Articles regarding luxury real estate in Charleston

Filter by lifestyle:

Isle of Palms Charleston SC

Article

Top Charleston SC Waterfront Neighborhoods

Charleston, South Carolina, is renowned for its stunning waterfront homes, offering residents breathtaking views and easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, rivers, and creeks. From the historic charm of downtown Charleston to the laid-back atmosphere of Folly Beach, the Charleston area boasts a variety of neighborhoods perfect for those seeking a luxurious waterfront lifestyle.The Battery promenade in Charleston is famous for its stately antebellum homes that line the seawall. These grand mansions, built mainly in the early to mid-19th century, showcase the architectural splendor of the era and have become iconic symbols of Charleston's historic charm. Notable residences along the Battery include the Edmondston-Alston House (21 East Battery), the William Ravenel House (13 East Battery), and the Col. John Ashe House (32 South Battery). While most of these homes remain private residences, the Edmondston-Alston House is open to the public as a historic house museum, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Charleston's wealthy elite during the antebellum period. The Battery promenade and its magnificent homes continue to draw tourists and locals alike, serving as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage.The historic Charleston Peninsula is the heart of the city, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. This vibrant downtown area is home to stunning architecture, ranging from colonial and Georgian to Gothic Revival styles, with cobblestone streets and wrought iron details adding to its charm. The peninsula boasts a thriving culinary scene, with award-winning restaurants like Peninsula Grill serving delicious Lowcountry cuisine in an elegant setting. Residents and visitors can explore the numerous museums, galleries, and boutiques that line the streets or take a stroll through the lush gardens and parks. The peninsula is also home to several prestigious institutions, including the College of Charleston, The Citadel, and the Medical University of South Carolina. With a variety of housing options, from luxury condominiums to historic mansions and quaint bungalows, the Charleston Peninsula offers something for everyone seeking an urban lifestyle steeped in Southern charm.Isle of Palms is a unique barrier island located just 12 miles from historic Charleston, offering six miles of pristine white sandy beaches and endless recreational opportunities both on and off the water. This family-friendly destination features championship golf courses at the Wild Dunes Resort, tennis courts, bike paths, and watersports rentals for activities like boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The island also boasts a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to upscale restaurants serving fresh local seafood and Lowcountry specialties. With a range of accommodations available, including vacation rentals, luxury resorts, and boutique hotels, Isle of Palms is the perfect place to experience the laid-back coastal lifestyle while still being close to the attractions and charm of Charleston.Sullivan's Island is one of the most exclusive and sought-after waterfront locations in the Charleston area, known for its stunning luxury beachfront homes with direct ocean access and breathtaking views. The island offers a variety of high-end properties, from contemporary mansions to historic cottages, many of which feature private docks and expansive outdoor living spaces. With an average home value of around $4.3 million, properties on Sullivan's Island command premium prices and are in high demand among affluent buyers seeking a luxurious coastal lifestyle. Residents enjoy access to pristine beaches, top-rated restaurants, and a close-knit community atmosphere, all just a short drive from downtown Charleston.Kiawah Island, located just 21 miles south of Charleston, is a private island community that offers luxury living at its finest. With stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, pristine beaches, marshlands, maritime forests, and world-class golf courses, Kiawah Island provides an unparalleled lifestyle for its residents. The island features a variety of architectural styles that define the acclaimed aesthetic of each neighborhood, from beautiful cottages and villas to modern luxury homes with an average value of approximately $1.93 million. Residents can enjoy top-tier amenities, including golf, tennis, and 10 miles of immaculate Atlantic shoreline. While the cost of living on Kiawah Island is 12% higher than the national average, the incredible amenities and close proximity to Charleston make it one of the most desirable places to live in South Carolina.Mount Pleasant is a family-friendly town located just across the Cooper River from Charleston, offering a variety of activities and attractions for all ages. The Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park is a popular spot for picnics, fishing, and enjoying stunning views of the Charleston Harbor from the 1,250-foot pier. Families can also explore the unique Lowcountry ecosystem at Shem Creek Park, where a 2,200-foot boardwalk winds through the marsh and offers opportunities to spot dolphins and local shrimp boats. For indoor fun, the Charleston Fun Park features go-karts, mini-golf, an arcade, and a climbing wall. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is another must-see attraction, where visitors can tour historic ships, including the USS Yorktown, and learn about the nation's naval history. With its proximity to beautiful beaches, waterparks, and numerous free outdoor activities, Mount Pleasant is an ideal destination for families seeking a memorable Lowcountry experience.Charleston, with its array of luxurious waterfront neighborhoods, offers an exceptional lifestyle for those seeking elegance, comfort, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you are drawn to the historic charm of the Battery, the vibrant culture of the Charleston Peninsula, the pristine beaches of Isle of Palms, the exclusivity of Sullivan's Island, the luxury of Kiawah Island, or the family-friendly environment of Mount Pleasant, Charleston has something to offer every affluent homebuyer. Our waterfront home experts will be happy to guide you through the many options.
Kiawah Golf Course by Andrew Shelley

Article

The Best Golf Communities in Charleston SC (2025 Guide)

Discover Charleston’s most exclusive golf communities, where coastal luxury meets world-class golf. From classic Seth Raynor designs to modern Fazio masterpieces, these private clubs offer more than just exceptional golf—they provide a complete lifestyle with pristine beaches, historic settings, and vibrant communities. Whether you’re drawn to secluded coastal escapes or family-friendly communities close to the city, this guide will help you explore the best golf communities in the Charleston region.

Charleston blends coastal charm with a deep-rooted golf tradition. The region’s temperate climate and scenic Lowcountry landscapes create the perfect backdrop for championship courses, from historic layouts to innovative modern designs. Many of these clubs offer more than golf—they provide world-class amenities, refined coastal living, and tight-knit communities.If you’re unsure where to start, our local luxury real estate experts know these communities inside and out and can help match you to the perfect lifestyle and property. Explore all Charleston golf communities here.
CommunityDesigner(s)Price RangeDistance to DowntownUnique Features
Kiawah Island ClubTom Watson, Tom Fazio$1M–$20M+25 mi SWTwo private courses, coastal luxury
Daniel Island ClubRees Jones, Tom Fazio$1M–$7M+In CharlestonFamily-friendly, urban convenience
Seabrook Island ClubWillard Byrd, Robert Trent Jones Sr.$500K–$3M+25 mi SWBeach & equestrian amenities
Yeamans Hall ClubSeth RaynorInvite-only15 mi NHistoric, ultra-exclusive
Bulls Bay Golf ClubMike Strantz$1M–$4M+25 mi NEPanoramic Lowcountry views
Wild Dunes ResortTom Fazio$500K–$6M+15 mi NEResort-style beachfront living
Dunes WestArthur Hills$400K–$2M+15 mi NEFamily-friendly, riverfront living
Snee Farm CCGeorge Cobb$300K–$1M+10 mi NEHistoric Southern charm
RiverTowne CCArnold Palmer$400K–$1.5M+15 mi NEArnold Palmer Signature course, marsh views

Just 25 miles southwest of Charleston, Kiawah Island Club offers a refined coastal lifestyle within a private, member-only community. Centered around two acclaimed golf courses—Cassique by Tom Watson and the River Course by Tom Fazio—the club provides a harmonious blend of sport, nature, and luxury living.Golf CoursesAmenitiesMembers have access to a suite of exclusive amenities:Real Estate SnapshotWhat Makes It Special: Kiawah Island Club seamlessly integrates luxury living with the island's natural beauty. The community's commitment to preserving its environment while providing top-tier amenities creates a unique lifestyle. Whether you're an avid golfer, a nature enthusiast, or someone seeking a serene coastal retreat, Kiawah Island Club presents an opportunity to experience Lowcountry living at its finest. Learn More about Kiawah Island here.Note: Memberships are attached to a limited number of Kiawah Island properties and may only be acquired with the purchase of a property offering a specific club membership level.
Located within Charleston city limits, Daniel Island Club offers a family-friendly community with urban convenience and 36 holes of championship golf designed by Rees Jones and Tom Fazio.Golf CoursesAmenitiesDaniel Island Club offers a range of amenities to support an active lifestyle:Real Estate SnapshotWhat Makes It Special: Daniel Island Club combines the benefits of city living with the exclusivity of a private club. Its walkable neighborhoods, diverse amenities, and active community events make it an ideal choice for families seeking a vibrant lifestyle within Charleston. Learn more about Daniel Island here.
Located just south of Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island Club offers a tranquil coastal setting with two championship golf courses—Ocean Winds and Crooked Oaks—designed by Willard Byrd and Robert Trent Jones Sr., respectively. This private, gated community combines natural beauty with a range of amenities, providing residents with a relaxed lifestyle near Charleston.Golf CoursesAmenitiesReal Estate SnapshotWhat Makes It Special: Seabrook Island Club offers a unique blend of coastal living and recreational opportunities. It's one of the few communities where you can enjoy horseback riding on the beach in the morning and play a round of oceanfront golf in the afternoon. The community's commitment to preserving its natural surroundings enhances the serene atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a relaxed yet active lifestyle. Learn more about Seabrook Island here.
Tucked away in Hanahan, just 12 miles north of downtown Charleston, Yeamans Hall Club is a private, invitation-only enclave steeped in history and tradition. Established in 1924 on a former 17th-century plantation, the club offers a serene retreat characterized by its classic Southern charm and exclusivity.Golf CourseDesigned by renowned architect Seth Raynor, the 18-hole course at Yeamans Hall is celebrated for its strategic design and timeless appeal. In 1998, Tom Doak led a restoration that expanded the greens by 75%, reinstating Raynor's original vision and enhancing the course's playability. The course's layout, featuring squared-off greens and distinctive bunkering, offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for golf purists.Community and LifestyleYeamans Hall Club is more than just a golf destination; it's a close-knit community that values privacy and tradition. The club maintains approximately 35 private cottages, originally intended for its founding members, which are seldom available on the open market. The clubhouse, designed by James Gamble Rogers, and the surrounding landscape, crafted by the Olmsted Brothers, reflect a commitment to preserving the area's natural beauty and historical significance.Real Estate SnapshotWhat Makes It Special: Yeamans Hall Club stands as a testament to timeless Southern elegance and exclusivity. Its rich history, combined with a meticulously maintained golf course and a commitment to preserving the natural landscape, offers members a unique blend of tradition and tranquility. For those seeking a private sanctuary steeped in heritage, Yeamans Hall represents a rare opportunity. Learn more about Yeamans Hall here.Note: Due to the club's exclusive nature, inquiries about membership and property availability are handled discreetly and typically require existing member sponsorship. Please contact us so that we can provide you with updated homes for sale and potential member introductions.
Located just north of Mount Pleasant in Awendaw, Bulls Bay Golf Club offers a distinctive blend of rustic charm and refined living. This private, members-only community is centered around a Mike Strantz-designed course that stands out for its innovative design and natural beauty.Golf CourseMike Strantz transformed a flat stretch of Lowcountry coastline into a landscape reminiscent of the great links courses of Scotland and Ireland. At Bulls Bay, Strantz created 75-foot elevation changes and 360-degree views unlike any in the Lowcountry. The course's firm, sandy turf and ever-present ocean breezes offer a true links golf experience reserved exclusively for its members and their guests.AmenitiesReal Estate SnapshotWhat Makes It Special: Bulls Bay Golf Club offers a unique blend of natural beauty, innovative golf design, and a close-knit community. The absence of intervening real estate on the course preserves the purity of the golf experience, while the limited number of homes ensures a serene environment. For those seeking a distinctive Lowcountry lifestyle centered around the game of golf, Bulls Bay stands out as a premier choice. Learn more about Bulls Bay here.
Located on the northeastern tip of Isle of Palms, just 20 minutes from downtown Charleston, Wild Dunes Resort offers a coastal lifestyle that blends resort amenities with private homeownership. Spanning 1,600 acres, this gated community features two Tom Fazio-designed golf courses, a nationally ranked tennis center, and direct access to 2.5 miles of pristine Atlantic beachfront. Golf CoursesAmenitiesReal Estate SnapshotWhat Makes It Special: Wild Dunes Resort offers a unique blend of resort living and private homeownership. Its combination of amenities, diverse real estate options, and proximity to Charleston makes it an ideal choice for those seeking an active coastal lifestyle.
Situated along the scenic Wando River in Mount Pleasant, Dunes West Golf and River Club offers a family-friendly community that combines classic Southern charm with modern amenities. This gated neighborhood features an Arthur Hills-designed golf course, riverfront living, and a variety of recreational facilities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an active, water-oriented lifestyle.Golf CourseThe 18-hole, par-72 championship course, designed by Arthur Hills, stretches over 6,871 yards and is nationally acclaimed by Golf Magazine and Golf Digest as a “Top 10 Resort Course.” The course takes full advantage of its spectacular Lowcountry setting, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.AmenitiesReal Estate SnapshotWhat Makes It Special: Dunes West Golf and River Club seamlessly blends traditional Southern architecture with modern amenities, all set against the backdrop of the Lowcountry's natural beauty. Its combination of recreational facilities, diverse real estate options, and proximity to Charleston makes it an ideal choice for those seeking an active, water-oriented lifestyle. Learn more about Dunes West here.
Within the historic grounds of a 200-year-old plantation, Snee Farm Country Club offers a blend of traditional Southern charm and modern amenities. Located in the heart of Mount Pleasant, the well established community provides residents with a serene setting just minutes from downtown Charleston and the beaches.Golf CourseDesigned by George Cobb, the 18-hole championship course at Snee Farm spans 6,834 yards, weaving through mature oaks, lakes, and marshlands. The course is known for hosting the annual Rice Planters Amateur Golf Tournament and features a fully stocked pro shop with locker room facilities. AmenitiesReal Estate SnapshotWhat Makes It Special: Snee Farm Country Club combines the elegance of a historic plantation setting with the conveniences of modern living. Its central location in Mount Pleasant provides easy access to Charleston's cultural attractions, shopping, and beaches. The community's mature landscaping, traditional architecture, and robust amenities create a welcoming environment for families and individuals seeking a blend of tradition and activity. Learn More about Snee Farm here.
Positioned along the Wando River in Mount Pleasant, RiverTowne Country Club offers a blend of golf-focused living and natural Lowcountry beauty. This community features the Charleston area's only Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, providing residents with scenic views and an active lifestyle.Golf CourseThe 18-hole, par-72 course, designed by Arnold Palmer, spans 7,188 yards and incorporates the region's marshlands, pampas grasses, and ancient oak trees. With 13 holes adjacent to the Wando River and Horlbeck Creek, the course offers both challenge and beauty. Amenities include a driving range, practice area, putting green, and a plantation-style clubhouse with a pro shop and access to PGA teaching professionals.AmenitiesReal Estate SnapshotWhat Makes It Special: RiverTowne Country Club combines golf-centric living with the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. Its Arnold Palmer-designed course, range of amenities, and diverse real estate options make it an appealing choice for those seeking an active lifestyle in a picturesque setting. Learn more about RiverTowne here.
Each community in the Charleston area offers a distinct lifestyle; whether you’re drawn to private coastal sanctuaries, lively family neighborhoods, or resort-style escapes. Let our team help you navigate the choices and find the perfect community for your unique lifestyle.
What is the most exclusive golf community in Charleston? Yeamans Hall Club is known for its extreme privacy and historic pedigree, while Kiawah Island Club is also highly exclusive.Which communities offer beachfront golf? Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, and Wild Dunes all provide golf with direct coastal access.What’s the best family-friendly golf community? Daniel Island Club and Dunes West are especially known for family-focused amenities and welcoming neighborhoods.Are there communities that combine golf and equestrian pursuits? Yes! Seabrook Island Club is unique for offering both world-class golf and equestrian facilities.
At Luxury-Communities.com, we specialize in matching discerning buyers with the finest golf communities in Charleston. Share your preferences, and we can schedule a call to curate options that fit your lifestyle and plan a private tour.