River Oaks by Palmetto Vacation Rentals

We have been coming to Kingston Plantation for nearly 10 years, and this was by far our most disappointing stay. The listing photos are outdated, there was food left in the refrigerator, a dirty freezer, dirty and greasy dishes and utensils put away in the cabinets, a dirty rag left behind, cloudy shower fixtures, and the primary bathroom ceiling fan was dangerously off balance. The biggest disappointment, though, was the complete lack of communication. The listing, check-in information, and signs all directed us to text the property manager if we needed anything. I reached out by text and through Airbnb, explained the noise issue we had in detail, and even sent a video. I never received a response through either channel. Things happen, but a complete lack of communication is unacceptable. We love Kingston Plantation and will absolutely be back, just not to this rental or through the rental company. Two weeks later still no communication though it shows they read the message. Horrible service, please look to use another company or rent directly from owners. Management companies over complicate things and have taken away from my trip.

This place is the worst! I have a full detail review in google review with pictures. It’s so much to type! Please go see my review before booking. Rooms are dirty, tvs don’t work, no help from rude staff and owner tried to pay us to take down our true reviews! Terrible place to stay. DO NOT BOOK!

My family and I stayed at Palmetto Villas from August 14–21, and this was by far the worst vacation experience we’ve ever had. From the moment we checked in, our accommodations were unacceptable! Dirty, unsafe, and poorly maintained. We raised these issues multiple times with management (including John Layton, Max Goldberg, and Ken Merritt), but not once did anyone attempt to resolve our concerns or even offer an apology. Instead, we were constantly told to “contact Booking.com,” which is unacceptable when the issues are with the property and staff themselves. Things only got worse during checkout. My mother-in-law returned the pool passes as requested and simply asked if she could take a picture of them for her own reference. The front desk attendant, Shawna, rudely refused. When I went in to follow up, she became defensive, jumped out of her seat, and went to get the manager. When Mr. Layton came out, we again tried to calmly express our dissatisfaction. Instead of listening, he dismissed us and repeated that our problems were Booking.com’s responsibility. When my husband spoke up, Shawna suddenly announced she was calling the police. Incredibly, the police DID arrive. We stayed to speak with them ourselves to ensure no false statements were made against us. Only once law enforcement was present did Mr. Layton finally provide the contact information I had originally requested. Rather than addressing our complaints, Palmetto Villas management escalated the situation to the point of involving the police against paying guests who simply wanted their concerns acknowledged. The hostility, lack of professionalism, and disregard for guest satisfaction were shocking. This was supposed to be a family vacation, but instead, we were met with dirty, hazardous rooms, dismissive management, and threats of arrest. Absolutely unacceptable. I strongly advise anyone considering Palmetto Villas to look elsewhere! This property does not care about its guests. I am still awaiting a response from Mr Lashower who I was told was Mr Laytons supervisor.