Tucked within the private Summers Island enclave on Kiawah Island, South Carolina, an extraordinary waterfront estate has hit the market for $12.9 million, offering a rare opportunity to own one of the island’s most private and architecturally refined properties.
Located at 23 Cormorant Island Lane, the residence sits on an 0.82-acre point lot surrounded by sweeping marshland and more than 180 degrees of uninterrupted water views overlooking Bass Creek. Long-range vistas extend all the way to Charleston’s Ravenel Bridge, creating a dramatic backdrop that shifts throughout the day with the changing tides and coastal light.
One of the property’s defining features is its newly constructed private deepwater dock, a rarity on Kiawah Island. Unlike many waterfront properties limited by tidal access, the dock maintains deep water even at low tide, allowing owners direct boating access to both the Kiawah and Stono Rivers, with passage out to the Atlantic Ocean.
Originally designed as a private retreat, the residence has undergone a meticulous top-to-bottom renovation, with every interior and exterior detail thoughtfully reimagined. Inside, soaring ceilings exceeding 20 feet create a dramatic sense of scale, while expansive entertaining spaces and walls of glass frame the surrounding marsh landscape from nearly every vantage point.
The main residence offers three bedrooms and three and a half baths, with generous living and entertaining spaces designed to capture light and views from every angle. The primary suite offers a particularly luxurious retreat, highlighted by a fully redesigned spa-inspired bath featuring elevated finishes and custom detailing. A fully equipped guest house provides exceptional flexibility, featuring two additional bedrooms, a full bath, kitchen, living room, office, laundry, and a second garage, ideal for hosting guests in complete comfort and privacy.
The redesigned kitchen anchors the main living space with custom cabinetry, updated designer finishes, and a clean, sophisticated aesthetic suited to both everyday living and large-scale entertaining. Throughout the home, new lighting, refined fixtures, and carefully curated finishes create a cohesive contemporary feel while maintaining a strong connection to the natural surroundings.
The outdoor spaces were equally transformed as part of the renovation. Landscape architecture firm Wertimer + Cline redesigned the grounds to create a seamless transition between the home and the surrounding marsh environment. Meandering pathways, lush coastal plantings, and carefully integrated outdoor living spaces enhance the property’s sense of privacy.
A newly added pool and expansive stone pool deck create a resort-like setting for entertaining, lounging, or simply enjoying unobstructed sunset views across the water.
Adding flexibility for guests, the estate also includes a fully equipped detached guest house with two additional bedrooms, a full bath, private kitchen, living area, office, laundry, and second garage, allowing visitors to enjoy complete independence without sacrificing privacy.
Widely considered one of Kiawah Island’s premier waterfront properties, the estate combines deepwater boating access, extensive renovations, exceptional craftsmanship, and one of the island’s most spectacular natural settings.
A Kiawah Island Club full golf membership is also available for purchase.
Listed by Leslie Turner, Broker In Charge and Founder of Maison Real Estate.