Hilton Head Island, one of the world’s premiere resort islands, is the second largest U.S. barrier island after Long Island, N.Y. The permanent population swells from an estimated 34,000 to nearly 100,000 in the peak summer months. In 2001, an estimated 2.4 million visitors pumped more than $577 million into the Island economy which is primarily tourist and real estate driven. Every year, several hundred of them make the move permanent.

 The climate is balmy and subtropical in nature. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, it encompasses 42 square miles of semi-tropical, Lowcountry geography including unspoiled sea marshes, creeks and lagoons. Heavily wooded forests of tall pines, palmettos, magnolias and live oaks are lined by 12 miles of broad Atlantic beaches.

 The Island offers some of the top tennis courts and golf courses in the country and is the home of the prestigious Worldcom Classic, the Heritage of Golf. In addition to 22 golf courses and 378 tennis courts, the Island boasts of nature trails, horseback riding, marinas, countless beaches and a variety of water related activities such as deep sea fishing and sailing.

 Highly developed, yet in harmony with nature, tremendous care has been taken to enhance the natural ambiance. Comprehensive zoning laws govern architectural guidelines, commercial signage and the preservation of trees.

 This low key setting is a favorite for celebrities and diplomats. Hilton Head has been the destination of choice for several sitting Presidents, including former President Clinton, who has spent many New Year’s Eves on the Island since 1981 as a guest of the prestigious Renaissance Weekend.

 The explosive growth that Hilton Head Island has experienced over the past 15 years is only an indication of what is yet to come. Recently, developments from Del Webb’s Sun City have greatly expanded the off-Island corridor to Hilton Head and by the 2010, when the first Baby Boomers reach retirement, Hilton Head is poised to enter an even more prosperous era.