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.
198 Reviews on “Palmetto Dunes Tennis and Pickleball Center”
Excellent
4.7
198 reviews
On Court Experience
5.0
Off Court Experience
4.8
Overall Tennis
5.0
Overall Pickleball
5.0
Tennis Instruction
5.0
Pickleball Instruction
5.0
Accomodations
4.8
Resort Amenities
4.9
DI
Great time!
LO
Brian and Keith are top notch, two of the best tennis instructors I’ve had the opportunity to play with. I highly recommend them and their facility!
AR
This is an awesome place to play and learn the sport of tennis. It is absolutely beautiful with a lot of great amenities nearby. I live in the area and I HIGHLY recommend this as a SUPERB vacation!!
SJ
Tennis with Brian Giggans is the best! Every year, a group of us girls travel to Palmetto Dunes and we do 4 mornings of tennis with Brian. After 4 days, we are tired and sore but well worth it. Brian works on every aspect of the game. I always feel Brian takes the to give each player some individual attention. Very enjoyable clinics. It would be awesome to have the opportunity to do the clinics more than once a year!
MG
Great programs, lots of activities for all ages and abilities.
KB
Awesome facility and staff! Our yearly tennis trip for 10+ years now. We keep coming back because of Brian and his friendly staff. Great lessons and clinics tailored to your ability.
GH
Great instructors and facilities
MM
We have been going to this facility for years. We love the people and instruction. We always have fun!
CP
We have been 5 times to this beautiful resort in the last 10 years . The place ( Palmetto dunes tennis center )is beautiful and oriented towards family. Every 2 years, we go back with the kids to see Tapi at Palmetto Dunes. For my kids, going to see Tapi is like going to Disneyword. He gives special nicknames and smiley stickers to the kids which them relax and have fun playing tennis . He is still very passionate teaching this beautiful sport to kids and adults. What impresses me the most is that he has been upto date on teaching techniques. He is by far one of the best tennis teacher that we know . ( and we have met quite a few) He adapts well to the individual needs. Like my wife says, every time we go see Tapi, I want to play more tennis when we get back in Montréal!
MG
I look forward to this tennis vacation every year. No matter your skill level Brian the head pro makes it fun and educational but most of all memorable.
KL
This is a very nice tennis facility with great courts, pros and very family friendly.
LS
Great tennis facility and equally great pros! Brian and Keith are amazing.
DB
Great facility, pro shop and professionals
JC
Great tennis facility. Strong pros who do a great job with instruction and arranging matches. In particular, Glenn was outstanding, going above and beyond in instruction and arranging matches.
RA
Glenn was a great instructor! I never had so much fun on the court!!!
MT
The best tennis resort I’ve ever been to. Courts are always well maintained and the pros are great. We took lessons from Glenn and couldn’t have been more pleased. He was the best! I would highly advise requesting him when visiting this resort!
FC
Palmetto Dunes is fabulous! The very first time I went there, both Glenn and Brian made me feel welcome and part of the center. Glenn is a master of combining honest feedback and fun. His drills make you feel like its a private lesson. No customer tennis here…. Kudos for a well played point and positive coaching when you need it. A great place to learn and enjoy. Every resort has basically the same courts…Palmetto Dunes has Glenn and Brian. Game, Set, Match Palmetto Dunes!!
MA
Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center is a truly exceptional, comprehensive tennis facility with very knowledgeable pros, outstanding facilities and a fantastic location by the ocean.
JD
Great tennis facility. I have enjoyed working with Glen during many morning clinics. The tennis director, Brian makes frequent on court appearances and adds a unique dynamic to lessons. Palmetto Dunes utilizes the latest tennis technology and equipment. Whenever I am on the island I make sure to play at Palmetto Dunes.
GD
Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center is outstanding, we have a vacation home there and my family will play 5 days a week there. There is a pro name Glenn Shaeffer who is awesome. He is on time, will video your serve and break it down. Will talk tennis strategies( after your time is up). You get a great value for your money. He is always happy and makes the group or private lesson a lot of fun and seems to really care about improving your game. Plus the Tennis Director ( Brian) is on top of his game, runs the groups, clinic & round robins with a lot of energy. All the pro’s make you feel like you are the most VIP tennis player In the county. We love it there
JS
The tennis center is beautiful and the pros are fabulous. I will definitely be back next year!!!!
GS
The tennis pros & staff at Palmetto Dunes are outstanding. The clinics give you the opportunity to improve your game while meeting new friends at the same time. I recommend this vacation to all my tennis friends and are group gets bigger every year. Hilton Head is great vacation destination
JT
Great facility. Courts in superb condition. Helpful, knowledgeable staff. The tennis instructors are the best I have found in my 45 years of instructors. Brian, in particular, analyzes and then improves my game the fastest.
JB
Best tennis vacation – ever!
RS
Brian Kiggins, Head Tennis Pro at Palmetto Dunes IS a TRULY DEDICATED instructor of tennis. Coming from a professional LPGA teaching professional background, we can identify the assets of a great instructor, and Brian Kiggins IS ONE! Take a session from him and follow up with a series and you WILL see your game improve!
JK
The best destination for tennis anywhere, we have been regular visitors for years. The enthusiastic and first class staff make the entire vacation better, and the resort offers so many amenities, especially the beautiful beach. We always seem to make new friends, and come away with a better tennis game. What more could you ask for??
PW
I decided to refresh my skills by signing up for 5 half hour lessons during my three week stay in Hilton Head. My teacher was Tapi, who made the essentials of tennis playing easy to understand and implement. He was very patient and complimentary, which helped me to feel much more confident in my overall ability. Now, I can’t wait to resume playing more frequently when I get home!!
GM
The facilities are excellent . More importantly the Pros teach technique and strategy in way that “makes sense” . In particular Tapi provided me with mental images that have easily improved my game not overly technical but make it easy to execute effectively. You would do well to take a lesson or 2 with him. Likewise the competitive doubles clinic is excellent.
RN
This was a great tennis experience for the whole family! We have adult intermediate players and children beginners and it was outstanding for all. We highly recommend taking a lesson from Tapi. We also did his 8am cardio tennis workout and it was outstanding.
DP
Tapi was an excellent instructor. After just the first few minutes he identified areas of my game and stroke that could benefit from small changes. The changes were accurate and effective and resulted in great improvements with little effort. I returned for several more lessons for myself as well as my daughter. Though she’s only 8 yrs Tapi was just as insightful and effect in showing her ways to improve her technique. Thanks SO much, Tapi!
LS
Strengths – the tennis center and Tapi (the pro) – amazing pro. More knowledgeable than most pros, identifies quickly what you need to play the game better, everyone I spoke to who had Tapi as their pro thought he really knew what he was doing and was a great instructor. Will go back again just for Tapi! Weaknesses – the food if you like anything more than “home-style” cooking.
CC
I go to PD for tennis instruction by Tapi Hayrinen. He really knows how to teach every stroke of tennis. I had never used a 2-hand backhand. He taught me the complete stroke in 2 days. Tapi has all kinds of classes and they are all good. This is a wonderful place to play tennis and enjoy the ocean. Only bad thing is it rains once in awhile.
EF
Spent four days over Spring Break in Hilton Head with my family, including my 16-year old high school playing daughter. Sought out Palmetto Dunes due to its excellent reputation. The courts are in very good shape and were a pleasure to play. The setting is beautiful and easy to drive to, though even more enjoyable to bike to. My daughter, wife and I took both classes and private lessons. By far our most positive experience came from working with tennis pro Tapi Hayrinen. Tapi has a no nonsense approach to teaching that works very well for those who are serious about improving their game. He is extremely efficient and I clearly felt that he respected the fact that we were investing time, money and effort into getting better. Tapi is a gem and I will seek him out the next time I am in Hilton Head.
MC
this was the first tennis resort i’ve visited but it makes me want to visit more. the experience was phenominal. vastly improved all strokes after taking the private lessons. everyone was exceptionaly friendly and the island itself is wonderful. already miss HHI
DM
My wife and I turned the week into a camp by doing 4.5 hours of back to back consecutive am clinics. The teaching pros were excellent, especially Glenn and Tapi. We were in the intermediate to advanced group which meant that no beginners who couldn’t get the ball in play were there. We hit hundreds of balls during our four days and usually were too tired to do the afternoon mixed round robins. The resort is beautiful. We stayed in an oceanfront condo, which was actually pretty far back from the water which we could barely see through the trees and other objects, but the condo was clean and nice. Tip: Hilton Head Island has some great restaurants. So ask the tennis pros where they eat.
TH
Tapi is a great coach. He has great knowledge about the game. After a short session, Tapi pin-pointed out my weakness and helped me to improve my game right away. Highly recommended.
SM
January 2014. Our tennis team had a private clinic with Brian Kiggans. The instruction and drills were top notch. I highly recommend the experience.
SB
Excellent location, accommodations and tennis facility. We have looked at and have played some at Sea Pines and Port Royal, but neither compare to the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center. Entire resort is beautiful, easy to get around and offers a variety of accommodations.
MR
A great tennis facility with a great location at Palmetto Dunes Ocean Resort in Hilton Head, SC. Excellent clay courts with a very friendly and helpful staff. The pro’s instruction was the best. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
DK
My family and I have been going to Palmetto Dunes for 34 years and absolutely love the area and the tennis facilities!! My husband, daughter, son, and I have all taken numerous lessons over the years. We always came away thinking that our tennis game had greatly improved and that the experience was first class!! My lessons last year and just recently were taken with the tennis pro, Tapi Hayrinen. He is amazing — suggestions are simple but so effective and helpful — all while making it fun. He has made a major difference in my tennis game!!! I can hardly wait until we return in the fall. I can’t think of any weaknesses — Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center in Hilton Head Island, SC, is a perfect tennis vacation destination!!
SO
We have been to several tennis resorts, but Palmetto Dunes Tennis Resort was the absolute tops! Run by head pro Brian Kiggins, the daily drills are started on time, run at top speed with efficiency and all with humor and the utmost of teaching skill. The daily drills for Advance/Intermediate were the best drills for starting your tennis morning. Repetition was stressed, but it went so quickly and with such fun, the hour and half went so fast. We learned doubles strategy as well as accuracy. Scott was the best for overhead, Keith the very best for strategy and Brian for overall tennis…and don’t miss his daily jokes! And take a separate lesson on serving with Tapi. He got me so mad, but when I returned to my club, my serve was completely different and amazingly improved! Tapi has his own style, but he does produce “magic” improvements. Thanks to all at Palmetto Dunes for the great tennis.
EA
I can’t think of anything negative about this resort. The office staff is friendly and on top of things, the amenities are top-notch. The entire teaching staff is excellent. “Tapi” is the best instructor I’ve had and I hope to get back to Palmetto Dunes for more great tennis lessons from him. My game has improved a level already. One “Tapi” lesson on serves and you’ll be acing your opponents!
CL
I am a strong 4.5 player and took four private lessons: two with Scott Clements and two with Glenn Sheaffer. Scott has great hands and exposed some of my technical flaws with his slices, bumps, and bloops. Glenn enthusiastically worked with me on further modernizing my groundstrokes, and I am excited about my future path. Brian, Tapi, and the tennis shop staff are very friendly. Two restaurants, the beach, a golf course, and convenience store are within easy walking distance. The tennis shop has a lot of inventory; for even more choices Players World Of Sports is located a mile down the road.
DM
The instruction was up to date. I learned some new techniques that enabled me to have more power on the ball. Tapi Hayrinen was the pro who I did lessons with. It was a good experience.
MM
Every year we do a family vacation and always come back to Palmetto Dunes because of the tennis but specifically because of the pro Tapi. I call ahead and get a couple of lessons and he is by far the best pro I have ever had the opportunity to work with. He gives you some very basic things and know the right balance of giving you enough but not to much. Super smart, nice, and REALLY good at what he does….his remembers me every year (unbelievable given the amount of people he sees every year) and makes it such an overall nice experience. You can tell he really cares. He is your guy if you want a lesson.
DA
Just came back from my third year of a five-day private tennis program for four friends with Head Pro Brian. He is an excellent tennis instructor and great guy, too. The pro shop staff is also terrific, all so welcoming and accomodating to our needs.
MK
Great setting, well groomed courts, friendly staff and very strong Pros. Consistent, well organized and instructive clinics. Very good for privates as well. Staff very helpful in finding games. All around terrific venue.
TP
We stayed at a house within Palmetto Dunes and had private lessons with instructor Tapi Hayrinen. He was an amazing instructor with excellent attention to detail. If any of our friends visit Palmetto Dunes we would absolutely recommend him as instructor for adults and children. He is affable and fun to work with.
JR
I decided to put a group of friends together, for a little ‘guys get-a-way’ for tennis….both to just have fun but also to tune-up for Spring USTA seasons. I had stayed at Palmetto Dunes in the past with family, taken daily clinics/lessons, from Tapi Hayrinen and this time did something different. Since four of us went down together, we had automatic matches set for weekend. We booked a condo through Palmetto Dunes Rental Properties, and had a place right by tennis center. Each morning we spent a little more than an hour with Tapi for some competitive instruction and drills, then went into our first of two mathes for the day. We were very happy with Tapi and his style/professionalism. Originally, I had heard of Tapi from a teaching Pro in our area of North Carolina and his expertise. I refer Tapi to my tennis friends who are looking for insightful and technical instruction, and suggest their staying at Palmetto Dunes…since it’s convenient to Tapi’s venue of teaching. My friends and I would certainly return again next year about this time, to take in some great scenery, tennis instruction and some great times.
TS
Great personnel with gracious service. Ther is a tremendous variety of tennis venues and they bend over backwards together your participation
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198 Reviews on “Palmetto Dunes Tennis and Pickleball Center”
Great time!
Brian and Keith are top notch, two of the best tennis instructors I’ve had the opportunity to play with. I highly recommend them and their facility!
This is an awesome place to play and learn the sport of tennis. It is absolutely beautiful with a lot of great amenities nearby. I live in the area and I HIGHLY recommend this as a SUPERB vacation!!
Tennis with Brian Giggans is the best! Every year, a group of us girls travel to Palmetto Dunes and we do 4 mornings of tennis with Brian. After 4 days, we are tired and sore but well worth it. Brian works on every aspect of the game. I always feel Brian takes the to give each player some individual attention. Very enjoyable clinics. It would be awesome to have the opportunity to do the clinics more than once a year!
Great programs, lots of activities for all ages and abilities.
Awesome facility and staff! Our yearly tennis trip for 10+ years now. We keep coming back because of Brian and his friendly staff. Great lessons and clinics tailored to your ability.
Great instructors and facilities
We have been going to this facility for years. We love the people and instruction. We always have fun!
We have been 5 times to this beautiful resort in the last 10 years . The place ( Palmetto dunes tennis center )is beautiful and oriented towards family. Every 2 years, we go back with the kids to see Tapi at Palmetto Dunes. For my kids, going to see Tapi is like going to Disneyword. He gives special nicknames and smiley stickers to the kids which them relax and have fun playing tennis . He is still very passionate teaching this beautiful sport to kids and adults. What impresses me the most is that he has been upto date on teaching techniques. He is by far one of the best tennis teacher that we know . ( and we have met quite a few) He adapts well to the individual needs. Like my wife says, every time we go see Tapi, I want to play more tennis when we get back in Montréal!
I look forward to this tennis vacation every year. No matter your skill level Brian the head pro makes it fun and educational but most of all memorable.
This is a very nice tennis facility with great courts, pros and very family friendly.
Great tennis facility and equally great pros! Brian and Keith are amazing.
Great facility, pro shop and professionals
Great tennis facility. Strong pros who do a great job with instruction and arranging matches. In particular, Glenn was outstanding, going above and beyond in instruction and arranging matches.
Glenn was a great instructor! I never had so much fun on the court!!!
The best tennis resort I’ve ever been to. Courts are always well maintained and the pros are great. We took lessons from Glenn and couldn’t have been more pleased. He was the best! I would highly advise requesting him when visiting this resort!
Palmetto Dunes is fabulous! The very first time I went there, both Glenn and Brian made me feel welcome and part of the center. Glenn is a master of combining honest feedback and fun. His drills make you feel like its a private lesson. No customer tennis here…. Kudos for a well played point and positive coaching when you need it. A great place to learn and enjoy. Every resort has basically the same courts…Palmetto Dunes has Glenn and Brian. Game, Set, Match Palmetto Dunes!!
Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center is a truly exceptional, comprehensive tennis facility with very knowledgeable pros, outstanding facilities and a fantastic location by the ocean.
Great tennis facility. I have enjoyed working with Glen during many morning clinics. The tennis director, Brian makes frequent on court appearances and adds a unique dynamic to lessons. Palmetto Dunes utilizes the latest tennis technology and equipment. Whenever I am on the island I make sure to play at Palmetto Dunes.
Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center is outstanding, we have a vacation home there and my family will play 5 days a week there. There is a pro name Glenn Shaeffer who is awesome. He is on time, will video your serve and break it down. Will talk tennis strategies( after your time is up). You get a great value for your money. He is always happy and makes the group or private lesson a lot of fun and seems to really care about improving your game. Plus the Tennis Director ( Brian) is on top of his game, runs the groups, clinic & round robins with a lot of energy. All the pro’s make you feel like you are the most VIP tennis player In the county. We love it there
The tennis center is beautiful and the pros are fabulous. I will definitely be back next year!!!!
The tennis pros & staff at Palmetto Dunes are outstanding. The clinics give you the opportunity to improve your game while meeting new friends at the same time. I recommend this vacation to all my tennis friends and are group gets bigger every year. Hilton Head is great vacation destination
Great facility. Courts in superb condition. Helpful, knowledgeable staff. The tennis instructors are the best I have found in my 45 years of instructors. Brian, in particular, analyzes and then improves my game the fastest.
Best tennis vacation – ever!
Brian Kiggins, Head Tennis Pro at Palmetto Dunes IS a TRULY DEDICATED instructor of tennis. Coming from a professional LPGA teaching professional background, we can identify the assets of a great instructor, and Brian Kiggins IS ONE! Take a session from him and follow up with a series and you WILL see your game improve!
The best destination for tennis anywhere, we have been regular visitors for years. The enthusiastic and first class staff make the entire vacation better, and the resort offers so many amenities, especially the beautiful beach. We always seem to make new friends, and come away with a better tennis game. What more could you ask for??
I decided to refresh my skills by signing up for 5 half hour lessons during my three week stay in Hilton Head. My teacher was Tapi, who made the essentials of tennis playing easy to understand and implement. He was very patient and complimentary, which helped me to feel much more confident in my overall ability. Now, I can’t wait to resume playing more frequently when I get home!!
The facilities are excellent . More importantly the Pros teach technique and strategy in way that “makes sense” . In particular Tapi provided me with mental images that have easily improved my game not overly technical but make it easy to execute effectively. You would do well to take a lesson or 2 with him. Likewise the competitive doubles clinic is excellent.
This was a great tennis experience for the whole family! We have adult intermediate players and children beginners and it was outstanding for all. We highly recommend taking a lesson from Tapi. We also did his 8am cardio tennis workout and it was outstanding.
Tapi was an excellent instructor. After just the first few minutes he identified areas of my game and stroke that could benefit from small changes. The changes were accurate and effective and resulted in great improvements with little effort. I returned for several more lessons for myself as well as my daughter. Though she’s only 8 yrs Tapi was just as insightful and effect in showing her ways to improve her technique. Thanks SO much, Tapi!
Strengths – the tennis center and Tapi (the pro) – amazing pro. More knowledgeable than most pros, identifies quickly what you need to play the game better, everyone I spoke to who had Tapi as their pro thought he really knew what he was doing and was a great instructor. Will go back again just for Tapi! Weaknesses – the food if you like anything more than “home-style” cooking.
I go to PD for tennis instruction by Tapi Hayrinen. He really knows how to teach every stroke of tennis. I had never used a 2-hand backhand. He taught me the complete stroke in 2 days. Tapi has all kinds of classes and they are all good. This is a wonderful place to play tennis and enjoy the ocean. Only bad thing is it rains once in awhile.
Spent four days over Spring Break in Hilton Head with my family, including my 16-year old high school playing daughter. Sought out Palmetto Dunes due to its excellent reputation. The courts are in very good shape and were a pleasure to play. The setting is beautiful and easy to drive to, though even more enjoyable to bike to. My daughter, wife and I took both classes and private lessons. By far our most positive experience came from working with tennis pro Tapi Hayrinen. Tapi has a no nonsense approach to teaching that works very well for those who are serious about improving their game. He is extremely efficient and I clearly felt that he respected the fact that we were investing time, money and effort into getting better. Tapi is a gem and I will seek him out the next time I am in Hilton Head.
this was the first tennis resort i’ve visited but it makes me want to visit more. the experience was phenominal. vastly improved all strokes after taking the private lessons. everyone was exceptionaly friendly and the island itself is wonderful. already miss HHI
My wife and I turned the week into a camp by doing 4.5 hours of back to back consecutive am clinics. The teaching pros were excellent, especially Glenn and Tapi. We were in the intermediate to advanced group which meant that no beginners who couldn’t get the ball in play were there. We hit hundreds of balls during our four days and usually were too tired to do the afternoon mixed round robins. The resort is beautiful. We stayed in an oceanfront condo, which was actually pretty far back from the water which we could barely see through the trees and other objects, but the condo was clean and nice.
Tip: Hilton Head Island has some great restaurants. So ask the tennis pros where they eat.
Tapi is a great coach. He has great knowledge about the game. After a short session, Tapi pin-pointed out my weakness and helped me to improve my game right away. Highly recommended.
January 2014. Our tennis team had a private clinic with Brian Kiggans. The instruction and drills were top notch. I highly recommend the experience.
Excellent location, accommodations and tennis facility. We have looked at and have played some at Sea Pines and Port Royal, but neither compare to the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center. Entire resort is beautiful, easy to get around and offers a variety of accommodations.
A great tennis facility with a great location at Palmetto Dunes Ocean Resort in Hilton Head, SC. Excellent clay courts with a very friendly and helpful staff. The pro’s instruction was the best. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
My family and I have been going to Palmetto Dunes for 34 years and absolutely love the area and the tennis facilities!! My husband, daughter, son, and I have all taken numerous lessons over the years. We always came away thinking that our tennis game had greatly improved and that the experience was first class!! My lessons last year and just recently were taken with the tennis pro, Tapi Hayrinen. He is amazing — suggestions are simple but so effective and helpful — all while making it fun. He has made a major difference in my tennis game!!! I can hardly wait until we return in the fall. I can’t think of any weaknesses — Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center in Hilton Head Island, SC, is a perfect tennis vacation destination!!
We have been to several tennis resorts, but Palmetto Dunes Tennis Resort was the absolute tops! Run by head pro Brian Kiggins, the daily drills are started on time, run at top speed with efficiency and all with humor and the utmost of teaching skill. The daily drills for Advance/Intermediate were the best drills for starting your tennis morning. Repetition was stressed, but it went so quickly and with such fun, the hour and half went so fast. We learned doubles strategy as well as accuracy.
Scott was the best for overhead, Keith the very best for strategy and Brian for overall tennis…and don’t miss his daily jokes! And take a separate lesson on serving with Tapi. He got me so mad, but when I returned to my club, my serve was completely different and amazingly improved! Tapi has his own style, but he does produce “magic” improvements. Thanks to all at Palmetto Dunes for the great tennis.
I can’t think of anything negative about this resort. The office staff is friendly and on top of things, the amenities are top-notch. The entire teaching staff is excellent. “Tapi” is the best instructor I’ve had and I hope to get back to Palmetto Dunes for more great tennis lessons from him. My game has improved a level already. One “Tapi” lesson on serves and you’ll be acing your opponents!
I am a strong 4.5 player and took four private lessons: two with Scott Clements and two with Glenn Sheaffer. Scott has great hands and exposed some of my technical flaws with his slices, bumps, and bloops. Glenn enthusiastically worked with me on further modernizing my groundstrokes, and I am excited about my future path. Brian, Tapi, and the tennis shop staff are very friendly. Two restaurants, the beach, a golf course, and convenience store are within easy walking distance. The tennis shop has a lot of inventory; for even more choices Players World Of Sports is located a mile down the road.
The instruction was up to date. I learned some new techniques that enabled me to have more power on the ball. Tapi Hayrinen was the pro who I did lessons with. It was a good experience.
Every year we do a family vacation and always come back to Palmetto Dunes because of the tennis but specifically because of the pro Tapi. I call ahead and get a couple of lessons and he is by far the best pro I have ever had the opportunity to work with. He gives you some very basic things and know the right balance of giving you enough but not to much. Super smart, nice, and REALLY good at what he does….his remembers me every year (unbelievable given the amount of people he sees every year) and makes it such an overall nice experience. You can tell he really cares. He is your guy if you want a lesson.
Just came back from my third year of a five-day private tennis program for four friends with Head Pro Brian. He is an excellent tennis instructor and great guy, too. The pro shop staff is also terrific, all so welcoming and accomodating to our needs.
Great setting, well groomed courts, friendly staff and very strong Pros. Consistent, well organized and instructive clinics. Very good for privates as well. Staff very helpful in finding games. All around terrific venue.
We stayed at a house within Palmetto Dunes and had private lessons with instructor Tapi Hayrinen. He was an amazing instructor with excellent attention to detail. If any of our friends visit Palmetto Dunes we would absolutely recommend him as instructor for adults and children. He is affable and fun to work with.
I decided to put a group of friends together, for a little ‘guys get-a-way’ for tennis….both to just have fun but also to tune-up for Spring USTA seasons. I had stayed at Palmetto Dunes in the past with family, taken daily clinics/lessons, from Tapi Hayrinen and this time did something different. Since four of us went down together, we had automatic matches set for weekend. We booked a condo through Palmetto Dunes Rental Properties, and had a place right by tennis center. Each morning we spent a little more than an hour with Tapi for some competitive instruction and drills, then went into our first of two mathes for the day. We were very happy with Tapi and his style/professionalism.
Originally, I had heard of Tapi from a teaching Pro in our area of North Carolina and his expertise. I refer Tapi to my tennis friends who are looking for insightful and technical instruction, and suggest their staying at Palmetto Dunes…since it’s convenient to Tapi’s venue of teaching. My friends and I would certainly return again next year about this time, to take in some great scenery, tennis instruction and some great times.
Great personnel with gracious service. Ther is a tremendous variety of tennis venues and they bend over backwards together your participation