An Endless Summer in South Carolina’s Lowcountry—With a Guest Appearance by Stan Smith (the Man, Not the Shoe)

I’m usually doing a lot of coping around this time of year: As a massive tennis fan—both the watching and the playing—the season generally winds down after the US Open. And as for my game? While it’s really just hitting its stride, I’ve already started planning out the indoor season. My wife and two kids, meanwhile, just want an escape—tennis or no tennis, just somewhere fun, active, un-boring… and warm.

Destination: South Carolina Lowcountry

I’d been hearing about it forever from friends, and one particular part of it—Hilton Head Island—has been imprinted on my psyche since my tender years. Growing up land-locked in the Midwest, I was an avid reader of Tennis magazine, and each month I’d marvel at the ads for various tennis camps and vacations located in this mysterious place called Hilton Head. When I then had the chance to meet the former US Open and Wimbledon champion Stan Smith—yes, the guy with the shoe—at the Open, he invited me to come down to Hilton Head to hit with him. It seemed like destiny.

The Journey Begins

First things first: The flight from New York to Savannah, Georgia is quick—two hours and small change—and a brief car ride delivered us to Montage Palmetto Bluff. Any remaining traces of the much-overrated “real world” disappeared almost instantly as we turned onto long, lazy streets cascaded with trees hanging Spanish moss.

Arrival at Montage Palmetto Bluff

We were soon deposited into our sprawling three-story brick home (like most things here, a newish build that hearkens back to various Southern architecture tropes) in the middle of Wilson Village. After dropping off our stuff, we headed out to grab rental bikes and a golf cart—our main mode of transportation around the 20,000 acres—much of it a protected nature conservancy—which comprise the property. The vibe of the entire place is laid-back luxury, the tempo slow and low.

Exploring Southern Luxury

The sprawling Montage Palmetto Bluff offers everything from smores-ready fire pits to multiple dining options. From grab-and-go casual at Buffalo’s to the slightly higher-end Octagon inside the Inn, there’s something for every taste. There’s also a speakeasy hidden below River House—perfect for an evening escape.

Active Days with Kids

• A morning boat ride with resident naturalist Cassie Beato introduced us to abundant bird and animal life in the maritime forest.
• We explored a world-class rustic-chic treehouse, and indulged in scavenger hunts at Montage Merits desk for family fun.

Preparing for Tennis with Stan Smith

Every morning, I’d head to Wilson Lawn & Racquet Club, where Martin Aviles—the club’s director—helped me refine my tennis game. His expertise was invaluable in improving my forehand and addressing the yips.

The Final Night at Montage Palmetto Bluff

We enjoyed dinner at River House before sneaking down to Hush, a speakeasy for a nightcap. The day ended with standup paddleboarding on the May River, where dolphins joined us, creating a perfect end to our stay.

Sea Pines Resort: A Historic Destination

Nearby, Sea Pines Resort—inspired by Portofino’s harbor—focuses on environmental concerns and active recreation. Its laid-back ambiance combines modern luxury with timeless Southern charm.

A Day at the Smith Stearns Tennis Academy

After moving around to Sea Pines, we visited Stan Smith’s tennis academy. Here, I had the chance to play with him and learn from his expertise, while my family enjoyed local activities such as biking and a sunset dinner cruise.

The Legacy of Stan Smith

Smith’s life in tennis has spanned an incredible period, playing legends like Don Budge and McEnroe. His advice to play every day resonates with anyone looking to improve their game.

Our stay at South Carolina’s Lowcountry offered a perfect blend of relaxation, family fun, and the chance to connect with a legend in tennis. One day, my kids will understand that Stan Smith is much more than just “the shoe guy.”

This expanded blog post incorporates additional details about the journey and activities at Montage Palmetto Bluff and Sea Pines Resort, while also emphasizing the experience of playing tennis with Stan Smith.