For those who choose the Lowcountry, life is defined by the water.
The rhythm of the tides, the glow of the sunset over the marsh, and the hum of outboard motors heading toward open water — this is the heart of coastal living.
Yacht clubs and private marinas represent the pinnacle of that lifestyle: a seamless blend of recreation, community, and luxury.
Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, South Carolina, offer some of the most prestigious boating communities along the East Coast.
With deepwater access to the Intracoastal Waterway, private marinas, and resort-style amenities, these enclaves have become the benchmark for elegant, water-centric living.
This ultimate guide profiles Bluffton and Hilton Head Island yacht club communities — highlighting their exclusive amenities, real estate offerings, and how home ownership connects you to one of the most desirable boating lifestyles in the Southeast.
The Lowcountry Waterfront Value Proposition
Deepwater Access
In the Lowcountry, not all waterfronts are created equal. Deepwater access is the gold standard — meaning you can navigate your boat regardless of the tide.
Located along the May River in historic Old Town Bluffton, Bluffton Boat Club is a private membership club that gives residents convenient deepwater access for fishing, cruising, and island hopping throughout the Lowcountry.
Unlike lagoon or tidal creek access, deepwater properties allow you to set sail anytime, directly into the Intracoastal Waterway or Calibogue Sound. For avid boaters, this isn’t just a luxury; it’s a lifestyle essential.
Investment Premium
Homes tied to private yacht clubs command a premium — and for good reason. The combination of limited inventory, strict membership caps, and world-class amenities keeps demand high and values steady.
Buyers aren’t just purchasing real estate; they’re buying into a legacy of exclusivity and stability. Over time, these communities tend to see faster appreciation, even in fluctuating markets, because of their scarcity and prestige.
Lifestyle Hub
Beyond boating, yacht clubs serve as the social and recreational epicenter of their communities. From dockside dinners and sunset cruises to regattas and holiday galas, these clubs create a vibrant social fabric.
Many residents also enjoy Hilton Head Island yacht rentals, whether for entertaining visiting guests, hosting private celebrations, or simply exploring the Intracoastal Waterway in style.
Whether it’s meeting neighbors for brunch after a morning sail or gathering for live music on the marina lawn, members share more than just proximity — they share a lifestyle.
Profile: Top 5 Premier Yacht Club Communities
Wexford (Hilton Head Island)
Wexford stands out as one of Hilton Head’s most exclusive yachting communities. Homeownership includes a mandatory equity membership, ensuring access to the community’s array of premier amenities.
The centerpiece of Wexford is its unique inland harbor — a lock-controlled system, modeled after those found in Europe, that keeps water levels constant and protects vessels from tides and storms.
From this private harbor, residents enjoy easy navigation to the Calibogue Sound and the Intracoastal Waterway. Beyond boating, Wexford offers a championship golf course, tennis and pickleball courts, fine dining, a fitness center, and a vibrant calendar of social events.
Real estate options include luxury single-family homes and villas, many with private docks or direct harbor frontage, making these properties some of the most desirable on Hilton Head Island.
Windmill Harbour (Hilton Head Island)
Windmill Harbour is another premier waterfront enclave, distinguished by its association-owned marina where boat slips are purchased or leased separately.
It’s home to the South Carolina Yacht Club and features one of the state’s only lock-controlled harbors, offering secure mooring for vessels up to 70 feet and direct deepwater access to the Intracoastal Waterway — a major draw for avid boaters.
The South Carolina Yacht Club provides residents with upscale and casual dining options, a fitness center, sailing programs, and a lively social calendar.
The community’s real estate includes a mix of waterfront homes, townhomes, and villas surrounding the marina, many boasting scenic harbor or lagoon views that perfectly complement the nautical setting.
Long Cove Club (Hilton Head Island)
Long Cove Club blends exclusivity, privacy, and natural beauty in one of Hilton Head’s most respected private communities. Membership is mandatory with property ownership, granting residents access to an impressive range of amenities.
Its private marina, nestled along Broad Creek, offers deepwater access and a tranquil atmosphere — perfect for homeowners seeking both convenience and seclusion. In addition to boating, residents enjoy a Pete Dye–designed golf course, fine dining, tennis, pickleball, and a strong community culture centered on nature and preservation.
The homes here are custom-built and situated on spacious, beautifully landscaped lots under a canopy of moss-draped oaks.
Colleton River (Bluffton)
Located just over the bridge in Bluffton, Colleton River Club represents Lowcountry luxury at its finest. Homeownership comes with a mandatory membership, with tiered options for social or full golf and yachting privileges.
The community features two deepwater docks on the Colleton River, providing direct access to Port Royal Sound and, ultimately, the Atlantic Ocean — a perfect setup for day trips to nearby Beaufort, Savannah, or Daufuskie Island.
Residents enjoy an active lifestyle supported by two championship golf courses designed by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus, as well as tennis, fitness, and both formal and casual dining venues.
Colleton River’s real estate includes grand estates with panoramic marsh and river views, solidifying its reputation as one of Bluffton’s most prestigious gated communities.
Berkeley Hall (Bluffton)
Berkeley Hall combines elegance, recreation, and a true connection to the water. Property ownership requires membership, giving residents access to a wealth of luxury amenities.
Along the Okatie River, the community’s River Park features a scenic dock with kayak storage and wet slips, providing direct deepwater access to the Colleton River and the Intracoastal Waterway.
The community includes two Tom Fazio–designed golf courses, a 14,500-square-foot spa and fitness center, and multiple dining venues ranging from casual to fine dining. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy a balance of boating, golf, and wellness.
Real estate in Berkeley Hall consists of grand custom homes and estates set on generous lots, many overlooking lush fairways or serene marshland views.
The Real Estate Connection: How Access is Granted
Deed Restriction & Mandatory Membership
In most premier yacht club communities, access to marinas, docks, and club amenities isn’t optional — it’s deeded into the property itself.
This ensures that every homeowner contributes to maintaining the quality and exclusivity of the neighborhood. Mandatory memberships keep the clubs financially stable and the amenities impeccably maintained.
Dock Ownership vs. Lease
Not all properties come with deeded boat slips. In places like Windmill Harbour, slips are owned or leased separately through the association.
Deeded slips, when available, significantly increase a home’s value because they eliminate uncertainty about mooring rights.
Investment Value
Owning a property with deepwater or marina access is a game-changer. It bypasses the high costs and regulatory hurdles of building a private dock — not to mention the time and environmental permitting involved.
Homes with guaranteed water access are consistently among the most desirable in the Lowcountry, and their value reflects that.
HOA and Fees
Annual homeowners’ association fees in these communities fund the upkeep of marinas, landscaping, security, and club facilities. While costs vary, the value they preserve is substantial — protecting not just property values but the quality of life residents expect.
Conclusion
Hilton Head Island and Bluffton’s premier yacht club communities hold their value because of three key factors: exclusivity, mandatory membership, and limited deepwater access. Together, they create a lifestyle that’s as secure as it is luxurious.
Owning a home in one of these enclaves isn’t just about real estate — it’s about joining a community curated around the Lowcountry’s most prized asset: the water.
Ready to chart your course? Give us a call today at 843-310-6339 or email us at info@sequelsc.com to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between deepwater access and marsh view?
Deepwater access means your boat can reach open water regardless of the tide. A marsh view may be beautiful but usually lacks navigable water at low tide.
Is yacht club membership mandatory when I buy a home?
In most cases, yes. Communities like Wexford, Long Cove, and Colleton River require club membership tied to the deed.
How much do HOA fees typically cost in these luxury communities?
Annual fees generally range from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on amenities and club tier.
Are boat slips included with the property, or do I need to lease them separately?
It depends on the community. Some homes include deeded slips, while others require leasing or purchasing through the association.
Which Bluffton community has the best boating amenities?
Colleton River offers two deepwater docks and easy access to Port Royal Sound, making it Bluffton’s top choice for boaters.
How does the lock system work at Windmill Harbour?
The lock maintains consistent water levels inside the harbor and protects boats from tides and storms — similar to canal locks in Europe.
Do these communities offer non-golf amenities?
Absolutely. Most feature full-service marinas, fitness centers, spas, fine dining, social clubs, and wellness programs.
