Stewards of the Land

Artistry in Octagon
7:00am – 10:00pm, Octagon
Artistry in Octagon celebrates the vibrant connection between local art and cuisine. Each quarter, a new artist will be featured in the lower dining section of Octagon, bringing the beauty of the Lowcountry’s fields and waters to life. As you dine on dishes inspired by the region, explore the artist’s work and let their creations tell the story of this natural landscape that is rich in culture.

For the months of July – September, as we focus on being Stewards of the Land, we are pleased to host local artist William James, who celebrates the spirit of the Lowcountry through his work.

Coastal flora, seas, and skies provide the foundation for much of William’s work. From wildlife to flowers, fish to architecture, his subject matter is distilled from a deep love of the Southeastern coast. William’s style is deeply influenced by his experience as an art educator. After more than a decade of teaching children, he has learned to embrace a playful, spontaneous approach. His work often features bright colors, lively patterns, and energetic lines – all wrapped in a contemporary, simplified aesthetic.

Inside the Bluff
10:00am, Inn Backyard
Attend a guided walk with our naturalist while learning about the history of Palmetto Bluff, the vegetation, and surrounding wildlife. Learn about the stories behind the breathtaking views of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton and how we can continue to protect our local wildlife and plant life for future generations. Complimentary

Walk and Talk in Nature
2:00pm, Inn Backyard
Explore the Bluff with our resident naturalist as she shares fun, interesting and unique details about our Lowcountry haven. Wander through pathways that showcase Bird Island, our treehouses, River Road and more to learn about the life that brings beauty to the Bluff.
Complimentary; Reservations required

Talkin’ Turtles
2:00pm, Inn Backyard
From the freshwater to the ocean water we have a variety of turtles in the Lowcountry. Learn a bit more about our turtles and the sustainability practices that help to keep them healthy.
Complimentary

Tidal Treasures
3:30pm, Inn Backyard
The May River is actually a tidal estuary. The ebb and flow of these tides reveals new treasures each day. Take a look at some of these incredible finds.
Complimentary

Research Excursion: Bluebird Surveys
9:00am – 11:30am, Meet at Conservancy Classroom
Do you want to see what happens on a bluebird survey? Spend the morning with the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy Educator, Aaron, as he monitors his portion of the 70+ bluebird boxes spread throughout Palmetto Bluff.
Complimentary; Reservations required through: [email protected]; Please cancel within 24 hours if you can no longer attend

Brown Bag Lunch: Manatees in South Carolina
12:00pm – 1:00pm, Conservancy Classroom
People may be surprised to hear about manatees outside of Florida, but this species is a seasonal visitor to our coastal waters. Join Dr. Al Segars, retired veterinarian for the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, as he informs us on when and where to find these gentle giants, ongoing research and rescue efforts surrounding these creatures, and what we can do to reduce human impacts on manatees. Complimentary

Research Excursion: Bluebird Surveys
9:00am – 11:30am, Meet at Conservancy Classroom
Do you want to see what happens on a bluebird survey? Spend the morning with Palmetto Bluff Conservancy Educator, Aaron, as he monitors his portion of the 70+ bluebird boxes spread throughout Palmetto Bluff.
Complimentary; Reservations required through: [email protected]; Please cancel within 24 hours if you can no longer attend

Explore PBC: Marsh Ecology
1:30pm – 2:30pm, Meet at Moreland Landing
What lives in the salt marsh? Join the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy as they head to Moreland Landing to check crab traps, throw cast nets, and search for critters just below the surface.
Complimentary; Reservations required through: [email protected]; Please cancel within 24 hours if you can no longer attend

Storytime with the Naturalist
3:30pm, Inn Library
Spend some time out of the sun with our resident Naturalist in the cozy Inn Library as she reads children’s tales about nature and ecology, including Dr. Suess’ beloved tale, The Lorax. This timeless story inspires a love for the environment at a young age, encouraging children to appreciate our natural surroundings here at the Bluff and understand the importance of conservation. Through these readings, we hope to foster a deeper connection to the land, making every stay a meaningful experience.
Complimentary

Family Movie Night Under the Stars
8:00pm – 10:00pm, Sunrise Lawn
Gather your loved ones and enjoy a heartwarming viewing of The Lorax on our outdoor screen. This special showing aligns with this season’s Well Living theme, Stewards of the Land, celebrating Palmetto Bluff’s natural beauty and conservation efforts. Through the beloved story of The Lorax, we hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for our lands and waters, reminding us all of the importance of preserving the Lowcountry’s delicate ecosystem for generations to come. Cozy blankets and light movie snacks will be provided for a memorable experience for the entire family.
Complimentary

Nature Crafts: Nature Art
9:00am – 10:30am, Conservancy Classroom
The variable patterns in nature provide unique artwork for each artist through the use of leaves, flowers, seeds, and shells. Join the Conservancy as we collect materials and make some unbe-leaf-able art! Complimentary; Reservations required through: [email protected]; Please cancel within 24 hours if you can no longer attend

Sharks of SC
12:00pm – 1:00pm, Conservancy Classroom
Bryan Frazier is a Marine Biologist for the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and studies shark populations along the Carolina coast. Join us in taking a dive into the life history of sharks, learn what species are here, and how researchers study these elegant and powerful creatures.
Complimentary

Explore PBC: Marsh Ecology
8:30am – 9:30am, Meet at Moreland Landing
What lives in the salt marsh? Come find out as we head to Moreland Landing to check crab traps, throw cast nets, and search for critters just below the surface – all alongside the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy. Learn from their experts about how they care for this delicate ecosystem, protect native wildlife, and preserve the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.
Complimentary; Reservations required through: [email protected]; Please cancel within 24 hours if you can no longer attend

First Friday Lecture: Lowcountry Raptors
6:00pm – 7:00pm, Conservancy Classroom
Join Lila Arnold, Founder of Lowcountry Raptors, as she shows us amazing owls, hawks, and falcons. Complimentary

Nature Crafts: Natural Rope 
10:00am – 11:30am, Conservancy Classroom
Many different kinds of plants can be used to create rope and twine. Certain materials are better suited for different tasks, but in a survival situation, being able to make any type of cord is a valuable skill. Join the Conservancy as we collect, process, and create our own cordage from native plants.
Complimentary; Reservations required through: [email protected]; Please cancel within 24 hours if you can no longer attend

Living with Alligators 
12:00pm – 1:00pm, Conservancy Classroom
American alligators have been a part of the Lowcountry landscape since before the first Europeans stepped foot on the continent. As the number of people moving into alligators’ habitat increases, so do the chances of encountering them. Join the Conservancy as we help build an understanding of how to coexist with alligators.
Complimentary

Under the Microscope: Saltwater
10:00am – 11:30am, Meet at Conservancy Classroom
Microorganisms are directly or indirectly connected to each plant and animal we see around us. Join the Conservancy as we collect water samples from the salt marsh and see what microorganisms make Lowcountry creeks murky.
Complimentary; Reservations required through: [email protected]; Please cancel within 24 hours if you can no longer attend

Cooking Unplugged: All Things Melon
2:00pm – 3:00pm, Vine
Unplug from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with the simpler things in life with our Cooking Unplugged monthly series. Led by our Executive Chef, this immersive experience celebrates the peak of summer with a tasting of freshly grown melons—each bursting with vibrant, nuanced flavors and natural sweetness. Then, join our chef in preparing one of his favorite melon-inspired dishes, highlighting the ingredient’s versatility. Embrace the heart of Lowcountry cuisine and savor the beauty of being fully present.
Complimentary; Reservations required

Brown Bag Lunch: Coyotes
12:00pm – 1:00pm, Conservancy Classroom
Coyotes are highly adaptable animals that have made a niche for themselves in a variety of habitats, including urban environments. Join us as Summer Fink, doctoral student from the University of Georgia, takes us on an exploration of the myths and truths about coyote ecology and behavior with an emphasis on urban and suburban coyotes. Additionally, she will highlight serval ways to prevent conflicts with coyotes. Complimentary

Cooking Unplugged: Vine to Table
2:00pm – 3:00pm, Vine
Unplug from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with the simpler things in life with our Cooking Unplugged monthly series. Led by our Executive Chef, this immersive experience invites you to celebrate late summer’s best with a discovery of Lowcountry tomatoes—sun-ripened, bursting with flavor, and rooted in regional tradition. Savor these vibrant gems alongside our house-made sourdough bread and a selection of local olive oils. Embrace the heart of Lowcountry cuisine and savor the beauty of being fully present.
Complimentary; Reservations required