Get to Know Colleton River Club

Colleton River Club…

An aerial view of the Nicklaus Clubhouse and Colleton River beyond.

… one of the most prestigious private golf and residential communities in the country. Located on a lush peninsula in Bluffton, South Carolina, Colleton River Club (locally known as “Colleton”) offers its members world-class amenities and a lifestyle that is simply second to none. It is truly in a league of its own.

Colleton is the elder sister in the “Big Three” lineup — that is, Colleton, Belfair and Berkeley Hall. These are the three private, all-inclusive clubs in Bluffton, South Carolina, each occupying its respective space along the north side of Highway 278, the main artery that brings visitors from Interstate 95 to Hilton Head Island. While each offers some similarities in offerings and amenities, these communities also have significant differences that make each one unique, including water access, golf design, and overall aesthetic feel.

Lifestyle, Nature & History

This peninsula community is surrounded by sparkling river and salt marsh on three sides.

A place where you can truly relax and breathe the sweet air of the Lowcountry, Colleton is nestled among the live oaks and palmetto trees along the banks of a unique peninsula hugged by — you guessed it — the Colleton River. And what a special place it is. Once through security, manned 24/7 by some of the area’s finest, feel the weight of the day simply disappear as you wind through the roadway known to members as “Decompression Drive.” And a fitting title it is.

Separated from the rest of the world by an 1,100-acre preserve, life here is characterized by a deep respect for the nature and history of this land. Early in its discovery by Native Americans — evidence of whom still exists today — it was beloved for its abundance of fish and game, and its location along the river. In fact, the Dye clubhouse is home to an array of artifacts that have been collected on the property over time. Both phases of the community were developed thoughtfully, leading to a deep sense of timelessness.

Golf

Many believe that Colleton is home to the very best golf courses in the Lowcountry.

If you’re a golfer, then you already know that when it comes to golf, Colleton River Club is truly in a class by itself. The club features two world-class 18-hole courses designed by two of the most acclaimed course designers in the world: Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye. As a matter of fact, Pete has called his Colleton River course his favorite of those he’s designed. That’s no small accolade, and both courses are masterpieces. Winding their way through the live oaks and marshes so indicative of the Lowcountry, several of the championship holes are also host to sweeping views of the Colleton River. As if that isn’t enough, there is also a challenging par 3 course, as well as professional-grade training facilities and a great pro shop.

Tennis

Colleton’s Stan Smith Tennis Center features lit Har-Tru courts and a pro shop.

If you’re thinking that life here is all about golf, think again. With a variety of amenities, there is something for everyone at Colleton. Do you love tennis? The club’s state-of-the-art Stan Smith Tennis Center features six Har-Tru courts and is staffed by a full-time, USPTA certified pro. In addition to private and group instruction, the tennis center also offers a variety of clinics and social events throughout the year for all levels, as well as a dedicated pro shop.

And don’t worry… if Pickleball is more your speed, Colleton has you covered with beautiful new courts dedicated to this fast-growing sport.

Fitness & the Outdoors

The water is a central theme of Colleton’s diverse nature offerings.

Fitness enthusiasts will enjoy the state-of-the-art fitness center, complete with stretching rooms and available classes and personal training. And in the new enhanced amenities package presently underway, it gets even better: The club will be adding a brand new fitness complex, additional tennis, pickleball and bocce courts, as well as an expansion and renovation of the already beautiful Dye clubhouse.

For those who prefer to get their exercise outdoors, there are miles of nature trails to explore, and a great pool perfect for laps, aquatic exercise, and a little R&R. And for those who enjoy spending time on the water, you’re in luck. Colleton is one of the communities that offers deep water access, either from the beautiful community dock, or the coveted homes and homesites with docks along the Colleton River and its pristine salt marshes.

Real Estate

One of the many magnificent Colleton River homes we have had the pleasure to represent.

In addition to its world-class amenities, Colleton River Club is also the location of some of the most exceptional luxury homes in the Lowcountry. From traditional golf-view Southern homes to grand waterfront estates, the club is home to at least one of nearly every conceivable style you might find dotted throughout the region. And because it is all custom, no two amongst its ranks are alike. Every design is unique, much like those who call Colleton home.

In Colleton, both styles and price bands have a wide degree of variation. Click here to view what’s currently available.

As of the time of this article, to-be-built homes in the community (expect a wait of up to two years, based on current data) begin around $1.5M and increase depending on location, view, finish level, and the like. Homes that presently exist are rare and highly coveted, and today’s inventory ranges from just under $1.2M (a relative oddity — starting prices more typically begin around $1.5M) to nearly $12M. In general, the sweet spot in this community is right around the $2M mark.

Fancy a piece of land instead? Today, building lots have a wide range, beginning around $75,000 and extending to around $650,000. While no deep water lots are currently on the market, those that come on the market are very rare and command a price tag of well over $1M when they do.

Proximity to the Ocean

Sunrise on Hilton Head Island.

Of the “Big Three,” Colleton was not only the earliest to get on the map, but is also the closest to the Atlantic Ocean. While it takes a little while to get out of the community (particularly depending on exactly from where one is coming), once at the gate, the white sandy beaches of Hilton Head Island are a mere 15 minutes away. For those who equally desire a private club lifestyle and proximity to the island without actually being on it, Colleton may be the perfect choice.

What Now?

There are few places in the world that can offer the amenities, the lifestyle, and the homes that Colleton River Club does. For those who choose to call it home, there simply isn’t anywhere else like it.

If you’re looking for your Colleton River home, whether year-round or seasonally, you need someone who knows this community like the back of their hand. Fortunately, you’re in the right place.

Let us help you craft your strategy and bring it to life. It’s why we’re here. Use the “Work With Us” button at the top of this page to start a conversation. We can’t wait to hear from you.