In pre-colonial times, numerous Indian cultures occupied Callawassie Island for 5,000 years and left their mark in archeologic remains, shell middens, and an Indian burial mound. Some artifacts are exhibited in the Clubhouse entrance hall. In the early 17th century, the Yemassee Indians gave Callawassie Island its name and occupied the Lowcountry until their expulsion by the English. Subsequently, Callawassie Island's connections to Lowcountry commerce and South Carolina politics helped define America's coastal culture.

 

It is very likely that James Hamilton, a legislator and general, constructed a sugar mill during the plantation era. Although sugar cane did not prosper in this area of the South, ruins of this tabby structure can be found on Callawassie today. The island evolved over the centuries from a thriving indigo plantation to a southern playground for the nation's industrial elite. Acquired by Chaffin & Light in 1981, Callawassie established its modern identity as a serene residential community featuring signature amenities and a vibrant civic rhythm among its inhabitants.

 

Callawassie Island is ideally located in the heart of the South Carolina Lowcountry.  Neighboring Beaufort, Savannah, Bluffton, and Hilton Head, all within 35 minutes, offer historic attractions, universities, entertainment, beaches, shopping, and excellent healthcare. Historic Charleston is less than two hours away. Callawassie is perfectly situated to take advantage of all the opportunities the area offers. Drive 20 minutes to Beaufort and you'll be in a charming town dating to the Revolutionary War.

 

Along the way you'll experience endless vistas of saltwater marsh and estuaries, which provide Callawassie with a natural barrier to development and insure that Callawassie will always be someplace special. Take the old route to downtown Savannah made famous in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Enjoy the resort beaches of Hilton Head and the natural maritime beaches of Hunting Island. And, enjoy the outlets and shopping in nearby Bluffton. Cross the causeway to your own natural island paradise.

Callawassie Island is the first community in South Carolina to be designated a Community Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation and now has more than 200 homes certified as Backyard Habitats. Play golf, walk, ride a bike, or kayak among moss-covered oaks and magnolias and enjoy wood storks, herons, egrets, anhinga, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and osprey. Watch painted buntings at your backyard feeder.