Cat Island homes for sale range from approximately $500,000 to over $1.5 million, offering golf course views, tidal creek frontage, and marsh vistas in a private community just minutes from downtown Beaufort on Lady's Island.
Living on Cat Island in Beaufort SC
Cat Island represents one of Beaufort's most desirable residential communities, combining the natural beauty of the Lowcountry with a relaxed golf club lifestyle. Located at the end of a peninsula on Lady's Island, Cat Island occupies 432 acres surrounded by Port Royal Sound and the Coosaw River. The community's setting provides residents with spectacular water views, ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and the kind of peaceful seclusion that's increasingly rare near growing coastal towns.
What sets Cat Island apart from other Beaufort-area communities is its intimate scale and exceptional location. The drive to historic downtown Beaufort takes just minutes, putting world-class restaurants, galleries, shops, and the waterfront park within easy reach. Yet once you cross through the community gates, you enter a quiet retreat where golf carts are a primary mode of transportation and neighbors know each other by name.
Homes and Property Types
Cat Island homes reflect the Lowcountry architectural tradition, with wide porches, elevated foundations, and designs that embrace outdoor living. Properties range from comfortable cottages on golf course lots to substantial estates on waterfront parcels. Golf course homes offer fairway views and convenient access to the club, while waterfront properties provide tidal creek frontage, marsh vistas, and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and crabbing directly from your backyard.
The community also offers vacant homesites for those who prefer to build a custom home. These lots range from interior wooded sites to premium waterfront parcels overlooking the marsh and tidal creeks. Building on Cat Island allows buyers to work with local architects and builders who understand Lowcountry construction techniques and the specific requirements of coastal building.
The Sanctuary Golf Club
At the heart of Cat Island is the Sanctuary Golf Club, featuring an 18-hole course designed by legendary architect George Cobb. The course winds through maritime forest and along salt marshes, providing challenging play with exceptional scenery. The club operates as a semi-private facility, with membership optional for Cat Island residents who wish to access golf, tennis, the pool, fitness center, and dining facilities.
For golfers, Cat Island offers a compelling alternative to larger resort communities. The intimate membership means easier tee times and a more relaxed pace of play. For non-golfers, the optional membership structure means you can enjoy Cat Island's natural setting and location without mandatory club fees.
Location and Lifestyle
Cat Island's location on Lady's Island provides convenient access to everything the Beaufort area offers while maintaining a distinct sense of place. Downtown Beaufort's historic district, with its antebellum architecture and vibrant dining scene, is just minutes away. The community is also positioned for easy access to Hunting Island State Park's beaches, Port Royal's waterfront, and the Sea Islands.
Expert Guidance for Cat Island Buyers
With 20+ years of Lowcountry real estate expertise, Russ and Deb understand Cat Island's unique communities, market dynamics, and investment potential. As members of NAR, SCAR, Lowcountry Regional MLS, and Resides MLS, we provide comprehensive market data and comparable sales analysis for Cat Island Homes and all Cat Island properties. Russ's 40+ years as a general contractor means he evaluates building condition, identifies maintenance considerations, and assesses renovation potential—critical insights for purchasing in a coastal environment.
As Certified Buyer Agents, we represent your interests exclusively. We review regime documents, analyze reserve studies, explain ownership structures, and guide you through every step—at no additional cost to you.
Cat Island Beaufort SC Homes – Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cat Island a gated community?
Yes, Cat Island is a private, gated community with controlled access. The community entrance provides security and helps maintain the peaceful, residential character of the neighborhood. Guests and service providers check in at the gate before entering.
Is club membership required to live on Cat Island?
No, club membership at the Sanctuary Golf Club is optional for Cat Island residents. However, membership is required to access the community amenities including the golf course, pool, tennis courts, fitness center, and dining facilities. Many residents choose membership for the social opportunities and amenity access it provides.
What is the price range for homes on Cat Island?
Cat Island homes typically range from approximately $500,000 to over $1.5 million, depending on size, location, and water views. Golf course homes generally start in the mid-$500,000s, while premium waterfront properties with tidal creek or marsh frontage command higher prices. Vacant lots are also available starting around $200,000.
How far is Cat Island from downtown Beaufort?
Cat Island is located on Lady's Island, approximately 5-10 minutes from downtown Beaufort. The short drive provides easy access to Beaufort's historic district, restaurants, shops, and waterfront while allowing residents to enjoy the privacy and natural setting of an island community.
Is there water access on Cat Island?
Yes, Cat Island offers waterfront living with tidal creek frontage and marsh views. Many homes have direct water access for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and crabbing. The community also has a boat ramp and boat storage available for residents. The surrounding waters connect to Port Royal Sound and the greater Beaufort waterway system.
What are the HOA fees on Cat Island?
Cat Island has homeowners association fees that cover community maintenance, security, and common area upkeep. HOA fees are separate from club membership dues and are subject to change. Buyers should verify current HOA fees during their due diligence period, as amounts vary and are updated periodically.
Cat Island Beaufort SC Homes Information Disclaimer
All property details, availability, regime fees, rental policies, pricing, and information for Cat Island Beaufort SC Homes are subject to change without notice. Information updated frequently. Page last reviewed: January 2026.
Buyers should independently verify all information through professional advisors, inspections, association documents, and local experts before making any purchase decisions.
