sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat, as shade is limited on the docks and the Low Country sun is intense even in cooler months.
Rent a small motorboat for the afternoon to explore the waterways around Hilton Head Island at your own pace.
Check the tide charts before heading out, as the shallow tidal creeks surrounding Palmetto Bay Marina are best navigated near high tide.
Top tours & experiences near Palmetto Bay Marina
Spot Dolphins & Wildlife on Hilton Head Jet Ski
Zoom across Hilton Head’s waterways on a guided jet ski ride and spot local wildlife.
Hilton Head Dolphin & Disappearing Island Tour
Spot wild dolphins and explore a rare low-tide island on a private two-hour cruise.
Guided 2-Hour Mini Boat Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head
Drive your own mini boat on a guided dolphin tour near Harbour Town
Hilton Head Sunset Boat Cruise with Live Music
Relax with live music and coastal views as you toast the sunset on a BYOB cruise.
Drive Your Own Creek Cat Guided Tour in Hilton Head
Drive your own Creek Cat on a 2-hour guided Hilton Head tour
Disappearing Island & Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head
Spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and roam a low-tide island on this 2-hour Hilton Head boat tour
Hilton Head Dolphin Watching with Donuts
Spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and enjoy fresh donuts on a 1.5-hour cruise.
Hilton Head Dolphin Kayaking on Broad Creek
Paddle Broad Creek with a local naturalist and spot dolphins and coastal birds
Hilton Head Guided Kayak Tour with Coffee
Paddle Hilton Head’s tranquil waterways with a naturalist guide while savoring a fresh cup of coffee.
Pontoon Boat Rental on Calibogue Sound
Pilot a spacious pontoon to explore Broad Creek and Calibogue Sound at your own pace
Private Sunset Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head
Enjoy guaranteed dolphin sightings and vibrant Lowcountry skies on a 1.5-hour private cruise.
Sunset Dolphin Watching Tour in Hilton Head
Spot playful Atlantic bottlenose dolphins amid a Lowcountry sunset with knowledgeable local guides.
Sunset Creek Cat Guided Tour in Hilton Head
Drive your own Creek Cat on a guided sunset cruise near Harbour Town
90-Minute Narrated Dolphin Cruise in Hilton Head
Spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat on a lively 90-minute narrated cruise.
2-Hour Dolphin & Fireworks Cruise on Hilton Head
Watch wild dolphins and Hilton Head’s sunset fireworks from the water on a relaxed 2-hour cruise
Private Dolphin Tour on Hilton Head Island
Explore Hilton Head by private pontoon with a local captain and watch Atlantic bottlenose dolphins up close
Hilton Head Dolphin & Fireworks Boat Tour
Cruise Hilton Head at sunset to spot wild dolphins and watch a waterfront fireworks show
Hilton Head Guided Jet Ski Tour at Sunset
Catch golden-hour views on a 90-minute guided jet ski ride
Hilton Head Sunrise Kayak Tour
Paddle calm tidal creeks at first light with a guide and spot Lowcountry wildlife
Private Dolphins & Daufuskie Island Stop Tour
Spot dolphins and visit Daufuskie Island on a private 2-hour cruise
Hilton Head Dolphins & Donuts Tour
Enjoy fresh donuts and spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins on a relaxing morning cruise
Sunset Lowcountry Boil Cruise in Hilton Head
Cruise at sunset with a classic Lowcountry boil dinner
Fish an Inshore Private Charter in Hilton Head Island
Private inshore fishing on a Coast Guard inspected Carolina Skiff