Living at Brays Island: America's Premier Sporting Community

Brays Island represents one of the most exclusive real estate opportunities in the South Carolina Lowcountry. Known as "America's Premier Sporting Community," this 5,500-acre private plantation near Sheldon offers a lifestyle that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure with refined Southern living. With only 325 homesites available across the entire property, residents enjoy unparalleled privacy and access to thousands of acres of preserved woodlands, marshes, and waterways.

The community's unique development plan dedicates just 6% of the land to residential use, leaving 94% as open space for hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and other outdoor pursuits. This thoughtful approach ensures that every homeowner is surrounded by nature rather than neighbors, with one-acre circular homesites positioned to maximize views and privacy.

Homes and Architecture at Brays Island

Homes at Brays Island reflect the architectural traditions of the coastal South, featuring classic Lowcountry design with deep porches, tabby accents, and Savannah gray brick details. Properties range from intimate cottages to expansive estate compounds, with many homes designed by award-winning architects who specialize in blending contemporary comfort with traditional Southern aesthetics. Current homes typically range from $1 million to over $6 million, depending on size, location, and water access.

For those wishing to build their dream residence, Brays Island offers buildable homesites in carefully selected locations throughout the property. Lots are positioned on marshes, beside tidal creeks and rivers, near the equestrian center, along the golf course, or in private wooded settings beneath ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss.

World-Class Amenities

What truly sets Brays Island apart is its comprehensive amenity package, all included with property ownership. The 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Ron Garl, incorporates natural hazards and Scottish design elements for a challenging yet scenic playing experience. Golfers enjoy one of the most private courses in the region with no tee times required.

Equestrian enthusiasts find over 60 miles of trails winding through the property, along with more than 100 acres of paddocks and professional riding arenas at the equestrian center. The hunting program offers guided expeditions for deer, quail, turkey, pheasant, and ducks across 3,500 acres of pristine habitat, complete with trained pointing dogs and traditional mule-drawn wagons. Fishing opportunities abound in both freshwater ponds and the surrounding tidal marshes and estuaries.

The Heart of Community Life

The historic Brays Island Inn serves as the social center of the community, offering elegant accommodations, fine dining, and gathering spaces overlooking the Pocotaligo River. The Plantation Grille provides more casual dining options near the golf course. Additional amenities include Har-Tru tennis courts with river views, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a modern fitness center, and a full-service concierge available to all owners.

Ideal Lowcountry Location

Despite its secluded feel, Brays Island enjoys a strategic location in the heart of the Lowcountry. Beaufort's charming downtown is just 15 minutes away, offering art galleries, restaurants, and the cultural heritage that inspired author Pat Conroy. Hilton Head Island's beaches and shopping are 45 minutes distant, while both Charleston and Savannah can be reached in approximately one hour. This positioning allows residents to enjoy complete privacy at home while remaining connected to the region's finest urban amenities.

A Lifestyle Investment

Purchasing at Brays Island is more than a real estate transaction—it's an invitation to join a close-knit community of families who share a passion for the outdoors, Southern hospitality, and preservation of the Lowcountry's natural beauty. Property ownership is the only membership requirement, giving every resident full access to all amenities and community programs.