Shipyard is a gated residential and resort-oriented community located on the South-end Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Known for its golf courses, extensive tree canopy, beach access, and central location, Shipyard offers a quieter residential environment while remaining close to many of the island’s most visited attractions.

Unlike some of the larger resort communities on Hilton Head Island, Shipyard maintains a balance between residential living and vacation properties. Many neighborhoods inside the community include villa complexes, single-family homes, and golf-view properties connected by shaded leisure trails and landscaped roadways.

Because of its mid-island location and proximity to Coligny Beach and the Forest Beach area, Shipyard has become a popular choice for full-time residents, second-home owners, and those looking for a coastal lifestyle with access to recreation and nearby amenities.

This guide provides a detailed overview of Shipyard, including its history, layout, lifestyle, amenities, and residential environment.

Quick Overview of Shipyard

• Location: South-central Hilton Head Island
• Community Type: Private gated residential community
• Size: Approximately 800 acres
• Beach Access: Private beach access within the community
• Golf Courses: 27-hole Shipyard Golf Club
• Property Types: Villas, townhomes, and single-family homes
• Atmosphere: Quiet residential setting with resort-style amenities

Shipyard’s central position on the island makes it easy to access nearby beaches, restaurants, shopping areas, and outdoor recreation while still maintaining a sense of separation from the island’s busier tourist corridors.

The History of Shipyard

Shipyard was developed during Hilton Head Island’s growth period in the late 20th century when several planned residential and resort communities were established across the island.

The area was originally part of the island’s maritime forest and coastal landscape before being developed into a gated community designed to preserve much of the natural environment. Developers incorporated winding roads, wooded buffers, and golf course corridors into the layout to maintain the island’s characteristic natural appearance.

Over time, Shipyard became known as a residential community with a mix of villa neighborhoods and private homes, offering a quieter alternative to some of the island’s larger resort developments.

Today, Shipyard continues to maintain many of the planning principles common to Hilton Head communities, including architectural guidelines and preservation of natural landscapes.

Geographic Location and Natural Setting

Shipyard sits between several well-known Hilton Head neighborhoods and attractions.

The community is located near:

• Coligny Beach and the Forest Beach area
• Palmetto Dunes community
• the mid-island commercial corridor along William Hilton Parkway

The landscape inside Shipyard includes:

• maritime forest with large oak and pine trees
• golf course fairways
• lagoons and water features
• walking and cycling paths
• landscaped residential neighborhoods

The presence of mature trees and natural buffers gives the community a shaded, park-like feel, which is common in many established Hilton Head developments.

Lifestyle in Shipyard

Life in Shipyard is typically described as relaxed and residential, with an emphasis on outdoor recreation and quiet surroundings.

The community’s gated structure limits through traffic, which contributes to a calmer atmosphere compared to more open areas of the island.

Residents often spend time enjoying:

• golf and tennis
• cycling on leisure trails
• walking through wooded neighborhoods
• beach visits
• nearby dining and shopping

Because Shipyard contains both full-time residences and vacation properties, activity levels may vary depending on the season.

Beach Access in Shipyard

One of the key features of the community is its private beach access.

Shipyard has its own recently-reconstructed Beach Club with direct ocean access – they have dedicated lockers for beach storage downstairs and a party room upstairs that hosts many wedding parties.

The beach in this section of Hilton Head Island shares many characteristics common to the island’s coastline:

• wide sandy shoreline
• gradual slope into the ocean
• hard-packed sand suitable for cycling
• Atlantic Ocean

Because access is limited to residents and visitors within the community, the beach here is often less crowded than some public access points on the island.

Golf and Recreation

Shipyard is home to Shipyard Golf Club, a 27-hole golf facility that includes three nine-hole courses.

These courses are often referred to as:

• Clipper Course
• Galleon Course
• Brigantine Course

The layout allows golfers to experience different combinations of holes and landscapes across the property.

The courses wind through maritime forest, lagoons, and residential areas, offering views of natural landscapes and wildlife that are common throughout Hilton Head Island.

Tennis and Sports Facilities

Shipyard also includes the Van Der Meer Shipyard Racquet Club, which has long been recognized for its tennis programs.

The facility offers:

• multiple clay tennis courts
• instructional programs
• tennis clinics
• tournament events

The racquet club has contributed to Hilton Head Island’s reputation as a tennis destination and remains an active part of the Shipyard community.

Leisure Trails and Outdoor Activities

Like many areas on Hilton Head Island, Shipyard includes access to the island’s extensive leisure trail system.

These paths allow residents to travel between neighborhoods, beaches, and nearby commercial areas while enjoying the island’s natural scenery.

Common outdoor activities include:

• cycling
• walking and jogging
• wildlife observation
• beach recreation
• golf and tennis

The natural environment within the community supports a variety of coastal wildlife, including birds, deer, and marsh species.

Neighborhoods and Villa Communities Within Shipyard

Shipyard contains several villa communities and residential areas with varying property styles and layouts.

These areas include:

• golf-view villa communities
• lagoon-front properties
• wooded residential sections
• townhouse-style developments

Many villa neighborhoods offer shared amenities such as:

• swimming pools
• tennis courts
• landscaped common areas
• parking facilities

The variety of property types allows for a mix of residential uses within the community.

The Real Estate Landscape in Shipyard

Properties within Shipyard generally fall into several categories.

These include:

• single-family homes
• villa condominiums
• townhome-style residences
• golf-view properties
• lagoon-front homes

Because the community developed over multiple decades, architectural styles and building ages vary throughout the neighborhood.

Some properties have undergone renovation or modernization, while others reflect earlier phases of Hilton Head Island development.

Property values in Shipyard are influenced by factors such as:

• proximity to the beach
• golf course views
• lagoon frontage
• renovation level
• overall market conditions on Hilton Head Island

Who Lives in Shipyard?

Shipyard attracts a range of property owners and residents.

These often include:

• full-time Hilton Head residents
• retirees
• second-home owners
• vacation property owners
• seasonal visitors

Because some villa communities allow short-term rentals, certain sections of Shipyard experience higher seasonal activity, particularly during summer and peak tourism months.

Other residential areas maintain a quieter atmosphere year-round.

Nearby Amenities and Convenience

Shipyard’s location provides convenient access to several commercial and recreational areas.

Nearby destinations include:

Coligny Plaza and Forest Beach

This area contains restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues within a short drive or bike ride from Shipyard.

Shelter Cove Towne Centre

Shelter Cove offers waterfront dining, retail shops, and seasonal events along Broad Creek.

Mid-Island Services

Grocery stores, pharmacies, healthcare facilities, and other services are located along William Hilton Parkway.

Because of its central position on the island, Shipyard residents can typically reach most parts of Hilton Head Island within a short drive.

Schools and Education

Hilton Head Island is served by the Beaufort County School District.

Several private and charter school options are also available on Hilton Head Island and in nearby Bluffton.

Things to Consider Before Choosing Shipyard

When researching residential communities on Hilton Head Island, potential residents often consider several aspects of Shipyard.

Gated Community Structure

Shipyard has controlled access through entry gates, which may require passes for guests and service providers.

Seasonal Tourism

Like many areas on Hilton Head Island, certain sections of Shipyard may experience increased activity during peak tourism seasons.

Rental Activity

most villa communities participate in short-term rental marketsl

Shipyard Compared to Other Hilton Head Communities

Each Hilton Head neighborhood offers its own characteristics.

Shipyard is often compared to several nearby communities.

Shipyard vs Sea Pines

Sea Pines is larger and includes marina districts and multiple golf courses. Shipyard is smaller and tends to have a quieter residential feel.

Shipyard vs Palmetto Dunes

Palmetto Dunes is known for its resort amenities and lagoon system. Shipyard focuses more on residential living with golf and tennis facilities.

Shipyard vs Forest Beach

Forest Beach is not gated and has a higher concentration of tourism-related properties. Shipyard provides a more private environment.

Market Stability and Long-Term Appeal

Hilton Head Island continues to attract interest from both residents and visitors due to its coastal setting and established infrastructure.

Communities like Shipyard often maintain long-term appeal because of:

• central island location
• proximity to beaches
• established landscaping and tree canopy
• golf and tennis amenities
• access to island services

As with any housing market, real estate conditions may change based on economic trends, housing supply, and regional demand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shipyard

Where is Shipyard located on Hilton Head Island?

Shipyard is located on the southeastern side of the island between the Forest Beach area and Palmetto Dunes.

Is Shipyard a gated community?

Yes. Shipyard has controlled entry points for residents and authorized visitors.

Does Shipyard have beach access?

Yes. The community includes a private beach access point for residents and guests.

What types of homes are in Shipyard?

Shipyard contains single-family homes, villas, and townhouse-style properties.

Is Shipyard primarily residential or vacation-oriented?

The community includes both full-time residents and vacation properties, depending on the neighborhood.

About The Pattisall Group

The Pattisall Group works with buyers and sellers throughout Hilton Head Island and the surrounding Lowcountry region.

Richard Pattisall
The Pattisall Group
18 Margarita Ct
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926-1900

Office: 843-671-4100
Cell: 843-304-9590

Hours: 9:00am – 9:00pm

The office is located on Hilton Head Island, allowing the team to stay closely connected with local neighborhoods and the island’s evolving real estate market.