South Carolina’s Little Secret: Pawley’s Island
Separated from the mainland by saltmarsh and nicknamed “arrogantly shabby”, Pawley’s Island is one of South Carolina’s little secrets—literally. The barrier island is less than 4 miles long, and for the most part only one house wide. But it is one of the East Coast’s oldest summer resorts, and for good reason. It was settled in the early 1700s by the families of rice planters who would flock to the island around May and stay for the summer; they knew that living by the rivers (where their plantations were) was not healthy in the summer heat. Since, the island has had a way of drawing people to it, making them want to be a part of the carefree, laidback lifestyle it offers.
Parts of the island have not changed since the 1700s, and there are 12 original residences remaining in the historic district. These date back to the late 1700s and mid-1800s. If you wander through the district you’ll notice signs in front of these homes briefly telling the history of these antebellum homes. What makes these homes even more special is the fact that they are still owned by third, fourth, and even fifth generations of the same family. In fact, in 2012, Liberty Lodge celebrated 100 years of ownership by a single family. You can find most of the homes available for summer rentals.
Despite Pawley’s Island’s size, there are still plenty of things to do. The beach is renowned for it’s surf, so catch a wave or two during your visit. With a fine selection of world-class golf courses within close proximity to the island, you’ll be able to hone your golf game. Just a short 12 miles north is historic Georgetown, the third oldest seaport in the country. Here you can find all kinds of dining, shopping, boating, fishing, historic tours and ghost tours. Front Street is teeming with delicious restaurants for whatever dining mood you’re in. Be it Italian dishes, fresh seafood, or Lowcountry cuisine, you’ll find it in Georgetown. Pop into one of the boutiques for some unique finds; there are no chain stores in the town, almost every business is owned and operated by locals.
Big cities aren’t far from this island retreat, either. Seventy miles north of the island is historic Charleston, and 25 miles south will find you in Myrtle Beach. You’ll find no shortage of entertainment in either of these cities, and you can enjoy the luxuries of large city life, but come home to the quaintness of the island.
Pawley’s Island may be small, but it’s big in adventure, full of history, and waiting for you to discover the peaceful lifestyle of life on the beach, in a rope hammock, listening to the tales of the island’s past drift through the ocean breeze.
Request information from these Communities
Haig Point Club
Daufuskie Island, South Carolina
Haig Point is on a sea island and the lifestyle here is very special. It has the serenity and seclusion of a most idyllic, sea island life. But extraordinary privacy isn't the only thing you'll enjoy at Haig Point on Daufuskie IslandRead More...
SC
Celadon
Beaufort, South Carolina
Located in SC's Lowcountry, a mere three miles from downtown Beaufort, this beautiful master-planned community allows you to focus on a simpler, happier, healthier life.Read More...
SC
Callawassie Island - South Carolina Gated Communities
Callawassie Island, South Carolina
Callawassie Island is centrally located two miles off of Highway 170 between historic Beaufort, South Carolina and the nationally known resort of Hilton Head Island.Read More...
SC
Dataw Island - Golf Communities in South Carolina
Dataw Island, South Carolina
There is a place off the South Carolina coast, near the charming town of Beaufort, where nature and luxury share center stage. Shaped by the Intracoastal Waterway and a rich Southern history, the gated golf community of Dataw Island is a pristine parcel of 870 acres waiting to be discovered.Read More...
SC
K. Hovnanian's Four Seasons at Lakes of Cane Bay
Summerville, South Carolina
Against the backdrop of a near perfect setting, K. Hovnanian's ® Four Seasons at Lakes of Cane Bay brings the best in luxurious, 55+ living to Summerville, South Carolina. This spectacular lakefront community is just a short drive from Charleston and Lowcountry beaches.Read More...
SC
Hilton Head Lakes — Retire to the Lowcountry
Hardeeville, South Carolina
Whether you?re looking to relocate permanently for that well-deserved retirement or a weekend retreat, you can find your dreams fulfilled at Hilton Head Lakes.Read More...
SC
Long Cove Club
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Long Cove Club is the hidden jewel of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. A private residential club filled with spectacular homes and warm and friendly people. The world renowned private Pete Dye Golf course is just one of many amenities and experiences that make life at the Club so engaging. Behind the gate, you'll find a rich palette of lifestyle options to suit every taste.Read More...
SC
Colleton River Club
Bluffton, South Carolina
Lowcountry luxury lies at the base of Hilton Head's bridge at Colleton River. This peninsula community delivers on its promise of world-class golf, pristine natural surroundings, and an unparalleled water experience. With nature as the centerpiece, Colleton River's 1,500 acres epitomize Lowcountry serenity, with Spanish moss draped Live oaks and palmetto trees lining roadways. Trails wind through a blend of beautiful homes, natural terrain and 7 miles of expansive water and marsh views. The peninsula is also anchored by adjoining Victoria Bluff, an 1,100-acre nature preserveRead More...
SC
Logan Homes - Home Builders in South Carolina
Hilton Head, South Carolina
At Logan Homes, they strive to turn your dream home into a reality. From traditional to contemporary, grand to cozy, Logan Homes offers personalized floor plans, quality craftsmanship, superior designs and decades of building experience. Whether you want to live close to town or in the country, near the beach or on a golf course, the Builder Specialists at Logan Homes can help you find the ideal community or home site to suit your lifestyle perfectly.Read More...
SC
