Why Pawleys Island Is South Carolina’s Most Underrated Luxury Real Estate Market

When it comes to South Carolina’s premier coastal destinations, Charleston and Hilton Head often steal the spotlight. Yet, a discerning group of high-end buyers is looking past the obvious choices and turning their attention to Pawleys Island, a serene, historic, low-density community known for exclusivity, natural beauty, and refined coastal living.

As a top-producing real estate advisor with Peace Sotheby’s International Realty, I’ve seen a remarkable increase in luxury buyers seeking the privacy, space, and timeless charm that Pawleys Island offers. This hidden gem is proving to be one of the most underrated luxury real estate markets in the Southeast.

Exclusivity Through Preservation — A Limited Luxury Market

One of the most defining features of Pawleys Island is its unwavering commitment to preservation. Buyers accustomed to congested beaches and overbuilt shorelines are surprised to find:

• No high-rise condominiums

• Protected stretches of oceanfront

• Low-density development

• A naturally limited inventory of luxury homes

Scarcity is one of the strongest drivers of value. Here, luxury real estate feels private, intentional, and timeless—qualities affluent buyers seek but rarely find along the East Coast.

Luxury Communities That Define Coastal Lifestyle Living

From oceanfront estates to gated golf communities and riverfront sanctuaries, Pawleys Island offers an exceptional variety of luxury living environments. Here are the communities most sought after by high-end buyers:

Prince George (Ocean & Riverside)

A rare blend of acreage, privacy, and waterfront access, Prince George offers some of the most exclusive properties on the entire East Coast. With both oceanfront and riverfront homesites, it delivers a unique dual-waterway lifestyle.

The Reserve

This gated community boasts access to The Reserve Marina on the Intracoastal Waterway and The Reserve Golf Club, a private Greg Norman–designed course. Residents also enjoy private beach access through Litchfield by the Sea.

Litchfield by the Sea

A favorite for luxury second-home buyers, offering:

• Oceanfront villas

• Resort amenities

• Tennis, walking paths, and private beach access

• Strong rental potential

Debordieu Colony (minutes south and highly relevant to luxury buyers)

A private, gated community known for its pristine beaches, oceanfront homes, golf, dining, and exceptional privacy. Many Pawleys Island luxury buyers consider Debordieu as part of their search.

Together, these communities create a dynamic luxury market where lifestyle—not just the home—drives value.

High-Net-Worth Relocators Are Fueling Market Growth

Luxury demand in Pawleys Island is being driven by buyers relocating from:

• New York & New Jersey

• Virginia & Maryland

• The Carolinas’ urban centers (Charlotte, Raleigh, Charleston)

• Florida buyers seeking lower density

• Remote professionals seeking a refined coastal lifestyle

These clients consistently tell me they want more privacy, more natural beauty, and less commercialization—all of which Pawleys Island delivers effortlessly.

Luxury Lifestyle That’s Hard to Replicate

Affluent buyers today want more than a beautiful home—they want a lifestyle. Pawleys Island offers:

• World-renowned golf courses including Caledonia, True Blue, and The Reserve

• Deepwater access for boating and fishing

• Miles of uncrowded beaches

• Boutique dining and shopping

• Paddleboarding, kayaking, and outdoor recreation

• Proximity to Charleston, Georgetown, and private aviation options

This balance of luxury and relaxed coastal simplicity is a rare combination.

Exceptional Value Compared to Other Coastal Luxury Markets

Buyers often compare Pawleys Island to:

• Charleston

• Kiawah Island

• Hilton Head

• Naples, FL

• Outer Banks

What they discover is that Pawleys offers larger homesites, more privacy, and better waterfront access—at prices often significantly below these competing markets.

This translates into long-term appreciation and exceptional value, especially for luxury second-home buyers and investors.

Limited Inventory = Strong Investment Outlook

Because Pawleys Island is not overdeveloped—and because so many areas are protected—luxury inventory remains naturally scarce. This results in:

• Strong price stability

• High demand for new listings

• Competitive bidding on premium properties

• More off-market opportunities handled quietly

As a top producer with Peace Sotheby’s International Realty, I regularly assist clients with exclusive and private offerings not publicly advertised—another hallmark of a true luxury market.

Pawleys Island Is Coastal Luxury at Its Purest

From preserved oceanfront to riverfront estates, gated golf communities, and resort-style neighborhoods, Pawleys Island offers a level of luxury that is both understated and unparalleled.

For buyers who crave privacy, exclusivity, and long-term value, this coastal gem is quickly becoming one of the most desirable luxury markets in South Carolina.

Work With a Trusted Luxury Real Estate Advisor

If you’re exploring luxury real estate in Pawleys Island, I welcome the opportunity to provide personalized advice and insider insight.

I’m Lauren Fournier, a top-producing real estate advisor with Peace Sotheby’s International Realty, specializing in luxury coastal properties throughout the Hammock Coast.

Let’s discuss your goals and find the perfect property that matches your lifestyle.

Contact me today to begin your Pawleys Island real estate journey.