Discover where coastal luxury meets nautical freedom.
If you’ve ever dreamed of walking straight from your home—or your favorite tiki bar—to your boat and cruising the Lowcountry waterways, Hilton Head is the place. With miles of deep water, world-class marinas, and an active boating community, owning a boat slip in Hilton Head, South Carolina isn’t just convenient — it’s an investment in your lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking to dock your 25’ center console or a 70’ sport yacht, this guide will help you understand where to buy, what to expect, and how to choose the perfect slip for your vessel and your wallet.
Why Buy a Boat Slip in Hilton Head?
Hilton Head isn’t just a vacation spot — it’s a boating paradise. Buying a slip here means joining a vibrant marina community, gaining easy access to open water, and enjoying amenities that rival resort living.
- Year-round boating with mild weather and deep-water access
- Rising property and slip values due to limited inventory
- Strong rental demand during peak seasons
- Protected harbors and hurricane-rated facilities
- Proximity to Bluffton, Savannah, and Daufuskie Island
Think of it as owning waterfront real estate — but with far less lawn care and much better views.
The Top Hilton Head Marinas for Boat Slips
Each marina offers its own character, amenities, and ownership structure. Here’s a quick overview of the most desirable marinas for 2025 buyers:
1. Windmill Harbour Marina
- Ownership type: Fee simple (“dockominium”)
- Slip sizes: 25’–70’
- Amenities: Locked harbour system (no tides!), SC Yacht Club, pool, fuel dock, ship store
- Vibe: Private, gated, and ideal for boat enthusiasts and sailboats
Insider tip: Windmill Harbour is one of the only marinas in the U.S. with a lock system — your boat stays at a constant water level.
View current Windmill Harbour boat slips for sale →
2. Harbour Town Yacht Basin
- Ownership type: Fee simple (“dockominium”)
- Slip sizes: Up to 110’
- Amenities: World-class resort access, dining, shopping, lighthouse views
- Vibe: Iconic, social, upscale and ideal for liveaboards
If you’ve ever seen that red-striped lighthouse on a postcard, this is your marina.
See Harbour Town slips and marina info →
3. Skull Creek Marina
- Ownership type: Long-term lease or membership
- Slip sizes: 30’–80’
- Amenities: Skull Creek Boathouse, fuel dock, repair services, 24-hour security
- Vibe: Laid-back with unbeatable sunsets
Explore Skull Creek boat slips →
4. Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
- Ownership type: Lease
- Slip sizes: 15’–150’
- Amenities: Restaurants, shopping, live entertainment, harbor front condos
- Vibe: Social hub for boaters and vacationers alike
Cost of Boat Slips in Hilton Head (2025 Snapshot)
| Marina | TYPICAL PRICE RANGE | ANNUAL FEES | NOTES |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windmill Harbour | $55,000–$180,000 | ~$2,000–$4,500 | Lock-protected, rare resale inventory |
| Harbour Town | $80,000–$250,000 | ~$3,000–$6,000 | Premium location and amenities |
| Skull Creek | $45,000–$125,000 | ~$2,000–$3,500 | Excellent deep-water access |
| Shelter Cove | $50,000–$200,000 | ~$3,000–$5,000 | Strong rental demand and lifestyle perks |
Estimates as of early 2025 — always verify current listings and HOA/ POA and marina costs before purchasing.
Ownership vs. Rental: Which Makes Sense for You?
Buying a slip makes sense if you:
- Plan to boat regularly or live locally
- Want to build long-term equity
- Prefer fixed monthly costs instead of variable rental rates
Renting a slip might be better if you:
- Visit seasonally
- Want flexibility to upgrade boat size
- Aren’t ready for HOA fees or ownership commitments
Pro tip: Many owners buy slips and rent them out when they’re not in town. Windmill Harbour and Harbour Town owners often earn solid seasonal income this way.
What to Consider Before You Buy
Here’s your quick Hilton Head Boat Slip Buyer’s Checklist:
- Verify water depth and draft for your vessel
- Review tide patterns and lock systems
- Understand slip width and overhang restrictions
- Confirm HOA/POA fees and insurance requirements
- Ask about fuel, power hookups, and security
- Research resale trends and historical pricing
The Lifestyle: More Than Just a Slip
Owning a boat slip on Hilton Head means becoming part of an active coastal culture. Expect dock-side happy hours, yacht club regattas, dolphin sightings, and impromptu cruises to Daufuskie or Savannah. You’re not just buying moorage — you’re buying the freedom to drop anchor whenever you please.
Ready to Find Your Hilton Head Boat Slip?
Whether you’re searching for Windmill Harbour, Harbour Town Yacht Basin, or Skull Creek Marina, Simply Grand Properties can help you find the perfect boat slip for sale in Hilton Head.
Contact Bill Grand at SimplyGrandProperties.com or call (843) 212-6330 to start your search. Your next Lowcountry adventure is already waiting at the dock.
