What Are the Best Communities in Hilton Head Island?

What Are the Best Communities in Hilton Head Island?

Hilton Head Island offers a wide range of exceptional neighborhoods, each providing a unique blend of amenities, landscapes, and lifestyle options. Whether you’re in search of a luxury home with beach access, a golf-focused community, or a more secluded and private setting, Hilton Head has something to suit your needs. Let’s explore the top communities that define Hilton Head Island living.

Key Takeaways

• Hilton Head Island offers a variety of sought-after communities, each with unique amenities and lifestyles.
• Sea Pines, Palmetto Dunes, and Shipyard Plantation remain the top choices for those seeking resort-style living with easy access to beaches and world-class golf courses.
• Windmill Harbour and Long Cove are perfect for those looking for luxury, exclusivity, and peaceful living in a private setting.
• Spanish Wells stands out for its blend of waterfront luxury and quiet, gated seclusion.
• Whether you're after a family-friendly neighborhood, a beachy vibe, or private luxury, Hilton Head has it all.

1. Sea Pines Resort – The Best Neighborhood in Hilton Head Island for Resort Living

Sea Pines Resort is perhaps the most iconic neighborhood on Hilton Head Island. With its stunning beaches, renowned golf courses like Harbour Town Golf Links, and a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and recreational activities, Sea Pines embodies the resort lifestyle. The community features luxurious homes, vacation rentals, and scenic waterfront properties, making it a popular choice for residents and investors alike.

It’s also home to Harbour Town, one of Hilton Head's most famous spots, and South Beach, which offers a laid-back atmosphere. Residents and guests enjoy a perfect balance of privacy, leisure, and luxury living.

Best For: Resort-style living, golfers, beach lovers, luxury real estate.

Location: Southern tip of Hilton Head Island, SC

2. Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort – Premier Community for Golf and Water Sports

For those seeking a combination of golf, beach access, and water sports, Palmetto Dunes stands as one of the best communities on Hilton Head Island. This centrally located community boasts three world-class golf courses designed by the likes of Robert Trent Jones and George Fazio, as well as a wide range of amenities including water sports, tennis courts, and miles of pristine beach.

Palmetto Dunes is perfect for those looking for an active yet relaxing lifestyle, with excellent options for family living, second homes, or investment properties. With its tranquil environment and close proximity to shops and restaurants, this neighborhood offers the best of both worlds.

Best For: Golfers, water sports enthusiasts, active lifestyles, beach access.

Location: Central Hilton Head Island, SC

3. Shipyard Plantation – Ideal for Families and Golf Enthusiasts

Located on the northern end of Hilton Head Island, Shipyard Plantation is a beloved community for both full-time residents and vacationers. It offers a peaceful, scenic environment with easy access to the beach, golf courses, and tennis courts. The Shipyard Golf Club provides an excellent course surrounded by lush landscapes, making it a favorite for golf lovers.

The neighborhood features a variety of housing options, from charming villas to large, custom-built homes. Its central location puts residents close to shopping, dining, and the island’s famous beach, making it an ideal place for families or anyone seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Best For: Families, golf lovers, those seeking a balanced lifestyle with easy beach access.

Location: Northern Hilton Head Island, SC

4. Forest Beach – Vibrant Beachfront Neighborhood

Forest Beach offers an exceptional location for those who want to live right on the beach, with quick access to Coligny Beach Park and Singleton Beach. This lively neighborhood is a mix of full-time residents, vacation homeowners, and rental properties, giving it a dynamic and family-friendly atmosphere.

Forest Beach is also conveniently located near Coligny Plaza, Hilton Head Island's central shopping and dining hub. With miles of pristine coastline, bike paths, and parks, residents and visitors enjoy a coastal lifestyle while remaining close to amenities.

Best For: Beach lovers, active outdoor lifestyles, close proximity to dining and entertainment.

Location: Southern tip of Hilton Head Island, SC

5. North Forest Beach – A Serene Beach Community

Just north of Forest Beach, North Forest Beach offers a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere while still providing easy access to the beach. This peaceful community is ideal for those who want a more serene beach experience without the crowds. It’s a popular choice for vacation rentals, second homes, and full-time residents who want a slower pace of life.

North Forest Beach is also a short walk or bike ride to Coligny Plaza, providing residents with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it a perfect location for those who enjoy a quieter, beachside retreat.

Best For: Quiet, relaxed beach living, outdoor enthusiasts, laid-back lifestyles.

Location: North of Forest Beach, Hilton Head Island, SC

6. Windmill Harbour – Exclusive, Waterfront Luxury

For those looking for the ultimate in exclusivity, Windmill Harbour offers a private and serene living experience with direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway. Known for its private marina, this gated community is ideal for boating enthusiasts who want to keep their boat close to home. The community also offers walking paths, quiet streets, and a true sense of seclusion.

Windmill Harbour is smaller and more intimate than some of Hilton Head's larger communities, making it an excellent choice for those seeking privacy and luxury living in a peaceful environment.

Best For: Boating enthusiasts, luxury living, exclusive privacy.

Location: Southern tip of Hilton Head Island, SC

7. Long Cove Club – Luxury and Exclusivity at Its Best

Long Cove Club offers one of the most exclusive living experiences on Hilton Head Island. This private, members-only community features luxurious homes, a championship golf course designed by Pete Dye, and exceptional amenities. Long Cove is set among lush trees and tranquil lakes, offering residents a peaceful retreat while being just a short drive away from island attractions.

Known for its strong sense of community and active social life, Long Cove is perfect for those seeking privacy and high-end living, with access to world-class golf and outdoor activities.

Best For: Luxury living, golfers, exclusivity, private, tranquil environments.

Location: Central Hilton Head Island, SC

8. Spanish Wells – Waterfront Luxury and Gated Seclusion

Spanish Wells is a hidden gem on Hilton Head Island that offers a perfect blend of waterfront luxury and quiet seclusion. This gated community is located on the northern tip of the island and features stunning homes with direct access to the water. The neighborhood is known for its tranquil ambiance, private dock access, and spacious properties, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more secluded lifestyle.

While Spanish Wells is a smaller community, its prime location and peaceful environment make it an attractive option for those looking for a private, luxury retreat away from the hustle and bustle.

Best For: Luxury waterfront living, privacy, peaceful surroundings.

Location: Northern tip of Hilton Head Island, SC

9. Indigo Run – A Beautiful, Quiet Neighborhood

Indigo Run offers a quiet, peaceful setting while still being close to all of Hilton Head Island’s attractions. This beautiful neighborhood features two highly regarded golf courses, The Golden Bear Club and The Indigo Run Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus. The community offers a mix of homes, villas, and townhomes, making it a great choice for families, retirees, and golfers alike.

Indigo Run is known for its spacious lots, tree-lined streets, and proximity to shopping, dining, and the beach. It offers a slower pace of life while still providing easy access to everything Hilton Head has to offer.

Best For: Families, retirees, golfers, those seeking a peaceful neighborhood with easy access to amenities.

Location: Central Hilton Head Island, SC

Honorable Mentions

While the communities listed above are some of the most sought-after on Hilton Head Island, there are other neighborhoods that deserve recognition for their unique characteristics and charm. These communities offer a mix of affordable living, active lifestyles, and desirable amenities:

• Hilton Head Plantation: A family-friendly neighborhood with beautiful homes, golf courses, and easy beach access. Known for its tranquil environment and community activities.
• Palmetto Hall: A gated community offering a quiet, residential atmosphere with excellent golf courses, making it a great choice for families and retirees.
• Port Royal: A quiet, historic community known for its natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and close proximity to the beach.
• Folly Field Beach: A more laid-back community offering beautiful beach access, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed, coastal lifestyle.

Conclusion: Best Communities in Hilton Head Island

Whether you’re looking for a golf-centric lifestyle, beach access, or a quiet, luxury retreat, Hilton Head Island offers some of the best communities in the South. From the resort-style amenities of Sea Pines and Palmetto Dunes, to the seclusion of Windmill Harbour and Spanish Wells, there’s a perfect neighborhood for everyone. Explore the island’s diverse communities to find the one that suits your lifestyle and investment goals.