Harbor Island

Welcome To Harbor Island

Just North of Fripp Island, SC is beautiful Harbor Island, which offers a beautiful unspoiled beach, an abundance of wildlife and plenty of long, lazy days. Amenities include full access to the Beach & Racquet Club’s swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness center and a well-appointed clubhouse with lounge. Harbor Island, South Carolina is an intimate private island. Our 2 ½ mile beach is edged with rolling dunes and golden sea oats – the perfect stage to build sand castles or watch dolphins play. The rich ecology extends beyond the beach, too. Shady rookeries welcome 2,000 pairs of herons and egrets, and tasty blue crabs teem in tidal creeks that crisscross the marsh

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About Harbor Island

Harbor Island, a picturesque barrier island located on the southeastern coast of South Carolina, is known for its tranquil beauty and abundant wildlife. It is part of Beaufort County and lies within the Sea Islands, a chain of tidal and barrier islands off the coast of the southeastern United States. This charming island is approximately 12 miles east of Beaufort and about 1,400 acres in size, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Geography and Environment

Harbor Island is characterized by its lush maritime forests, salt marshes, tidal creeks, and pristine beaches. The island’s ecosystem supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The beaches, which stretch for three miles, are a major attraction, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf in a relatively secluded setting.

Wildlife

The island is a designated Important Bird Area, recognized by the National Audubon Society, due to its critical role in the migratory patterns of various bird species. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of shorebirds, wading birds, and raptors throughout the year. Additionally, Harbor Island is a nesting site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. Each year, volunteers and conservationists work together to protect the turtle nests and ensure the hatchlings make their way to the ocean.

Residential and Recreational Features

Harbor Island is primarily a residential community, with vacation homes and rental properties that offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding marshlands. The island is known for its low-density development, which helps maintain its natural charm and environmental integrity.

Residents and visitors have access to several amenities, including a community swimming pool, fitness center, and tennis courts. The island also boasts well-maintained walking and biking trails that provide scenic routes through the varied landscapes. Fishing, crabbing, and kayaking are popular activities, taking advantage of the island's waterways and rich marine life.

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Community Map & Features

Oceanfront community
2 1/2 miles of white South Carolina sugar sand
Private gated community
24 hour security
Property
The Owners Association owns all amenities.
Protected, lush & unspoiled surroundings
Tennis Courts, Volleyball court and Playground
Family oriented community
Grand Pool complex
Fitness Center
Affordable inventory of Homes, Villas and Homesites
Located close to Beaufort, SC downtown area

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FAQ

Where is Harbor Island located?

Situated about 14 miles east of downtown Beaufort, SC and part of the Sea Islands, which stretch along the Southeast Atlantic coast. Harbor Island is close to other popular destinations such as Hilton Head Island, approximately 45 miles to the south, and Savannah, Georgia, roughly 50 miles to the south. This prime location offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful beaches and natural surroundings, yet remains accessible to larger cities and tourist attractions.

What Kind Of Amenities Are Available At Harbor Island?

Harbor Island offers:

Oceanfront community
2 1/2 miles of white South Carolina sugar sand
Private gated community
24 hour security
Property
The Owners Association owns all amenities.
Protected, lush & unspoiled surroundings
Tennis Courts, Volleyball court and Playground
Family oriented community
Grand Pool complex
Fitness Center
Affordable inventory of Homes, Villas and Homesites
Located close to Beaufort, SC downtown area

Are there fees for the Homeowners Association?

$1679.15 year (lot, condo, home)

Effective 11/01/2024 thru 10/31/2025 This annual fee represents maintenance and landscaping of the island common areas, beach access walkways, 24-hour security operations, HIOA staff and building, and the Harbor Island Beach and; Racquet Club.

HIOA Property Transfer Fee - $500 This is an administrative fee which will be collected at closing and can be paid by seller or purchaser.

Are there additional fees?

Subdivision Associations

What do property taxes look like in Beaufort County?

The Beaufort County assessor places an appraised value on real estate based on comparable sales, conditions, etc. This appraised value is multiplied by a factor of 4% for residents and 6% for non-residents and corporations to obtain the assessed value. The assessed value is multiplied by Fripp Island district’s millage rate to calculate property taxes. 2023 millage rate for Fripp Island is .261 for non residents and .13540 for full time residents. Example: A property assessed at $500,000 for a full-time resident would equate to $2708.00 ($500,000 x .04 x .13540). Non- Resident @ .06 x .261 would equate to $7830. Certain areas of Fripp will also be assessed approx.. $500 annually for recently constructed sewer vacuum pump facilities.

How much is homeowner's insurance for Coosaw Point?

Hazard/Wind & Hail $1000 per $100,000 of structure value
Flood Pending Biggert-Waters Act – TBD
(see NFIP – National Flood Insurance Program for upcoming rate changes to all flood areas nationwide.)
www.floodsmart.gov
www.fema.gov/national-flood- insurance-program