Spacious townhouse-style condos with lagoon and golf views in Shipyard Plantation
Harbour Master Villas are 2-3 bedroom townhouse condos ranging from 1,144 to 1,757 square feet, located on Gloucester Road in Shipyard Plantation with lagoon, golf, or wooded views and short-term rental privileges.
About Harbour Master Villas
Harbour Master Villas represents one of Shipyard Plantation's most sought-after townhouse communities, combining spacious living spaces with the convenience of low-maintenance condo ownership. Located at the end of Gloucester Road, these two-story villas offer a peaceful setting while remaining just minutes from all of Hilton Head's best amenities.
The complex features a variety of floor plans ranging from cozy 2-bedroom units perfect for couples or small families, to expansive 3-bedroom layouts with multiple bathrooms and bonus spaces that can serve as offices, dens, or media rooms. Many units have been extensively renovated with modern kitchens featuring granite countertops, stainless appliances, and open-concept designs that maximize the abundant natural light these end units enjoy.
Architectural Features
The townhouse design provides privacy and space that sets Harbour Master apart from traditional flat-style condos. First-floor layouts typically include the main living areas—kitchen, dining room, and living room—along with a half bath and sometimes a guest bedroom. Upstairs, you'll find the master suite (often with a sitting area in larger units) and additional bedrooms, with the convenience of an upstairs laundry area.
Vaulted ceilings and large windows create an open, airy atmosphere, while many units feature hardwood floors, updated bathrooms with walk-in showers, and private decks or patios that showcase the serene Lowcountry views. The end units, in particular, benefit from extra windows that flood the interior with natural light.
Views and Setting
One of Harbour Master's greatest assets is the variety of views available throughout the complex. Golf enthusiasts appreciate units overlooking Shipyard Golf Club's fairways and greens, where you can watch golfers navigate the course from the comfort of your deck. Lagoon-view units offer tranquil water scenes with opportunities to spot herons, egrets, and the occasional alligator sunbathing on the banks.
The wooded-view units provide maximum privacy, nestled among mature live oaks draped with Spanish moss—a quintessential Lowcountry setting that offers a peaceful retreat from the busier areas of the island. All units benefit from the lush landscaping and well-maintained grounds that characterize Shipyard Plantation.
Community Amenities
Harbour Master residents enjoy access to a private community pool, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days or lounging with a good book. The pool area is well-maintained and provides a social gathering spot for owners and guests.
Beyond the complex itself, Shipyard Plantation offers an impressive array of amenities. The Shipyard Beach Club provides private beach access with reserved parking, restrooms, and outdoor showers—just a short bike ride away on the plantation's extensive network of paved paths. The world-renowned Van Der Meer Tennis Center, featuring 20 clay courts and professional instruction, sits within the community, as does the 27-hole Shipyard Golf Club.
Location Advantages
Shipyard Plantation's position on Hilton Head's south end places Harbour Master Villas in the heart of the island's most active area. You're within minutes of Coligny Plaza, the island's most popular shopping and dining destination, where you'll find everything from beach gear and souvenirs to upscale boutiques and restaurants. The nearby Cross Island Parkway provides quick access to the mid-island and north end when you want to explore beyond your immediate neighborhood.
Pope Avenue, just outside one of Shipyard's gates, offers convenient access to grocery stores, pharmacies, medical facilities, and casual dining options. This combination of resort-style living within a gated community, paired with easy access to everyday necessities, makes Harbour Master an ideal choice for both full-time residents and second homeowners.
Rental Investment Potential
Harbour Master Villas' rental-friendly policies and desirable location make these units excellent investment properties. The spacious floor plans appeal to families seeking a home-like vacation experience, while the proximity to the beach, golf, and tennis attracts active travelers. Many owners maintain successful rental programs, with units commanding premium nightly rates during peak season thanks to recent renovations and the complex's strong reputation.
The gated security and resort amenities provide peace of mind for owners who rent their properties, while the professional property management companies operating in Shipyard offer turnkey solutions for those who prefer hands-off investment management.
Lifestyle at Harbour Master
Life at Harbour Master strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and activity. Start your mornings with a bike ride through Shipyard's scenic paths to the beach, where you can catch the sunrise and take a long walk on the sand. After a round of golf or tennis, return to your villa for a refreshing swim in the community pool. Evenings might find you grilling on your private deck while watching golfers finish their rounds, or heading out to sample one of the many excellent restaurants just minutes away.
The complex attracts a mix of full-time residents, seasonal residents escaping northern winters, and vacation rental guests, creating a friendly, resort-like atmosphere without sacrificing the sense of community that comes with living in a well-established neighborhood. The low-maintenance lifestyle—with exterior maintenance, landscaping, and amenities handled by the regime—allows owners to focus on enjoying everything Hilton Head has to offer.
Updates and Condition
While Harbour Master Villas were built in the 1970s, many units have been extensively renovated and updated to meet modern expectations. It's common to find villas with completely remodeled kitchens and bathrooms, new flooring, fresh paint, updated HVAC systems, and hurricane-rated windows. Some owners have converted first-floor half-baths to full bathrooms, added hurricane shutters or impact glass, and created additional living spaces in bonus rooms.
When touring units, you'll encounter everything from original-condition villas priced for value-conscious buyers who enjoy renovating to their own specifications, to completely turnkey properties that have been recently updated with high-end finishes and furnishings. This variety means there's likely a Harbour Master Villa to fit every budget and preference.
Harbour Master Villas – Frequently Asked Questions
What size are Harbour Master Villas?
Harbour Master Villas range from 1,144 to 1,757 square feet. The smallest floor plan is a 2-bedroom/2.5-bath layout, while the largest units offer 3 bedrooms with 2.5-4 bathrooms, depending on whether owners have converted the downstairs half bath to a full bath. Many larger units include a den or bonus room that can serve as an office, media room, or potential fourth bedroom.
Are short-term rentals allowed at Harbour Master?
Yes, short-term rentals are permitted at Harbour Master Villas, making these properties popular with investors and owners who want to offset ownership costs. The spacious townhouse layout and proximity to the beach, golf, and tennis make these units particularly attractive to vacation renters. However, you should review the current regime rental policies with your agent, as restrictions can change.
What are the typical regime fees for Harbour Master Villas?
Regime fees typically range from approximately $290-$411 per month, depending on the size and location of your unit. These fees cover exterior maintenance, landscaping, pool maintenance, master insurance on the buildings, and regime reserves. The Shipyard Plantation POA fee is approximately $830 annually and covers access to the Beach Club, gates, roads, common areas, and plantation amenities. You should verify current fees during the purchasing process as they can adjust over time.
How far is Harbour Master from the beach?
Harbour Master Villas is approximately 1-1.5 miles from the Shipyard Beach Club, which provides private beach access for Shipyard residents. This is easily accessible via a short bike ride on Shipyard's paved paths or a quick drive. Reserved parking is available at the Beach Club on a first-come, first-served basis, along with restrooms and outdoor showers.
What views are available at Harbour Master?
Harbour Master Villas offer three primary view types: golf course views overlooking Shipyard Golf Club's fairways and greens; lagoon views with peaceful water scenes and Lowcountry wildlife; and wooded views featuring mature live oaks and Spanish moss for maximum privacy. End units often enjoy panoramic views with extra windows providing abundant natural light.
Are pets allowed at Harbour Master Villas?
Yes, pets are allowed at Harbour Master Villas according to regime rules. However, there may be restrictions on the number, size, or type of pets permitted. If you're considering a villa as a pet-friendly vacation rental or planning to bring your own pets, be sure to review the current pet policy with your real estate agent and verify any specific restrictions in the regime documents before purchasing.
