Hilton Head, South Carolina Real Estate and Community Information

History

Hilton Head was named after Captain William Hilton. He identified, near the entrance to Port Royal Sound, a headland and named it for himself. The area was occupied by Native Americans and European settlers who built a small, but thriving community. The main industry was cotton and during the Civil War the town became an important base of operation. In the early 1950’s, access to Hilton Head was limited to private boats and a state run ferry. The economy of the island hinged on the lumber, fishing, cotton and ship building industry.

The island was connected to the mainland with the construction of the James F. Byrnes Bridge in 1956 and vehicular traffic brought greater access to the community.
The beginning of Hilton Head as a vacation resort began in 1956 when the Sea Pines Resort was constructed. Other developments soon followed and the community became known for its spectacular golf courses. The Heritage Golf Classic was first played in Sea Pines in 1969 and since then Hilton Head has been a regular stop on the Professional Golf Association (PGA) Tour. Hilton Head was incorporated in 1983 and Hilton Head Island officially became a town.

Education

The public school needs of the community are served by the Beaufort County School District and educate children from Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12. The district operates a three tier educational system including elementary, middle and high schools with schools located in Hilton Head. The district has award winning schools, as well as schools that have earned Blue Ribbon designation. The school district is highly rated by parents, students, teachers, and other educational professionals. The district offers programs to prepare students for college or a career right out of high school.

Families also have the opportunity to choose one of several charter schools for their children’s education.

There are five private schools on the island, several religion based, offering an alternative to public school education.

Parks and Recreation

The town of Hilton Head recognizes the importance of open space and recreational opportunities. Such a philosophy serves to protect the environment with appropriately appointed open space and the relaxation of the population. Residents of all ages will find recreational opportunities and facilities throughout the community. The Hilton Head Island Parks and Facilities Department operate and maintain neighborhood parks with amenities that include sports fields and courts, sitting and picnic areas, scenic and nature observation areas, walking and hiking trails, golf, boating and fishing and swimming and sun bathing. There are also a number of public beaches available for the sun and surf worshippers and several of the beach areas have dedicated boat ramps and mooring capabilities. Residents will also find many recreational facilities and opportunities within the neighborhoods supported by the community developer.

Attractions, Activities and Events

The community is a thriving community and residents of all ages will find many attractions and activities. Some of the things to do include the Coastal Discovery Museum, the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, the Hilton Head Choral Society and the Main Street Youth Theater. There are also museums, bike trails, forest preserves, fishing charters, boat tours, zip lines and helicopter tours.

Hilton Head is home to a variety of annual events and includes Community Festival, Celebrity Golf Tournament, Chili Cook-off, Harbor Fest, the Festival of Lights and a variety of parades celebrating holidays and neighborhoods. Residents will also enjoy alligator and wildlife boat tours, sports clinics, horseback trail rides, fishing instruction and music festivals.

Real Estate

Available real estate includes single family homes, condominiums, townhouses, villas, and undeveloped properties suitable for residential development and undeveloped lots in approved subdivisions. Properties are a mix of expensive and affordable and new and existing construction. Many homes are located in of the more than 15 gated communities, typically called plantations and that is an attractive feature for anyone concerned with security. Home buyers will also find over 55 communities which are ideal for retirees or empty-nesters.

Homes are located on the beach or with beach access. The neighborhoods are well planned and well maintained and residents will find many amenities available within each neighborhood. The neighborhoods are tree lined and residents of all ages interact. Each community is designed to offer southern charm while highlighting the beauty of the surrounding landscape. There are also neighborhoods that support special activities such as golf, boating and fishing, as well as specific lifestyles such as families with children, professionals with no children and retirees.

Anyone interested in Hilton Head real estate should contact Rita Cymbalista, real estate agent and broker. Ms. Cymbalista focuses her energy on finding the right real estate solution for each client based on their wants, needs and wishes while keeping within the budget. Rita Cymbalista employs the latest tools and expertise to help each client find the right home. She is also a skilled negotiator and will work to negotiate the best price for each client.