To enter a plantation, you must first pass through a gate with a security guard and indicate where you're headed. The resorts and villas share outstanding facilities, including legendary golf courses and tennis courts. The plantations we visited weren't particularly different from one another in terms of scenery and ambiance. Meandering slowly through the grounds, you'll feel as if you're passing through upscale country clubs with manicured golf courses, tastefully appointed condominiums, tennis courts, and ponds. The groomed landscaping accents the tropical lushness of native palmettos, Spanish moss, and sea oats.
Bicycle paths parallel the roads.
For an island, Hilton Head has surprisingly few ocean views. Most of the 12 miles of beach is private, with restricted access from the plantations' resorts and private homes. Some people may find Hilton Head too exclusive and uniformly glossy for their tastes. The landscape might strike some as too picture-perfect and predictable. It's hard to find fault with consistently comfortable and luxurious environs.