Coastal Carolina vacationers in search of a permanent vacation spot to call home would do well to look into the upscale luxury and quiet scenery of Dataw Island. One of the smallest islands of South Carolina's Sea Islands, this private, gated community is a dream for golfers, nature lovers, boaters, and anyone who simply wants to slow down and enjoy the coastal good life.
The island was first discovered by the Spanish in 1514, and was subsequently claimed by the Spanish, French and the English pioneers in the centuries that followed. In the decades before the Civil War, Dataw was known, like the majority of the Sea Islands, for its rice and indigo farming, and was sparsely populated by a handful of extensive plantations. This era ended with the Civil War, but the isle was still known in local elite circles as a good hunting preserve, until the latter half of the 20th century, when the popularity of the South Carolina barrier island region boomed, and Dataw Island officially began to be developed.
Dataw Island is located just 6 miles east of the city of Beaufort, but feels, inherently, like an entirely different world. This small isle that's just 4 miles long by about 2 miles wide at its widest point is surrounded by water in virtually every direction. An endless maze of saltwater marshes and winding tidal creeks cut both through and around the island, providing gorgeous natural scenery from almost every island vantage point.
That's not to say that Dataw Island is by any means rustic. In fact, the gated golf community is a refined combination of this inherent scenic natural beauty, plenty of amenities, and lots of entertainment to keep its' handful of happy residents engaged on a sunny coastal Carolina day.
There are two golf courses within Dataw, which expand the entire length of the island, and are interrupted only by the occasional picturesque residence. The Cotton Dike Golf Course was designed by Tom Fazio, a leading course designer who is well known for creating challenging waterfront playing fields. Completely renovated in 2011, the course has earned a place of honor among the Lowcountry's highest ranked courses. The Morgan River Golf Course was designed by golf architect Arthur Hills, and has the notable designer's signature Scottish flair. The course wanders through shady areas, along massive oaks, and veers through a series of water challenges that will be a fun confrontation for both novices and pros alike.
The expansive clubhouse on Dataw Island is one of the most popular spots in the community, and features over 40,000' square feet of inspired southern space. Storied spiral staircases lead to the club's many amenities, which include a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and croquet and tennis courts, although arguably the most happening spot within the clubhouse is the local pub and restaurant.
A formal dining room features both indoor and outdoor seating for patrons in the mood for exceptional seafood cuisine, while the Pub is a nice, casual alternative with a varied upscale menu and a world class selection of beers and spirits. Intimate gatherings can be held at the Tabby Room, a graceful southern venue that features a verandah, private bar and fireplace, and is perfect for romantic outings and events.
Fishermen and boat lovers will also appreciate the accommodating Dataw Island Marina, which boasts a variety of boat slips and a locale that's just 3 miles away from the Intracoastal Waterway, and 30 minutes from the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The transient docks feature free cable, and the marina also features a full-service repair yard, diesel discount fuel pump-out availability, air-conditioned showers and laundry, and a friendly marina staff that can help patrons begin their launch to a great waterfront adventure.
There are a very small number of vacation rentals available on Dataw Island, which are mainly rented out weekly or monthly by individual homeowners. Primarily, the island is comprised of single family homes, and there are roughly 30-45 properties and lots for sale on the island on any given day. The benefits to purchasing in the area include fantastic views, quiet isolation, easy access to the clubhouse and two renowned golf courses, and miles of privacy, although the price tag can occasionally turn some potential residents away. Home sites generally start in the $75,000 range, and single family homes begin at $300,000, although the miles of seclusion, fantastic amenities, and easy proximity to Beaufort and the barrier island beaches are, for many local folks, well worth the investment.
There are several local real estate sales companies that handle transactions in Dataw Island, which include outright purchases as well as monthly or long term rentals. Potential visitors can take a peek at the Dataw Island website, http://www.datawrealestate.org/, for more information on listings as well as local amenities.
Stunningly scenic and inclusive, with a world of outdoor entertainment that compliments the stunning landscapes, Dataw Island is a private getaway that coastal fans can enjoy for a week, a month, or a lifetime, at their leisure. With upscale clubhouses and dining, and world-class Lowcountry golf courses, Dataw Island arguably fits the definition of the elite good life that's found in abundance along coastal South Carolina.
