Heritage Lakes is a neighborhood community in Bluffton, located off U.S. 278, with easy access to Hilton Head Island. The development features several styles of homes on large lots; most of them are half-acre or larger, which are situated along one of several large lakes, wooded areas and in cul-de-sacs.
The neighborhood is unique in the Lowcountry area as it is not gated, nor does it yet have a homeowner’s association, in which residents are required to pay annual dues for various services and amenities. Amenities include a recreational vehicle and boat storage area, and it is possible that a community pool could be built in the future. Residents may use the lakes for recreational use, including row boating and kayaking. No gasoline-powered vehicles are allowed.
Established in the mid 1990s, Heritage Lakes, consisting of about 250 acres, is now in the resale phase of development with only a limited inventory of lots available for purchase. Dean Sutton is the developer.
Heritage Lakes’ large size lots are what sold Kathy and Peyton Grymes, who originally moved to the area from Connecticut. “It’s very comfortable here, and spacious,” Kathy Grymes said. “All of the house have their own style.” The couple enjoys taking walks around the neighborhood each morning, taking in the beauty of the community’s wooded views and wildlife.
The development is located within Bluffton Township, however it is not part of the Town of Bluffton, and therefore does not incur town-related taxes. Children attend M.C. Riley Elementary School, H.E. McCracken Middle School and Bluffton High School .
Bonnie Nelson, a resident for three years, said she was looking for property convenient to Hilton Head without having to move to the island when she discovered Heritage Lakes. Nelson said the neighborhood is safe and family-oriented and that she enjoys roller blading with her dog and bike riding, even after dark.
Homeowners and residents say they were attracted to the community because of its laid-back, family-oriented atmosphere, as well as its convenient location in the rapidly growing Bluffton area to amenities as well as to the island.
Traffic is minimal as there is no drive through; there is only one way in and out, and there are several cul-de-sacs.
Homeowner Willy Fanning moved from Hilton Head Plantation to Heritage Lakes about six years ago. One of the things that attracted Fanning to the neighborhood was its lack of a property owners association, as well as the fact that it is not gated.
Grymes added that the neighborhood is a mixture of families with children, both young and grown, couples and mature adults.
