At Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, we’ve been fortunate to have the most incredible staff throughout the years! Friendly, knowledgeable, and here to make your stay at Palmetto Dunes the best it can be, these are the faces and people who have made our award-winning resort what it is today.
To celebrate our 50th Anniversary, we’re sharing stories from the staff that interact with guests and residents every day, and whose dedication and character make Palmetto Dunes so special.
Juana’s Home Away from Home
For the past 14 years, Juana V. has been working in the food and beverage department at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, serving hungry golfers a well-earned meal and celebratory (or conciliatory) beverage at the Fazio Grill. We sat down with her on a sunny afternoon to ask her to tell us about her time working at Palmetto Dunes.
How long have you worked at Palmetto Dunes?
I’ve worked here in the dining department for 14 years.
What do you remember most from when you first started?
I remember that I liked the feeling here immediately. As soon as I arrived I thought to myself, “Oh, you’re going to love it here.” Even the security guards were nice!
Are there any regular guests, residents, or visitors that you’ve come to know?
One of the things I love about working here is meeting people from all around the world. I’ve met people from Canada, Argentina, Mexico. I love talking to guests from around the world, about the snow with people from up north, and seeing the guests that return back and remember you year after year.
What’s your favorite thing about Palmetto Dunes?
So many things! The grounds, because everything is so clean and beautiful, the people, all of the activities. Everything you want to do is right here, and I really like that.
Do you have a favorite event at Palmetto Dunes? I love the events at Shelter Cove Marina—especially Harbourfest in July when all of the tables and chairs are set out, and everyone is out enjoying the weather, the food, and the entertainment. Oh, and the July 4th fireworks!
How do you think Palmetto Dunes has changed or grown over the years?
Every year, more and more people visit. Even online, everybody is talking about Palmetto Dunes when they visit Hilton Head Island. The resort has grown, too. I used to work a lot of hours, some shifts were 12 hour days. Now that I’m older and that there are more staff, I don’t do that any more.
What else do you want to say for Palmetto Dunes 50th Anniversary?
Well, in all of the years I have worked here, I’ve never had or heard a negative thing. I love this place—it’s my second home!
Do you have any memories from your time visiting Palmetto Dunes? Share your stories with us here.