In 1956, just five short years after the introduction of electricity onto Hilton Head Island, Charles Fraser purchased land on the southwestern tip in order to develop the community now known as Sea Pines Resort. The first of Hilton Head's plantation communities, Sea Pines covers over 5,000 acres of thriving natural environment and offers over five miles of gorgeous public-accessible beaches. This picturesque, sprawling community, bordering the Atlantic Ocean on the east and Calibogue Sound on the west, is ideal for vacationers and residents alike. Villas, Condos, Homes, and available Lots for building that dreamhouse abound in this massive complex, just waiting for the perfect family to enjoy the many amenities offered.
The Harbour Town village and marina was fashioned after small French and Italian harbors and developed for intimacy and ambience. This Mediterranean-influenced center offers independently-owned and operated clothing/jewelry boutiques, craft shops, dining, live music entertainment, and every water sport available.
Harbour Town has a park and a tree house for children, as well as a nature center. The Gregg Russell Playground, named for the entertainer of Harbour Town for 25 years running, is located right next to Liberty Oak. Sea Pines’ quaint village center also offers a free trolley that runs daily, with varying hours of operation throughout the year between Harbour Town, South Beach Village, and Turtle Lane Beach Club.
Sea Pines Resort contains the island's first golf course, the 1959 Ocean Course designed by George Cobb and constructed by Greenwood Mills. Restructured by Mike McCumber in September, 1995, the 15th hole is known for a beautiful oceanfront view.
George Cobb also designed the 1967 Sea Marsh Course. Remodeled by Clyde Johnson in 1990, the Sea Marsh course—like the Ocean Course—is a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. The Plantation Club Villas are near both courses and with just a quick walk to the beach, it is a perfect real estate investment.
Harbour Town Golf Links, developed in 1970 by both Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus, has been home to the PGA’s Verizon Heritage Classic since 1969 when it was first won by Arnold Palmer. Among the many popular features of this famous course is its photogenic 18th hole, with Harbour Town’s Lighthouse in the background. Noted for excellence in both design and playing potential, the par-71 Harbour Town Golf Links has been ranked highly since 1971 among the country’s finest golf courses by multiple magazines.
The Sea Pines Racquet Club is directed by the world-renowned coach and U.S. Open and Wimbledon champion Stan Smith. The facility has occasionally hosted such tournaments as the Family Circle Cup, the Corel Champions Tour, the Dupont All-American, the World Invitational, and the Stan Smith Invitational, among others. 23 clay courts (five lighted) are available for private and semi-private lessons. |