Exciting Changes Ahead for Hilton Head’s South Beach Marina Village!

Exciting Changes Ahead for Hilton Head’s South Beach Marina Village!

Hey, Hilton Head! Big news is coming from the South Beach Marina Village, home to the beloved Salty Dog Cafe and a hotspot for locals and visitors alike. According to some newly filed documents with the town, major renovations are on the way that promise to transform the area in a way that’s both modern and welcoming.

What’s in Store?

The heart of the renovation plan involves reorganizing shops and changing the overall appearance of this iconic destination. While the Salty Dog Cafe won’t be part of these changes (thank goodness!), the neighboring South Beach Inn, various shops, and parking areas are all set to see some action.

The proposed updates will reduce the buildings’ overall footprint from about 12,500 square feet down to 10,000 square feet. This move aims to streamline the space while enhancing its usability for everyone who loves spending time at the marina. Additionally, there’s a plan to add a convenient new vehicle drop-off area close to the marina, making it easier for you to hop in and out!

Official Approvals

These plans have received the nod from both the Hilton Head town and the Sea Pines Architectural Review Board earlier this summer. Specifically, the town approved the conceptual plan on July 12, and the final plan was given the green light on May 28. However, the marina owner, Robert Gossett, and the Chief Operating Officer of the South Beach Management Group, Tim Stearns, haven’t shared much further information, leaving many questions unanswered. Stearns mentioned, “We have many plans and will detail them to who we choose to, as we see fit and when we see fit.” Sounds intriguing!

What Will Change?

The renovation will largely impact the northern half of the marina, which spans around six acres. Excitingly, the project description hints that buildings currently housing the South Beach Inn, Wreck of the Salty Dog, Jake’s Cargo, and A Shore Thing will transition to new restaurant and retail uses. This implies that lodging won’t be a part of the plan anymore. While the South Beach Inn and Vacation Rentals have been closed for a while, the specifics on which shops will remain operational throughout the renovations remain a bit foggy.

We do know that a sign outside the Wreck of the Salty Dog has already announced its closure for the 2024 season to prepare for the upcoming upgrades. Moreover, the swimming pool will also be shut down for the same season as part of the renovations.

Keeping the Charm Alive

Of course, with significant changes on the horizon, locals and fans of the marina have voiced a range of emotions. Some folks are super excited about the upgrades, especially considering that the marina has been a staple on the island for decades. Others, however, are a little concerned about how these changes might affect the “southern charm” the marina is known for.

There has been a lot of chatter in community Facebook groups, with questions swirling about the timeline for renovations and which businesses will keep their doors open during construction. Longtime t-shirt and sweatshirt shop, A Shore Thing, opened in 1986, may also feel the impact of these renovations, as its owner, Joe TeBrake, mentioned he’s still unclear about how it will affect his store.

Next Steps

As it stands, the town is awaiting final documentation from the Palmetto Electric Cooperative, the Public Service District, and Sea Pines before moving forward with the development permits. So, while there’s plenty of excitement brewing about the planned renovations, the exact timeline is still a mystery.

Stay tuned, Hilton Head! The beloved South Beach Marina Village is about to get an upgrade that’s bound to make waves!