Dunes West Plantation is a historical place with a rich heritage. Evidence of the first inhabitants of this area dates back at least 8,000 years. The first historic record is a grant of 1,000 acres made in 1696. The plantation primarily manufactured bricks. The main house and its outbuildings were established in the area where Dunes West's clubhouse is located.

Dunes West (also known as Lexington) changed hands several times until 1930. Henrietta Hartford, was known as one of the nation's wealthiest women and proceeded to develop an elaborate estate (situated on approximately the same location of the original Lexington main house). The thirty-two room house was furnished with antiques imported from Europe. The development of the estate included the addition of a row of oaks on either side of the original oak lined avenue, a saltwater swimming pool, tennis courts, nine-hole golf links, stables, guest house, servants' quarters, and gardens designed by the Olmsted firm. Some of these additions remain today.

In 1937, Mrs. Hartford married the charming, handsome Prince Guido Pignatelli of Italy. The Prince and Princess visited the Lexington plantation often until it was mysteriously burned in 1942. Unable to face rebuilding the estate, Princess Pignatelli never utilized the property again.

In 1947, the land was sold to the O.L. Williams Veneer Company, Inc. (which later became part of Georgia Pacific / Designation Wild Dunes). John Weiland acquired the property in 2005 to operate and develop the magnificent Dunes West Golf Club. Today, the Dunes West Golf Club is host to major golf events and has been the site of over one thousand picturesque weddings, receptions and socials.