The Landings: A Gated Community in Savannah Just Over the South Carolina Border

What The Landings is and where to find it

The Landings is a large gated residential community in Savannah, Georgia, just across the state line from South Carolina—close enough that many South Carolinians consider it a regional option when apartment hunting. The community sits on Skidaway Island and spans roughly 1,400 acres with multiple neighborhoods, each with its own character and price range. It functions as a private, master-planned development rather than a traditional apartment complex, meaning residents pay a homeowners association fee in addition to rent or mortgage, and the community enforces its own rules about landscaping, exterior maintenance, and use of common areas.

The Landings attracts people who want suburban density with resort-style amenities—golf courses, marinas, pools, fitness centers, and nature trails—without living in a high-rise or dealing with urban congestion. Because it's gated and managed as a single entity, the community maintains consistent standards across all neighborhoods. For renters specifically, The Landings offers both single-family homes and townhomes through private landlords and property management companies, rather than a central leasing office.

Key Takeaways

• The Landings is a gated community in Savannah, Georgia, about 20 minutes from the South Carolina border, with multiple neighborhoods ranging from waterfront to wooded settings.
• Renters pay both rent to a landlord and an HOA fee to The Landings, which covers amenities, security, and community maintenance.
• Available rentals include single-family homes and townhomes listed by private owners and property management companies, not a central leasing office.
• The community enforces strict architectural and landscaping standards, so exterior changes and pet policies are governed by HOA rules, not just your lease.
• Amenities include two golf courses, a marina, multiple pools, fitness centers, and nature preserves, included in the HOA fee.

Types of rentals and what to expect

The Landings does not operate a central rental office. Instead, individual homeowners and property management companies list single-family homes and townhomes for rent through real estate websites, local property managers, and word-of-mouth. This means rental terms, pet policies, and lease lengths vary by property and landlord rather than following a community-wide standard.

Single-family homes typically range from three to five bedrooms and sit on lots ranging from modest to spacious, depending on the neighborhood. Townhomes are generally smaller, with two to three bedrooms, and share walls with neighbors. Both types come with the understanding that you are buying into a gated community with HOA oversight—your lease is between you and the landlord, but The Landings HOA rules apply to everyone, renter or owner.

Rental prices fluctuate based on size, location within The Landings, age of the property, and current market conditions. Properties closer to the marina or golf courses typically command higher rents. Before signing a lease, confirm with the landlord whether the HOA fee is included in the quoted rent or billed separately each month.

HOA fees and what they cover

Every resident of The Landings—owner or renter—pays a monthly HOA fee to the community's management company. This fee is separate from rent and covers maintenance of common areas, security, gate operations, landscaping of public spaces, and access to community amenities. The fee amount varies slightly by neighborhood and changes annually, so ask the landlord for the current amount before you commit to a lease.

The HOA fee gives you access to two championship golf courses, a full-service marina with boat slips and launch facilities, multiple swimming pools, fitness centers, tennis courts, and nature trails. These amenities are included—you do not pay extra to use them once you live there. The fee also funds the community's security patrol and gate staffing, which operate 24/7.

Renters should understand that HOA fees are not optional and do not decrease if you choose not to use the amenities. If the landlord does not pay the HOA fee on your behalf, you will receive a separate bill each month. Some landlords build the fee into the rent quote; others list it separately. Clarify this in writing before signing.

Rules and restrictions for renters

The Landings enforces a detailed set of architectural and behavioral guidelines that apply to both owners and renters. You cannot paint your front door a non-approved color, install a satellite dish on the roof, park a commercial vehicle in your driveway, or make exterior changes without HOA approval. Landscaping must be maintained to community standards, and dead plants or overgrown shrubs can trigger a violation notice.

Pet policies are set by individual landlords but must comply with HOA rules, which typically allow dogs and cats with size or breed restrictions. Some neighborhoods have stricter pet rules than others. Rental periods are negotiable with the landlord—some offer month-to-month leases, while others require one-year terms. The HOA does not set lease length, but it does enforce rules about short-term rentals in some neighborhoods, so confirm with the landlord whether your lease type is permitted in that specific area.

Noise ordinances, guest policies, and trash disposal follow both your lease and HOA guidelines. Violations of HOA rules can result in fines or, in extreme cases, eviction proceedings initiated by the HOA itself, separate from any action by your landlord. Read the HOA rules document before signing a lease so you understand what you are agreeing to.

How to find rentals at The Landings

Start by searching major real estate websites—Zillow, Apartments.com, and Trulia—using "The Landings, Savannah" as your search location. Filter for rentals rather than sales. You will see listings from individual owners and property management companies. Local Savannah property management firms that specialize in The Landings include companies that maintain portfolios of rental homes throughout the community.

Contact the landlord or property manager directly to ask about current availability, lease terms, and whether the HOA fee is included in the rent. Request a copy of the current HOA rules and fee schedule before scheduling a tour. Ask whether the property has any pending HOA violations or restrictions. Many landlords will provide this information by email, which gives you a paper trail.

Visit The Landings in person if possible. Drive through different neighborhoods to see which feel right for you—some are more wooded and quiet, others more open and social. Stop by the community center or marina to get a sense of the amenities you will have access to. If you have specific questions about HOA rules or community policies, The Landings management office can provide general information, though they do not handle individual rental transactions.

Amenities and what the community offers

The Landings operates two 18-hole championship golf courses—Palmetto Dunes and Magnolia—plus a nine-hole executive course. Golf memberships are optional and separate from HOA fees, but residents receive discounted rates. The community also maintains a full-service marina with 300 boat slips, a launch ramp, and fuel dock, making it popular with boaters and fishing enthusiasts.

Recreation facilities include multiple swimming pools (some heated year-round), tennis courts, a fitness center with classes, and miles of nature trails through maritime forest and along waterfront. The community hosts seasonal events, social clubs, and activities organized by residents. A private beach club provides access to nearby Tybee Island. These amenities are included in your HOA fee and available to all residents, though some activities or clubs may have additional costs.

The Landings also maintains its own security force and gate system, providing 24/7 controlled access. This appeals to renters who prioritize safety and privacy. The gated nature means you will need a gate pass or code to enter, and guests must be approved or accompanied by a resident.

Proximity to South Carolina and regional context

The Landings sits in Savannah, Georgia, but is only about 20 to 30 minutes from the South Carolina border depending on which part of the Lowcountry you are heading toward. For South Carolinians working in Beaufort, Hilton Head, or Bluffton, The Landings can be a reasonable commute while offering the gated-community lifestyle and Savannah's cultural amenities. Savannah itself is known for its historic squares, restaurants, riverfront, and arts scene—all within 15 to 20 minutes of The Landings.

If you work in South Carolina but want to live in a resort-style community with strong amenities, The Landings is worth considering. However, factor in the commute time and gas costs, and confirm that your employer's location is accessible from Savannah before committing to a lease. The community appeals most to retirees, remote workers, and people whose jobs are in Savannah or the immediate region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the HOA fee if I am renting?

Yes. The HOA fee applies to every resident, owner or renter. Some landlords include it in the quoted rent; others bill it separately. Confirm in writing before you sign the lease whether the HOA fee is included or if you will receive a separate monthly bill. The fee is mandatory and covers security, amenities, and common area maintenance.

Can I make changes to the outside of my rental home?

No, not without HOA approval. The Landings enforces strict architectural guidelines on all properties. You cannot paint the exterior, change landscaping, install a deck, or make other exterior modifications without submitting a request to the HOA and receiving written approval. Violations can result in fines. Check with your landlord about what changes, if any, they have already approved.

What if I have a dog or cat?

Pet policies are set by your landlord but must comply with HOA rules. Most neighborhoods allow dogs and cats, but there may be size, breed, or number restrictions. Some areas of The Landings have stricter pet rules than others. Ask the landlord about their specific pet policy and confirm it is in writing in your lease before moving in.

Is The Landings a good option if I work in South Carolina?

It depends on your commute. The Landings is about 20 to 30 minutes from the South Carolina border. If you work in Beaufort, Hilton Head, or Bluffton, the commute is manageable. If your job is further inland or in Charleston, the drive becomes longer. Calculate commute time from The Landings to your workplace before deciding, and factor in gas costs and wear on your vehicle.

How do I learn about a rental property has HOA violations?

Ask the landlord or property manager directly. They should disclose any pending violations or restrictions on the property. You can also contact The Landings management office and provide the property address—they may be able to tell you whether there are active violations, though they typically do not discuss individual resident details with non-residents. Request this information in writing so you have documentation.