We always stay at Palmetto dunes, literally the next building over from the beach house. Was wondering if there is any way to visit the snack bar or even attend the crab boil or pirate party?
You can certainly ask at the resort but generally all resort programs and special dining offerings are for registered guests only. It's worth a call or stop at the resort to see though!
snack bar at the beach has an order counter on the public access side. I don't know if they still have it open--can't recall from last year. One option, which we have done when staying elsewhere, is to get a studio at DVC-HHI for 1 day. Then you can use all facilities from 7am-midnight the next day. OF course, that then led to a DVC-HHI add-on the next year!