to maintain its authenticity – and even its affordability – while so many other Lowcountry hotspots have fallen prey to overdevelopment and sky-rocketing property values.

Only fifteen minutes from historic downtown Beaufort, Harbor is almost as tranquil and pristine today as it was hundreds – even thousands – of years ago. Property owners share their habitat with osprey, egrets, gulls, porpoises, loggerhead turtles and the occasional alligator. It’s a world of sparkling beaches, lazy lagoons, and sun-kissed marshes, lush azaleas, camellias, oleander and wisteria.

Smaller, less regulated, and less commercial than nearby Fripp Island, Harbor has a year-round population of only about 150, which rises to 300 when the season peaks. Most of the residents are here for the solitude and natural beauty, but the island does maintain several resort-style amenities – a swimming pool and fitness center, both owned by the property owners, as well as tennis courts and a picnic area. The clubhouse, another perk, has a full-service kitchen, and may be used by property owners for meetings and parties.

The three-mile stretch of luminous beach is arguably the best amenity of all.

An increasingly popular vacation destination, Harbor Island is equally attractive as a place to settle. It’s a friendly community, populated by a diversity of year-round and part-time residents – business people, artists, writers, bird watchers, boaters, fishermen… the list goes on. Some are retired, while others are professionals working in Beaufort and the surrounding area. Many are active leaders in the community.

Come discover what this diverse bunch already knows. Come discover the quiet, friendly community on Harbor Island.

5 Kelp Court on Harbor Island is offered at $995,000; MLS#112855; Call Brenda Pearce at (843)812-8883.