On one of my visits to Palmetto Dunes, I opted for a bicycle to get around the resort using its extensive web of dedicated bike paths, an option popular with many of its guests (though there’s also a free on-call Dunes Buggy shuttle). My own route to the tennis courts took me through quiet tree-filled neighborhood of houses, villas, golf fairways, and lagoons. Not until I’d ridden beyond a guard gate did I come upon anything resembling commercial enterprises, though even those consisted of little more than an unobtrusive General Store; a bike, canoe, and kayak rental shop; a restaurant; the tennis center; a golf clubhouse; and the entrance road to the Marriott, one of two hotels (the other an Omni) tucked into this 2,000-acre resort. Only by then following the bike path north though a canopy of trees and then under William Hilton Parkway (Rte. 278) would I eventually leave behind the resort’s leafy neighborhoods for the collection of shops, indoor and outdoor restaurants, and art galleries (and some marina-view villas) in the Mediterranean-inspired buildings that line Shelter Cove Harbour.
There are really two faces to Palmetto Dunes. The largest section, which extends from the beach to the parkway, contains most of the lodging as well as the tennis, three designer golf courses, and most of the other recreational amenities other than those associated with the marina. And if you don’t opt to stay in a beachfront villa—which I did not on this latest trip—a bike is also a useful vehicle not only to reach the beach but to ride along it, since at low tide the extremely broad, hard-packed beach is an ideal natural bike path. You can, if you choose, ride on the beach for virtually the entire length of the island (rental bikes have fat tires suited to the hard sand). Beyond that, once you leave the resort there are some 50 miles of paved public bike paths that lace the island itself.
The Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center caters to a mixture of groups and vacationers. It consists of a main complex of 19 clay courts, four of them lighted for night play, along with 24 pickleball courts. Those are supplemented by an additional eight clay courts a five-minute walk away. A spacious, 3,000-square-foot clapboard clubhouse with a dark-green shingled roof anchors the main tennis complex. Inside is a brightly-lit pro shop as well as showers for men and women and offices for the professional staff. The reception is extremely friendly—these aren’t kids behind the desk but adults. All of them play tennis—many in fact are on teams—so they really do understand tennis players and their needs. Extending out from one side of the clubhouse is a long, raised wooden deck with a roof and views of courts to the right and left. The courts have been laid out in pairs, with California (angled) corners and a perimeter of trees and low shrubs. Some have small, shingle-roofed courtside pavilions and chilled water fountains.
Tennis Staff: John Kerr, a former professional player, oversees the entire tennis and pickleball operation. A fixture on the island since 1986 and at Palmetto Dunes since 1990, he has revolutionized the on-court programming, first by restructuring the roster of tennis teaching programs and later by being one of the first resort directors to undertake a full-scale commitment to pickleball. For tennis, the signature program is “S.M.A.R.T. Stroke-Next Gen”, a daily clinic that utilizes on-court, super slo-mo videotaping to provide instant feedback that helps maximize practice. His Director of Tennis Instruction, Eric Wammock, is a expert in video analysis and specialist in utilizing on-court video. An All-American at Florida State College and later All-Conference at Virginia Commonwealth University, Wammock went on to play professional tennis before settling on Hilton Head Island. He heads leads the club’s top tennis programs along with a a staff of personable pros—all with college or professional experience.
Tennis Programs: Much of the tennis programming—which runs the gamut of S.M.A.R.T. clinics to competitive-edge drills, doubles clinics, Cardio tennis, and clinics focused on serves and returns—runs back-to-back so that as a guest you can carpenter together a program day by day that could be as short as one hour or as long as 4½. Moreover, the junior programs coincide with the adult programs, so families can more easily come and go together.
Pickleball Programs: With 24 lighted pickleball courts, Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center ranks as one of the premier pickleball resorts in the country. There are group clinics for beginners and intermediates, pro-supervised ladder round robins that are at once social and competitive, drill sessions, and group and private lessons. Pickleball Touring Pro Sarah Ansboury heads up the instruction, staging pickleball academies several times a year and three-day adult pickleball camps during spring and fall. And as a further testament to its pickleball credentials, it is the site for one of the eight major tournaments for the World Pickleball Rankings.
Whichever sport interests you, stop by the pro shop, as I did, and you’ll find an experienced staff who are at once friendly and very service conscious. All in all, the center offers an excellent series of both tennis and pickleball programs.
Court Complex: The Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center has a total of 19 clay tennis courts and 24 pickleball courts altogether in two locations: the Tennis Center proper another bank a short walk away. Those at the Center fan out from a contemporary, 3,000-square-foot clubhouse. Palms, maples, pines and live oaks border the courts as do oleander and other low shrubbery. All of the courts have chilled water fountains though not all have shade. Four tennis courts and all the pickleball courts have lights on a token system so people can play when they want just by showing up.
Tennis Court fees: Guests renting through Palmetto Dunes receive two complimentary hours/day (based on availability) and pay $35/hour mornings and $30/hour afternoons for additional court use beyond that. For non-resort guests, the fee is $40/hour.
Pickleball Court fees: $25 from opening to noon; $20 from noon to closing; walk-ons, noon-4 p.m., $15; lighted courts, $20
Off Court
Beach: Palmetto Dunes fronts three miles of beach. It tends to be most crowded near the center, where the two hotels are located, but you don’t have to walk far to the east or west to have large expanses of sand all to yourself. And the farther you get from those hotels, the less obtrusive the architecture
Golf Courses: Palmetto Dunes itself has three designer golf courses, each named for its designer: Arthur Hills, George Fazio, and Robert Trent Jones. All three layouts have been named South Carolina’s “Golf Course of the Year.” There is also a golf school and new Toptracer Range at the Robert Trent Jones Course.
Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course: Designed by Robert Trent Jones and renovated by his protege Roger Rulewich, this par-72 course begins near the tennis center and flows east meandering around the system of lagoons before jogging down to the ocean at the par-5 10th hole and then working its way back westward. 6,122-7,005 yards.
George Fazio Golf Course: The most challenging of the three layouts, if not the most challenging course on Hilton Head Island, this Fazio course demands both accuracy and length. Bunkers and water hazards riddle several of its long par 4s. Par 70, 6,239-6,873 yards.
Arthur Hills: This par-72 course can be played as short as 4,999 yards or as long as 6,651, but whichever tees are chosen, the Lowcountry course stands out for its topographic beauty, ocean breezes, and off-balance lies.
Spa & Fitness Center: The resort itself does not have a spa or fitness center; however, both of the hotels do.
Palmetto Dunes 11 miles of lagoons afford opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, while the Shelter Cove Marina adds additional kayaking options as well as sailing cruises, fishing and boating charters, and dolphin tours.
Children's programs: There is much to appeal to kids at Palmetto Dunes—not only the beach, tennis, pickleball, golf, and lagoons but also Harbour Fest, held every Tuesday June into August at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina and consisting of live entertainment in the form of popular troubadour Shannon Tanner, street vendors, and fireworks (especially impressive over the harbour).
Restaurants: Dining can be as simple as sandwiches, salads, and drinks at the casual beachfront Dunes House to Continental cuisine at the lagoonside Alexander’s Restaurant or any of more than half a dozen places to eat at Shelter Cove Harbour, ranging from Frosty’s Italian ices to Mexican fare at San Miguel’s, seafood at Scott’s Fish Market, French bistro menu at Bistro 17, among others.
Accommodations
Palmetto Dunes has 1-to-4-bedroom villas, all with kitchens, and homes as large as eight bedrooms. These occupy various locations throughout the resort, including oceanfront, golf course, and the harbour. As a guest of Palmetto Dunes, you receive two hours of free tennis or pickleball court time daily per unit (based on availability). There is a three-night minimum at selected times of the year. Additional exclusive resort discounts available when renting through Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort.
Getting there
Seasons: Year-round
Travel Instructions: By Air: Palmetto Dunes is 45 miles from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) in Georgia and 95 miles from Charleston International Airport (CHS). Major airlines serve both of those gateways. It is also possible to fly directly to Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH), on commuter service from US Airways Express, via Charlotte, NC. Rental cars and shuttles are available at all three airports.
207 Reviews on “Palmetto Dunes Tennis and Pickleball Center”
Excellent
4.8
207 reviews
On Court Experience
5.0
Off Court Experience
4.9
Overall Tennis
5.0
Overall Pickleball
5.0
Tennis Instruction
4.9
Pickleball Instruction
4.8
Accomodations
4.8
Resort Amenities
4.8
BJ
Fabulous resort. Tapi Hayrinen was best tennis instructor I’ve ever had. It was worth the trip to Palmetto just for his instruction!
ML
Tapi Hayrinen is the best teacher that I ever had. Teaches modern tennis techniques and makes the game fun! I would reccommend him to anyone from beginner to advanced.
DS
We stumbled upon the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center many years ago when we were vacationing nearby over the Easter break. We were impressed by the programs and instruction available – clinics, individual lessons, round robins. Brian, Keith, Mike, Tapi do an exceptional job. We now go to Hilton Head annually during the Easter break, and look forward to our time at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center. It never ceases to amaze me that the pros and pro shop staff recognize us after a year of being away. The outdoor facilities are kept in very good shape, even allowing play shortly after a rain. I would recommend the tennis center & its staff to anyone who loves to play tennis at any level.
SG
Tapi Hayrinen is an exceptional teaching pro fpr young and old. the only weakness the club has is no indoor courts if it rains
TS
I took a couple of lessons with coach Scott Lumpkin. I was so impressed that I had my son join me for the second one. He is an EXCELLENT teacher. I would regard him as – where old school meets new school. His experience and methods embraced and incorported the modern tennis game and resulted in a delightful teaching style. I wish I had more days there and I hope to get some lessons from him some time in the future (me and my son and daughter)
FS
Consistently outstanding. Excellent facilities, highly professional staff. Great for experienced tennis player and beginners.
PS
We go to Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center every year and take clinics from Tapi Hayrinen. He is a great instruction and makes the clinics fun!
JL
Great tennis experience for all levels of play.
AB
I am a 65 year old who had not played tennis in well over 12 years. Decided to try to return to the game and took lessons from 3 instructors. ALL very good, however, Tapi is OUTSTANDING!! He had me hitting better than I ever hit in my entire life! Took a golf lesson from Doug Weaver, and again, OUTSTANDING! I would write weaknesses, however, there were none.
CH
Just got back from 5 days at Palmetto Dunes. This is my 4th trip with the same group of women. This is easily one vacation I look forward to every year. The pros are always excellent. Brian is such a GREAT instructor and very fun. Tapi really simplifies tennis and has taught me so much — he is also hilarious. We had Robin, a new pro to our group this year — she was really great, offering great advice and being a fun presence on the court. The pro shop staff (Mary and Jackie) are always very welcoming and really organize a great visit. We drilled 3 hours every morning and then had the afternoons to play more tennis or relax on the beach or at the pool. My semi-private lesson was with Tapi — he changed my volley and now I don’t dread coming to the net and its no longer a weakness, but a strength. I always hate leaving the island and look forward to the next visit. I have recommended Palmetto Dunes to many friends. It’s really quite a jewel on a gorgeous island.
GW
I’ve been to this resort for the past 8 years with several friends. We keep going back because we receive valuable tennis instruction and have a GREAT time getting it. The staff at the tennis center is outstanding, the grounds are beautiful, and the accommodations are clean and spacious. Brian Kiggans goes above and beyond to make our time at Palmetto Dunes memorable and a great value.
MK
Strengths: great clay courts, great place to buy racquets, clothes etc., beautiful location (Hilton Head). Excellent instructors with plenty of drills available. Weaknesses: They have 1 round robin daily which mixes to many skill levels together, they should have round robins based on skill level. They don’t do anything about helping you setup a match other than putting your name in a book.
MT
My family returned to Palmetto Dunes after a fantastic vacation in 2011. This year’s vacation did not disappoint!!! As a USPTR and USPTA tennis pro myself, I’m quite particular in what I want in a tennis program. Palmetto Dunes took care of all of our needs. My 14 year old daughter took a lesson everyday with Tapi Hayrinen. Her improvement was dramatic! Modern tennis at it’s best. I learned as much watching him teach as she did in the lesson. We will definitely be back.
MN
Great instructors, especially Tapi. He is extremely knowledgable and very excited to pass on this knowledge.
MM
Excellent facility, wonderful instructors and instruction!
DP
great courts. nice area easy to get to. friendly staff at pro shop.
JF
We love coming to Palmetto Dunes and we spend a good part of our vacations at the PD tennis center. My husband and I did Cardio Tennis and I and my son (12) and daughter (9) had individual lessons. Tapi Hayrinen was our instructor for all of these programs. Tapi is simply a delight. He made the lessons and programs a lot of fun, with simple, memorable instructions that are easy to bring home. Our kids loved his lessons and made significant improvement almost immediately. He gave us great drills and reminders to use with our kids as we continue their learning at home. We’d recommend him to anyone visiting PD!
MJ
The tennis pros are fantastic. They are very friendly and they work very well with each level. They work hard and you can tell they love what they do. On Mondays they have an exhibition where the pros showcase their talents and it is super fun. I go every Monday night that I can. Very friendly and very knowledgable
FB
Palmetto Dunes is a great resort for tennis and coaching. The best tennis coach of the team was Tapi Hayrinen. Tapi help me add pop to my serve with two private lessons. Thanks Tapi.
BR
I absolutely love the Palmetto Dunes area of Hilton Head. I stayed in an oceanfront condo within a 2 minute walk to the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center. The staff at the tennis center is very friendly. I did 2 sessions of cardio tennis which was great. The instructor could use some work. I could not hear half of what he was saying- he was blasting music to get us moving, and I could not hear his instruction to us. I also did some daily drills with another instructor, who overall was nice, but seemed frustrated with us at times. I would definately recommend Palmetto Dunes to anyone wanting a marvelous vacation.
CB
Keith and Brian put together fast moving drills for our 3 days of team clinic with them. Each day developed a concept that complemented the day before. A bit expensive, but worth it.
FS
Really good instruction from Hank Ianuzzi. We visited Palmetto Dunes for 10 days in December 2011 and liked it so much that we came back in January, February and will be back in March 2012. The courts are great and well maintained and the tennis center staff consistently friendly and helpful. My tennis has suffered over the last few years. Under Hank’s constant and patient coaching and encouragement I have rediscovered the enjoyment of the game and improved my capabilities.Both my husband and I have improved our skill and performance under his teaching.
LB
I had a great 1-on-1 clinic with Tapi on New Years Day. In just 50 minutes he gave me some great pointers for improving my serve, volley and forehand without trying to totally redesign my strokes. Exactly what I was looking for to start off the new year!
GT
This was my second trip to the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center with a group of friends. We enjoyed our daily clinics. We also had a private lesson with Tapi, who was exceptional. His lesson was fun and informative–helping everyone one of us. He is a very enthusiastic instructor. His modern teaching really made sense to us and helped with our strokes.
DC
I thought the entire staff was excellent but my favorite was Tapi
RP
Excellent facillities, variety of clinics for all levels 7 days a week
JD
My tennis team had a girlfriends’ weekend at Hilton Head recently. We took private lessons two mornings at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis center. The instructors were friendly, helpful and patient with our group. Couldn’t have asked for a better learning experience!
AB
The # 1 reason to go is to take tennis lessons/clinics/cardio with Tapi Hayrinen! I first met Tapi at the PD Tennis Center almost 3 years ago. He changed my game, built my confidence and increased my confidence in my tennis. I look forward to seeing Tapi whenever I am on HHI. He is a wonderful and very effective PRO/teacher/coach – the best!
RH
Great adult and children clinics. Close to beach. Tapi is a fantastic pro for both kids and adults. Ask for him. Highly recommended.
AH
Tapi Hayrinen is an AMAZING tennis pro. I noticed my game improving in just two private lessons with him. He’s enthusiastic, passionate, patient, kind — he’s awesome!!!
TS
Strengths definitely lie in the pros there. They differentiate their lessons in order to apply to all levels of tennis. Brian Kiggans, the head pro, oversees that this is done in order to provide a fun and challenging tennis curriculum for all visitors.
SA
Had been to Palmette Dunes many times before with the family for July 4th holidays; this time went with five tennis buddies for serious tennis workout. We did drills in the morning; then had a group instruction with Tapi; and then played doubles and singles in the afternoon. Tapi’s modern instruction was great; he is knowledgable and fun; each person learned something different and was able to apply quickly (volleys, serving, returning kick serves, etc.). The clay courts are easy on the body and the lodging was fantastic. It was the first of many future “annual” trips.
GD
I love taking tennis lessons with Tapi Hayrinen at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. I have been able to go from never holding a racquet in my hand to playing at a skilled level. I have gained so much from his method of teaching, that my children are now taking lessons with him as well. We will be sure to come back for more great tennis.
ES
Excellent instruction from Pros Keith and Tapi.
DR
My overall experience @ Palmetto Dunes was excellent. From accomications,to beaches,to staff,and especially the tennis staff! Many of the teaching pros were top notch.Scott Lumpkin was my final teaching pro,he went above and beyond the call! This is my first time to Hilton Head and I definately want to return in the near future!
JL
This was my third year going to the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center, on vacation. The Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center, in my opinion, should definately be ranked number one on tennisresortsonline.com. The tennis facility is absolutely beautiful. The tennis instructors are both extremey friendly and skilled. My two favorite instructors there at Palmetto Dunes are Brian Kiggans and Tapi Hayrinen. Brian is the head pro there and he is honestly the best tennis coach I’ve ever had. He offers world class coaching. He is also an extremely friendly guy. Tapi is also one of the best tennis pros I’ve ever had. He teaches modern tennis (not oldschooled tennis like most pros teach). Tapi will get your tennis to look like the pros on television. I would certainly recommend going to Palmetto Dunes. It is my favorite place to go on vacation and take world-class tennis lessons with world-class pros.
BL
We have Tapi Hayrinen teach our daughters every time we go to Palmetto Dunes. We would not use anyone else and recommend him to all of our friends.
JL
We have been bringing our children to HHI for many years and the highlight of the trip each summer is the time they spend at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center. Under the instruction of Tapi Hayrinen, my children really enjoy his Cardio Tennis sessions. He runs them like crazy for 60 minutes and they get a calorie count and body mass index at the end of the class, with the guide of a heart rate monitor. They love this instant feedback and Tapi makes it fun mixing in tennis instruction with a good cardio workout. My husband and I also enjoy the cardio tennis and appreciate Tapi’s approach to “modern” tennis strokes. Our children look forward to returning each year. In addition to Tapi’s class, they enjoy the Jr. Tennis Camp and the Jr. Grand Slam which is taught by Scottie. Overall the instruction and “fun” aspect for the children is fabulous.
MS
Strength – very knowledgeable and personable teaching pros – Tapi Hayrinen in particular. Really understood how to teach my two 12 year olds. The cardio class was excellent.
JH
Convenient to where I stayed so I could walk to tennis or the beach. The heat during the summer with the humidity can be extreme.
JM
Palmetto Dunes is great. My wife and I both play recreational and competitive tennis and founds the courts great. While there I decided to take a couple lessons with one of the pros; ‘Tapi’was excellent, he watched me hit for about 5 minutes and immediately started correcting my forehand, backhand and serve. All was corrected with a few slight adjustments. After hitting with him for 1 1/2 hours I could get 20-30 balls across the net when in the past I was doing good to get 6-8… I then did a cardio tennnis sesson that was fast pace, motivating and fun… As far as the rest of the resort goes, it was laid back, we rode bikes to everything and as a bonus saw a wonderful fireworks display on the 4th of July. Based on the tennis alone, we plan to go back perhaps as soon as Labor Day.
LA
Our son took lessons with Tapi Hayrinen at PD for a week and it transformed his game! So much so that we are going back in a couple weeks for another week with Tapi.
AB
I thoroughly enjoyed my week playing tennis at Palmetto Dunes in Hilton Head, SC. The staff and pros were extremely personable and welcoming as well as giving solid, professional clinics and lessons. I took private lessons with Tapi Hayrinen and in only two lessons, he taught me valuable skills to augment my game. I am a more confident player at the net and Tapi taught me a wicked kick serve and modern tennis strategy. I can’t wait to go back next year!
BW
I would strongly recommend Palmetto Dunes as a great tennis vacation.
SL
I found a great instructor at Palmetto Dunes – Tapi Hayrinen. I was part of a women’s weekend last weekend and we didn’t know much about the resort other than it has a good reputation. After deciding that the regularly scheduled drills were not for us, we asked the desk about a private lesson for the three of us. Tapi was fantastic! He listened to us, gave us great feedback and made a real difference in game. I would highly recommend him and we plan to book him for lessons every time we return.
CE
The instruction is supurb and the staff is very friendly and great to work with.
JL
Tennis instruction is excellent at all levels. I had private lessons and attended the Doubles Clinics as I have done for the past 6 years and am always impressed at how much I learn and improve year to year.
CB
Spectacular facilities and pros. Courts are well groomed, and the pro shop is one of the best. I’ve attended intensive clinics that past two years and my game always has a strong uptick based on the strong coaching.
EC
The tennis instruction was some of the best I have received. The drills, the explanations, the presentation fromt the pro, all were extremely beneficial to me and my game. The facilities were excellent, the staff was welcoming and were very helpful. This is my favorite tennis resort, hands down. I do not have any weakeness to discuss. Outstanding tennis experience, the villas were convenient and had everything we needed, the extracurricular activities were great…plenty to do. I can’t wait to return.
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207 Reviews on “Palmetto Dunes Tennis and Pickleball Center”
Fabulous resort. Tapi Hayrinen was best tennis instructor I’ve ever had. It was worth the trip to Palmetto just for his instruction!
Tapi Hayrinen is the best teacher that I ever had. Teaches modern tennis techniques and makes the game fun! I would reccommend him to anyone from beginner to advanced.
We stumbled upon the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center many years ago when we were vacationing nearby over the Easter break. We were impressed by the programs and instruction available – clinics, individual lessons, round robins. Brian, Keith, Mike, Tapi do an exceptional job. We now go to Hilton Head annually during the Easter break, and look forward to our time at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center. It never ceases to amaze me that the pros and pro shop staff recognize us after a year of being away. The outdoor facilities are kept in very good shape, even allowing play shortly after a rain. I would recommend the tennis center & its staff to anyone who loves to play tennis at any level.
Tapi Hayrinen is an exceptional teaching pro fpr young and old. the only weakness the club has is no indoor courts if it rains
I took a couple of lessons with coach Scott Lumpkin. I was so impressed that I had my son join me for the second one. He is an EXCELLENT teacher. I would regard him as – where old school meets new school. His experience and methods embraced and incorported the modern tennis game and resulted in a delightful teaching style. I wish I had more days there and I hope to get some lessons from him some time in the future (me and my son and daughter)
Consistently outstanding. Excellent facilities, highly professional staff. Great for experienced tennis player and beginners.
We go to Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center every year and take clinics from Tapi Hayrinen. He is a great instruction and makes the clinics fun!
Great tennis experience for all levels of play.
I am a 65 year old who had not played tennis in well over 12 years. Decided to try to return to the game and took lessons from 3 instructors. ALL very good, however, Tapi is OUTSTANDING!! He had me hitting better than I ever hit in my entire life! Took a golf lesson from Doug Weaver, and again, OUTSTANDING! I would write weaknesses, however, there were none.
Just got back from 5 days at Palmetto Dunes. This is my 4th trip with the same group of women. This is easily one vacation I look forward to every year. The pros are always excellent. Brian is such a GREAT instructor and very fun. Tapi really simplifies tennis and has taught me so much — he is also hilarious. We had Robin, a new pro to our group this year — she was really great, offering great advice and being a fun presence on the court. The pro shop staff (Mary and Jackie) are always very welcoming and really organize a great visit. We drilled 3 hours every morning and then had the afternoons to play more tennis or relax on the beach or at the pool.
My semi-private lesson was with Tapi — he changed my volley and now I don’t dread coming to the net and its no longer a weakness, but a strength. I always hate leaving the island and look forward to the next visit. I have recommended Palmetto Dunes to many friends. It’s really quite a jewel on a gorgeous island.
I’ve been to this resort for the past 8 years with several friends. We keep going back because we receive valuable tennis instruction and have a GREAT time getting it. The staff at the tennis center is outstanding, the grounds are beautiful, and the accommodations are clean and spacious. Brian Kiggans goes above and beyond to make our time at Palmetto Dunes memorable and a great value.
Strengths: great clay courts, great place to buy racquets, clothes etc., beautiful location (Hilton Head). Excellent instructors with plenty of drills available. Weaknesses: They have 1 round robin daily which mixes to many skill levels together, they should have round robins based on skill level. They don’t do anything about helping you setup a match other than putting your name in a book.
My family returned to Palmetto Dunes after a fantastic vacation in 2011. This year’s vacation did not disappoint!!! As a USPTR and USPTA tennis pro myself, I’m quite particular in what I want in a tennis program. Palmetto Dunes took care of all of our needs. My 14 year old daughter took a lesson everyday with Tapi Hayrinen. Her improvement was dramatic! Modern tennis at it’s best. I learned as much watching him teach as she did in the lesson. We will definitely be back.
Great instructors, especially Tapi. He is extremely knowledgable and very excited to pass on this knowledge.
Excellent facility, wonderful instructors and instruction!
great courts. nice area easy to get to. friendly staff at pro shop.
We love coming to Palmetto Dunes and we spend a good part of our vacations at the PD tennis center. My husband and I did Cardio Tennis and I and my son (12) and daughter (9) had individual lessons. Tapi Hayrinen was our instructor for all of these programs. Tapi is simply a delight. He made the lessons and programs a lot of fun, with simple, memorable instructions that are easy to bring home. Our kids loved his lessons and made significant improvement almost immediately. He gave us great drills and reminders to use with our kids as we continue their learning at home. We’d recommend him to anyone visiting PD!
The tennis pros are fantastic. They are very friendly and they work very well with each level. They work hard and you can tell they love what they do. On Mondays they have an exhibition where the pros showcase their talents and it is super fun. I go every Monday night that I can. Very friendly and very knowledgable
Palmetto Dunes is a great resort for tennis and coaching. The best tennis coach of the team was Tapi Hayrinen. Tapi help me add pop to my serve with two private lessons. Thanks Tapi.
I absolutely love the Palmetto Dunes area of Hilton Head. I stayed in an oceanfront condo within a 2 minute walk to the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center. The staff at the tennis center is very friendly. I did 2 sessions of cardio tennis which was great. The instructor could use some work. I could not hear half of what he was saying- he was blasting music to get us moving, and I could not hear his instruction to us. I also did some daily drills with another instructor, who overall was nice, but seemed frustrated with us at times. I would definately recommend Palmetto Dunes to anyone wanting a marvelous vacation.
Keith and Brian put together fast moving drills for our 3 days of team clinic with them. Each day developed a concept that complemented the day before. A bit expensive, but worth it.
Really good instruction from Hank Ianuzzi. We visited Palmetto Dunes for 10 days in December 2011 and liked it so much that we came back in January, February and will be back in March 2012. The courts are great and well maintained and the tennis center staff consistently friendly and helpful. My tennis has suffered over the last few years. Under Hank’s constant and patient coaching and encouragement I have rediscovered the enjoyment of the game and improved my capabilities.Both my husband and I have improved our skill and performance under his teaching.
I had a great 1-on-1 clinic with Tapi on New Years Day. In just 50 minutes he gave me some great pointers for improving my serve, volley and forehand without trying to totally redesign my strokes. Exactly what I was looking for to start off the new year!
This was my second trip to the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center with a group of friends. We enjoyed our daily clinics. We also had a private lesson with Tapi, who was exceptional. His lesson was fun and informative–helping everyone one of us. He is a very enthusiastic instructor. His modern teaching really made sense to us and helped with our strokes.
I thought the entire staff was excellent but my favorite was Tapi
Excellent facillities, variety of clinics for all levels 7 days a week
My tennis team had a girlfriends’ weekend at Hilton Head recently. We took private lessons two mornings at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis center. The instructors were friendly, helpful and patient with our group. Couldn’t have asked for a better learning experience!
The # 1 reason to go is to take tennis lessons/clinics/cardio with Tapi Hayrinen! I first met Tapi at the PD Tennis Center almost 3 years ago. He changed my game, built my confidence and increased my confidence in my tennis. I look forward to seeing Tapi whenever I am on HHI. He is a wonderful and very effective PRO/teacher/coach – the best!
Great adult and children clinics. Close to beach. Tapi is a fantastic pro for both kids and adults. Ask for him. Highly recommended.
Tapi Hayrinen is an AMAZING tennis pro. I noticed my game improving in just two private lessons with him. He’s enthusiastic, passionate, patient, kind — he’s awesome!!!
Strengths definitely lie in the pros there. They differentiate their lessons in order to apply to all levels of tennis. Brian Kiggans, the head pro, oversees that this is done in order to provide a fun and challenging tennis curriculum for all visitors.
Had been to Palmette Dunes many times before with the family for July 4th holidays; this time went with five tennis buddies for serious tennis workout. We did drills in the morning; then had a group instruction with Tapi; and then played doubles and singles in the afternoon. Tapi’s modern instruction was great; he is knowledgable and fun; each person learned something different and was able to apply quickly (volleys, serving, returning kick serves, etc.). The clay courts are easy on the body and the lodging was fantastic. It was the first of many future “annual” trips.
I love taking tennis lessons with Tapi Hayrinen at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. I have been able to go from never holding a racquet in my hand to playing at a skilled level. I have gained so much from his method of teaching, that my children are now taking lessons with him as well. We will be sure to come back for more great tennis.
Excellent instruction from Pros Keith and Tapi.
My overall experience @ Palmetto Dunes was excellent. From accomications,to beaches,to staff,and especially the tennis staff! Many of the teaching pros were top notch.Scott Lumpkin was my final teaching pro,he went above and beyond the call! This is my first time to Hilton Head and I definately want to return in the near future!
This was my third year going to the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center, on vacation. The Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center, in my opinion, should definately be ranked number one on tennisresortsonline.com. The tennis facility is absolutely beautiful. The tennis instructors are both extremey friendly and skilled.
My two favorite instructors there at Palmetto Dunes are Brian Kiggans and Tapi Hayrinen. Brian is the head pro there and he is honestly the best tennis coach I’ve ever had. He offers world class coaching. He is also an extremely friendly guy. Tapi is also one of the best tennis pros I’ve ever had. He teaches modern tennis (not oldschooled tennis like most pros teach). Tapi will get your tennis to look like the pros on television. I would certainly recommend going to Palmetto Dunes. It is my favorite place to go on vacation and take world-class tennis lessons with world-class pros.
We have Tapi Hayrinen teach our daughters every time we go to Palmetto Dunes. We would not use anyone else and recommend him to all of our friends.
We have been bringing our children to HHI for many years and the highlight of the trip each summer is the time they spend at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center. Under the instruction of Tapi Hayrinen, my children really enjoy his Cardio Tennis sessions. He runs them like crazy for 60 minutes and they get a calorie count and body mass index at the end of the class, with the guide of a heart rate monitor. They love this instant feedback and Tapi makes it fun mixing in tennis instruction with a good cardio workout. My husband and I also enjoy the cardio tennis and appreciate Tapi’s approach to “modern” tennis strokes. Our children look forward to returning each year.
In addition to Tapi’s class, they enjoy the Jr. Tennis Camp and the Jr. Grand Slam which is taught by Scottie. Overall the instruction and “fun” aspect for the children is fabulous.
Strength – very knowledgeable and personable teaching pros – Tapi Hayrinen in particular. Really understood how to teach my two 12 year olds. The cardio class was excellent.
Convenient to where I stayed so I could walk to tennis or the beach. The heat during the summer with the humidity can be extreme.
Palmetto Dunes is great. My wife and I both play recreational and competitive tennis and founds the courts great. While there I decided to take a couple lessons with one of the pros; ‘Tapi’was excellent, he watched me hit for about 5 minutes and immediately started correcting my forehand, backhand and serve. All was corrected with a few slight adjustments. After hitting with him for 1 1/2 hours I could get 20-30 balls across the net when in the past I was doing good to get 6-8… I then did a cardio tennnis sesson that was fast pace, motivating and fun…
As far as the rest of the resort goes, it was laid back, we rode bikes to everything and as a bonus saw a wonderful fireworks display on the 4th of July. Based on the tennis alone, we plan to go back perhaps as soon as Labor Day.
Our son took lessons with Tapi Hayrinen at PD for a week and it transformed his game! So much so that we are going back in a couple weeks for another week with Tapi.
I thoroughly enjoyed my week playing tennis at Palmetto Dunes in Hilton Head, SC. The staff and pros were extremely personable and welcoming as well as giving solid, professional clinics and lessons. I took private lessons with Tapi Hayrinen and in only two lessons, he taught me valuable skills to augment my game. I am a more confident player at the net and Tapi taught me a wicked kick serve and modern tennis strategy. I can’t wait to go back next year!
I would strongly recommend Palmetto Dunes as a great tennis vacation.
I found a great instructor at Palmetto Dunes – Tapi Hayrinen. I was part of a women’s weekend last weekend and we didn’t know much about the resort other than it has a good reputation. After deciding that the regularly scheduled drills were not for us, we asked the desk about a private lesson for the three of us. Tapi was fantastic! He listened to us, gave us great feedback and made a real difference in game. I would highly recommend him and we plan to book him for lessons every time we return.
The instruction is supurb and the staff is very friendly and great to work with.
Tennis instruction is excellent at all levels. I had private lessons and attended the Doubles Clinics as I have done for the past 6 years and am always impressed at how much I learn and improve year to year.
Spectacular facilities and pros. Courts are well groomed, and the pro shop is one of the best. I’ve attended intensive clinics that past two years and my game always has a strong uptick based on the strong coaching.
The tennis instruction was some of the best I have received. The drills, the explanations, the presentation fromt the pro, all were extremely beneficial to me and my game. The facilities were excellent, the staff was welcoming and were very helpful. This is my favorite tennis resort, hands down. I do not have any weakeness to discuss. Outstanding tennis experience, the villas were convenient and had everything we needed, the extracurricular activities were great…plenty to do. I can’t wait to return.
Great experience — highly recommended.