Private marina living with Intracoastal Waterway views in Hilton Head's premier yachting community
Windmill Harbour waterfront homes range from $875,000 to over $2.9 million, featuring harbor, marsh, and Intracoastal views with access to one of only three private locked harbors on the East Coast.
Living on the Water in Windmill Harbour
Windmill Harbour stands apart from other Hilton Head communities by design. Located on Jenkins Island at the very entrance to Hilton Head, this 172-acre gated community was master-planned specifically for waterfront living and boating enthusiasts. Nearly every home offers views of the 15.5-acre yacht basin, tidal marshes, or the Intracoastal Waterway—and the community's private locked harbor means your boat stays protected in tide-free water year-round.
The architecture throughout Windmill Harbour draws inspiration from historic Charleston, with homes featuring traditional single-house designs, bright colors, sweeping porches, and multi-story layouts that maximize water views. Stringent architectural guidelines ensure the community maintains its distinctive character while allowing for custom home construction on available homesites.
Waterfront Home Options and Pricing
Windmill Harbour offers several paths to waterfront living. Single-family homes on harborfront and marshfront lots typically range from $875,000 to $2.9 million or more, depending on size, views, and whether the property includes a deeded boat slip. Many of these homes feature private docks or dedicated slip assignments.
For buyers seeking lower maintenance, townhomes priced from $600,000 to $1.5 million offer multi-story living with harbor views and optional slip ownership. The community's villas and condos provide entry points from the mid-$400,000s with access to all community amenities.
The Marina and Boating Lifestyle
Windmill Harbour's centerpiece is its private marina—one of only three lock-controlled harbors on the entire East Coast. The hydraulic lock system maintains a constant 8-foot depth regardless of tidal conditions, protecting vessels from the twice-daily 7-foot tidal swings common in the Lowcountry. The 258-slip marina accommodates boats from 30 to 75 feet, with slips available for purchase or lease.
Home to the prestigious South Carolina Yacht Club, Windmill Harbour offers optional club membership with benefits including reciprocity at over 250 ClubCorp clubs and 700+ yacht and sailing clubs worldwide. The club hosts regular regattas, cruises, sailing instruction, and social events throughout the year. Non-members still enjoy full access to community amenities including the pool, fitness center, and tennis courts.
Community Amenities and Fees
Beyond the marina, Windmill Harbour residents enjoy a sports center with seven Har-Tru tennis courts, a 25-meter swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, and 24-hour fitness center. Brick walking paths wind throughout the community, connecting homes to the harbor, clubhouse, and recreational facilities.
The annual POA assessment of $3,152 covers 24-hour gated security, road maintenance, common area landscaping, and access to community amenities. Boat slip owners pay an additional $764 annually to the Marina Owners Association. Starting March 2025, buyers pay a one-time transfer fee equal to one year's POA assessment at closing.
Location and Convenience
Windmill Harbour's position at Hilton Head's entrance provides convenient access to mainland shopping and dining while remaining within the island's prestigious address. The community sits just minutes from Publix, restaurants, and services in the Shelter Cove and Bluffton areas. For boaters, the protected harbor provides direct Intracoastal Waterway access to Calibogue Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.
Expert Guidance for Windmill Harbour Buyers
With 20+ years of Lowcountry real estate expertise, Russ and Deb understand Windmill Harbour'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 Windmill Harbour Waterfront Homes and all Windmill Harbour 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.
Windmill Harbour Waterfront Homes – Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Windmill Harbour's marina unique?
Windmill Harbour features one of only three private locked harbors on the East Coast. The hydraulic lock system maintains a constant 8-foot depth regardless of tidal conditions, protecting boats from the Lowcountry's significant tidal swings. The 258-slip marina offers slips from 30 to 75 feet, with 24-hour security, harbormaster services, a fueling dock, and direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Calibogue Sound.
What are the annual fees for Windmill Harbour homeowners?
All Windmill Harbour homeowners pay $3,152 annually to the POA, covering gated security, roads, landscaping, pool, tennis, and fitness center access. Boat slip owners pay an additional $764 annually to the Marina Owners Association. Townhome and villa owners pay additional monthly regime fees ($300–$700+) for building maintenance and insurance. South Carolina Yacht Club membership is optional and priced separately.
Can I rent out my Windmill Harbour home?
Windmill Harbour requires a minimum 6-month lease for any rental, effectively prohibiting short-term vacation rentals. This policy helps maintain the community's residential character and appeals to buyers seeking a quieter, owner-occupied neighborhood. Verify current rental policies through the POA before purchasing.
Do all Windmill Harbour homes come with boat slips?
No, boat slips are separate from home ownership. Some properties include deeded slips, while others require separate slip purchase or lease through the Marina Owners Association. Slip availability and pricing vary based on size and location. When purchasing, clarify whether a slip is included and understand the separate MOA fees involved.
What's the price range for waterfront homes in Windmill Harbour?
Single-family waterfront homes in Windmill Harbour typically range from $875,000 to over $2.9 million, depending on size, views, finishes, and whether a boat slip is included. Harborfront and marshfront locations command premium pricing. Townhomes with water views range from $600,000 to $1.5 million, while villas start in the mid-$400,000s.
Is South Carolina Yacht Club membership required?
No, SCYC membership is optional and not included in POA fees. Members gain access to the clubhouse, dining, planned social events, sailing programs, and reciprocity at over 250 ClubCorp clubs and 700+ yacht clubs worldwide. Non-members still have full access to community amenities including the pool, fitness center, and tennis courts.
