Over Three Decades of Fond Memories
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort is celebrating 50 years, and Clark Sinclair has been here for most of them! For the past 35 years, Sinclair has lent his expertise and friendly demeanor to the golf department here at Palmetto Dunes, so we sat down to ask him what it's been like to live and work here on Hilton Head Island for the past three decades.
Q: What do you remember most from when you first started at Palmetto Dunes?
A: I was in awe driving by the resort when all the palmetto trees on 278 were lighted at night. I could not believe how fortunate I was to work here. The staff was fantastic and everyone enjoyed living on Hilton Head.
Q: Are there any regular guests, residents, or visitors that you’ve come to know?
A: Too many to name! I always think of the Izers. I’m now their age when they first started [visiting]. They love the island, their friends and you wanted them to be at all the events that went on. Another thing I’ve enjoyed is getting to see my family more when I moved here. They loved visiting and Dad became a local!
Q: What’s your favorite thing about Palmetto Dunes?
A: My fellow employees, the owners, and the amenities. I love being surrounded by the water—being here enhances my world in many ways. It’s been fun to see things change and improve over the years, too.
Q: How do you think Palmetto Dunes has changed or grown over the years?
A: Everyone here strives to improve and make things better. Focus remains on protecting the natural environment and maintaining a Lowcountry feel. The partnerships and good relations between all departments of the resort have been great and make being here even better.
Q: Do you have a favorite memory or event from your time here?
A: The Christmas party and employee tournaments have always been fun. Up until 2001, we had The Golf World and Palmetto Dunes Collegiate, which I loved. Bill Clinton visited the resort on January 1 for seven years in a row, and that was pretty neat.
We thought about asking Clark what his favorite Palmetto Dunes golf course was, but we thought the question would be just too hard to answer! Thanks for sharing your stories, Clark; we love hearing about what makes Palmetto Dunes special to you. Read up on more 50th anniversary stories here, and don’t forget to share your own Palmetto Dunes memories with us!