The Top 10 Reasons to Retire to Callawassie Island, SC, includes an alluring blend of reasons that focus on natural beauty, resort-style amenities and Lowcountry charm.
Golf, fitness, dining, watersports and vibrant clubs are all available within this private, gated community set near historic towns such as Beaufort and Savannah.
Add in the peaceful, activity-rich lifestyle with South Carolina’s tax advantages for retirees and you’ve got a top-class community to consider. See all the details below.
Top 10 reasons to retire to Callawassie Island, SC
1. World-Class Golf Facilities

Tom Fazio created a masterful, 27-hole, championship layout.
Callawassie Island features a 27-hole, Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course that consistently ranks among the top courses in the state. The courses are a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary and offer stunning marsh and water views.
2. Exceptional Natural Beauty and Wildlife Habitat
Callawassie Island is a certified Community Wildlife Habitat, the first in South Carolina. It features 880 acres of salt marshes, tidal creeks, and majestic live oaks draped in Spanish moss, providing a serene environment and a haven for local wildlife. Send me more information about Callawassie Island, SC!
3. Active and Diverse Social Community

Take guided kayaking tours with friends and family.
With over 50 active clubs and interest groups—including golf, tennis, pickleball, paddling, fishing, and gardening—residents can easily connect with neighbors and build lasting friendships.
A variety of island-wide events and activities are available, from formal dinners to casual gatherings. Send me more information about Callawassie Island, SC!
4. A Full Complement of Top Amenities
Callawassie Island offers extensive facilities, including a fitness center with personal training and therapy options, two swimming pools, a tennis center with six Har-Tru courts, and pickleball courts, ensuring numerous opportunities for a healthy and active lifestyle.
5. Waterfront Living and Deep-Water Access

Tidal creeks & rivers offer watery escapes, crabbing and more.
Entirely surrounded by tidal creeks and rivers, the island provides access to the water through four community docks. Residents can enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, and crabbing right from the island. Send me more information about Callawassie Island, SC!
6. Convenient, Yet Secluded Location
The island offers a private, relaxed setting, but is not isolated. It is a short drive (around 15-35 minutes) to the charming village of Beaufort, the amenities of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, and the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. Historic Charleston is less than two hours away.
7. Favorable South Carolina Tax Benefits
South Carolina is tax-friendly for retirees. It does not tax Social Security benefits, and individuals 65 and older can claim up to a $10,000 deduction on other retirement income. Send me more information about Callawassie Island, SC!
8. Security and Peace of Mind

A single-entry causeway helps maintain security for the island.
As a private, gated community with 24-hour security and a single-entry causeway, Callawassie Island offers a safe and quiet environment.
9. Dining Options On-Island
The community features two dining options: the main Clubhouse, which offers a more formal atmosphere, and the casual River Club, both overseen by the same executive chef.
10.Welcoming, Multi-Generational Community

Stylish Lowcountry homes invite friends and family.
The community is known for its warm Southern hospitality and friendly demeanor, making it easy for new residents to feel at home and connect with people of all ages. Send me more information about Callawassie Island, SC!






