Throwing axes + local brews: Here’s something different to do in Bluffton
If the folks behind Palmetto Axes have their way, no one will ever be able to say there’s nothing fun to do in Bluffton.
Palmetto Axes opened July 31 with nine targets for axe-throwing at 4375 Bluffton Parkway, behind Off Island Thrift Shop.
Think darts, but with axes.
Don’t let your nerves about sharp axes get in the way, said owners Michelle and Mike Taylor.
“You work with a coach,” Mike said. “You’re definitely not left alone.”
He estimated 80 percent of the customers they’ve had so far are able to learn to hit the bull’s-eye before they leave.
Michelle said the feeling is empowering, and competition banter among groups keeps things interesting.
Bluffton business
Mike and Michelle got hooked on the activity when they found themselves with some extra time on their hands after dropping off their eldest of three kids at the University of Alabama Huntsville last fall. They decided to stop by an axe-throwing venue to see what it was like.
“I was nervous, like many people are when they come into our site, but once we got going, we both did pretty well,” Michelle said.
They enjoyed the experience so much that they immediately started looking for a space to set up a venue in Bluffton.
Michelle is a first-grade teacher at Hilton Head Elementary, and Mike works in warehouse logistics, so Palmetto Axes is their second job. As the only employees, that means open hours are evenings and weekends, for now at least.
The couple has big plans, though.
They’d like to host family nights and recruit food trucks to stage in front of Palmetto Axes. They are looking at ways to have live music nights as well. They are already signing up those interested in starting leagues for competition.
Food and fees
Thirsty customers can buy canned beer — the Taylors take pride in the number of local brews offered — seltzers, soda and bottled water at Palmetto Axes, but they should bring their own food or snacks if they want them. Some have ordered pizza to eat while they throw, Mike said.
Don’t bring your own drinks, and don’t bring your own axes. Those will be provided.
Do wear closed-toe shoes.
Reservations can be made online.
The cost is $25 per person for one hour or $45 per person for two. You must be at least 14 years old to participate. Police, firefighers, EMS personnel, members of the military and teachers qualify for a “hero discount” of 20 percent off with appropriate ID.
If you go
What: Palmetto Axes
Where: 4375 Bluffton Parkway, Suite F (behind Off Island Thrift Shop)
When: 4:30 to 10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 4:30 to 11 p.m. Friday; noon to 11 p.m. Saturday; 1 to 10 p.m. Sunday. Available Monday and Tuesday by appointment only
How much: $25 per person for one hour or $45 for two hours; discount available for first responders, military and teachers.
Phone: 843-816-7878
Website: palmettoaxes.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/palmettoaxes
