If you’ve been dreaming of life by the water, you’re in the right place. Bluffton and Hilton Head Island are home to an incredible variety of waterfront properties – from riverfront estates and marina homes to peaceful lakefront retreats and ocean view villas. In this post, we’re highlighting seven gated communities that showcase just how diverse and rewarding waterfront living in the Lowcountry can be.
Palmetto Bluff – May River Views Without the Dock Maintenance
Palmetto Bluff offers scenic riverfront living in an iconic Lowcountry setting. While private docks aren’t permitted, the community provides convenient dry dock storage and a full-service marina team that handles launching and retrieval. Residents enjoy sweeping views of the May River, tidal creeks, and centuries-old oak trees—perfect for those who value a quiet, nature-rich waterfront lifestyle.
Oldfield – Deepwater Access Plus Onsite Boat Storage
Nestled along the Okatie River, Oldfield blends timeless Southern charm with true deepwater access. Many homes offer private docks, while the community also provides an onsite boat storage facility and private launch ramp. This makes it easy for owners to enjoy the river, whether fishing, cruising, or exploring the Intracoastal. With multiple vantage points of the water, Oldfield is ideal for both active boaters and view-seekers alike.
Hampton Lake – Lakefront Living with Scenic Backdrops
Centered around a 227-acre freshwater lake, Hampton Lake offers a unique style of waterfront living. From wide open lake views to tucked-away coves, the scenery here is diverse and beautiful. Homes with private docks can accommodate electric pontoon boats and paddlecraft, making it a peaceful and low-maintenance way to enjoy time on the water. This resort-style setting offers a tranquil, laid-back lake life just minutes from Bluffton’s amenities.
Wexford – Lock-Controlled Harbor with Premium Views
Wexford on Hilton Head Island is one of two communities with a private inland harbor and lock system that connects to the Intracoastal Waterway. This creates a protected environment for boaters and a variety of stunning harbour views in addition to a few deep water homesites with views of the Calibogue Sound. Whether you are looking for a luxury yacht slip or a peaceful dockside patio, Wexford offers a rare blend of engineering and elegance.
Windmill Harbour – Deepwater Views & Yacht Club Vibes
Home to the South Carolina Yacht Club and the second private lock system on the Hilton Head coastline, Windmill Harbour is a boater’s dream. The community is rich with coastline, offering dynamic coastal water views of the tidal marsh or deep water. Along the harbour, Charleston-style homes offer direct dockage with private boat slips. The architectural charm and coastal energy here make it a top choice for those who want both an active boating lifestyle and a scenic place to call home.
Palmetto Dunes – From Oceanfront to Lagoon Living
Palmetto Dunes is a rare coastal community offering both Atlantic Oceanfront homes and waterfront residences along an 11-mile inland lagoon system. Lagoon-front homes often feature private docks for kayaks and paddleboards, while oceanfront homes deliver direct access to Hilton Head’s beaches and iconic sunrise views. For buyers who want proximity to the beach or gentle waters just outside their back door, this community provides exceptional options.
Sea Pines – Ocean, Sound, Marsh & Harbour Views
Sea Pines is one of Hilton Head’s most desirable locations for waterfront property, and the options are impressively varied. Here, you’ll find homes with direct Atlantic Ocean frontage, others along Calibogue Sound or Broad Creek, and plenty overlooking the marsh or tucked along picturesque lagoons. You can even find waterfront homes near Harbour Town with boats docked just steps from your door. For those who love visual variety and want access to it all, Sea Pines delivers.
These 7 Communities are just the Beginning
These are just a handful of standout neighborhoods to get you started. There are many other communities with waterfront homes and views, including Spanish Wells, Long Cove Club, Hilton Head Plantation, Callawassie, Colleton River, and others throughout the area. We’ve focused on this curated list to give you a closer look at the variety of waterfront lifestyles available, considering the range of options can be overwhelming without the right guidance.
That’s where your Collins Group Realty Specialist comes in. We’re here to help you explore the full range of possibilities and pinpoint the community that matches your home needs, lifestyle goals, and waterfront dreams. Whether you are boating every weekend, enjoying cocktails on the dock, or just soaking in the view, we’ll help you find your perfect place by the water.