Tucked away behind hundreds of pines and oaks on the north end of the Island, Hilton Head Plantation is off the tourist-track and home to Hilton Head’s largest permanent resident populations. The community offer thousands of acres of sea island forest, golf courses, amenities, and Pine Island, one of the true hidden gems of Hilton Head.
Natural Attractions and Conservancies
Most visitors (and even some long-time residents) don’t realize that Hilton Head Plantation has a beach. But Pine Island, a winding spit of land with pine, oak, and palm trees, connects to Dolphin Head Recreation area and serves as a mile-long walkable beach for Plantation residents and their guests. Located on Port Royal Sound and Skull Creek, Pine Island also offers great fishing, and is a nesting site for bald eagles.
Hilton Head Plantation also has two conservancies, the 137-acre Whooping Crane Conservancy (accessible by paths and boardwalks) and the 51-acre Cypress Conservancy. Both Conservancies are lovely spots for bird-watching and delighting in the Lowcountry’s natural beauty.
Golf and Amenities
Choices for outdoor sports and activities abound in Hilton Head Plantation. Golfers have their choice of four semi-private golf courses, including the Country Club of Hilton Head (which also offers a fitness center) and the Dolphin Head, Bear Creek, and Oyster Reef Golf Clubs. Tennis players can hone their games on 12 ‘Har-Tru’ courts. Bocce and shuffleboard enthusiasts can play their hearts out on multiple courts, too.
In 2016, the Plantation revitalized its primary community pool at the Spring Lake Recreation Area, completing a multimillion-dollar renovation that includes a lazy river, wading areas, and splash pads.
Hilton Head Plantation is also home to two restaurants, including the venerable Old Fort Pub, one of the Island’s finest and most acclaimed dining venues.
Real Estate
At nearly 4,000 acres, Hilton Head Plantation contains dozens of smaller neighborhoods and developments, from the exquisite waterfront mansions of Ribaut Island, to cozy, golf-oriented villas. Single-family homes are available in the low $300,000’s, and many more options become available in the $400-500,000 price range. There are still dozens of open lots available for sale, too. As no short-term rentals are permitted here, Hilton Head Plantation is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy Hilton Head’s amenities and lifestyle without as much tourist hassle in the summer.
