Explore the exclusive Long Cove Club community featuring championship Pete Dye golf, stunning waterfront properties, and Lowcountry luxury living on 600+ private acres.
Long Cove homes range from $650,000 to over $3.4 million in Hilton Head’s premier private golf community, where all-inclusive membership provides access to a top-100 Pete Dye course, deepwater marina, and world-class amenities.
Your Complete Guide to Long Cove Homes
Long Cove Club stands as one of Hilton Head Island's most prestigious private residential communities, offering an unparalleled combination of championship golf, waterfront living, and world-class amenities across more than 600 pristine Lowcountry acres. Home to a legendary Pete Dye-designed golf course that has been ranked among South Carolina's finest for over three decades, Long Cove provides discriminating buyers with an exclusive lifestyle centered around natural beauty, privacy, and elegant Lowcountry living. With approximately 570 total homesites and about 70 percent year-round residents, this gated community delivers the perfect balance of active social engagement and peaceful sanctuary.
What sets Long Cove apart from other Hilton Head plantations is its focus on single-family living in a true club environment where every property owner automatically becomes a full member with unlimited access to all amenities. The community spans along Broad Creek's scenic waterfront, with nearly 80 percent of properties offering either golf course views, lagoon views, or both. From the moment you pass through the 24-hour manned gate, the moss-draped live oaks, Carolina pines, and carefully preserved native landscaping create an atmosphere of understated Southern elegance that has captivated homeowners since the community's development in the 1980s.
Long Cove homes for sale typically range from approximately $650,000 to over $3.4 million, with the average home price hovering around $1.4 to $1.5 million depending on market conditions, location, views, and home features. Whether you're seeking a cozy three-bedroom retreat overlooking tranquil lagoons or a sprawling five-bedroom estate with panoramic golf course and marsh views, Long Cove offers a diverse selection of custom-built luxury homes that showcase quality craftsmanship and timeless architectural design. Those interested in building their dream home from the ground up will find waterfront lots and interior homesites available throughout the community.
What Makes Long Cove Club Special
Long Cove Club's reputation as one of Hilton Head's hidden jewels is built on a foundation of exceptional amenities, meticulously maintained grounds, and a genuine sense of community that's rare to find in today's residential developments. The crown jewel remains the 18-hole, par-71 Pete Dye Championship golf course stretching over 7,000 yards through ancient live oaks and along saltwater marshes. Golf Digest recognized this masterpiece as South Carolina's number one course for ten consecutive years, and it continues to rank among the nation's finest private golf courses.
- Pete Dye Championship Golf Course: A 7,000-yard masterpiece weaving through live oaks, Carolina pines, and salt marshes with eight tee boxes accommodating all skill levels, consistently ranked among America's top private courses
- Deepwater Marina on Broad Creek: 85 boat slips accommodating vessels up to 40 feet, plus 45 kayak storage spaces and 13 community kayaks—all with no additional fees for members
- State-of-the-Art Tennis & Pickleball: Eight Har-Tru tennis courts (four lighted for evening play), four pickleball courts, two bocce lanes, and a full-service pro shop with year-round clinics and competitive events
- Resort-Style Pool Complex: Junior Olympic-sized heated saline pool with lap lanes and toddler pool in beautifully landscaped surroundings with men's and women's locker rooms
- Award-Winning Clubhouse: Elegant facility with fine dining in the Magnolia Room, casual fare in the Grill Room, Jim Ferree Bar, snack bar, golf pro shop, event spaces, and outdoor firepit gathering areas
- Unique Community Amenities: "The Farm" community garden with member plots and orchard, one-acre fenced dog park (the only one in a Hilton Head private golf community), two-acre playground with basketball court, and 3.2-mile walking trail loop
- Vibrant Social Scene: Long Cove Yacht Club, book clubs, bridge groups, fishing expeditions, art classes, wine tastings, member events, and the charitable Long Cove Fund that has granted over $2 million since 2003
The community's commitment to preserving Hilton Head's natural beauty is evident in every carefully planned detail, from the protected live oak groves to the pristine lagoons teeming with native wildlife. Long Cove residents enjoy a lifestyle that seamlessly blends athletic pursuits, social engagement, and peaceful relaxation—all within a secure, gated environment just minutes from the island's pristine beaches, world-class dining, and exceptional shopping.
Long Cove Club vs. Nearby Private Golf Communities
| Community |
Annual Dues |
Initiation Fee |
Key Features |
| Long Cove Club |
$19,515 |
$50,000 |
Pete Dye golf, marina, no rental restrictions, single-family only |
| Wexford Plantation |
~$6,000-$8,000 |
None |
Three golf courses, lower fees, rental-friendly |
| Palmetto Dunes |
~$2,500-$3,500 |
Varies |
Three courses, resort amenities, short-term rentals allowed |
| Sea Pines Plantation |
~$1,800-$2,200 |
None |
Three courses, Harbour Town, ocean access, rental market |
While Long Cove Club carries the highest membership fees on Hilton Head Island, these all-inclusive dues cover unlimited use of every amenity including golf, tennis, pickleball, marina access, pool, clubhouse dining, and all community facilities with no food and beverage minimums or cart fees (annual cart fees available). The community prohibits short-term rentals, ensuring a peaceful, residential atmosphere cherished by full-time residents and second homeowners who value privacy and tranquility.
Long Cove Homes Price Ranges by Type
Long Cove real estate pricing reflects the community's exceptional amenities, prime waterfront location, and prestigious reputation. Current market conditions show homes ranging from comfortable family residences to magnificent waterfront estates, with approximately 28 homes sold in the past year at an average price around $1.3 million. Homes typically remain on the market for 60-90 days, indicating strong buyer interest in this exclusive community.
Entry-Level Homes
$650K-$950K
Mid-Range Homes
$1M-$1.6M
Estate Homes
$2.5M-$3.4M+
Properties with premium waterfront locations overlooking Broad Creek's marshes, homes with direct golf course frontage on signature Pete Dye holes, and larger estates on oversized lots command the highest prices. Entry-level homes typically offer 2,500 to 3,500 square feet with three to four bedrooms, while luxury estates range from 4,000 to over 7,000 square feet with five or six bedrooms and exceptional custom finishes including gourmet kitchens, private pools, and expansive outdoor living spaces designed for Lowcountry entertaining.
Long-Term Value and Investment Considerations
Long Cove Club maintains its value proposition through careful planning and strict community standards that protect property values and preserve the neighborhood's exclusive character. The community's no short-term rental policy creates a stable, residential environment that appeals to year-round residents and seasonal homeowners seeking tranquility rather than rental income. Approximately 70 percent of residents live in Long Cove full-time, contributing to the strong sense of community and active participation in club events and amenities.
From an investment perspective, Long Cove homes hold their value exceptionally well due to limited inventory (only 570 total homesites with most already developed), prime Hilton Head location between Shelter Cove and Sea Pines, and the community's sterling reputation among discerning buyers. While annual dues are substantial at $19,515, these all-inclusive fees cover amenities that would cost significantly more if purchased separately, including unlimited golf at a top-100 course, marina access, tennis and pickleball, pool facilities, and fine dining options. Long Cove's automatic membership structure ensures every homeowner has full access to the club lifestyle without additional initiation fees for subsequent family members, creating strong appeal for multi-generational ownership.
Did You Know?
Long Cove Club hosts the Darius Rucker Intercollegiate, the number one tournament in women's collegiate golf, which is televised live on the Golf Channel each spring. The tournament attracts the nation's top collegiate women's golf programs who compete on Pete Dye's challenging championship layout. This prestigious event showcases Long Cove's world-class golf course to a national audience while supporting women's athletics and providing members with exciting tournament golf right in their own backyard.
Living on Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island's reputation as one of America's premier resort destinations extends far beyond its 12 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches and 30-plus championship golf courses. This barrier island off South Carolina's coast offers an exceptional quality of life combining natural beauty, world-class amenities, and a welcoming year-round community. Long Cove's strategic location on Hilton Head's south end places residents just minutes from the island's finest beaches including Coligny Beach Park, Harbor Town's iconic lighthouse and marina, and countless dining and shopping destinations.
Amenities and Attractions
Beyond Long Cove's gates, residents enjoy convenient access to Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina offering upscale shopping and waterfront dining, The Village at Wexford's charming boutiques and restaurants, and The Fresh Market Shoppes located just outside the community entrance. The island boasts over 250 restaurants ranging from casual beachfront cafes to award-winning fine dining establishments, plus exceptional shopping at Coligny Plaza, The Mall at Shelter Cove, and specialty boutiques throughout the island. Cultural attractions include the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Coastal Discovery Museum, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, and numerous art galleries and live entertainment venues. For additional information about the Long Cove lifestyle and community details, explore our comprehensive Long Cove Club community guide.
Community and Lifestyle
What makes Hilton Head Island truly special is its unique combination of vacation paradise atmosphere with strong year-round community roots. The island maintains a relaxed, bike-friendly culture with over 60 miles of paved multi-use paths connecting neighborhoods, beaches, and commercial areas. Educational opportunities include excellent public and private schools serving families, while top-tier medical facilities including Hilton Head Hospital provide comprehensive healthcare. The island's subtropical climate allows for year-round outdoor recreation including boating, fishing, kayaking, tennis, golf, and beach activities. Seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and community events create a genuine sense of belonging that extends beyond individual plantation gates, making Hilton Head Island a place residents proudly call home rather than simply a vacation destination.
Long Cove Club – Frequently Asked Questions
What are the membership fees for Long Cove Club?
Long Cove Club requires a one-time initiation fee of $50,000 and annual dues of $19,515 (as of 2025). These all-inclusive annual dues cover unlimited use of every community amenity including the Pete Dye championship golf course, 85-slip marina, tennis and pickleball facilities, heated pool, clubhouse dining, and all community facilities with no additional food and beverage minimums or per-round golf fees. Membership is automatic with property ownership, meaning every homeowner is a full member of Long Cove Club with access to all amenities and social opportunities.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Long Cove?
No, Long Cove Club does not permit short-term vacation rentals, which preserves the community's peaceful, residential character and ensures a stable neighborhood environment. This policy is one of the features that sets Long Cove apart from resort-oriented communities on Hilton Head and contributes to the strong sense of community among residents. With approximately 70 percent of homeowners living in Long Cove year-round, the community maintains an active social calendar and engaged membership that many residents cite as one of the plantation's greatest assets.
What types of homes are available in Long Cove?
Long Cove Club features exclusively single-family homes on lots typically ranging from one-third to nearly one acre, with no villas or condominiums in the community. Homes generally range from 2,500 square feet to over 7,000 square feet, offering three to six bedrooms with custom architectural designs that blend traditional Lowcountry style with modern luxury. Nearly 80 percent of properties feature either golf course views, lagoon views, or both, with premium waterfront locations overlooking Broad Creek's marshes commanding the highest prices. The community has approximately 570 total properties including developed homesites and available building lots for those interested in constructing a custom dream home.
How does Long Cove's Pete Dye golf course compare to other Hilton Head courses?
Long Cove's Pete Dye championship course is consistently ranked among the finest golf courses in South Carolina and was recognized by Golf Digest as the state's number one course for ten consecutive years. The 7,000-yard, par-71 layout features eight tee boxes to accommodate all skill levels and winds through pristine Lowcountry landscapes including ancient live oaks, Carolina pines, and saltwater marshes. Unlike Hilton Head's resort courses that are open to public play, Long Cove's course is exclusively for property owners and their guests, meaning members enjoy an uncrowded, private golf experience year-round. The course has been ranked in Golf Magazine's Top 100 and continues to host the prestigious Darius Rucker Intercollegiate women's collegiate golf championship.
Is Long Cove Club family-friendly?
Yes, Long Cove Club welcomes families and offers numerous amenities designed for all ages including a two-acre playground with jungle gym, basketball court, and open play areas, plus a Junior Olympic-sized pool with separate toddler area and organized family events throughout the year. The community features "The Farm" where families can cultivate their own garden plots, a one-acre fenced dog park perfect for four-legged family members, and junior golf and tennis programs during summer months. Long Cove's safe, gated environment with 24-hour security and bike-friendly streets creates an ideal setting for raising children, while the community's strong year-round population ensures playmates and social connections for young residents.
What is included with the marina membership?
Long Cove Club's Green Marina on Broad Creek includes 85 boat slips that can accommodate vessels up to 40 feet in length, 45 kayak storage spaces, and 13 community kayaks available for all members to use—all with no additional fees beyond the annual dues. The marina provides deep water access to Broad Creek and connects to the Intracoastal Waterway, making it ideal for boating, fishing, crabbing, and exploring Hilton Head's scenic waterways. Unlike many marina communities that charge monthly slip fees ranging from several hundred to over a thousand dollars, Long Cove includes marina access as part of the all-inclusive membership, representing significant value for boating enthusiasts.
Where is Long Cove located on Hilton Head Island?
Long Cove Club is located on Hilton Head's desirable south end between Wexford Plantation and Shelter Cove, with the main entrance off William Hilton Parkway (Highway 278). This strategic location places residents just minutes from Coligny Beach, Harbour Town, Shelter Cove shopping and dining, and the island's premier attractions. The south end location offers convenient access to the Broad Creek waterfront while remaining just a short drive from Hilton Head's most pristine beaches. The community's position roughly midway between the Cross Island Parkway entrance and Sea Pines Circle provides excellent accessibility to all parts of the island.
Can non-golfers enjoy living in Long Cove?
Absolutely—while Long Cove is famous for its championship golf course, many residents are drawn to the community for its comprehensive amenities, natural beauty, and social atmosphere rather than golf. The marina, tennis and pickleball facilities, heated pool, walking trails, community garden, dog park, and elegant clubhouse dining provide diverse recreational and social opportunities beyond the golf course. Active clubs including the Long Cove Yacht Club, book clubs, bridge groups, wine tastings, and art classes ensure non-golfers stay engaged and connected. Many residents specifically cite the club lifestyle and strong sense of community as their primary reasons for choosing Long Cove, with golf being one amenity among many that contribute to the exceptional quality of life.
What should buyers know about Long Cove's community culture?
Long Cove Club attracts buyers seeking a genuine community experience rather than a transient resort atmosphere, with approximately 70 percent year-round residents creating an engaged, socially active neighborhood. The community is known for its friendly, welcoming culture where neighbors gather regularly for club events, dining, and social activities at the clubhouse and throughout the plantation. Long Cove residents often describe the community as feeling like an extended family, with the no-rental policy ensuring stable neighbors and long-term relationships. The community's charitable efforts through the Long Cove Fund, which has granted over $2 million since 2003, reflect residents' commitment to giving back and supporting local causes.
Are there building lots available in Long Cove?
Yes, Long Cove Club has approximately 105 undeveloped lots available for purchase out of 570 total homesites, offering buyers the opportunity to build their dream home in this prestigious community. Building lots range from interior homesites to premium golf course and waterfront locations, with prices varying based on size, views, and location within the community. Some buyers from other Hilton Head neighborhoods have purchased Long Cove lots specifically to gain access to the exceptional Pete Dye golf course and club amenities. Prospective builders should work with the Long Cove Architectural Review Board to ensure their home plans meet the community's design standards that maintain the plantation's elegant character and property values.
