Inquire
search icon

Harbor Club Residents Show Support During the Cast + Blast Honor Ride 

On Saturday, September 13, the Harbor Club community proudly came together as one of the official cheer points for the Cast + Blast Wounded Veterans Celebration Honor Ride. The Honor Ride featured a moving parade of vehicles and motorcycles traveling from Home Depot in Greensboro to the Lake Oconee Elks Lodge in Eatonton with wounded veterans from across Georgia. 

Cast + Blast is a three-day event at Lake Oconee created exclusively for wounded veterans. Hosted by Georgia Safari Club International and Glasslined Technologies, with support from the Lake Oconee Elks Lodge, the celebration combines outdoor activities with fellowship, offering a meaningful way to honor and thank those who have bravely served our nation. 

Harbor Club residents lined the entrance with flags, patriotic colors, and heartfelt spirit to welcome and honor the wounded veterans passing through. It was an inspiring display of unity, gratitude, and support for those who sacrificed so much to serve our country. 

The Honor Ride served as a powerful reminder of the courage and resilience of our veterans, and Harbor Club was proud to play a part in recognizing and celebrating them along the route. 

A special thank-you goes out to everyone who joined in, waved their flags, and helped make Harbor Club’s cheer point such a meaningful stop for the veterans and riders. 

 

Harbor Club at Lake Oconee A Luxury Southern Charm Getaway

A Lifestyle Built Around Golf and Lake Life

Harbor Club, on the shores of Georgia’s second-largest lake, Lake Oconee has grown into more than just a golf community. With its championship course, newly reimagined recreation campus, award-winning marina, and family-owned legacy, Harbor Club has become a destination where lake living, sport and southern charm all come together.

A Champion Golf Course with Character

Harbor Club’s 18-hole course, designed in 1991 by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, is consistently ranked among Georgia’s best. Routed through wooded hillsides and along Lake Oconee, it touches the water six times and offers both variety and pace of play. Signature holes include two drivable par-fours, most notably the 7th, and a par-three on the 17th hole that was inspired by Augusta National’s 12th. Although Harbor Club is a 1,000-acre, private gated community, the golf course is open daily to limited outside play. The course is particularly popular in April with golfers traveling to and from the Masters Tournament in Augusta, just an hour east of Greensboro. With rare bent grass greens and pristine conditioning, Harbor Club continues to earn top tier recognition.

The Boathouse: Lake Living at Its Best

The Boathouse Marina, winner of the Aurora Award for Best Recreational Facility in the Southeast, is central to Harbor Club’s lake lifestyle. The marina offers year-round launching, fueling, and off-season storage, while summer brings live music, dining, and gatherings on the Grand Lawn. Located on Lake Oconee’s clear Richland Creek, it’s just a short boat ride from the Ritz-Carlton Lodge.

The Grove

The Grove, Harbor Club’s new 2-acre amenity campus, offers a 2,000-square-foot fitness center, yoga studio, hiking trail with fitness stations and Sanctuary Pond for fishing and relaxation. A sports field and renovated grandstand host concerts and events, while The Stables, once an equestrian barn, has been transformed into a premier wedding venue with a cedar outdoor chapel. “The Grove provides residents and members with a vibrant amenity and the perfect complement to our golf course, marina, clubhouse, and swim and tennis center,” says GM Brandon Matney.

Luxury Dining on the Course

Harbor Club’s hilltop clubhouse restaurant overlooks the golf course and croquet lawn, serving lunch, dinner, and a beloved Sunday brunch. Signature cocktails like the Cadillac Peachrita and Tee-Off Transfusion have made the bar a favorite among locals and guests alike.

Where Golf, Lake and Lifestyle Meet

Just an hour east of Atlanta, Harbor Club offers a rare mix of recreation and community. Whether you’re chasing birdies on the 7th hole, attending a wedding at The Stables, storing your boat at The Boathouse, or enjoying brunch with a lake view, Harbor Club delivers a lifestyle rooted in both tradition and innovation.

For more information on golf, real estate, or membership opportunities, visit www.harborclub.com.

Harbor Club Is… Home. 

At Harbor Club, we believe our community is more than just a neighborhood. It’s a feeling, a lifestyle, and a collection of special moments that bring people together. That’s why we launched “Harbor Club Is…” by asking residents and members to share what Harbor Club means to them. 

One of the first families to share was Brian Volz and his wife Taylor. As new parents, Harbor Club holds an especially meaningful place in their lives. 

Brian shared:   

“Harbor Club is Home. It’s where we brought our little girl home from the hospital, it’s where she will play, where she will grow up. This neighborhood is her home but more importantly, the people of Harbor Club are her extended family. We love it here and can’t imagine being anywhere else. 

The first picture is outside our front door before her first family golf outing. The second is our family picture at her first Easter. The third is her and I enjoying some much needed lake time. The fourth is a picture of my wife Taylor and our baby girl on a family walk with the dog through the neighborhood. And the 5th is us enjoying a walk through 9 holes on the best golf course on the lake.” 

Stories like this remind us of what makes Harbor Club truly special. Every sunset on the lake, every round of golf, every quiet morning on the porch becomes part of the bigger story of our community. 

Now, we’d love to hear from you. What does Harbor Club mean to you? Share your photos, stories, and favorite moments with us for a chance to be featured on our website, social media, and newsletters. 

Together, let’s celebrate the heart of Harbor Club. 

Submit your own story here!

Outside our front door before her first family golf outing.
Baby’s first Easter
Lake Time!
Family walk!
A walk through 9 holes on the best golf course on the lake.

July Gardening in Georgia: What’s Blooming & What to Plant for Fall

Summer in Georgia brings long, sun-drenched days—and if you’ve spent any time outdoors in Georgia’s Lake Country lately, you’ve likely noticed the bursts of color, fragrance, and life blooming in gardens across the community. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just looking to add curb appeal to your home, July is a pivotal time in the community garden or at home in your own yard. Here’s what’s flourishing now and what you can plant to ensure a gorgeous and productive garden come fall.

What’s Blooming in Georgia Gardens Right Now

July is peak bloom season in the South. Here’s what you’ll see thriving around Lake Oconee:

  1. Crepe Myrtles
    A Southern staple, these vibrant trees explode in shades of pink, purple, red, and white this time of year. They’re heat-tolerant, low-maintenance, and add height and drama to any landscape.
  2. Coneflowers (Echinacea)
    These pollinator-friendly perennials are not only beautiful but also tough. They thrive in Georgia heat and attract butterflies and bees alike.
  3. Black-Eyed Susans
    Bright and cheerful, these yellow-petaled flowers are resilient in hot, dry weather and bloom throughout the summer.
  4. Zinnias & Marigolds
    These colorful annuals love the heat and bloom in bold shades all season long, making them ideal for flower beds or container gardens.
  5. Gardenias & Hydrangeas
    Gardenias offer their iconic fragrance, while hydrangeas continue to impress with their large, lush blooms, especially in shaded spots.

 

What to Plant Now for a Beautiful Fall Garden

Even though it’s hot outside, now is the perfect time to start planning and planting for fall. With the right choices, your yard or section in the community garden can stay colorful and vibrant well into October and November.

  1. Fall Annuals to Start from Seed or Transplant in August
  • Pansies & Violas – Add cool-season color; start seeds indoors in July for planting in late August.
  • Snapdragons – Tall and colorful, they add height to fall beds and love cooler temps.
  • Ornamental Kale & Cabbage – Perfect for texture and color in fall planters and beds.
  1. Vegetables to Plant in Late July & August
  • Collards, Kale, Mustard Greens – Thrive in the cooler temps of late summer into fall.
  • Beets & Carrots – Sow seeds now for a fall harvest.
  • Lettuce & Spinach – Quick growers that can be succession planted into September.
  1. Perennials & Shrubs to Install Now
    July is also a great time to plant native perennials or add structural shrubs like:
  • Russian Sage
  • Coreopsis
  • Boxwood or Dwarf Holly
    Just be sure to water well as they establish in the summer heat.

Gardening Tips for Lake Oconee’s Climate

  • Water wisely: Water early in the morning, deeply and less frequently, to encourage strong root growth.
  • Mulch generously: Mulch not only keeps weeds at bay but also helps retain moisture during the hottest months.
  • Watch for pests: Heat and humidity can invite insects—inspect leaves regularly and use natural deterrents when possible.
  • Feed summer bloomers: A mid-season fertilizer boost can prolong blooms on annuals and flowering perennials.

Bringing Beauty to Your Backyard (and Beyond)

Whether you’re maintaining a full landscape, keeping a few container gardens on the porch, or getting your hands dirty in the Community Garden at The Grove, July is a rewarding time to get your hands in the dirt. Here at Harbor Club, the beauty of the lake is only enhanced by the vibrant gardens that surround it. With a little planning now, you can keep your landscape blooming well into fall—and enjoy the Southern outdoor lifestyle all season long.

Celebrate Masters® Week at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee

As spring blooms in Georgia, golf enthusiasts from around the world turn their attention to Augusta for the most prestigious tournament in the sport—The Masters®. Just an hour east of Greensboro, this iconic event brings an unmatched energy to the region, and Harbor Club on Lake Oconee is the perfect place to celebrate Masters® Week in style.

Experience Championship-Level Golf at Harbor Club

Whether you’re inspired by the pros or looking to enjoy a round of your own, Harbor Club offers an exceptional golf experience. Our award-winning Weiskopf-Morrish-designed course provides a challenging yet enjoyable layout, featuring breathtaking views of Lake Oconee, rolling fairways, and pristine greens. Rated among the best courses in Georgia, Harbor Club is the ideal spot to tee up during Masters Week.

For guests and residents alike, tee times fill quickly this time of year, so we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot on the course.

Special Clubhouse Hours & Offerings

After a day on the links, unwind at The Clubhouse at Harbor Club, where we’re offering extended hours and special menus to celebrate Masters® Week. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails, gourmet bites, and a welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of the tournament. Whether you’re reliving the highlights of the day’s play at Augusta or simply enjoying a relaxing evening, The Clubhouse at Harbor Club is the perfect gathering place.

Live Where You Vacation

While you’re visiting Harbor Club for Masters® Week, take the opportunity to explore real estate options within our vibrant community. With stunning lakefront homes, golf course views, and a welcoming lifestyle, Harbor Club offers the chance to turn your vacation into your everyday reality. Whether you’re looking for a second home, a retirement retreat, or a full-time residence, our real estate team is available to help you find your perfect home.

Make the Most of Masters® Week

With its prime location, outstanding golf, and upscale amenities, Harbor Club is the ultimate destination to celebrate Masters® Week. Whether you’re playing a round, enjoying a sunset cocktail, or watching the tournament unfold, there’s no better way to embrace the excitement of golf’s most legendary week.

Harbor Club Rocks the Night with Double Take!

real estate director Kathy Phillips and friends at Harbor ClubWe’re still buzzing from the unforgettable night we had here at Harbor Club, where our community gathered for a night of live music, dancing, and giving back! The evening’s entertainment was none other than the crowd-favorite band Double Take, featuring two of our very own residents who recently purchased new construction homes with Harbor Club Real Estate. Talk about neighbors making an entrance!

With over 200 Harbor Club members and residents in attendance, it was truly an evening to remember. Local businesses added to the excitement with fantastic raffle prizes, and we’re thrilled to announce that our community raised an impressive $5,000 in support of Circle of Love, Inc.! Circle of Love Center Inc. is an emergency safe shelter and resource center for domestic violence victims and their children. Based in Greene County, they provide residential and non-residential services to five (5) counties: Greene, Morgan, Hancock, Putnam, and Baldwin Counties. Thanks to our wonderful community members, this generous donation will make a real difference in assisting with their expansion and renovation of the center.

This event was made possible thanks to the incredible support of our generous sponsors, Century Bank & Trust and Dell Law Firm. We are deeply grateful for their commitment and partnership, which helped bring this event to life! A huge shoutout to Harbor Club Real Estate and our fantastic team, especially Kathy Phillips and Brooke Adams, who went above and beyond to make the night a success. It’s moments like these that showcase the warmth and spirit of our Harbor Club family.

And what’s a Harbor Club event without delicious food? Local favorites, Dough Daddy Dough (a fellow Harbor Club resident) and Burger Barn, brought the flavor, serving up delicious bites that kept the crowd energized and ready for the dance floor. The dance floor was packed from the first note to the last, as members and residents showed off their moves, enjoying an unforgettable night of music and connection.

Thank you to everyone who attended, donated, and danced with us – it’s events like these that make Harbor Club such an amazing place to call home. We’re already looking forward to the next opportunity to come together, have fun, and give back. For all the latest real estate news and events, make sure to subscribe to our quarterly sales newsletter!

Top Spots to Watch Football at Lake Oconee, Georgia

Harbor Club Clubhouse with golf, tennis and gated homes

Football season at Lake Oconee combines the excitement of the game with the area’s natural beauty and vibrant social scene. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite college team or settling in for NFL Sunday, Lake Oconee offers a range of fantastic spots to enjoy football with friends, family, and fellow fans. Here are the top places to catch all the action while taking in the lake’s charm.

  1. Harbor Club Clubhouse

For an elevated game day experience, Harbor Club’s Clubhouse offers the perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication. Overlooking the scenic Harbor Club golf course, the Clubhouse provides an inviting space for members to enjoy football on multiple large-screen TVs. With delicious food, a great selection of drinks, and an atmosphere that feels like home, this is the ideal spot for those who prefer a laid-back, upscale environment while keeping up with every play.

 

  1. 5B Barbeque & Brews

For fans who crave classic BBQ and a casual vibe, 5B’s Barbeque is a must. Known for its mouthwatering smoked meats and hearty sides, 5B’s is the perfect place to enjoy game day with a plate full of ribs or pulled pork. The relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, combined with screens showcasing the biggest games, makes it a local favorite for football fans.

 

  1. Sammy’s

Sammy’s is a sports fan’s paradise in Lake Oconee. This local hot spot is known for its lively atmosphere, friendly service, and excellent pub food. With multiple TVs around the bar and dining area, Sammy’s is the go-to for anyone who wants to enjoy wings, burgers, sandwiches, and ice-cold drinks while surrounded by fellow football enthusiasts. The welcoming energy makes it a fantastic choice for game day gatherings.

 

  1. Lake House

Lake House offers a cozy and lakeside spot for watching football. With its warm ambiance and comfortable seating, it’s the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the game. Whether you’re stopping by for a drink or settling in for the entire day, Lake House Tavern provides a casual, no-fuss atmosphere with great food, drinks, and plenty of TVs to keep up with the action.

 

  1. Amici

Amici is a staple at Lake Oconee, known for its lively atmosphere and Italian-inspired game-day bites. Whether you’re craving wings, pizza, or one of their signature calzones, Amici serves up a fun, family-friendly environment where sports fans can gather for an afternoon of football. With plenty of TVs and a great selection of craft beer and cocktails, Amici is always a popular choice for game day.

 

  1. Lake Oconee Bistro

Lake Oconee Bistro blends an upscale dining experience with a welcoming, casual vibe, making it a great spot for football fans. With multiple TVs and a wide-ranging menu featuring everything from seafood to burgers, this bistro offers something for everyone. Whether you’re catching a game with friends or enjoying a meal with family, Lake Oconee Bistro is an excellent option for those looking for a more refined yet relaxed setting.

 

  1. The Silver Moon

The Silver Moon offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere for game day evenings, combining Southern charm with a quirky, laid-back vibe. Known for its excellent food and eclectic decor, this is the place to watch football if you’re looking for something different. With a friendly crowd, great food, and multiple screens showing the day’s best games, Silver Moon is a local gem that stands out for its unique style and hospitality.

 

  1. Gaby’s by the Lake

For a more luxurious football experience, Gaby’s by the Lake at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds is hard to beat. Set right on the water, Gaby’s offers a stunning lakeside view alongside its high-end menu and craft cocktails. With outdoor seating and large TVs, you can enjoy both the beautiful surroundings and the excitement of the game. Perfect for those who want to mix elegance with football, Gaby’s by the Lake provides a truly memorable game day experience.

 

Whether you’re looking for a lively bar, a cozy hideaway, or a more upscale setting, Lake Oconee has something for every football fan. These spots combine the best of the lake lifestyle with the excitement of game day, making them must-visit destinations throughout football season.

Exploring the Best of Lake Oconee: Top 6 Hiking Trails for Nature Enthusiasts

walking trailsLake Oconee is not just a paradise for boating and fishing; it’s also a haven for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. With numerous trails offering stunning views and diverse wildlife, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top five hiking trails around Lake Oconee that you won’t want to miss.

  1. The Grove at Harbor Club: At The Grove, discover two carefully maintained trails for your greatest outdoor endeavors. The first is a mile-long, mulched hiking trail, while the other is a Fit-Trail®, which includes eight fitness stations for stretching and strength training.
  2. Oconee National Forest Trail: Explore the beauty of the Oconee National Forest with its diverse ecosystems and serene landscapes. This trail offers various loops ranging from easy to challenging, making it perfect for hikers of all levels.
  3. Rock Hawk Effigy and Trails: Immerse yourself in history and nature at Rock Hawk. The trail system includes interpretive signs about the ancient rock effigy, local wildlife, and plant species. It’s a great educational hike for families.
  4. Scull Shoals Historic Site: Combine a hike with a history lesson at Scull Shoals. This trail takes you through the ruins of an old mill town along the Oconee River. It’s a relatively easy hike with plenty of photo opportunities.
  5. Hard Labor Creek State Park: Hard Labor Creek offers over 20 miles of trails just a short drive from Lake Oconee. The Lake Rutledge Loop is a favorite, providing scenic views of the lake and opportunities for birdwatching.
  6. Bartram Trail: Part of the larger Bartram Trail system, this section near Lake Oconee features beautiful forested paths and occasional lake views. It’s perfect for those seeking a longer, more challenging hike.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk in nature, these trails offer a perfect escape into Lake Country’s natural beauty. Don’t forget to bring your camera and share your hiking adventures with us by tagging us on social media.

 

Second Quarter Real Estate Success Review: By Kathy Phillips

The second quarter of 2024 brought with it some interesting developments in Harbor Club Real Estate. Director of Sales at Harbor Club Real Estate, Kathy Phillips recently shared statistics highlighting Harbor Club as a premier Lake Oconee Community that is thriving with not only new developments but also excitement! 

“Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I hope this letter finds you in excellent spirits. Here at Lake Oconee, summer marks a special time – a prime season for enjoying the stunning beauty of Lake Oconee. The real estate market remains vibrant, particularly at Harbor Club Real Estate, where we’re witnessing a notable surge in buyer activity.

You’ve most likely seen our distinctive Harbor Club Real Estate vehicle driving around the neighborhood throughout the day. Our office serves as a pivotal check-in point for potential buyers coming through the gates, and we pride ourselves on being the go-to resource for anyone seeking to explore the area. With eight years of residency and membership at Harbor Club under my belt, I am personally dedicated to highlighting the unique qualities that define our community and make it so special. By prioritizing the community’s allure, we sell the neighborhood first and spark genuine interest in residing here—a strategy that consistently resonates with prospective buyers. We’d love to introduce your home to them.

In the recent quarter, we’ve had the pleasure of facilitating numerous successful resales and fostering delighted clients along the way (be sure to read their testimonials below!). I just love helping families discover the epitome of relaxed luxury within Harbor Club’s gates.

With escalating market competitiveness in the past quarter, there’s no better time than now to explore your options. I’m here to provide valuable insights, leverage Harbor Club’s top-tier marketing tools, and collaboratively craft a winning strategy to achieve your real estate goals.

Whether you’re considering a purchase or sale within Harbor Club, let’s explore the possibilities together!” 

Harbor Club Q2 Results

What Do These Statistics Mean?

Harbor Club is experiencing a strong sales momentum that is on track to surpass 2024 figures. As Harbor Club Properties expands its market presence, buyers are becoming more deliberate in their decision-making process. They are navigating the market conditions to find their perfect home and where they want to plant their roots. This underscores the importance of partnering with a Harbor Club expert who can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.

 

Who You Work With Matters

Team up with a trusted advisor and neighbor. It’s essential that your agent possesses insider insight into who’s on the move, who’s considering a move, and who’s actively seeking properties in your area. With eight years as a resident and member of the vibrant Harbor Club community, I wholeheartedly advocate for the unique qualities that make our neighborhood truly exceptional. Experience the difference with our proven results, the power of our local and global partnerships, and our insider knowledge.

Contact Kathy Phillips at 404.863.9628 or Kathy@HarborClub.com for more information.

The Boathouse at Harbor Club Reopens for the Season on Lake Oconee

the boathouse at harbor club on lake oconee. lakefront dining, marina

As the warmer months roll in, there’s a familiar excitement that permeates the air around Lake Oconee. It’s the anticipation of lazy days on the water, soaking up the sun, and indulging in delicious food with friends and family. And at Harbor Club, that excitement reaches new heights with the reopening of the beloved Boathouse Restaurant for the season.

Boaters and lake enthusiasts will once again enjoy cold beverages, delicious food, live entertainment, and, this year, The King of Pops popsicles at The Boathouse Restaurant for the 2024 lake season.

Located on the Richland Creek side of Lake Oconee – known for the lake’s clearest waters – The Boathouse is a vibrant marina and lakefront amenity that features a rustic and inviting restaurant, banquet room, and dry boat storage.

One of the highlights of any visit to the Boathouse is the delectable menu crafted to delight your taste buds. From classic favorites to inventive creations, there’s something to please every palate. Some of this year’s menu highlights include:

Boathouse Pulled Pork Nachos: Dive into a mountain of crispy tortilla chips topped with tender pulled pork, melted cheese, tangy barbecue sauce, and all the fixings. It’s a perfect sharing dish to kick off your lakeside feast.

Peel & Eat Shrimp: Fresh, succulent shrimp served with zesty cocktail sauce – a quintessential lakeside indulgence that pairs perfectly with the scenic views of Lake Oconee (and a frozen margarita).

Smash Burgers: Sometimes, simplicity reigns supreme. Enjoy a juicy smash burger, lovingly crafted with premium beef and served with all your favorite toppings. It’s a taste of nostalgia that never disappoints.

Fish Reuben: A unique twist on a classic sandwich featuring flaky fish, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and melted Swiss cheese, all sandwiched between slices of toasted rye bread. It’s a flavor combination that will leave you craving more.

Key Lime Pie: No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and the Boathouse’s key lime pie delivers the perfect finale. With its creamy filling, zesty lime flavor, and graham cracker crust, it’s a slice of summer perfection.

The King of Pops: Indulge in a refreshing treat with the King of Pops popsicles, offering a variety of flavors to cool you down on those hot summer days.

The restaurant is open to the public Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., offering walk-up counter service for food and drink. It also offers beer, wine, mixed drinks, and virgin cocktails by the glass.

There is indoor seating in the restaurant or outdoor picnic benches. You can even throw down a blanket and have a picnic on the lakefront Grand Lawn. Or just jump in your boat and get back on the lake. There is also the chance to place a take-out order between 11 am and 8 pm by calling 706-999-9717.

On Saturdays, The Boathouse will offer a variety of live entertainment, from acoustic guitar on most afternoons (11 am-3 pm) to some of the lake’s favorite bands on select evenings (6-9 pm).

For boating and water sports lovers, The Boathouse marina features a boat ramp, community dock, and marina fuel pumps. The restaurant also sells life jackets, rope, and other boating necessities.

The marina’s dry boat storage buildings are available to both Harbor Club residents and those who live outside of the community. Ultimately, as many as 300 boat storage spaces may be available, making The Boathouse the largest marina on Lake Oconee. The marina operations are open year-round.

At the Boathouse, it’s not just about the food; it’s about the experience. Our dedicated restaurant staff goes above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. Whether you’re a regular or visiting for the first time, you’ll be greeted with a warm smile and attentive service that will make you feel like part of the Harbor Club family. Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

For the latest updates on The Boathouse and its live entertainment schedule, be sure to follow Harbor Club on all social media platforms.

Celebrating Memorial Day at Lake Oconee

Memorial Day at Lake Oconee encapsulates the spirit of remembrance, community, and joy. Nestled in the heart of Georgia, Lake Oconee offers the perfect backdrop for honoring those who have served our country while indulging in various festive activities. This year, the celebrations are even more special at Harbor Club, a premier lakeside community that adds a touch of elegance and charm to the holiday festivities. 

Memorial Day is a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. This sense of reverence is not just a concept at Lake Oconee; it’s a tangible feeling, particularly within the Harbor Club community. From the small gestures like American flags on mailboxes throughout the community, residents foster a deep sense of unity and gratitude, reminding us of all the true meaning behind the holiday.

One of the most inspiring aspects of spending Memorial Day at Lake Oconee is the sheer beauty of the surroundings, and Harbor Club offers a stunning vantage point. The community’s meticulously maintained landscapes, pristine golf course, and picturesque shoreline create an idyllic setting for a range of outdoor activities. Families and friends gather to enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming, taking full advantage of the warm May weather. The scenic views alone are enough to rejuvenate the spirit and create lasting memories, whether you’re enjoying a morning coffee while watching the sunrise or sipping your favorite beverage as you admire the colorful sunset.

Lake Oconee is a haven for those who love water sports, and Harbor Club offers excellent access to the lake’s amenities. On Memorial Day weekend, the lake comes alive with activity as boats, jet skis, and tubers glide across the water. Harbor Club’s marina facilities make it easy to embark on aquatic adventures for those utilizing the marina’s services. Renting a boat for the day is popular with nearby vendors like Young Harris Watersports, allowing families to explore hidden coves and enjoy the stunning lake views.

No Memorial Day celebration is complete without a classic picnic or barbecue, and Harbor Club’s Grove offers the perfect spot for a family picnic. And don’t forget about your furry family members! Enjoy the dog park and trails before or after your al fresco dining with loved ones; for those looking for lakeside dining, The Boathouse on Lake Oconee offers boaters and lake enthusiasts cold beverages, delicious food, live entertainment, and this year, the King of Pops popsicles being served up for the 2024 lake season.

The most heartwarming aspect of Memorial Day at Lake Oconee, particularly at Harbor Club, is the sense of community it fosters. Neighbors, friends, and visitors come together to share in the joys of the holiday and pay tribute to those who have served. This collective spirit of camaraderie and gratitude makes Memorial Day at Harbor Club a unique and unforgettable annual tradition.

Exquisite Harbor Club Member Experiences: Burgundy Wine Tasting at Harbor Club

Members were treated to an unforgettable evening at The Clubhouse at Harbor Club. The occasion? A prestigious wine tasting event featuring the renowned wines of the Albert Bichot family from Burgundy, France.

As members gathered in the relaxed luxury of The Clubhouse, they were greeted with an exquisite assortment of meats and cheeses curated to complement the distinguished wines being offered. From the first cork pop, the stage was set for a truly great experience.

The Albert Bichot family’s legacy spans generations, dating back to 1831. As one of the top three producers in Burgundy, their wines embody centuries of expertise and tradition. Guiding the evening’s proceedings was none other than Troy Heinzman, the esteemed representative of the winery from the eastern coast of the United States. With a wealth of knowledge and passion, Troy illuminated the rich history of the Bichot family and the cherished Burgundy wine region, transporting attendees on a journey through time and terroir.

With each pour, members embarked on a sensory exploration of Burgundy’s essence, discovering why the region is revered for its mastery of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. From the delicate nuances of the whites to the velvety depths of the reds, each wine told a story of craftsmanship, leaving an indelible impression on every palate.

As the evening drew to a close, and glasses were raised in a toast to a wonderful experience shared, it was evident that the Burgundy wine tasting at Harbor Club had left a lasting impression on all who attended. With each sip, members savored not only the complexities of the wine but also the camaraderie and sophistication that define life at Harbor Club. Until the next indulgent gathering, the memories of this unforgettable evening will endure as a testament to the timeless allure of fine wine, good company, and the Harbor Club lifestyle.

Celebrating Masters® Week at Harbor Club

As the azaleas bloom and dogwoods flower, the anticipation builds for one of the most iconic events in golf: The Masters®. Since 1934, the Masters® Tournament has been home to some of golf’s greatest moments. For golf enthusiasts, this tournament is more than just a sporting event; it’s a cherished tradition deeply ingrained in the fabric of Southern culture. At Harbor Club, nestled amidst the serene beauty of Lake Oconee, we invite members, residents, and the public to join us in celebrating Masters® Week in style.

The Masters®: A Southern Tradition

The Masters®, held annually the first full week in April at Augusta National® Golf Club, is revered for its rich history, breathtaking scenery, and legendary champions. For decades, it has captivated audiences worldwide with its timeless allure and unparalleled prestige. From the storied Green Jacket® awarded to the champion to the iconic Par 3 Contest®, every aspect of The Masters® exudes tradition and excellence.

Watch the Tournaments at Harbor Club

At Harbor Club, we embrace the spirit of Masters® Week by offering a warm, relaxed Southern welcome to golf enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy this iconic tournament only an hour from Harbor Club. The Clubhouse at Harbor Club becomes a hub of excitement as members, residents, and locals gather to watch the tournament unfold on our big screens. With cocktails in hand and friendly banter in the air, there’s no better place to soak in the drama and excitement of golf’s most prestigious event. To add an extra layer of excitement to the festivities, we’re serving up a selection of mouthwatering specials paying homage to tournament favorites. From pimento cheese sandwiches to refreshing Azalea cocktails, our menu is designed to delight the senses and transport you to the heart of Augusta. And for those craving a taste of Southern hospitality, our lunch menu features a variety of fare, perfect for fueling up between rounds.

Hit the Links at Harbor Club

Of course, no Masters® Week celebration would be complete without hitting the links yourself. At Harbor Club, our award-winning golf course offers an unparalleled experience for players of all skill levels. Designed by renowned architects Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, our 18-hole championship course winds its way through lush landscapes and challenging terrain, providing a true test of skill and strategy. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice golfer, securing a tee time at Harbor Club is easy and convenient. Simply visit our website or give us a call to reserve your spot on the course. With our friendly staff on hand to assist with any questions or special requests, you can focus on enjoying the game and creating lasting memories with friends and family.

April 8 – 14, 2024

As Masters® Week approaches, we invite you to join us at Harbor Club for a celebration of Southern golf at its finest. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite players, indulging in delicious cuisine, or teeing off on our pristine fairways, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And if you fall in love with the relaxed luxury of Harbor Club, our Real Estate Director, Kathy Philips, will be on-site to show you some of the best new and resale homes in Georgia’s Lake Country. So come experience the magic this tournament brings with us at Harbor Club. We can’t wait to welcome you to the festivities and possibly welcome you home!

Your Lake Oconee Home Awaits 

As the leaves change their hues and a crisp breeze fills the air, the fall season brings more than just pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters. It’s an excellent time to consider buying real estate, especially Lake Oconee homes. Let’s explore the advantages of purchasing a house during this beautiful season.

Less competition = more opportunities

In the busy world of real estate, the fall season tends to see a decline in competition compared to the spring and summer rush. Families often want to settle into their new homes before the school year starts, making fall a less hectic time to go house hunting. The reduction in competition gives buyers more opportunities and negotiating power when purchasing a new place.

Motivated sellers

Just as buyers are motivated, sellers during the fall season are also keen to close deals before the holiday season. This motivation can work to your advantage, allowing for more negotiation flexibility and a better deal on your dream home.

Lower home prices

If history repeats itself, home prices typically dip during the fall season. This translates to potential cost savings for homebuyers, making it an attractive time to invest in Lake Oconee homes. With the market slightly favoring buyers, you might find a beautiful home at a more affordable price.

Ideal weather for house hunting

Autumn’s moderate weather makes for a pleasant house-hunting experience. The cooler temperatures make visiting the Lake Oconee area more comfortable, allowing you to thoroughly explore properties and their surroundings without summer heat or winter chill.

Easier scheduling and faster closings

Real estate transactions during the fall are often smoother and faster due to decreased demand for services. Scheduling things like inspections, appraisals, and other necessary processes becomes more manageable, ensuring a timely closing on your dream house.

Ready to embark on your house-hunting journey? Our highly knowledgeable Sales Director, Kathy Phillips, is happy to lead the way. She brings eighteen years of real estate professionalism to the table, making the home-buying process easy and stress-free. She’s the top-notch resource for all real estate in Harbor Club. So don’t wait – explore Harbor Club on Lake Oconee’s current real estate listings and find your perfect home in Georgia’s lake country. Embrace the advantages of the fall season and make this year the one where you find the home and community of your dreams. Schedule your exclusive discovery experience today.

Why Waiting to Buy a New Home on Lake Oconee Could Cost You

While it may not seem like it, now is the perfect time to buy real estate, especially if you’re interested in new homes on Lake Oconee. Waiting to make a purchase could have unintended consequences. Factors like the potential for rising interest rates, changing market dynamics, and increased competition may impact your ability to buy your dream property. Here’s why delaying your real estate purchase could be costly.

Interest rate fluctuations

One crucial factor to consider with a real estate purchase is the current state of interest rates. Lately, interest rates have been on an upward trajectory. However, they remain historically low, especially considering the interest rates back in the 1980s, when the average 30-year fixed rate was as high as 16.6%. Who knows what the future holds? Waiting too long to enter the market could mean missing out on the currently available favorable rates and other creative mortgage options, which are compelling reasons to act sooner rather than later. Remember, you can always refinance later if interest rates fall.

Increased buyer competition

Alternatively, if interest rates do drop in the future, it could lead to a surge in buyers who want to take advantage of the lower rates. That increase in demand usually results in rising home prices — something that could negatively impact your budget. By acting now, you will likely avoid a bidding war and lock in a rate that suits your financial goals while avoiding future price hikes.

Selling your current home = seamless transition

The current market presents a unique opportunity for homeowners considering moving to a new home on Lake Oconee. Selling your existing home now while prices are favorable can provide you with the equity needed to make a solid investment in a new place. The equity from your home sale can be used as a sizable down payment, which helps you secure a favorable mortgage and lowers your overall financial burden. 

The time is now

The timing couldn’t be better for those looking to make a transition. Whether you are interested in downsizing, upsizing, moving to a retirement area, or wish to enjoy a year-round “staycation” (like you would at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee,) now is the perfect time to make it happen. Selling your existing home now and moving into a new, better one equips you to easily ride the wave of market momentum while making a smooth and seamless transition.

In the world of real estate, timing is everything. The decision to wait to buy a new home on Lake Oconee could significantly impact your financial future. The potential for rising interest rates, the subsequent effect on home prices, and the opportunity to leverage your current home’s equity all help make the case for acting now. By making a proactive move sooner rather than later, you can secure a favorable mortgage rate, avoid higher prices, and ensure a seamless transition to the home of your dreams. Don’t wait—explore your options in the Lake Oconee real estate market with a Harbor Club Discovery Experience today.

Top 10 Reasons to Choose Harbor Club for Your Lake House on Lake Oconee

Are you dreaming of waking up to breathtaking lake views and a lifestyle filled with tranquility and luxury? Look no further than Harbor Club on Lake Oconee. Our picturesque lakeside community offers an unparalleled living experience, making it the perfect destination for your dreamy lake house on Lake Oconee. Here are the top ten reasons why you should choose Harbor Club for your lake lifestyle:

Stunning lakefront properties

Harbor Club offers an impressive collection of homes and homesites, with several offering stunning vistas of Lake Oconee. Imagine stepping out onto your deck to witness vibrant sunsets and enjoying easy access to the water, where boating, fishing, and fun water sports await.

Championship golf course

Harbor Club is a golf enthusiast’s paradise. Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish designed our renowned 18-hole championship golf course, providing several fun risk/reward holes. Here you’ll enjoy challenging your skills amidst the natural beauty of Lake Oconee, where our course touches the lake’s shoreline on six different holes. 

Excellent amenities

Living at Harbor Club feels like being on vacation year-round. Enjoy access to a wide range of top-notch amenities, including our Boathouse Marina, a Junior-Olympic-sized swimming pool, pickleball courts, a well-equipped fitness center, walking trails, a dog park, and more. There’s something here for everyone, whether you prefer an active lifestyle or just want to relax by the water.

Family-friendly community

Harbor Club is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a warm, welcoming community that feels like family. The tight-knit atmosphere encourages friendly interactions and fosters a sense of belonging, making it an ideal place to raise a family or enjoy retirement surrounded by like-minded individuals. Family and friends love going for boat rides together and enjoying meals by the water

Luxurious living

Harbor Club exudes luxury in every aspect. From meticulously designed homes to top-notch services and facilities, you’ll experience a level of comfort and elegance that elevates your everyday living in our well-kept, beautifully landscaped gated community.

Abundant recreation

Embrace an active lifestyle with various recreational activities at your doorstep. Whether you enjoy boating, trivia nights, fitness classes, tennis, book clubs, card games, hiking, or teeing off in our golf tournaments, there’s no shortage of ways to stay engaged and entertained at Harbor Club.

Delicious dining experiences

Savor delectable meals with breathtaking views from The Clubhouse and, seasonally, from The Boathouse. From casual bites to gourmet dinners, the culinary experiences at Harbor Club are sure to delight your taste buds.

Proximity to city life

While Harbor Club offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s conveniently located near the vibrant locales of Atlanta, Athens, and Augusta. When you live at Harbor Club, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds—relaxed lakeside living and easy access to urban amenities like all the major league and college games, incredible shows, the best concert performers, and more. 

A strong sense of community

The residents of Harbor Club are known for their friendliness and involvement in community events. Neighbors and members happily engage in social gatherings, clubs, and activities, fostering warm connections that last a lifetime.

Unforgettable sunsets

Last but not least, the sunsets at Harbor Club are breathtaking. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the lake, you’ll never forget the beauty and serenity that await you every day.

As you can see, Harbor Club on Lake Oconee is more than just a place to call home; it’s a lifestyle choice that offers incredible beauty, recreation, and a close-knit community. If you’re seeking a lakefront paradise with a touch of luxury and a range of activities for all ages, Harbor Club is the perfect destination for your dream lakefront home. Come and experience the magic of Harbor Club on Lake Oconee for yourself. Contact us to arrange an exclusive tour of Georgia’s best lakefront real estate today.

Enjoy Square One Fish Company at The Boathouse Marina

Our friends at Square One Fish Company are happily serving delicious food and beverages at The Boathouse Marina this summer. If you didn’t already know, Square One is a very popular Athens-based restaurant that recently expanded its business into food trucks. Meredith Grill, one of the partners, shared some fascinating details about the restaurant, its specialties, and exciting plans for serving at The Boathouse in the future.

Who owns Square One, and how and when did it get started?

Joe Cascio owns Square One and has served the Athens community for over ten years. Before that, Joe owned and operated a business down in Florida called Joe’s Riverside. Joe and I, Meredith Grill, are partners in the two brand-new food trucks we just started in March. 

What’s the best way you would describe your food offerings?

We are focused on offering South Florida-style seafood. Joe is also Italian, so many of our dishes have an Italian flare. What we are serving at the Boathouse is aimed to show all the different styles of food we can do with our Mobile Kitchens. 

What are the restaurant’s specialties, and what are the most popular dishes?

Our specialties at the restaurant are our Fish N’ Chips, Oysters (which we sell for $1 a piece for Happy Hour 4-6 pm), and our Pan-Fried Codfish or Fresh Catch Fish options. We host five-course Wine Dinners every two months, which are a hit, and we have daily specials: Tuesday Date Night Deal (which is three courses and a bottle of wine) for $80 per couple, and Wine Wednesdays, where we offer half-off bottles of wine under $50.

When did the food truck service begin, and how far do you travel?

We started the food trucks in March and will go anywhere and everywhere! We have done several private events, including weddings, company events, school lunches, etc. We first served out of the food truck for Memorial Day weekend, but now we are fortunate to share the kitchen and indoor seating with Harbor Club. 

How’s it going with the food truck at The Boathouse? 

We have had a great experience operating the facilities. We look forward to continuing until Labor Day, September 4, when we will have the Wrecking Roses perform (nominated for GA’s top country band of the year) from 6-8 p.m. 

What are the biggest benefits your customers/diners enjoy while dining on your food/beverages at The Boathouse?

We have had great reviews on our service and food so far. What people most enjoy about dining with us is the ability to have fast service where they can grab some quick food and drinks and head back onto the lake. There is also a fantastic view, live music almost every Saturday, and the menu changes every week, so there’s always something new to try. 

What are the favorite dishes you’ve served at The Boathouse Marina?

Our most popular dishes and must-tries for the Boathouse are the fried Grouper Fingers, Poke Bowls/Nachos, and Smash Burger Sliders with homemade Bacon Pimento Cheese. 

How long will you be servicing The Boathouse Marina?

We will operate the Boathouse until Labor Day, Monday, September 4.

Are there any interesting/exciting future plans in store for your food truck service at The Boathouse?

We have loved serving the Harbor Club and the local community this summer and would love to be back in the future. We will return to Athens for our busy season but will always be available for catering events. Our last day serving at the Boathouse will be a fun celebration, and we would love for everyone to come out. We will be open Labor Day weekend, Friday- Monday, 12-8 pm, with live music from 6-8 pm. 

Harbor Club is thrilled to have Square One Fish Company at The Boathouse Marina this summer. Be sure to stop by and enjoy an excellent dining experience at 3991 Walker Church Rd between Friday and Sunday, 12-8 p.m. And don’t miss out on the Labor Day weekend festivities – a not-to-miss end-of-summer celebration. 

You’ll find Square One Fish Company in Athens at 1298 Prince Avenue. They also have two mobile kitchens which you can rent for the day and do it your way, or book their team to curate and execute the perfect menu for your special event. Be sure to follow Square One on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest updates. 

Boating Safety on Lake Oconee: Obtain Your Official Card

In the past, we shared some helpful tips for boating safely on Lake Oconee – advice that still holds true today. But in Georgia, it’s a fact that “All operators born after January 1, 1998, must have passed a boater education course approved by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and have a proof of completion on board to operate any vessel.” So, whether you plan to purchase a boat in the future, already own a boat, or wish to rent a boat on Lake Oconee (or any other Georgia waterway,) you must have an official Boating Education Card.

Don’t worry – it’s easy to obtain your certificate through the BoatUS Foundation. The organization offers the only free online boating safety course approved by the Georgia DNR. What’s more, you can print your official Boating Education Card upon course completion. Here’s how it works:

Register for the course

First, you must register for the free online boating safety course for Georgia. Go to BoatUS Foundation’s Courses page and choose Georgia from the drop-down list of states. Next, click on ADD TO CART, and you’ll see the course is free of charge. You can also donate to the BoatUS Foundation if you wish. When you’ve finished with your choices, click on CHECKOUT NOW. If not already, you’ll have to register your new account with BoatUS Foundation to process your order to completion.

Take the course

To find your Georgia Boating Safety Course, click on MY COURSES at the top of the BoatUS Foundation page. Next, click the ADDITIONAL FORM button to fill out the state-required information. Then, click on the LAUNCH COURSE button to proceed. You may complete the course at your own pace, and your progress is saved even if you close the window. 

Pass the tests

The estimated time to complete the course is four to eight hours. There are six lessons, each with a 10-question quiz at the end. You must pass the quizzes for all six lessons in the course. If you fail a quiz, you must review each page of content in that lesson before retaking the quiz. There is no limit on the number of times you retake the quiz. You’ll take a final exam at the end of the full course. It consists of 60 questions pulled randomly from the lesson content. 

Print your official Boating Education Card

Once you have completed all course lessons and passed your final exam, you’ll be awarded a certificate of completion. That certificate is your Boating Education Card. It shows your name, certificate number, and other important information. You may print the card from the MY COURSES page by clicking the DOWNLOAD CERTIFICATE button next to your course. You also have the option to order a Georgia Department of Natural Resources-approved, waterproof plastic card for $13. Your boating safety certificate never expires and is valid for life.

If you have any problems and can’t find answers to your questions, it’s best to log in to your account and submit a ticket through the Help Center. 

We wish you many safe, fun, and memorable boating excursions on Lake Oconee with your family and friends and look forward to seeing you out on the water and at The Boathouse Marina soon.

Lake Oconee: How to Have a Perfect Lake Day

lake-day.jpg

We are lucky to live at Lake Oconee, where the possibilities for on-the-water fun are plentiful. Everyone knows that “lake life” is the best life. So, to help you experience a perfect lake day, we’ve put together a list of ideas to make it both memorable and fun.

Seek a sunrise

Especially if you’re a morning person, be sure to see the sunrise over Lake Oconee. Depending on clouds and weather conditions, sunrise can be rather dramatic. Plus, the water is often calm, and it’s generally a quiet time to enjoy a unique perspective of the lake. The bonus? You may spot some fascinating wildlife in those early morning hours.

Bob around in a boat

Boat rides on Lake Oconee are a ton of fun, especially when done with proper boat safety in mind. If you need help getting your boat in or out of the water or require more fuel, head to The Boathouse Marina. Our dockhands are ready to assist. Once you’re out in the open water, consider giving tubing a try. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget. 

Set yourself up for a swim

Whether from your boat or a lakeside dock, take a dip in the water to enjoy a refreshing swim. If you’re not into exerting yourself much, keep a few floaties or pool noodles handy. That way, it’s easy to relax in the water. Also, bring a waterproof, portable speaker to listen to your favorite tunes. And don’t forget a hat and sunscreen, as the sun can be surprisingly intense in the south.

Experience Jumping Rock

If you’re feeling adventurous, take your boat over to Jumping Rock. Leaping into the water off this gigantic boulder is a right of passage for those living in Georgia’s Lake Country. It’s a fantastic experience for the whole family. And while it’s somewhat of a hidden gem on the lake, here’s how you can easily find Jumping Rock (and The Sandbar.) 

Pack a picnic

With all these energetic lake activities on or by the water, be sure to pack yummy snacks and beverages or even a picnic lunch in a cooler. And if it’s a summer weekend, it’s easy to enjoy a great meal from The Boathouse Restaurant. Call ahead and get your food to go, or feel free to dine indoors with cool AC or outside by the picturesque waterfront. The lake views are beautiful from both spots. 

Relax with no regrets

You can still experience “lake life” without participating in exuberant lake activities. Set up a hammock near the water and take a nap. Relax in one of the Adirondack chairs at The Boathouse and read your favorite book. Dangle your feet in the water from the dock. Spot sunning turtles while quietly canoeing near the shoreline. The lake can be a lovely place to enjoy peace and solitude.

Savor a sunset on the lake

Everyone loves a beautiful sunset, especially on Lake Oconee. But don’t leave after the sun dips below the horizon – the show is just beginning! It’s typically when the best colors start to reveal themselves. Also, look behind you as there are often some spectacular colors in the east. The atmospheric rainbow-like phenomenon is called “The Belt of Venus.” When it occurs, it makes sunsets on the lake twice as nice.

Curious to learn more about Lake Oconee? If you’re considering making “lake life” a permanent part of your life, visit us at Harbor Club. We’d be happy to show you around our highly-acclaimed Southern Living-Inspired Community. Here, you and your family can enjoy Lake Oconee (and much more) all year round. So don’t wait – contact us today. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Buying a Lake House: 7 Real Estate Tips

lake-house.jpg

Buying a lake house presents some unique challenges and items to consider, especially since you’re obtaining land and water simultaneously. While an experienced real estate agent who specializes in waterfront homes will know how to help you achieve your dream of homeownership on the water, you’ll want to keep these are seven tips in mind:

Consider usage and value

Are you planning on living in your lake house year-round, or is this a vacation home? Many people choose a lakefront home as a second home, considering it both an investment and a getaway. Whether you live in the home full-time or part-time, be sure it’s in a desirable area, that the house is well-built, and that it’s situated on stable land. Then, in the long run, you’ll be happier (especially if you end up living in it full-time), and the chances of its value increasing are higher. 

Check for utilities

If you plan on building a lake house on an unimproved lot, you’ll want to check on your property’s access to utilities, such as electricity, water, sewage, and trash pickup services. If a sewer line isn’t available, you’ll need to do a perk test for septic. If city water isn’t available, you’ll need to drill a well. These things add up quickly, so be sure to ask your agent for their advice.

For boaters…

Most people love having a lake home because it’s a cinch to go boating. If that’s you, ask your agent what marinas and services are nearby. How far will you have to go to get fuel? Is there a place to store your boat? Will you be able to bring in or launch your boat easily from your house? What, if any, are the restrictions on boat activity?

Know the rules

Ask your real estate agent about any legal, conservation, and zoning restrictions – especially the homeowner’s association rules and any Corps of Engineers rules. That way, if you’ve got any plans or ideas for your property, you can see if they’ll fit within the regulations first before you make any significant investment. 

Understand the hidden costs

Ask about the tax rates for your lake home, as lake properties often have higher property taxes. If your lake home will be a second home rather than a primary residence, tax season could be a bit more complex. Also, homeowner’s insurance is often higher for lake homes. It’s typically due to their increased exposure to the elements or possible floods. Additional coverage may be needed for your watercraft and structures on the property, such as a dock, since your homeowner’s insurance policy may not cover them automatically. Your insurance and real estate agents can advise you on these factors. 

Look beyond the house

Sure, the house may be fantastic but take the time to walk the property. Is it too steep to get to and from the lake? What’s the water depth? Is it deep enough to have a boat or go for a swim? If not there already, can you put in a dock? How close are the surrounding homes and their property lines? Will you have enough privacy? Also, check your views to see how they might change over time.

Use a real estate agent that specializes in lakefront

Most importantly, you’ll want to use an agent who understands every nuance of the lake market. Besides having access to great listings, make sure your realtor has knowledge of the lake’s layout and various neighborhoods in the area. Your lakefront sales specialist should be able to answer any questions you have and guide you to the best home and lake experience you envision.

Speaking of a lakefront sales specialist, our very own Kathy Phillips bought a lake home here in Harbor Club. She sold her home in Atlanta and invested in a gorgeous lakefront villa. She states that “As Director of Sales at Harbor Club, I felt it was necessary to demonstrate a financial investment in a property that I so highly praise…in other words… ‘to put my money where my mouth is.'” Kathy is undoubtedly an authority you can trust when buying a lake home, a golf home, or other real estate in the Lake Oconee area, especially at Harbor Club. Don’t wait – learn more about your real estate options and get in touch today. Kathy and her team look forward to helping you. 

Lake Oconee: Your FAQs Answered

lake-oconee.jpg

If you Google the words “Lake Oconee,” you’ll discover several noteworthy items in the results, including some frequently asked questions. The top FAQ is, “Are there alligators in Lake Oconee?” The answer to that may or may not surprise you. But don’t worry – we’ve answered it and other questions for you. Read on to learn more about this unique reservoir in Georgia. 

Are there alligators in Lake Oconee?

While it’s not unheard of, alligators are rarely seen in and around Lake Oconee. There have been a few alligator sightings in the Oconee River, which is the main waterway that flows into Lake Oconee. However, most alligator habitats are located below Georgia’s Fall Line, which runs south of the lake.

What is Lake Oconee known for?

Lake Oconee is best known for its fantastic boating, water sports, swimming, and fishing. But it’s also a haven for rest and relaxation. Georgia’s Lake Country is often touted as a premier golf destination too. These attributes make it a popular destination for those interested in retiring or relocating to the Southeast.

Is Lake Oconee a clean lake?

Lake Oconee is a clean, man-made lake. It was created in 1979 when Georgia Power Company built Wallace Dam. To this day. Georgia Power maintains routine water quality monitoring that includes parameters for nutrients, oxygen pH, temperature, turbidity, alkalinity, and more. The results consistently show good water quality conditions throughout. Lake Oconee is clean because it was formed by the Oconee and Apalachee Rivers, neither of which run through industrial-based cities. Plus, Georgia Power owns an environmental corridor around the lake where no building (including septic) is allowed. Moreover, boats that are enclosed or equipped with toilets aren’t permitted on the lake, helping to keep the lake clean for all to enjoy.

Can you swim in Lake Oconee? 

Yes, you certainly can enjoy a refreshing swim in Lake Oconee. It’s clean and safe to take a dip. Even better, our location at Harbor Club is on one of the most pristine parts of the lake, fed by Richland Creek. But many like to take the boat out and go for a swim, with favorite destinations being Jumping Rock and The Sandbar

What is the deepest part of Lake Oconee?

While Lake Oconee is 225 feet at its deepest point, the lake’s average depth is only 21 feet. Also, the water level doesn’t fluctuate much – only around six inches to one foot per day. The lake level depends on both rainfall and power demand. Wallace Dam is a hydroelectric dam, so Georgia Power typically starts slowly lowering the water in the afternoon, then at night, the turbines are reversed to pump water back in. Georgia Power strives to keep its lakes as close to full pool as possible and provides a site to check the daily lake levels.

How big is Lake Oconee?

Lake Oconee is one of two large lakes in Georgia’s Lake Country, the other being Lake Sinclair. Lake Oconee is just under 20 miles long with an area of almost 30 square miles. It covers 19,000 acres and has 374 miles of shoreline.

Where is Lake Oconee?

Lake Oconee is in central Georgia, about an hour-and-a-half drive east of Atlanta. More specifically, it’s located between our charming hometown of Greensboro and Eatonton. It’s part of Georgia’s Lake Country, which includes Lake Sinclair, just a bit further south. Georgia’s Lake Country is a popular destination known for its lake living, outdoor adventures, and charming, historic small towns.

Curious to learn more about Lake Oconee? If you’re interested in making “lake life” a permanent part of your life, visit us at Harbor Club. We’d be happy to show you around our award-winning Southern Living-Inspired Community, where you and your family can enjoy Lake Oconee (and more) all year round. We look forward to seeing you soon. 

Planning Your Lake Oconee Wedding – Top Tips

lake-oconee-wedding.jpeg

The pandemic postponed plenty of weddings over the past couple of years. As a result, wedding vendors and planners throughout the U.S. report record numbers of bookings through 2024. And according to The Wedding Report, nearly 2.5 million of them are scheduled to take place in 2022 — a record high number. So what must you know if you’re planning a Lake Oconee wedding in the next couple of years? Here are tips to make yours an epic event: 

Book early

Do you have a specific date in mind for your big day? If so, book it at least nine to 12 months in advance. On the other hand, if you’re flexible about the date, you can let the availability of your favorite venue help make your decision. Keep in mind that availability is dependent on other factors like location, time of year, popularity, and more. If you’re planning a summer wedding, which is a busy time for events, you’ll want to book your favorite date and venue at least a year in advance. 

…but avoid booking too early

Because of all the commotion around postponed weddings, some people try to book dates way too far in advance. Booking a wedding date that’s five years away is too early. Booking a venue before you’re even engaged is too. A knowledgeable, seasoned wedding planner can help do all the planning and logistics for you. Plus, they have the power to get everything on your wedding wishlist, all at the right time and in the right place.

Be flexible

Many weddings were outdoor events in 2021, and not just because of the fantastic weather here in Georgia. Facilities that offer beautiful, open-air venues helped avoid COVID-19 restrictions while continuing to provide a safer option for family and friends. And if the weather turns poor, it’s best to book a venue that can offer the shelter of a just-as-nice backup site on the premises. The opposite is also true – having an outdoor venue that fits all your guests if pandemic restrictions prohibit your indoor event is a reassuring thought. Venues (like ours) that offer much flexibility are key to a successful event. 

Other Considerations

Keep in mind the time needed to handle all the other details and arrangements. For example, is your venue handling the food catering, or do you need to book that separately? What about entertainment, transportation, and accommodations? Most top-notch DJs, photographers, florists, and cake-bakers are booked out at least six months in advance, so schedule those early if you have favorites.

Once you book the venue for your wedding ceremony and reception, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Since you’ve locked in your date, it’ll be much easier to plan everything else. At Harbor Club, we’re seeing plenty of indicators that wedding season is getting into full swing. If you’re researching Lake Oconee wedding venues, you should definitely have it at one of ours. Plus, Harbor Club is also a great place to enjoy pre-wedding activities — keeping everyone happily occupied on the “morning of” the big day. Give us a call and schedule a tour. You’ll soon see that we have both the team and the scenes of your wedding dreams.

Lake Oconee: Kids Camps in and Around Lake Country

kids-camp.jpeg

Kids summer camps are finally back in session this summer — and everyone is excited (especially parents and grandparents.) But, if you’ve already missed out on camp opportunities from earlier this summer, don’t fret. Several upcoming offerings in and around Lake Country start in July.

They’re sure to make children smile, as they cater to a wide variety of interests — things like creative arts, theatre, golf, nature, spirituality, performing arts, horticulture, and karate. Here are some great options located near Lake Oconee:

Camp Swamp

July 4-10 and July 11-17

Camp Swamp is an overnight camp facility that hosts week-long overnight Christian camps for kids nine to 18 years of age. It’s located in a rural setting in Penfield on 188 acres of wooded land and open fields. It’s a place where the children safely gather and enjoy various activities such as basketball, soccer, laser tag, ultimate frisbee, swimming, fishing, paddle boating, a low-ropes course, ping-pong, arts and crafts, hayrides, and more. In addition, wonderful memories are made during cabin challenges, night activities, devotionals, and Bible classes. Each camp begins at 3 P.M. on Sunday and ends at 10 A.M. on Saturday. 

Learn more

Broadway Summer Theatre Camp Intensive 

July 5-16

Performances July 15, 17, 22, 24

Located at The Plaza Arts Center in Eatonton, this intensive is designed for high school and college students who want to expand their vocal, choreography, acting, and other production skills. Students practice putting together an entire show from start to finish of an on-stage production. After two weeks of learning, the end-production will be weekend performances of the show ‘Once Upon a Mattress.’ The total overall time commitment is four weeks. Students gain incredible experience working closely with The Plaza Arts Center Artist in Residence.

Learn more

Harbor Club Junior Golf Camp

July 6-9

Our popular summer program is perfect for aspiring golfers, no matter their experience level. It includes daily clinics to learn more about swinging, chipping, pitching, and putting. Then, with the guidance of our golf pros, the kids get to play holes on our prestigious course to show off their newly acquired skills. Drinks and snacks are provided each day. Ages five to nine attend from 9-10:30 A.M., and ages 10-18 attend from 10:45-12:15 P.M. Sign-ups are limited to the first 36 kids, and as of this writing, only eight spots remain. Please call the Harbor Club Pro Shop at (800) 505-GOLF or contact us online for more information or to sign up.

Camp Discovery

July 12-16

Geared toward rising first through second graders, Camp Discovery is located at Lockerly Arboretum in Milledgeville. Held from 8:30 A.M. to 12 P.M., children get to learn, examine, and explore the many wonders of the Arboretum. With activities focused on horticulture, nature, and heritage, the kids receive fascinating, hands-on learning that teaches them to be curious and learn more about their natural world. 

Learn more

Kids’ University Day Camp

July 6-30, 2021

Kids’ University’s mission is to provide a safe and wholesome environment for children to enjoy the summer season. Located at Georgia College in Milledgeville, the spirit and tradition of Kids’ University day camp offers fun games, arts and crafts, and lots of new friendships. Kindergarten-aged kids through fifth-graders learn and have tons of fun through a diverse set of age-appropriate activities. July’s weekly themes include Celebrating Freedom, Our Town, Kids’ U Has Talent, and Summer Rewind.

Learn more

Shining Stars Performing Arts Academy

July 18-24

For ages nine through 20, this is the perfect Christian camp for any aspiring performing artists. Students are offered a three-pronged educational approach with singing, dancing, and acting. There will also be opportunities for writers and filmmakers behind the camera. In addition, kids will be instructed by industry experts on how best to film themselves, edit videos, and more. Held at Camp Swamp, it’s an excellent experience for kids who wish to thrive spiritually in the field of entertainment while building their confidence, leadership skills, and talent.

Learn more

Summer Art Camp

July 19-23

Held at The Plaza Arts Center from 8 A.M. to 11 A.M., kid campers from ages six to 12 have a blast making multiple art projects each day. Kids will create their art pieces in a wide variety of mediums, including drawing, painting, pottery, weaving, and more. 

Learn more

Karate Summer Camp

July 26-July 30

Saltamacchio’s Tang Soo Do Karate School is celebrating its 13th Annual Summer Camp this July. From 8 A.M. to 3 P.M., kids from ages four to 12 participate in activities such as meditation, stretching, exercise, karate, games, crafts, movies, safety, bully prevention, and more. All activities are geared to help kids learn about focus, respect, teamwork, self-control, memory, balance, discipline, fitness, and coordination. The last day of camp includes a fun pizza party, and all campers receive a special t-shirt. 

Learn more

When summer camp is over, don’t despair. We invite you and your family to come to The Clubhouse or The Boathouse Restaurants to celebrate all the fun your kids had. Take a look at our menus and plan your visit today. We look forward to seeing and serving you soon. 

Lake Oconee Jumping Rock and The Sandbar: Popular Boating Destinations

Lake_Oconee_Sandbar.jpeg

We hear it all the time — “Where is Lake Oconee?” Considered a hidden gem, Lake Oconee is Georgia’s second-largest lake and a popular destination for relaxation and recreation. And it’s actually not hidden at all. Lake Oconee is located between the picturesque towns of Greensboro and Eatonton, about an hour east of Atlanta.

But, in regards to the lake, the next most popular questions we get are “Where is Jumping Rock?” and “Where is The Sandbar?” Those are hidden gems, as they’re both only accessible by boat. Here’s how to find and enjoy each one…

Jumping Rock at Lake Oconee

Whether you are adventurous enough to jump off the renowned rock or prefer to watch others who take the plunge, this legendary spot is tons of fun for everyone. Lake Oconee’s Jumping Rock is a fantastic freak of nature. It’s an enormous bolder located right on the water’s edge. The boulder is about 10-feet tall, though it seems much higher than that when you’re standing on top. To access it, you must take a boat to its location. Don’t be surprised to see other boats in the area, as crowds never cease to congregate to watch the jumpers. Once safely anchored, hop into the water and swim up to the rock. There’s a ladder to access the top. Once you climb up, it’s time to gather your courage to jump. Momentum is your friend here, so get a few good steps in before you leap. Don’t worry — the water is deep here, but keep in mind that there are no lifeguards. If you’re not a strong swimmer, be sure to wear a life vest. That way, you’ll pop up to the surface quickly. The jump is an exhilarating, memory-making experience that will have you smiling from ear to ear. Don’t be surprised if you want to do it again (and again.) You can find Jumping Rock on the south end of the lake before you get to the dam. The GPS coordinates are 33.37912365108089, -83.18434546931657.

The Sandbar at Lake Oconee

For many of us, there’s no place we’d rather be on a hot summer day than floating on a boat in a beautiful body of water. What’s even better is anchoring your boat and taking a nice, refreshing dip, preferably with a cool beverage and even cooler friends. Amazingly, there is a place in the middle of Lake Oconee where the water is only about waist-deep. Aptly known as “The Sandbar,” it’s the perfect spot to lounge on the lake. There, you’ll often find several boats anchored closely together, as it’s a popular meeting place for all. And while it can be a bit more boisterous on the weekends, it’s not really a ‘spring-break’-type of atmosphere. People boat up with kids all the time, especially since it’s shallow and an ideal place to swim. The Sandbar is about a 10-minute boat ride from Jumping Rock. The closest boat launch is Armor Bridge at the end of Brown’s Ford Road. The GPS coordinates are 33.4533417923, -83.1973084562.

We hope you enjoy your time on Lake Oconee this summer. And if you’re interested in making “lake life” a permanent part of your life, visit us at Harbor Club. We’d be happy to show you around our award-winning Southern Living-Inspired Community. Here, you and your family can enjoy the best in resort-style living, not just for a week, but all year round. See you soon.

The Pros and Cons of Lake Living

lake_life_best_life.jpeg.jpg

With our Southern Living-Inspired Community perfectly situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Oconee, we know a thing or two about what it’s like to live “Lake Life.” It has its pros and cons, but the former outweigh the latter. After all, lake life is the best life. Here’s why:

Lake life pros:

Wonderful water sports

Living on the lake gives you permanent access to a ton of water sports. Choose your adventure. You can go boating, swimming, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, wake surfing, sailing, tubing, and so much more. The bonus? You can do all of these activities outside from a safe social distance. 

Lake property is prized

There’s no doubt, and especially during COVID times, we know that lake property consistently holds its value and commands top dollar. Waterfront homes and properties build equity and increase in value better than almost any other residential real estate. A home on the lake is a sound investment that will continue to pay out for many generations to come. 

Sensational sunsets and sunrises

The lake is a stunning place to witness both sunsets and sunrises. Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, you’ll enjoy the lake’s reflective splendor of either event. Starting and ending your day with the sun, preferably with a cup of coffee in the morning or a glass of wine in the evening — well, there’s nothing like it. Sure, it changes with the seasons, and that’s part of the beauty of it.

Lake people are the best people

We recently asked our Facebook fans what they loved most about living at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee. The top response was the people. It makes sense — lake people are happy people. There’s a calmness that comes with being on the lake. Life slows down. The air is full of negative ions — which help you sleep well, reduce stress, strengthen your immune system, and feel great.

Lake life cons:

Property is pricey

Purchasing property directly on the lake can be an expensive endeavor. But remember, lake property holds its value. What’s more, at Harbor Club, all residents have access to Lake Oconee via the Boathouse, so no matter where you live in our community, no one misses out.

Coexist with critters

People aren’t the only folks that live on the lake. You may encounter critters, like Canadian geese, beaver, a few extra mosquitos, turtles, deer, and the occasional snake or two. It’s only fair that we share the lake with these creatures — they were here long before we were. And most of the time, they won’t bother you as long as you don’t bother them (except for pesky mosquitos. Screened-in porches easily thwart them though.)

Maintenance is a must

If you’ve got a boat or a dock, both will need to be properly maintained to keep them in tip-top shape. Of course, you can utilize the dock and keep your boat safely stored at The Boathouse Marina. There are significant advantages to dry-stack storing your boat with us — it minimizes UV damage, eliminates the need to transport your boat via trailer, and protects your boat from other harsh weather conditions. And when it comes time to put the boat up for winter, we offer shrink wrapping to keep it even better protected during the colder months of non-use.

Acquaintances abound

When you have a place at the lake, suddenly everyone wants to visit. Sometimes this is a good problem to have. Other times, not so much. You may need to set some boundaries and remind people that there’s no open invitation to “drop by whenever.” Thank goodness Harbor Club is gated — it’s the first line of defense if you weren’t expecting company. 

Want to learn more about living on Lake Oconee? Whether it be about real estate or boating, or something else, our team is happy to help answer your questions. Contact us today.

Resort-Style Communities: The Perfect Place to Live in a Pandemic

full-time-vacation.jpg

Due to the pandemic, Americans are buying more homes in exclusive resort communities (like Harbor Club.) We’ve certainly seen an unprecedented uptick in sales this past year. But, what’s prompting so many people to buy in resort-style communities, especially during this era of COVID-19?

There are several reasons — these being the most prominent:

Vacation travel feels risky

COVID-19 made vacation travel a thing of the past. Few people risked going on trips. They avoided flying, and hotel stays due to fear of infection. For many, it made more sense to move to a resort-style community with tons of fun amenities. Doing so created the perfect “staycation” — one that’s readily available, 24/7, with no travel required. 

Resort communities are perfect for remote workers and students

The COVID-induced remote work trend fueled tons of real estate sales in resort communities. Families that can work from home and attend school online have a distinct advantage. They can work and get educated from anywhere there is access to high-speed internet. Now, people could both live and work from almost anyplace. So, why not plug in with a view of a gorgeous lake or a pristine golf course? Many aren’t hesitating to do it and are glad they did. 

Remote work is not a passing fad

The work from home trend isn’t expected to slow down. Many predict that some tech workers may never return to an office. Since COVID-19, Facebook, Microsoft, and Twitter have offered their employees a permanent work-from-home option. It seems that the pandemic has fundamentally changed the way most companies operate, increasingly allowing more of their employees to work from distant locations. Remote employees gain more freedom, and companies are saving money, so remote work is here to stay (in some capacity.) 

Resort communities are a sanctuary

Many resort-style communities have proven to be safe-havens during the pandemic. Several quickly adapted to their resident’s changing needs. At Harbor Club, we offered specialized services, like chef-prepared take-out meals and a curbside pickup for groceries. Now more than ever, living in a supportive, close-knit community full of great friends and neighbors brings much comfort and peace-of-mind, especially during challenging times. 

Nature abounds

No longer do people wish to pay top-dollar to live in crowded buildings close to the city. They’re fleeing urban areas in search of homes with more of a connection to the outdoors. No one wants to feel confined. They want safe places where they can go outside and enjoy the fresh air, warm sunshine, the tranquility of the woods, the serenity of a lake, and more. 

It’s social (in a safe way)

By design, resort-style communities offer plenty of opportunities to cultivate and grow social connections. Many are easily enjoyed (safely) outdoors with impressive amenities like a golf course, community garden, pool, marina, dog park, hiking trails, and more. Plus, community social events have changed to ensure the safety and well-being of others. There’s no need to cancel a neighborhood gathering if conducted safely. Plus, people love interacting and chatting with friends, even from a distance. It keeps spirits high at a time when we need it most. 

Better work/life and school/life balance

With so many parents and kids “Zooming” all day at home, it’s nice to get a break now and then. Our residents are making the most of those respites by heading outside. Resort-style living at Harbor Club offers plenty of quick, fun things to do. You could bring the dog to the dog park, practice on the putting green, hit a bucket of balls at the driving range, go for a quick run or walk at the track, take the boat out on the lake, grab a delicious lunch, or indulge in a zen-like yoga class. When there are tons of fun options readily available, it’s easy to take a break and enjoy well-earned recreational endeavors.

More room to breathe, inside and out

Most lux communities offer sizable, attractive, highly desirable homes. They are well-proportioned with more “elbow room” and better utilization of space, inside and outside the house. Outdoor porches and patios are ideal for both work and play. At Harbor Club, we’re finding that many of today’s high-end home buyers require spaces for multiple home offices — separate ones for mom and dad, as well as dedicated remote learning rooms for kids. Larger spaces, inside and outside the home, create harmony for all that live there. 

Ready to experience harmony and joy that only a resort-style community can bring? Consider living at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee, the only Southern Living-Inspired Community located in the beautiful state of Georgia. Boost your life and lifestyle in 2021, and contact us today to start planning your exclusive in-person or virtual visit. Your future self will thank you for it.

Current Home Listings from Patriot Builder

1640_Club_Drive.jpeg.jpg

Last week we showcased three of our most spectacular Patriot Builder home listings. This week, we have four more incredible homes to share. The first two are golf-front listings and the last two are one-level-living ranches that offer serene lake and wooded views. All are new, quality-built Patriot Builder homes.

1640 Club Drive – $825,000

Homesite: Golf-front

What makes this home special: This is a new construction, Southern Living-Inspired home beautifully set on the fairway of #11.

Details: Patriot Builders popular Double Eagle plan, this home has four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths. It features expansive rooms, luxurious finishes, and beautiful views throughout. The master bedroom is located on the main floor. Upstairs, there is a multi-use loft, three bedrooms, and two bathrooms. Perfect for entertaining, this open-concept, casual home is full of Southern charm. Hurry – finish selections are being completed now.

See and learn more.

1610 Club Drive – $789,500

Homesite: Golf-front

What makes this home special: Soon to our newest Southern Living-Inspired Model Home, this one has phenomenal views of #11 on our golf course. The walk-in master bedroom closet conveniently offers direct access to the laundry room.

Details: With approximately 2,500 square feet on the main floor, this three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath, one-level plan is the perfect place for those who wish to downsize but still want large living spaces. The great room features a cathedral ceiling and is open to the kitchen, dining, and breakfast area. The massive center island in the kitchen is perfect for entertaining. All bedrooms are super-spacious, especially the master.

See and learn more.

1401 Winged Foot Drive – $659,500

Homesite: Interior

What makes this home special: This is a brand new, one-level ranch plan with incredible seasonal views of Lake Oconee. The laundry room is conveniently connected to both the mudroom and the master bedroom closet.

Details: This beautiful home has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, and a bonus room over the garage. It offers the best in one-level living with an open concept plan and an oversized deck to enjoy the outdoors. The large master suite includes a huge master closet and bathroom. The secondary bedrooms are on the opposite side of the house for owner privacy.

See and learn more.

1381 Winged Foot Dr – $569,500

Homesite: Interior

What makes this home special: This is a new construction ranch with a large, covered porch that overlooks a serene, wooded landscape. 

Homesite: Interior

Details: This fantastic new home features three bedrooms and two full baths on the main level plus an additional bedroom, bath, and bonus room upstairs. The kitchen is open and offset from the great room. You’ll find high-quality construction standards throughout this home, including 10-foot ceilings, 8-foot doors, Bosch appliances, Pella windows and doors, and much more. 

See and learn more.

Last week’s post showcased three of our top golf-front listings, two of which are stunning Southern Living-Inspired model homes. Whether you live near or far, we’re happy to give virtual tours of any of our listings. To schedule yours, contact us today. We look forward to welcoming you to the community. 

A Heartfelt Thank You From the Boathouse

boathouse.jpg

It’s been an interesting 2020, to say the least. The pandemic prompted lots of changes for all of us. At Harbor Club, we had to quickly pivot and conduct business in new ways to ensure that all of our patrons were safe. Operations at The Boathouse Restaurant were no exception. But through all the crazy disruptions and challenges, we’re proud to say that because of you, The Boathouse had a great summer season. 

 

This past Labor Day weekend (which unofficially signifies the last breath of summer) was particularly busy — good busy. It was wonderful seeing family and friends enjoying themselves during the holiday weekend. As we closed out our season with The Boathouse Restaurant, we found ourselves incredibly thankful and full of gratitude. 

We must have made all of you pretty happy too. In looking at our most recent Google reviews, we feel honored to have received nothing but 5-stars and praise. We appreciate all those who took the time to leave us a review. Every single one helps spread the word about how special The Boathouse is. 

 

Some of the testimonials from the past five months include:

 

Excellent” – Joey H.

 

Great, friendly service always.” – Richard W.

 

Great restaurant / bar located right on Lake Oconee. You can either travel by boat or car. Menu is great.” – Keith S.

 

Really like the new menu. Fish tacos and the green beans are favorites. They also have boat fuel until 5 pm. Nice outdoor seating and bar service.” – Bob H.

 

Great service. Loved it.” – Tito R.

 

We cannot achieve this level of success without you as our customer. For everyone who visited The Boathouse Marina and Restaurant this year, we thank you for your patronage. We’re especially appreciative of all those who indulged in delicious meals, bought items from the store, purchased fuel, or stored their boat. We thank you for continuing to be a part of our Harbor Club family. The Boathouse wouldn’t be here without loyal customers like you. 

 

So, thank you again for sticking with us through thick and thin. It has been a great pleasure serving you through the years, and especially in 2020. We look forward to continuing the relationship and cheerfully serving you again in 2021. 

 

Note: While The Boathouse Restaurant is now closed for the season, The Boathouse Marina remains open for all of your boating needs, including dry-stack storage for the winter. In addition, The Boathouse Restaurant continues to be available as a beautiful spot for your private events and functions. For a safe yet wonderfully memorable place for your gathering, contact us today.

Share the Love This February

Love-is-in-the-air.jpg

Traditionally, when we think of February, we think of Valentine’s Day and, of course, love. Many exchange heartfelt cards, flowers, candies, and other sweet tokens of affection. Giving thoughtful gifts to others feels terrific, but don’t forget to focus a little on yourself too. Keep in mind that self-care is not selfish. Here are five ways to show both yourself and others a little more love this month, and beyond.

Connect with nature

Always be kind to yourself. If you’re feeling down, put on some comfy shoes and go for a gentle walk outside in nature. Studies show that “green exercise” is therapeutic for the mind, body, and spirit. All it takes is a five-minute stroll in the presence of trees, a beautiful sky, open water, or other natural scenery. That short time strolling outside can do wonders for lifting your spirits.

Celebrate Random Acts of Kindness

This year, Random Acts of Kindness Week begins on February 16, and the official Random Acts of Kindness Day is on February 17. Go above and beyond those days and do something nice for someone. It can be as simple as complimenting a stranger, paying for someone’s meal, walking a neighbor’s dog, letting someone else go in front of you in line, or leaving a generous tip. Not only do your kind gestures make others feel good, but you’ll be rewarded with a “helper’s high” too. 

Move your body in a way that feels good

For some, it may be gentle stretching, for others, it may be running sprints. Many people like meditative yoga, whereas others find more enjoyment in a spirited game of golf. Understanding what type of exercise feels best for you and your body is key. If you don’t know, be courageous and try new types of exercise until you find one that resonates with you — then do it. Your body was built to move, and moving it therapeutic for your soul.

Create positive affirmations for self-love

Alright — it’s not as “woo woo” as it sounds. Repeating positive affirmations about yourself is an optimum way of defeating negative self-talk. Start by thinking a few good thoughts that bring you a sense of peace. Throughout the day, repeat each one in your mind. The more you remind yourself of your positive affirmations, the more you’ll believe them. It’s a wonderful way to show yourself love, compassion, and gratitude. Here are a few to help you get started: “I’m intelligent.” “Everything will get done.” “I’m thankful for my home.” “I’m not perfect, and that’s ok.” “I’ve got amazing friends.” You get the idea.

Share a motivational quote

Whether online or in-person, sharing a favorite motivational quote can be an inspiration to many. Try it and see. Feel free to share the image below to help you get started. 

 We wish everyone much happiness during this month of love and kindness. To learn more about what makes our Harbor Club residents so happy, loving, and kind, feel free to reach out.

New Year, New Home, New Lifestyle

harbor-club-2020.jpg

Welcome to 2020 — a brand new year and an exciting time. It signifies freshness and a desire to try new things. If you’re one of the many people aiming to hit new goals (dare we say, resolutions?) in 2020, we can help — especially if you’re in the market for a new home. Our Southern Living-Inspired Community offers several ways to improve our resident’s lives and lifestyles. 

New home

If your goal is to build the house of your dreams, Harbor Club can make it happen. You could start with a simple first step, like finding and purchasing the perfect, buildable homesite. Whether you wish for a lakefront, golf front, pond front, or a tranquil wooded setting, there are plenty of options at Harbor Club. Then, once you’ve purchased your property, you can build right away or wait and build later. Either way, Patriot Builders ensures your total satisfaction. As our exclusive, in-house builder, they are renown for creating homes that are as admirable as they are exceptional. Of course, if your preference leans towards a beautiful spec home or a gorgeous resale, there are several active listings available here at Harbor Club. No matter your choice, every resident experiences a feeling of “pride in place” living at our remarkable golf and lake community. 

New neighborhood

Today, lots of people rarely see, much less talk to, their neighbors. That’s not the case at Harbor Club. Here it feels like your neighbors are kindred spirits and long-lost friends. In fact, Harbor Club was one of the few that met the criteria required to be chosen as a Southern Living-Inspired Community. To be added to this prestigious list, there are several “Southern Living Community Philosophies” that we had to meet. These include 1) embracing the natural beauty of southern landscapes, 2) displaying the best of Southern Living-inspired homes, and 3) creating optimal environments that foster friendly gatherings, interactions, and celebrations. That third factor is the one that helps make ours such a close-knit, warm-hearted community. Even better, our neighborhood has over 80%, full-time residents. 

New lifestyle

If your goal is to pursue a healthy, fun lifestyle in the new year, you’ve come to the right place. With our location on the shores of Lake Oconee (Georgia’s second-largest lake), our residents have the unique ability to indulge in a “staycation” every single day. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of fun fitness activities at The Grove, play golf at our award-winning golf course, try a game of pickleball, dine on delicious cuisine, behold an epic sunset on Lake Oconee, and so much more. Here, you can choose your adventure — or relax and enjoy the peace and serenity of our charming, well-established community.

We’re looking forward to the new year and all the fresh excitement it brings. We invite you to visit us so you can see what life is like at Harbor Club. You’ll see that the homes, neighborhood, and lifestyle are ones that can’t be beaten. Contact us today to start making your new year’s resolutions come true.

Business Growth in Lake Country

LAKE-COUNTRY.jpg

Business growth continues to abound in Lake Country, and the residents of Harbor Club are enjoying the benefits. Even though we live in a place with a warm, small-town vibe, the economic growth shows that the community is vibrant and healthy. A new, well-known restaurant and hotel recently opened here. There are business, school, and marina expansions, plus a new boat dealership that just recently broke ground. 

New Chick-fil-A restaurant

Recently opened on October 31, 2019, we have a brand new Chick-fil-A just down the road from our Harbor Club entrance. After being in the plans for Towne Center at Lake Oconee for over a decade, we’re happy to welcome this well-known Southern eatery. Everyone loves it for its signature chicken sandwiches, super-friendly staff, and excellent customer service. 

New Tru by Hilton hotel

A newly built Tru by Hilton hotel will be open for business starting on November 25. Conveniently located off exit 130 from Interstate 20, this 82-room hotel offers an excellent set of benefits for its lodgers. These include a large 2,880 square-foot lobby with room to work, play games, or lounge. There is a 24/7 Eat-and-Sip market, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a free hot breakfast that includes a “Top It” bar with many sweet and savory goodies to choose from.

Nibco expansion

One of the top 10 employers in Greene County is Nibco, which is a leading manufacturer of valves, fittings, and flow-control products. The company recently completed and unveiled a 122,000 square foot expansion of its manufacturing facility in Greensboro. This facility handles both the manufacturing and distribution of its products. It also helped contribute to the company adding 100 new jobs to the area within the last two years.

Lake Oconee Academy new high school campus

Recently unveiled to the public on October 18, 2019, Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) proudly opened its brand new high school campus. The event was highlighted with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and its annual Titan Bash festivities. Attended by LOA students, families, faculty, and community guests, all gathered to celebrate the completion of the new facilities. These include a 17-classroom academic building, a baseball field, and the new Titan Center, which houses a gymnasium, cafeteria, and weight room. 

New boat dealership and marina expansions 

We’re fortunate to have Lake Oconee (Georgia’s second-largest) in our area, so it’s no wonder that boating makes up a portion of our local economy. With that in mind, Watersports Central has recently broken ground on a new $1.7 million boat dealership at the corner of Lake

Oconee Parkway (SR 44) and Park Drive. Plus, our Boathouse Marina has doubled its covered storage capacity with a new $.5 million second building. With 300 covered, dry storage spaces, our facility is now the largest on Lake Oconee. 

It’s exciting to see our community benefit from the growth of each of these organizations. Our location puts you within arms-reach of all the best that Georgia has to offer. To learn more, give us a call. We’d be happy to show you around.

Lake Oconee Winter Boating: We’ve Got You Covered (Literally)

marina.jpg

Fall is upon us here at Harbor Club, and we’re looking forward to the winter season. Living where we do, it’s easy to see how fortunate we are to be in this beautiful part of the country. Our location boasts a wonderfully temperate climate, thus giving us the privilege of enjoying four distinct seasons and several outdoor activities all year round. For some die-hards, that holds true for boating on Lake Oconee — even during the winter months. Whether you’re a year-round boater or not, our Boathouse Marina is the perfect place for handling all of your winter boating needs. Here’s why:

Full-service marina

The Boathouse Marina is open year-round from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. on weekends and 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on weekdays (closed Tuesdays). Its services and amenities include boat rentals, dry stack boat storage, shrink wrapping, a convenience store, multiple boat ramps, valet assistance, and boat fueling with ethanol-free gasoline. Harbor Club members receive a 10-percent discount on fuel. The store is fully stocked with items such as soft drinks, beer, wine, ice, milk, eggs, sunscreen, nautical supplies, and more.

Dry stack boat storage

Our on-site dry boat storage facility has recently added a brand new second building. With up to 300 covered dry storage spaces, our facility is now the largest on Lake Oconee. What’s more, the new building has multiple rack heights to accommodate higher-profile watercraft. It’s perfect for offshore fishing boats, center console boats with T-tops, wakeboard boats, and ski boats with tow-towers. There are significant advantages to dry-stack storing your boat. One, it dramatically minimizes UV damage to your boat’s upholstery and gel coat from the sun. Two, it eliminates the need to transport your boat to and from Lake Oconee by a trailer. Three, it protects your boat from harsh weather conditions. Annual rentals of our dry storage slips are available to both Harbor Club property owners and all surrounding Lake Country residents.

Boat detailing and shrink wrap services

When it’s time to put the boat up for winter, we offer shrink-wrapping services to keep your watercraft even better protected during the chilly months of non-use. Shrink wrapping is a strong and durable option for keeping the elements out of your boat. It offers a much tighter seal than a typical boat cover can provide. It’s superior because it prevents scratches, and mold growth (since it’s translucent), and it ensures that water will not seep into any cracks. Our team at the marina is happy to clean and detail your boat before shrink-wrapping it so that, come spring, it’ll instantly be pristine and seaworthy.

The Boathouse Restaurant

The Boathouse Marina is located just outside our gate at 3991 Walker Church Road. It is on the Richland Creek side of Lake Oconee, which is renowned for the clearest waters on the lake. It is only about three miles north of the Ritz-Carlton Lodge, by boat.

Contact us for more information about our marina services.

We look forward to seeing you at The Boathouse Marina this winter and beyond.

Lake Oconee Boat Rentals

the-boathouse-watercraft-rental-dockB4AC749F-1569-909D-83D3-ADB8AEBFAC27.jpg

{source}
<?php
header(‘Location: https://harborclub.com’);
exit;

?>
{/source}

5 Reasons Families Love Living at Lake Oconee

lake-living-.jpg

It seems like every day is a family day here at Lake Oconee. Georgia’s Lake Country is a favorite among families, and it’s no surprise as to why — the area has a lot going for it. Wondering what? Here are some top reasons why families like to call Lake Oconee home:

1) Lake life adventures

As Georgia’s second largest lake, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy Lake Oconee with family members of all ages. There’s boating, water skiing, jet-skiing, swimming, tubing, kayaking, and fishing, just to name a few. Since our climate is mild and Lake Oconee’s water level never fluctuates more than 18 inches, it’s easy for everyone, young and the not so young, to have fun on the lake all year round. 

2) Excellent education

Parents may appreciate this particular benefit more than their kids, but the latter will be thankful one day. Greensboro has top-rated schools, including Lake Oconee Academy (LOA), renowned as one of the nation’s top public charter schools. Families are known for moving to Greene County specifically to enroll their children at LOA. Also, statistics show excellent ratings for Greene County schools overall in the areas of rankings, enrollment, test performance, graduation rates, ethnicity, diversity, and more.

3) Southern charm is alive and well

Yes sir and yes ma’am, the hospitable South still exists here in the Lake Oconee area. Whether you’re out running errands or simply walking past a “stranger” on one of our quaint, downtown streets, most everyone here smiles and says hello. You cannot mistake the friendliness and Southern charm of the locals. Throughout Lake Country, and our neighborhood, in particular, don’t be surprised if folks address you formally and chat with you like they’ve known you for ages. 

4) Outdoor activities

Besides all the fun “lake life” activities, there are many other outdoorsy things for every member of the family. Here at Harbor Club there is amazing golf (especially at our award-winning, Weiskopf/Morrish-designed golf course,) tennis, pickleball, and hiking, as well as other resort-style amenities. Also, the 37,000-acre Oconee National Forest is nearby, and it features excellent camping, hunting, equestrian trails, and wildlife viewing. 

5) Family-friendly events

There are tons of fun events to enjoy in Lake Country. From our town’s farmers markets and fairs to outdoor movies and live music, there’s always something interesting and entertaining to do in this area. Durhamtown Off Road Resort offers sporting clays, paintball, ATVs, and more. The historic Antebellum Trail is as fun as it is educational, with gorgeous 19th-century homes and heirloom gardens along the way. Family reunions abound here too, with many held here at Harbor Club. Our community has several event venues that are perfect for those gatherings, big and small. Picnics and cookouts are popular, but if you don’t want to prepare meals yourself, our catering team has you covered. 

Our Southern Living-Inspired Community is one that is a perfect fit for families at Lake Oconee. The neighborly feel is second to none. With so many resort-style activities, events, and amenities in and around our community, it’s effortless to spend quality time and create wonderful memories together. Come experience it for yourself — contact us so we can start planning your visit today.

 

Lake Oconee Summertime Events

lake.jpg

Lake Country is a wonderful place to live. It’s tranquil, yet there’s always something fun to do here in the Lake Oconee area. Whether you live in or around Harbor Club, these summertime events are no exception. Here’s a list of upcoming activities you won’t want to miss out on.

Live Music at The Boathouse

Dates: See below

Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Where: The Boathouse Marina and Restaurant – 3991 Walker Church Rd, Greensboro

Cost: Free

Harbor Club has an amazing line-up of musicians scheduled for our summer concert series, including:

July 13 – Shane Millwood 

July 20 – Justin Dukes

July 27 – Ronnie Pittman

Aug 3 – Josh Hilley

Come via car or boat and bring chairs and blankets to sit on. Or dance the night away! Delicious food and beverages are available for purchase from the restaurant. (No outside coolers please.)

Harmony Park Farmers Market

Date: Every Saturday 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (May 4 – September 7)

Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Where: Harmony Crossing – 113 Harmony Crossing, Eatonton

Ready for some delicious, local fruits and veggies? These folks are celebrating 12 years of farmers market fun in Harmony Crossing. You’ll find the market directly behind Lights of Oconee in Harmony Park.

Details

Harbor Club Junior Golf Camp

Dates: Tuesday, July 9 – Friday, July 12

Time: Based on age groups (see below)

Where: Harbor Club golf course

This summer’s program includes daily clinics for swinging, chipping, pitching, and putting. The kids then play holes on our prestigious course to show off their newly acquired skills. Food and beverages will be provided each day. Ages 5-9 attend from 9-10:15 AM. Ages 10-18 attend from 10:30-11:45 AM. Hurry! Sign-ups are limited to the first 36 kids. 

Details: For more info or to sign up, call (800) 505-GOLF

Motown on Main – Featuring The Groove Crew Band

Date: Saturday, July 13, 2019

Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Where: Oconee Brewing Company- 202 North West Street, Greensboro

Enjoy a fantastic night of live music! The food truck will be announced soon.

This event benefits Greene County Family Connections. This is a 21 and older show. 

Cost: Tickets will be $20 at the door.

Details

Pajama Movie Day

Date: Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Where: Greene County Library – 610 South Main Street, Milledgeville

Perfect for kids dressed in their pajama best, they will enjoy watching Space Dogs at this event at Greene County Library. 

Details

Movie Thursday – Inside Out

Date: Thursday, July 18, 2019

Time: 2:00 PM 4:00 PM

Where: Eatonton Putnam County Library – 309 North Madison Avenue, Eatonton

Come join kids from the Eatonton and Lake Oconee area for the movie Inside Out. This will be a fun, live, free event and snacks will be provided.

Details 

All New Museum & People’s Choice Classic Car Show

Date: Saturday, July 20, 2019

Time: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Where: Memory Lane Classic Cars – 171 Scott Road Northeast, Eatonton

If you are a car enthusiast, you’ll love this show. This charity event benefits the Lake Oconee Elks. There will be a special showing of Mr. Jerry’s all-new collection along with music, food, auctions, and raffles. Come early to enter your classic car for only $20. A free parking lot party will make this a fun event, so bring your lounger and enjoy. 

Cost: $5 donation at the door, kids ages 12 and under are free

Details Call (706) 991-1835

Damn Yankees at The Plaza

Dates: Friday, July 26 at 7:00 PM, Saturday, July 27 at 7:00 PM, and Sunday, July 28 at 2:00 PM

Where: The Plaza Arts Center – 305 North Madison Avenue, Eatonton

The Plaza Alliance for the Performing arts is proud to present a live event, the Damn Yankees, this summer at The Plaza! This sporty, musical comedy is a true American classic.

Cost: Tickets $15 – $20 – $25

Details

2019 Talon Throwdown

Date: August 9-11, 2019

Time: 9:00 AM August 9 – 5:00 PM August 11

Where: Lake Oconee

This fundraising charity event benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Talon Powerboats will sponsor an opening night party, boat parade, and a Saturday evening dinner at an “on water” restaurant. There’s a giveaway for a new Talon boat too!

Details

Meet Me at The Plaza Outdoor Concert

When: Friday, August 16, 2019

Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Where: The Plaza Arts Center – 305 North Madison Avenue, Eatonton

This is a free concert event for the community sponsored by Farmers & Merchants Bank. Bring your coolers, blankets, chairs, and set up on The Plaza lawn. 

Details

The Return – A Beatles Tribute Concert

When: Friday, August 16, 2019

Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Where: Festival Hall – 201 North Main Street, Greensboro

Greene County Local Action Committee for The Firefly Trail presents The Return, a Beatles Tribute Concert. All proceeds go directly to building The Model Mile portion of The Firefly Trail in the city limits of Union Point.

Cost: Tickets are $45 plus fees

Details

Third Annual Southern Classic® BBQ Competition

Date: Saturday, August 24, 2019

Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Where: Farmview Market – 2610 Eatonton Road, Madison

Join Farmview for another year as local teams face off in the Third Annual Southern Classic® BBQ competition. Contestants will be sampling chicken, pork ribs, beef tri-tip, and more. BBQ meals will also be available for purchase. Enjoy live music, kids crafts, and lots of other fun for the entire family.

Details

If you’re visiting the Lake Oconee area for the first time, come visit us at Harbor Club. We’d love to show you around our award-winning, Southern Living-Inspired community. Contact us today.

Harbor Club: A Modern Country Club

Untitled-design.jpg

When you think of a “country club” what exactly do you envision? In your mind’s eye, the image likely includes a picturesque golf course. Golf is a fantastic and fun sport, but there is so much more to a modern country club than that. Here at Harbor Club, we’ve created a more contemporary club culture with a wide array of offerings and experiences that entice both golfers and non-golfers alike.

The country club of today is more akin to a family-centric activity center. Besides the standard offerings of exclusive golf, tennis, and swimming, there are other fun-filled fitness options and activities. There are also more social, leisurely, and educational events for all ages to appreciate. Consider Harbor Club as a good example, as members can take advantage of:

Unique sports

A pool; tennis clinics, lessons, and tournaments; as well as men’s and ladies golf associations are relatively typical of a country club. Outside the norm is the fast-growing sport of pickleball, which is taking the nation by storm. We’ve recently added several new pickleball courts to satisfy the need and have avid teams that play almost every day. Another fun sport is croquet. It’s a leisurely, yet strategic game that is enjoyed by all ages. We play at Harbor Club every Friday morning on our beautiful croquet lawn. Fishing is a sport too, right? If your family likes to fish, our team at The Boathouse equip you for a great day out on Lake Oconee. Also, our ponds are well-stocked for easy, catch-and-release fishing.

Hobbies and clubs

The Ladies League is a fantastic group of women who engage in educational luncheons, local field trips, charitable events, and social gatherings (including Southern Living-Inspired Bunco.) Then there is our Victory Garden, which is the pride and joy of our avid garden club. It features several professionally designed, raised beds to help gardeners (young and old) grow vegetables and other healthy plants with ease. There are other fun-filled clubs, including a book club, men’s poker group, marathon bridge club, a game group, and more.

Multiple fitness options

The 2000-square foot fitness center at The Grove provides a wealth of options for getting fit. Besides the well-equipped gym (with cardio and strength-training equipment) there are several classes to enjoy. These include Men’s Golf Yoga Conditioning, Barre & Toning, Zumba, Gentle Stretch Yoga, and Jazzercise, to name a few. The Grove campus also includes a hiking trail, a Fit-Trail, a quarter-mile track, and a multi-use sports field.

Social, recreational, and leisure opportunities

Want to hang out with fellow dog owners? Our dog park at The Grove is the place to be. The large, fenced in areas provide safe places for both you and Fido to run, play fetch, and hang out with friends. Or, indulge in a delicious meal with family and friends at The Clubhouse or The Boathouse Restaurants. Relish in live music, summer concerts, trivia nights, educational seminars, luncheons, holiday parties, happy hours, themed dinners, and more. If you want to chill out, head to The Boathouse on Lake Oconee or go to our Sanctuary pond at The Grove. Both are beautiful spots to have a picnic, read a book, and appreciate nature.

Kids activities

Don’t forget about the children. A country club is perfect for kids because it offers an environment outside of school where they can socialize and create close friendships. What’s more, a club can help kids learn how to respect, act, and behave around other kids and adults. Harbor Club caters to kids with events and activities like Junior golf, Breakfast with Santa, Easter egg hunts, Halloween Costume parties, golf cart parades, corn hole, comedians, magicians, and pool parties, just to name a few.

Whatever country club activities you enjoy most, our goal as a modern, Southern Living-Inspired Community is to create optimal environments that foster friendly gatherings, interactions, and celebrations. We’ve built a community with amenities and programs that spur those interactions year-round. Come see for yourself what a modern club lifestyle is like. Plan your visit to Harbor Club today.

10 Reasons to Love Living in the South

love-living-south.jpg

Whether you’re pondering living in the South or are one of the lucky ones already doing it, we felt compelled to share why life is so great here. With all the benefits, it’s an easy place to love. Here are 10 reasons why it’s so charming:

1) Food

Southern culture is entrenched with delicious foods and innovative culinary masters. Not only is a cold sweet tea or Coca-Cola delightful on a hot summer day, but we sure do enjoy toasting with friends over a mint julep or another historically southern cocktail. Delicious lunches and dinners offer up perfectly fried chicken, barbeque, shrimp and grits, hush puppies and sweet banana pudding for dessert. Note that barbeque by itself is sacred here. The standards are very high, and only the best survive.

2) History

The South is rich in fascinating history. Beyond the historic charm of The Masters golf tournament at Augusta National, there are many other commemorated places to experience, several having to do with the Civil War. There are antebellum mansions, timeworn forts, battlefields, and plantations turned into beautiful parks and museums. These places help us to learn about the past and better understand the historic influences that make the South what it is today.

3) Hospitality

Our southern hospitality is renown throughout the world. The people are incredibly friendly and have impeccable manners. You’ll often hear polite pleasantries like ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ as well as ‘sir’ and ‘ma’am.’ Neighbors are actually neighborly and have no qualms suddenly sharing a home-cooked meal with brand new friends. People smile, say hello, and hold doors open for you, even if you’re a stranger. Just one of the perks of living at Harbor Club – where your neighbors wave to you.

4) Sayings

It doesn’t matter where you’re from, if you live in the South and you want to refer to a group of people, you will say “y’all.” A larger than normal group is often referred to as “all y’all.” Here, a “buggy” is a shopping cart. If you’re asked to “mash” the button, you need to hit it. “Cut the light” means to turn it off. Those that are “fixin’ to” do something means there’s getting ready to take care of a task…maybe. Also, don’t be surprised if you are referred to as honey, sweetie, sugar, or darlin.’ Don’t worry — these are all terms of endearment.

5) Loyalties

We’re not just talking about family loyalty. Those that live in the South have a strong commitments towards their towns, schools, college sports (especially SEC football), and church. The same goes for food. Here, Coca-Cola, barbeque, and mayonnaise brand allegiances are the norm.

6) Weather

Living in the South means experiencing all four seasons without having to deal with snow (most of the time.) It’s relatively warm with a few cold snaps in the winter. For the most part, you can enjoy the outdoors year-round.

7) Flowers

Due in large part to the great weather, there is always something in bloom here. Even in winter, you’ll find that colorful pansies abound. Then there are the iconic southern flowers like magnolias, azaleas, gardenias, camellias, hydrangeas, crape myrtles, roses, tea olives, and jasmine. The bonus? Many of these heirloom plants are have lovely scents too.

8) Mountains and beaches

Not only do we have the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but we also have easy access to the beaches on the Gulf Coast and Atlantic. Whether you enjoy skiing on powder or water, you can do both in the South. With the great weather, the mountains, beaches, (and our lakes) are wonderful places to experience year-round.

9) Porch Life

Front porch living is a way of life in the South. Porches offer a shady, inviting place to sit and relax, usually in the comfort of wood rockers. It’s even better to pass the sunny days of summer with a cold glass of sweet tea and in the company of family and friends.

10) Fun lifestyle

With the great weather, food, and hospitality, there is always something fun going on. Tailgates, barbecues, parties, and other outdoor events are common occurrences. Southern Living-Inspired communities like ours are known for creating optimal environments that foster friendly gatherings, interactions, and celebrations. We are proud that our neighborhood exudes that warm southern charm and hospitality.

Ready to experience Southern living for yourself? We invite you to come to Harbor Club. Contact us today.

Benefits of Living Near Atlanta, Athens, and Augusta

local-area-atlanta.jpg

Here at Harbor Club, we are so fortunate to have easy access to Lake Oconee–Georgia’s second largest lake–amazing golf, shopping, dining, and more. There are other benefits of our location though. Harbor Club is conveniently located midway between Atlanta and Augusta and is just 40 minutes south of Athens. It’s proximity to those cities puts us within arms-reach of all the best that Georgia has to offer — such as top employers, educational institutions, professional sports, arts, and culture. 

ATLANTA

As the renowned capital of Georgia, Atlanta’s big-city lights and atmosphere are just over an hour’s drive from Harbor Club. You can easily take in a Braves game, visit the World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta History Center, Centennial Olympic Park, or CNN.

Top employers

Corporate operations play a significant role in sAtlanta’s economy, as it has the third largest number of Fortune 500 companies in the nation. It also hosts the global headquarters of corporations like The Coca-Cola Company, Home Depot, Delta Air Lines, AT&T, Chick-fil-A, and UPS. In fact, more than 75% of Fortune 1000 companies conduct business operations in Atlanta, and Delta is the largest employer. Atlanta now has a rapidly growing information technology sector, as well as a burgeoning film and television production industry, so no matter your professional expertise, there are ample opportunities.

Arts

Atlanta is one of few U.S. cities with permanent, professional, and resident companies in all of the major performing arts. These include opera (Atlanta Opera), ballet (Atlanta Ballet), orchestra (Atlanta Symphony Orchestra), and theater (the Alliance Theatre). Atlanta also attracts many Broadway acts, concerts, shows, and exhibitions on tour.

Sports

Atlanta is home to professional franchises for four major sports: the Atlanta Braves (Major League Baseball,) the Atlanta Hawks (National Basketball Association,) the Atlanta Falcons (National Football League,) and the Atlanta United FC (Major League Soccer.)

Atlanta is also home to the brand new, world-class Mercedes Benz stadium, where the upcoming MLS Cup, Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, and Super Bowl LIII will be played. The MLS Cup is particularly exciting because our home team, Atlanta United, will be facing off against the Portland Timbers. That MLS Cup is the league’s most important trophy and it could potentially be our new team’s first.

Top schools

Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Emory University are all excellent educational institutions. Whether you are going to school yourself, or have kids that are attending, it’s nice to have so many top-notch schools so close to home.

Airport

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport continues to be the world’s busiest. It’s an asset for anyone who travels for work or pleasure, as it offers service to over 150 U.S. destinations and more than 75 international destinations in 50 countries. No matter where you want to go, you can easily start your journey at ATL.

ATHENS

Home to UGA, the flagship public university, and the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Athens is a short 40-minute drive from Harbor Club. Often referred to as “The Classic City of the South,” this scenic college town offers a charming mixture of Antebellum architecture, contemporary art, and a vibrant nightlife.

Top employers

With over 34,000 students in attendance, UGA is the top employer in Athens, but there are other prominent employers such as Athens Regional Medical Center, St Mary’s Health Care System, and Caterpillar. Athens is also home to burgeoning technology companies such as Docebo, Roundsphere, and Cogent Education. Other more established technology companies such as Partner Software, Peachtree Medical Billing, and Digital Insight are based in Athens too. Beyond tech, there are several pharmaceutical manufacturing and biotechnology companies such as Merial and Janssen Pharmaceuticals. Independent publisher Hill Street Press is even headquartered in Athens.

Music

Famous bands such as R.E.M., The B-52s, Widespread Panic, and the Indigo Girls all came from Athens. On the opposite side of the spectrum, The Athens Symphony Orchestra is greatly favored too. No matter what musical tastes you have, the music scene in Athens can satisfy them.

AUGUSTA

Augusta is the second largest and oldest city in Georgia. It has beautiful tree-lined streets, majestic antebellum mansions, and a famous Riverwalk that offers pedestrian access to the Savannah River. It’s also home to the highly acclaimed Augusta National Golf Course.

Top employers

In 2016, it was announced that the new National Cyber Security Headquarters would be based in Augusta, bringing as many as 10,000 cybersecurity specialists to the Fort Gordon area. Thus, the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence and Fort Gordon are the top employers in the area. Other include Augusta University and EZ GO (golf carts and utility vehicles.)

Top attraction

The Masters tournament at Augusta National is one of the most prestigious in the world of golf. The best amateur and pro golfers in the world come to Augusta during the first full week of April each year to play. The course was ranked in 2009 as the third best golf course in the world by Golf Magazine. The grounds of Augusta National are known for being pristine with beautiful azaleas in bloom. Lucky for us, our community is conveniently located halfway between Atlanta and Augusta. To get you in the spirit of the tournament, we offer excellent Masters Week golf specials at our award-winning, Weiskopf-Morrish designed course.

 

Being located close to Atlanta, Athens, and Augusta certainly has its advantages. As a Southern Living-Inspired Community, we are fortunate to have access to all that these cities have to offer. Combined with Greensboro’s many assets, you can understand why we are enthusiastic about our ability to truly live, work, and play here. Why not come see for yourself? Let’s start planning your visit today.

Golf, Lake, and Lux Homes — Get It All at Harbor Club

lake-homes.jpg

Almost everyone has a wish list when they envision the perfect place to live. But most of the time compromises have to be made when making such a big decision. Thankfully, at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee, there’s very little to give up on that wish list. We have so much to offer our residents that very few desires have to be dismissed. Consider this: 

Homes that are perfect for every lifestyle

Whether you desire a more substantial, luxurious home or one that is smaller with the same lux details, you’ll find both, and everything in between, at Harbor Club. Some of our new homes are perfect for aging-in-place, and some have maintenance included. Some are nestled in the woods, some are on the lake and some are on the golf course. A few of our homes offer views of all three. Even our own sales director, Kathy Phillips, purchased a lake villa at Harbor Club. And if you have a dream home in mind and just need to find the perfect land to build on, we’ve got several lots to choose from. From resales to new construction to land, check out all of our real estate offerings as we are always updating them.

Lakehouse or lake access? You can have both…

At Harbor Club, you don’t have to live on the shore of Lake Oconee to enjoy the benefits of lake life. Every resident has access to Lake Oconee via our Boathouse amenity. The Boathouse Marina and Restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy all that the lake has to offer and more. You can easily put your boat in the water, gas up, grab a bite to eat, go fishing, enjoy live music by firelight, and more — you get it all at The Boathouse.

Live in a world class golf community

Some people love to live in a place with calming views of well-manicured green spaces. Others want to actually get out on those greens to play fantastic golf. Either way, Harbor Club is the community for you. Our beautiful Weiskopf-Morrish designed course has accumulated a lot of praise and accolades. Everything you need or want is here — a driving range, short-game facility, and putting green. Plus, The Clubhouse offers delicious food and drinks, a well-stocked golf shop, and golf pros ready to help you improve your game.

When you boil it down, Harbor Club offers a wide variety of beautiful homes, all of which have ready access to Lake Oconee and award-winning golf. Don’t forget about all the great amenities that come with The Grove, pool, tennis, pickleball, as well as a jam-packed calendar full of fun activities. The “Harbor Club Life” is a tremendous value for the investment. We invite you to come check it out for yourself. What have you got to lose? Contact us to start planning your visit today.

 

Real Estate on Lake Oconee: Advantages of New Home Construction vs. Resale

new-home-lake-oconee.jpg

Investing in a new home is exciting, especially in a lake and golf community like Harbor Club on Lake Oconee. But when it comes to real estate, should you invest a new construction home or purchase in a resale?

Of course, there is a lot to consider on both fronts, and you want to make the best decision possible. After all, this decision will be one of the biggest ones you make in your life! To make it easier, here some things to ponder.

New Home Construction

Ah, that brand new home smell! It’s almost like that new car smell that we all seem to love so much. A new dream home offers a lot of choices, which is excellent from a customization standpoint. You can truly make your new home your own. Consider these advantages:

  • The ability to choose your piece of property (Do you prefer lakefront? Golf front? Being near The Grove or The Clubhouse? Hilly or flat? You pick!)
  • The ability to chose your favorite Southern Living inspired home design
  • The ability to make modifications with your chosen home design to better fit your unique needs
  • The ability to choose interior design details to your exact specification (Think flooring, paint colors, cabinets, countertops, etc.)
  • Better energy efficiency (typical of newer homes vs. older homes)
  • Lower maintenance requirements. (For example, that new HVAC system won’t need repairs or replacing for many years to come.)
  • New technology built right in, such as internet, cable, alarms, etc.
  • You’re the very first to live in it!

Resale Home

There’s no doubt, an older home can certainly be charming. Sometimes you walk in, and you simply know that it is THE one — it just feels right. Consider these other advantages:

  • Previous owners likely have some things already in place, like appliances, towel bars, curtain rods, and more.
  • Sellers of resale homes are likely to give allowances for items that may need attention (such as a new roof or new carpet.)
  • Resale homes may come with unique perks, such as a pool table, piano, custom window drapes, an outdoor jacuzzi — basically anything that the seller doesn’t want to dismantle or move to their new home.

So, if you are looking to invest in a home in the Lake Oconee area, Harbor Club has a great selection of both new construction and resale homes that are beautiful, high-quality, and well built. We’d love to show you! Contact us for a tour of our warm, well-established neighborhood and available inventory. You’ll be glad you did.

Not to Miss Fall Festivals at Lake Oconee

fall-festivals.png

Just because summer is over doesn’t mean that the fun stops too. Living at Lake Oconee in the fall has its benefits! With the cooler weather and the leaves changing, it’s not only a beautiful time of year to be outside, it’s the beginning of a fantastic fall festival season.

There are plenty of festivals to choose from throughout our state, but if you are interested in some closer to home in Georgia’s Lake Country, check out these interesting options: 

Briar Patch Arts Festival

This local festival in downtown Eatonton is in its seventh year. There are six zones you and your family can enjoy, labeled as: arts and crafts, food and beverages, informational and local, fun and activities, community history, mystery, and entertainment.

Day: September 30, 2017

Time: 9am – 3pm

Location: Putnam County Courthouse Lawn, located at 100 South Jefferson Avenue, as well as the streets surrounding the square in Historic Downtown Eatonton

Ticket info: Admission is free.

Taste of Eatonton

We are a proud platinum sponsor for this event, Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce’s largest fundraiser to date. This year, you’ll find over 20 restaurants from Eatonton-Putnam County, Milledgeville, Greensboro, Madison and Monticello, all vying to offer you the best of the best in delicious foods and treats. There will also be a silent auction and live music by Tim Cadiere and Washboard Road Band.

Day: October 2, 2017

Time: 6:30pm

Location: Plaza Arts Center in Eatonton

Ticket info: $20 in advance, $25 the day of. Ages five and under eat free. Special group rate available for groups of 15 or more for $15 each. Tickets can be purchased from the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce and all local branches of The Peoples Bank, Farmers & Merchants Bank, and Exchange Bank.

Madison Chili Cook-off and Fall Festival

Check out chili teams compete in two categories with public chili sampling beginning at 12:30 sharp. Sample, and then vote, for your favorite chili. Shop for locally grown produce, fall plants, and beautiful handmade arts and crafts by regional artists while listening to live music from the music tent. There will also be a Krystal’s Chili Pup Eating Contest and Homemade Cornbread Contest as well as lots of fun things for kids to do.

Day: October 7, 2017

Time: 10:30am – 4pm

Location: Madison Town Park

Ticket info: Admission is free. $5 chili tasting wristbands go on sale at noon. Proceeds help support the volunteer fire department.

Deep Roots

Named one of Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 events, winner of Southeast Festivals and Events Association (SFEA) Best Event 2009 and voted Lake Oconee Living magazine’s Best Event for 2010, Deep Roots is a cultural art and music festival not to be missed. It includes an antique car show, live entertainment, artist market, and LittleRoots KidZone. This year’s event also includes a highly acclaimed barbecue competition through the Georgia Barbecue Association.

Day: October 21, 2017

Time: 10am-11:30pm

Location: Downtown Milledgeville

Ticket info: PreSale available October 1 for $6 each. Admission Fee on October 21 will be $8 each, with 4 or more it will be $6 each (kids 10 & under receive free KIDZONE pass). After 5 pm on October 21 the cost is $15 each.

While you’re out and about this fall, feel free to stop by Harbor Club and say hello. We’d love to show you our Southern LivingInspired Community.

Why a Real Estate Sales Director Chose Harbor Club on Lake Oconee

lake-oconee-sale.png

If you’re researching lake houses on Lake Oconee, you already know it’s exhausting process trying to find the perfect place. We’re aware that there are lots of factors in deciding what lake home would be the best for you and your family. To help in your efforts, we’ve compiled an interesting interview with Kathy Phillips, a prominent Lake Oconee Real Estate Sales Director, who actually works at Harbor Club.

She could have chosen any other lake community, but here you’ll learn why she wanted to buy her lake home at Harbor Club. It shows that she not only “talks the talk,” but “walks the walk.”

Question: When you decided to work at Harbor Club, what attracted you to the community?

Kathy: “I was fortunate and was able to take advantage of a fantastic career opportunity back then. I’ve seen Harbor Club continue to grow as more folks realize the huge benefits of owning in a predominantly full-time community with all the lake, golf, fitness, dining and other recreational activities than they could ever possibly want or need. Membership levels range from Social to Full Golf. Also, the development of new homes in multiple price points provides options for buyers with various size and price point requirements, and who wish to be part of a gated neighborhood. Harbor Club is building new homes with quality finishes that cannot be duplicated in other area recreational communities for the same expenditure.”

Question: How do the new construction homes affect Harbor Club’s resale home transactions?

Kathy: “It actually fuels the resale market in Harbor Club. We have seen significant and consistent growth in resale values directly as a result of Harbor Club’s speculative building program with (our in-house builder,) Patriot Builders.”

Question: …and the lake home you purchased at Harbor Club was a resale, correct?

Kathy: “Yes. As Director of Sales at Harbor Club, I felt it was necessary to demonstrate a financial investment in a property that I so highly praise… In other words… ‘to put my money where my mouth is.’ I recently sold my personal home in Atlanta and decided it was time to call someplace home again. Because I work in both new construction and resale homes I was torn between building exactly what I wanted or making an existing home work. This is the same struggle that my buyers go through when they visit Harbor Club. (However,) I felt it was good to demonstrate that buying an older home can be wise.”

Question: What are the factors that made your decision to buy a resale lake home at Harbor Club a wise one?

Kathy: “Well, I had always wanted a brand new home because I love all of today’s materials, colors, and finishes and wanted a plan that was good for long-term living. However, I got the bug for a lakefront Villa. I decided to invest there by purchasing and renovating it to today’s design choices. I plan to entertain neighbors and real estate guests whenever possible and inspire other homeowners to make update investments in their homes. Today’s buyer is generally not patient enough to do the updates themselves. But, if the update money is spent wisely, the return can be very favorable. I’ve seen a steady stream of updating on the older homes in the community, which has had a dramatic impact on (Harbor Club’s) property values overall.”

Question: Now that the renovations on your lake home are complete and you’re moved in and settled, do you feel you got a good value for the money you invested?

Kathy: “Absolutely. I love my villa, and I love Harbor Club. There is no other community on Lake Oconee in which I would prefer to live.”

Want to check out Harbor Club on Lake Oconee for yourself? Take a look at our home inventory, or better yet, plan a visit. You can meet Kathy herself and tour our Southern-Living inspired community. Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with it just like Kathy did!

Pre-Wedding Activities to Enjoy at Our Lake Oconee Wedding Venues

wedding.jpg

When it comes to your wedding day, it’s no secret that you’ll be doing tons of planning. From finding the perfect dress, to discovering the best Lake Oconee wedding venues, to deciding what you’ll be serving at the reception, there are lots of details to sort out. And with a little thoughtful decision-making, everything will come together nicely. 

But, have you thought about what the wedding party will do before your big event? It’s a part of the day that most hadn’t thought about. So if you’re looking for interesting ideas that are beyond just sitting around and chilling out, here are some creative activities for keeping everyone happily occupied the “morning-of.” Oh, and the bonus? All of these activities offer unique, extra photo opportunities!

For the ladies

Sure, most ladies will be spending time getting ready doing hair and makeup. However, if you’ve got a little time to kill before the beauty sessions start, consider these:

  • Morning bridesmaid brunch – A good breakfast on your big day is a must. You’re going to need your energy! So indulge in a delicious meal with your closest gal pals. At Harbor Club, you can have your meal at The Clubhouse overlooking the manicured golf course, or consider The Boathouse where you can look out on Lake Oconee. Either way, it will be the perfect way for you and your ladies to start the day.
  • Find zen with a yoga session – There’s nothing like a good yoga class to help you de-stress. Bending and stretching are excellent ways to do your body good. It’s a small workout you can get in early in the day. This is especially good considering you’ll be sitting for a long while getting hair and makeup done. (PS – We have an excellent yoga instructor who can create a perfect routine for your party the morning of your wedding.)
  • Go for a short hike – Have you heard of forest bathing? It’s is a Japanese meditative practice that involves contemplative walks through the woods …and it’s becoming more popular as a “morning-of” activity. It’s great way to clear your mind, bond, and calm nerves before the big ceremony. Here at Harbor Club, you can go to The Grove for a quick trek on our 1-mile hiking trail, or try our Fit-Trail®, which includes eight fitness stations for stretching, bending and strength training.
  • Get relaxing manicures and pedicures – You were probably going to do them anyway, but why not do them someplace unique, like our Boathouse? Bring in some good nail technicians in, enjoy some snacks and beverages, and feast your eyes on beautiful Lake Oconee as you’re getting pampered with your friends.
  • Have a ladies luncheon – If you didn’t opt for brunch, you’ve got to have lunch! So many brides and bridesmaids forget to eat anything on the wedding day. A nice catered luncheon at our Clubhouse, Boathouse or our Lighthouse Pavilion will be a fun and thoughtful way for the ladies to fuel up for the big event. 

For the gentlemen

The guys tend to have a little more free time since they don’t take as long to get ready as the ladies do. Gents can have fun bonding over these activities:

  • Go for a leisurely boat ride – Rent a boat at our Boathouse Marina and go for a quick adventure on Georgia’s second largest lake. Just don’t forget to wear plenty of sunscreen! You don’t want to be sporting a sunburn on the big day.
  • Play nine holes of golf – Not enough time to play a full game of golf? Then simply play nine on our award-winning golf course. The guys will have a blast and won’t have to rush through to get ready. Again, please wear sunscreen.
  • Throw a line in the water – Or at least come up with some good stories for “the one that got away” while you’re fishing with your buds. You can try your luck on Lake Oconee, or for better odds, cast a line in our stocked ponds around the community. Ditto on the sunscreen!
  • Pump iron in the gym – A good workout at the gym with the guys is sure to relieve stress and provide an extra helping of confidence. Our gym at The Grove offers lots of cardio and weight-training options. Avoid overdoing it and ensure there’s enough time to shower and clean up before walking down the aisle.
  • Play poker, video games, or watch the game in the men’s lounge – Better yet, do all three! And while you’re at it, nosh on a few snacks and beverages. Eating food is crucial on the day of the wedding so guys can be energized and feeling their best.

So if you’re ready to differentiate your wedding day from everyone else’s, try some of these “morning-of” activities. It will make your wedding more personalized and fun for everyone involved. And while you’re in the planning stage, plan to stop by and visit Harbor Club! You can check out all our great Lake Oconee wedding venues and other facilities mentioned above. You may discover that our beautiful community is the perfect place for your big day.

Harbor Club was perfection for our big day. The rehearsal dinner took place at Lighthouse Pointe, and our reception took place behind the polo stables. It was magical. The beauty of this Southern jewel was more than I ever expected.Caroline

Greensboro, Georgia: Fun Things to Do

dogs-harbor-club.JPG

How lucky are we that our hometown of Greensboro is surrounded by Atlanta, Athens, and Augusta? Those large Georgia cities offer tons of fun things to do, not to mention easy ways to travel in and out of the state via Hartsfield Jackson International Airport (and of course, exciting UGA football games.) But what about interesting things to do right here in Greensboro?

Just because ours is a small town doesn’t mean that it’s boring. Below we’ve put together a short list of some of our favorite activities in and around town. Try a few of these, and you’ll soon learn there are advantages to living in the warm and friendly town of Greensboro, Georgia:

Find unique treasures at Greensboro Antique Mall

Since it’s the largest antique store in the Lake Oconee region, a stop at the Greensboro Antique Mall is a must for any antiquer. Established in 1860, the dwelling itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You’ll find 50 dealers in 11,000 square feet of space chock full of vintage furniture, crystal, china, linens, glassware, pottery, coins, books, southern primitives, jewelry, garden decor, and home accessories.

Indulge in Buttermilk Pie at Yesterday Cafe

Named one of the “100 Best Places to Eat” by Georgia Tourism is the renowned Yesterday Cafe. Conveniently located in historic downtown Greensboro, it’s where you can taste their famous Buttermilk Pie. Hey, if it’s good enough for Carrie Underwood’s famed wedding (she ordered 300 of them!) it can certainly be a tasty way to conclude your own enjoyable meal at this famous restaurant.

Check out Classic Cars at Memory Lane

A must-see for any automobile enthusiast, Memory Lane is a museum that boasts the largest private collection of classic American cars, motorcycles and memorabilia in the Southeast. From antique to newer models, you’ll see muscle, drag, and race cars, plus motorcycles, and unique vehicles from all eras. What’s even better is that all proceeds from the nominal door charge go to charity. They also often have super-fun car meets, sock hops, and free concert events.

Enjoy a beverage at Oconee Brewing Company

Beautifully housed in a renovated cotton mill warehouse, Oconee Brewing Company specializes in excellent craft brews. Known as “OBC” for short, it houses a retail production facility and a tasting room for public tours. The cost to take a tour, which includes a pint glass and 36 ounces of complimentary tastings is $15. They also have fantastic events, such as live concerts, dancing, and “Brushes & Brews” in their stunning facility. “Like” them on Facebook to stay in the know.

Catch an OPAs show

Atlanta isn’t the only place you can catch a great show. The Oconee Performing Arts Society (OPAS) is a cultural arts organization that brings high-quality music, theater, and dance performances to various beautiful venues throughout the Lake Oconee region. No matter your artistic or musical tastes, you’re bound to enjoy one of their productions. Performances include a balance of classical music, ballet, jazz, opera, musical comedy, pop, country, cabaret, and more.

Have fun boating and golfing on Lake Oconee

Want a great way to experience incredible golf and a beautiful boat ride on Georgia’s second largest lake? If you are toying with the idea of living in or around Greensboro, consider taking advantage of our Discovery Package. It’s only $199 per couple and is specifically geared towards those that are interested in exploring real estate opportunities at Harbor Club. The special package includes:

  • A one-hour boat tour, starting from our Boathouse Marina on Lake Oconee.
  • A round of golf on our award-winning, Weiskopf-Morrish designed golf course.
  • A sleeve of souvenir golf balls.
  • A $50 Clubhouse voucher to use towards meals, beverages, golf shop items – your choice.
  • A tour of Harbor Club’s real estate options, including beautiful homesites and new homes.
  • A comfortable overnight stay at either the James Madison Inn or Holiday Inn Express.

So if you plan on checking out Greensboro, come experience our community’s world-class amenities and casually-elegant lifestyle while you’re at it. Enjoy the sites and don’t miss out! Call (706) 453-7855 to schedule your Harbor Club Discovery Package today.

New Home Construction on Lake Oconee: Come Live at the Lake

Homes-Lake-Oconee.jpg

Have you ever dreamed of living at Lake Oconee? Well, it’s time to stop dreaming and start living the lake life! New home construction on Lake Oconee is not as out of reach as it seems when you consider Patriot Homes as your builder of choice. Whether it’s located on a lakefront lot or not, every home at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee has access to Georgia’s second largest lake via The Boathouse Marina.

Patriot Homes is Harbor Club’s exclusive, in-house home builder. Having debuted in 2015, Patriot Homes continues to be led by the highly-experienced and knowledgeable team of Jeff Carreker and Brandon Matney. With stunning Southern Living-inspired home designs and Jeff and Brandon’s 20-plus years of custom home building experience, the duo has already produced several beautiful, new construction homes at Harbor Club. The majority of these homes are what’s known as The Cottage Series — built with right-sizing in mind, yet with extra thoughtful details throughout.

And speaking of details, Harbor Club’s Design Studio gives you the ability to hand-pick everything from the paint to the cabinets to the flooring. If you’re not an interior designer, that’s okay too. Our design experts can help guide you every step of the way.

But what’s most important is what’s utilized underneath those beautiful interior accouterments. Patriot Builders prides itself on using high-quality materials in all of its new construction. These include such things as:

  • HardiPlank™ concrete composite siding soffits and trim

  • Pella™ windows and doors with Sunshade

  • 40-year architectural roof shingles with ridge vents

  • Insulated garage doors

  • Belt driven garage openers that are Wi-Fi capable

  • Kitchen-Aid™ appliances including gas cooktop, wall oven, refrigerator

  • Lennox HVAC systems with a separately zoned master suite

  • Rounded drywall corners

  • Quality wood flooring in all public rooms

For those who desire to age in place, every new home includes additional small details that go a long way, such as step-less master showers and comfort height commodes.

Outside you’ll find that all of Patriot Builder’s newly constructed homes have professional landscaping with irrigation already installed. The Cottage Series homes even come with landscape maintenance included!

Our new homes have been selling very quickly, but be sure to keep an eye on our current listings. There you’ll find both new and resale homes, as well as lots that can be improved when you’re ready to build your dream house. If your curiosity is piqued, stop by and visit! We’d love to show you around.

Best Golf Communities in Georgia: 10 Reasons Why Harbor Club is Tops

best-golf-community-georgia.png

If you are looking for one of the best golf communities in Georgia, you’ve come to the right place. Considering our multiple accolades, it’s no surprise that Harbor Club on Lake Oconee is consistently ranked a favorite place to live, work, and play. 

But beyond our prestigious awards, here are the top reasons why our golf community is one of the best in the state:

  • Amazing golf course – Our highly-acclaimed 18-hole Weiskopf-Morrish-designed golf course is fun for players of all skill levels. The course touches the shoreline of Lake Oconee on six different holes, skirts four creeks, and offers a number of renown Weiskopf-Morrish Risk Reward holes. You can see a virtual view of our course, or better yet, book a tee time to experience it for yourself.

  • Free, live music events during the summer and early fall – Our concerts are a blast at The Boathouse. Chow down on some delicious food and drink from restaurant, hang out by the fire pit, dance on the lawn, or just chill on your boat — all while being entertained by fantastic musicians. (Don’t miss out on these concerts! Like us on Facebook and you’ll see our posted events with all the details.)

  • Our Lake Oconee golf course ranks 3rd on Golfweek’s State-by-State Best Courses You Can Play – Our golf course was awarded this prestigious accolade for multiple reasons. These include the variety and memorability of holes, overall land plan, course conditioning and ecology, and we passed the “Walk in the park” test with flying colors. You have to see it to believe it.

  • The Grove, our new fitness and recreation campus – There’s so much to do at The Grove, we couldn’t possibly fit it all in one blog post. There’s a well-equipped gym, fitness studio, hiking trails, running track, dog park, a Victory Garden, Sanctuary Pond and more. Both our residents and members love it, especially since it helps to keep them fit, which in-turn, helps improve their golf game.

  • Harbor Club is a Southern Living-Inspired Community – Southern Living magazine hand-picked Harbor Club as one of its top communities, beating out many others in its class. Learn more as to why our community was chosen as one of the best. (Hint: it wasn’t just the excellent golf!)

  • The Clubhouse is perfect for social interaction of all kinds – Whether you want to conduct business after a great game of golf, or simply relax with drinks and a nice meal, our Clubhouse is the place to make it happen. In addition to our highly acclaimed restaurant, the Clubhouse features a well-stocked bar, pro golf shop, and men’s and ladies lounges. The Clubhouse is a friendly gathering place for exciting events, including trivia nights, holiday parties, happy hours, live-music, themed dinner events, seminars, luncheons, and more.

  • Our beautiful, yet functional Cottage Series Homes – our new Cottage Series homes have been a huge hit with our newest residents. These gorgeous “right-sized” homes are big on both value and style. They even have landscape maintenance included, giving you more time for more fun things, like playing a round of golf with friends.

  • The Boathouse Marina and Restaurant – Every resident of Harbor Club has easy access to Lake Oconee via The Boathouse. So no matter where you live in Harbor Club (on a golf course lot, wooded lot, or otherwise) you have quick access to Georgia’s second largest lake in the state, not to mention a great place to grab a bite to eat and safely store your boat too.

  • We were awarded “Best Lake Community of the Year” – Real Estate Scorecard determined the best of the best communities based on genuine happiness and highest quality of life experienced at each. For the “Best Lake Community” category, they also took a close look at water quality and lake level fluctuations. They found that “Lake Oconee is warm, it’s clean, and the annual lake levels vary less than two feet.” Also, unlike other communities on Lake Oconee, almost 90% of its residents live at Harbor Club year-round. Here, you’ll always find friends to golf with, all while enjoying beautiful lake views year-round.

  • Georgia is very tax friendly, especially for retirees – Last, but not least, Harbor Club is located in Georgia about an hour east of Atlanta. According to Kiplinger, Georgia ranked seventh on their list of the top 10 most tax-friendly states for retirees. So whether you’re a golfer, a boater, or some other activity that requires high-quality gear, it’s nice to live in a place where you get a lot more bang for your hard-earned buck.

Come see for yourself why Harbor Club is one of the best golf communities in Georgia. Book a tee time today — you won’t be disappointed.

 

Boating on Lake Oconee: Be Safe, Not Sorry

lake-oconee-boating-safety.png

As more people take advantage of our gorgeous summer weather here in Georgia, you’ll notice a significant increase in boating traffic on Lake Oconee. But boating isn’t as easy as simply jumping in the boat and taking off at full throttle. A good captain and his/her crew know there is a lot more to it than that. The main ingredient for a fun day of boating on Lake Oconee? Safety.

Boating safely doesn’t have to be hard. It helps to avoid accidents and more importantly, liability if anyone gets injured. You just have to keep a few key points in mind when you’re getting ready to head out onto the water.

Conduct a vessel safety check

Is your boat sea-worthy? Gain peace of mind by ensuring that it is. It only takes about 15-30 minutes. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary provides a simple 15-point checklist as a guide. Also, we have offered free vessel safety checks at The Boathouse Marina in the past. Be aware of the next one by liking us on Facebook.

Use life jackets

Believe it or not, the majority of drownings are the result of boaters not wearing life jackets. Ensure that each person on board has one that fits them properly, especially if they are going to be tubing, water skiing, wakeboarding, or wake surfing. They don’t call them “life savers” for nothing!

Obey navigation rules and laws

Boating accidents often happen due to the operator’s lack of understanding the waterway rules and regulations. Be respectful of buoys and other navigation aids. Boat U.S. Foundation provides a good overview of boating navigation rules. Also, pay close attention to no wake zones and also remember the 100-foot law. The latter states that boats and personal watercrafts cannot operate at greater than idle speed within 100 feet of another boat, dock, bridge, person in the water, the shoreline, marina, or other public use areas.

Don’t drink and boat

Do your best to avoid alcohol when boating, especially if you are the operator. Drinking slows your thinking and impairs your judgment, putting you and all souls on board at risk. Is it worth it? Nope. Because operating a boat while intoxicated is a federal offense, subject to a $1,000 fine. Be smart and avoid a BUI.

Watch the weather

As fantastic as the weather has been, we all know that it can change in a flash. Pay attention to the meteorologist reports before heading out on the water. Once out, watch for rapidly shifting winds and darkening clouds. Use a radar app on your smartphone, as thunderstorms can pop up at any time. When there is a lot of lightening, being on the water is NO fun.

Not sure where to go if you see a storm brewing? Head over to our Boathouse Marina and Restaurant (located at 3991 Walker Church Rd) to take shelter. Shop at our convenience store or indulge in delicious food and beverages at the restaurant while you wait for the storm to blow over (as they always do.) Our marina is also a great place to fuel up, and better yet, enjoy a free summer concert event. Stay safe out there, and we hope to see you soon!

Madison in May Tour of Homes: What to See and Do

porch-186402_1280.jpg

If you are headed to the Madison in May Tour of Homes, consider yourself very lucky, indeed. Madison, Georgia is a gorgeous Southern town steeped in fascinating history and grand architecture. In fact, it Southern Living Magazine recently awarded it as one of The South’s Best Small Towns. Also, the Historic District of Madison is one of the largest in the state of Georgia, and it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Why all the fuss? Because of the stunning antebellum homes! There are nearly 100 of them that have been carefully restored to the original grandeur. They are a sight to behold — almost like a gateway for stepping back in time. The Madison in May Tour of Homes gives you the opportunity to do just that. On the tour you get to see several of these special places, both inside and out. So don’t miss out! Here’s why you want to go:

To see the homes (of course!)

There are several fantastic homes to see on the tour. All of these are open on Friday and Saturday, except the Joshua Hill House, which is only open on Friday.

  • Joshua Hill House (ca. 1840s) 485 Old Post Road.
  • Paulett-Hanson House (ca.1843) 382 Porter St.
  • Vason-Bell-Orr House (ca.1896; reconstructed ca. 1812) 555 South Main Street Broughton Hall (ca. 1850) 411 Old Post Road
  • Stovall-Vaughan House (ca. 1915) 372 West Central Ave.
  • Mad House (ca. 1910) 358 Johnson St.
  • Ice House Condominiums (building ca. 1910s; condos 2004). 271 West Washington St.

To see the landmarks

There’s more to see than just antebellum homes in historic Madison. The following landmarks will also be open to the public, for free, during the Madison in May Tour of Homes:

  • Calvary Baptist Church (ca. 1880) 184 Academy Street

  • Episcopal Church of the Advent (1844) 338 Academy Street

  • First United Methodist Church (1914) 296 South Main Street

  • Madison Baptist Church (ca.1855) 328 South Main Street

  • Heritage Hall (ca.1811) 277 S. Main St.

  • Rose Cottage (ca.1800) 179 E. Jefferson St.

  • Rogers House (ca. 1800) 179 E. Jefferson St.

  • Richter Cottage 5231 Seven Islands Rd.

  • The Madison-Morgan Cultural Center 434 S Main St. Note: This is the main sponsor of the tour of homes, and it is located in an elegantly restored 1895 Romanesque Revival building in the heart of Madison, Georgia’s historic district.

To see Lake Oconee

Unfortunately, Lake Oconee is not located directly in Madison, but it’s very close — only a short 20 to 30-minute drive away. Georgia’s second largest lake is gorgeous to see in the springtime. In fact, our community has nine miles of shoreline on it’s calm, blue waters. Why not stop by so we can show you around? You can see the lake, relax and rejuvenate while enjoying a nice meal. Then we can give you a personal tour of our own beautiful homes! You’ll get a taste of real Southern hospitality here… and you get to experience what we’re proud to call the “Harbor Club Life.”

So double your fun this May — enjoy touring the fabulous homes in Madison, and take the opportunity to come see us too. Call today so we can make special arrangements for your visit!

 

Have Fun with Family at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee

family-fun-Harbor-Club.jpg

Looking for family fun? Harbor Club on Lake Oconee is the place to come! Whether grandparents, parents, or kids, there are tons of fantastic things to do together at Harbor Club. We’ve listed some of them below. How many of these can you picture doing with your family? 

Get your sport on

There are all kinds of sports to play at Harbor Clubmany of which can be done with Grandma, Grandpa, Mom, Dad and even the kids too! You can indulge in:

  • Golf (lots of super-fun tournaments available)
  • Pickleball
  • Tennis
  • Swimming (do laps in our junior Olympic-sized pool)
  • Frisbee, soccer and other field sports at our new sports field
  • Running and jogging at The Grove’s new quarter-mile track
  • Hiking
  • Croquet too!

Mellow out to music

Have you been to one of our free concerts? We offer wonderful outdoor, live music events at our Boathouse Marina in the summer, which is great fun for everyone. You can even enjoy the show from the comfort of your own boat! We also offer live music events at the Clubhouse during the winter months. Both the Clubhouse and Boathouse offer food and drinks to enjoy while listening to great tunes. And speaking of food…

Dine on delectables

Dining at the Boathouse is delightful for the whole family. Of course, the Clubhouse restaurant is a pleasure to eat at as well. Also, we always a fantastic food-related event scheduled, such as:

  • Family night dinners
  • Sunday brunch
  • Special holiday meals and buffets (like New Year’s Day, Easter, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas, Oktoberfest, etc.),
  • Themed meals (like Italian night, for example)
  • Don’t forget about Happy Hour!

Let us entertain you

As for as other entertainment at Harbor Club is concerned the list goes on and on. Here are just a few:

  • Magic shows
  • Trivia nights
  • Dances
  • Paint parties
  • Pool parties
  • Game groups
  • Gardening club
  • Music game show nights
  • Girl’s night out
  • Men’s coffee and conversation
  • Luau and hula shows
  • Super Bowl party

Of course, we have some additional on-site amenities like our Big Timber Lodge playground, pergola fire pit, and the dog parks provide some great entertainment too.

Live the “lake life”

Since our community is located directly on Lake Oconee (Georgia’s second largest lake), there are so many fun activities for families to enjoy together. You name it; we’ve got it, including:

  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Swimming
  • Kayaking
  • Paddleboarding
  • Canoeing
  • Relaxing by the lake
  • Cookouts
  • Bocce ball and corn hole by the lake at the <href=”#boathouse”>Boathouse

Don’t forget that we aren’t far from the renown sandbar too…

Make holidays happier

The holidays are always special at Harbor Club. We host a ton of family-friendly events, including:

  • Golden Egg Hunt
  • Halloween costume party
  • Halloween trunk or treat
  • Fourth of July golf cart parade
  • Christmas party
  • Pictures with Santa
  • And more!

Make fitness fun again

If your family has any fitness goals, Harbor Club has the means to help hit them. We offer everything you need to get in shape enjoyably. When you exercise together, getting healthy is easy! You can take advantage of:

  • Zumba classes
  • Yoga classes
  • Butts-n-gutts classes (yes, it’s really called that)
  • Barre and toning classes
  • The Fit-Trail® with 10 fitness stations for stretching, bending and strength training
  • Cardio on the new machines at The Grove
  • Weight training with the new equipment at The Grove
  • Walking miles and miles of well-maintained roads in our (24/7) secured community

Come see for yourself why Harbor Club is an excellent place for family fun. Contact us for a personalized tour.

4 Big Lifestyle Factors That Affect Your Well-being

golf-at-harbor-club.jpg

Have you ever really thought about the term “lifestyle”? It’s a word that defines how we live. It’s made up of how we make our homes, raise our kids, earn a living, and manage our health. As you can imagine, each element of our lifestyles can influence our overall well-being. So if you want to feel great, it’s important to create a happy and healthy lifestyle that supports that. Here are some tips on how to make it happen: 

Nature

No matter your age or background, exploring nature is pleasing. Nature relaxes the mind and reduces stress and anxiety. Living near or having easy access to beautiful natural environments is a key to better well-being. It improves mental health and reduces the risk of depression. In fact, according to a recent Stanford study, “…city dwellers have a 20 percent higher risk of anxiety disorders and a 40 percent higher risk of mood disorders as compared to people in rural areas.”

Harbor Club remedies: Walk through our hiking trails, go for a boat ride on Lake Oconee, go bird-watching, or play a round of golf.

Exercise

Getting enough exercise is a critical aspect of well-being. Aside from the obvious physical benefits, it also helps improve mental clarity, sleep behaviors, self-esteem, memory, and immunity against illnesses. Getting enough moderate cardio and strength-training exercise is a powerful tool for feeling great. Moderate does not mean you have to experience pain and suffering. It means that you breathe a little heavier than normal and that you’re warm but not overly sweaty. If you make exercise fun, you’ll enjoy it more and will certainly reap its many benefits.

Harbor Club remedies: Utilize the strength and cardio equipment at the new gym in The Grove, play pickleball, take a yoga class, take a Zumba class, play golf, jog on our new quarter-mile track, or go through our new Fit-Trail® with 10 fitness stations for stretching, bending and strength training.

Socialization

Isolation can put a significant strain on emotional well-being. To be happy and healthy, it is important to have positive social relationships with friends, family, and neighbors. Engaging in social interaction improves confidence and provides people with a sense of belonging. These factors can add years to your lifespan, so avoid dismissing opportunities to engage with others. Whether it’s sharing a meal or dancing the night away, you’ll be glad you went out and had fun with others.

Harbor Club remedies: Dinners, dances, and parties at the Clubhouse and Boathouse, Girls Night Out, Men’s Coffee and Conversation, Meet & Greet events, Trivia nights, live concerts at the Boathouse and Clubhouse and hanging out at the new dog parks at The Grove.

Hobbies

Enjoying hobbies can have a major impact on improving your physical and psychological well-being. It’s especially true for those hobbies that require rhythmic or repetitive activities since they induce a relaxation response in your brain. Hobbies keep your brain engaged and are an excellent creativity outlet, not to mention a stress reliever. No wonder adult coloring books are so popular!

Harbor Club remedies: Gardening at the new Victory Garden; fishing on Lake Oconee, the new Sanctuary Pond or various other stocked fishing ponds on our grounds; playing a round of golf, kayaking or paddle boarding on Lake Oconee; painting at a “Sips & Strokes” event; or biking on the 27 miles of well-maintained roads within our secure community.

Experiencing resort-style living gives families a better way to balance both work and play. That balance leads to a healthy and rewarding lifestyle that’s tough to beat. Make plans to visit Harbor Club on Lake Oconee to learn how living the Harbor Club Life can boost your well-being today!

Lake Oconee Wedding Venues

Harbor_Club_Clubhouse.jpg

“Harbor Club was perfection for our big day. The rehearsal dinner took place at Lighthouse Pointe, and our reception took place behind the polo stables. It was magical. The beauty of this Southern jewel was more than I ever expected.” – Caroline (via weddingwire.com)

b2ap3 large Harbor Club ClubhouseSheltered on the shores of Lake Oconee you’ll find the gorgeous community of Harbor Club. It is a dream location for your perfect wedding. With multiple excellent, well-appointed venues you’ve got several great choices for your big day. So whether you want to have a rustic barn wedding, an elegant lake wedding or something in between, Harbor Club offers something for everyone. Big or small, rain or shine, Harbor Club will have you covered (literally!). Take a look at our awesome venues:

The Stables

Located in a beautiful natural setting, the Stables are perfect for lovely pastoral barn wedding. Once used for the property’s equestrian events, this rustic facility captures the magic of southern heritage with a touch of modern elegance. It offers a 1,600 square-foot banquet hall with a bridal suite. Also, an outdoor tent can easily be accommodated to add more picturesque space for larger gatherings.

The Clubhouse

Our stunning Clubhouse features a spectacular ceremony lawn that overlooks the golf practice facility and the 10th and 18th fairways. With its massive picture windows, lush landscape and manicured lawn, the 15,000 square foot facility has an on-site, gourmet restaurant and offers an excellent location for a beautiful indoor or outdoor ceremony and reception.

The Boathouse

The Boathouse is one of only three boat-up restaurants on the beautiful shores of Lake Oconee. Here, you can delight your guests by arriving and departing via boat! The Boathouse includes both indoor and outdoor seating, catering and a lovely lake backdrop for amazing pictures of your memorable event.

The Lighthouse Point Pavilion

The Lighthouse is a quaint building that is fitting of its namesake. The facility offers both indoor and outdoor space as well as covered porch space. It is an intimate venue that is ideal for up to 50 guests.

The Oconee Room

This is a small, private room located conveniently in the Clubhouse. It has an amazing view of the 18th green and driving range. The Oconee Room can accommodate up to 20 guests for smaller gatherings.

Here’s one more reason to have your wedding at Harbor Club… Georgia’s renown Yesterday Cafe is just down the road from us and that’s where you can get their famous Buttermilk Pies. Hey, if it’s good enough for Carrie Underwood’s wedding (she ordered 300 of them!) it can certainly be a delicious addition to yours. Otherwise, leave the rest of the catering to our expert chefs who can handle every detail.

Come see Harbor Club for yourself. We’d love to show you this special place and help make your wedding day the most memorable and magical it can be.

Harbor Club on Lake Oconee: Review and Testimonial Roundup

Harbor-Club-testimonial_20160811-131120_1.jpg

At Harbor Club on Lake Oconee, we have a full understanding of how awesome our community is. It’s an exceptional place with wonderful neighbors, fantastic golf and water activities, all nestled on beautiful Lake Oconee. It is a lovely place to live. But don’t take our word for it. Take it from these fine people who have experienced the Harbor Club life for themselves:


Regarding Harbor Club golf:

“I played the Harbor Club golf course last week and I have not played a course in better shape than Harbor Club in a long, long time. The tee boxes, fairways and greens are all in great shape and the greens putted so true. If you have not played Harbor Club recently you should do so…your experience will be a great one.” – Andrew, via G+ review

My son-in-law and I played this gorgeous course as part of my father’s day gift and besides the stunning beauty of this expertly maintained course, I was most taken by the staff. It began with the super courteous young man who brought us our cart, continued through the wait staff at the restaurant as well as the pro shop and was especially noticeable from the expert way the starter and marshals kept up the pace of play. We were blown away with both the course and the staff. Well Done to all!!!” – rossjf9, via GolfAdvisor.com review

Regarding the Harbor Club community:

“Gorgeous community with a serene, beautiful lake and first class amenities. Harbor Club has something to offer every lifestyle. Great place to call home!!” – Anita, via G+ review

“You know, when we talk about Harbor Club being a neighborhood, it differentiates itself from a couple other gated communities, because you almost know everybody in the neighborhood. And that’s a warm feeling to have. You just don’t experience that in many other places.” – Julian, via Facebook video

Regarding the Harbor Club Boathouse Restaurant and Marina

“Great view, great BBQ, great music! …I love the new layout (golf, bocce ball, corn hole and a huge lawn). The BBQ is great, and they have bands on the lawn every Saturday. I hope it catches on because it has become our family’s favorite hangout when we are at the lake!!!”” – skosbu, via TripAdvisor review

Harbor Club on Lake Oconee is one of the friendliest neighborhoods you’ll ever find. Everybody here is so welcoming.” – Karen, via Facebook video

Regarding Harbor Club real estate:

“Working as an investment advisor, I wasn’t just looking at this as an opportunity to live in Harbor Club for the kids or the great school systems but also because of the long term investment. I think we got the best value in a home compared to other communities in the area — it’s just a great long-term investment.” Paul, via Atlanta’s Best New Homes video

“We visited communities in NC, SC, TN, FL & GA. We then purchased a lot in the Harbor Club and built our retirement home.” William30642HC, via RealEstateScorecard.com review

“Nothing compares to my property at Harbor Club. I have been a property owner for over 20 years at Harbor Club and I couldn’t be happier. The neighbors are great, the golf is extraordinary and the lake? Well, it’s incredible. And I have peace of mind knowing that Harbor Club is completely debt free.Kevin, via Facebook video

Have you had any experience with living the Harbor Club Life? Whether you are a Harbor Club homeowner or have enjoyed some of our wonderful amenities (The Golf Club and restaurant, The Boathouse restaurant and store, the marina, music events, club functions, activities, etc.), we’d love to know what you’ve enjoyed most about our community. Feel free to leave us a review. We appreciate every single one.

10 Reasons Why You Should Be Living the Lake Life

LakeLife-Harbor-Club-on-Lake-Oconee.jpeg

In no particular order, here are some of the top reasons why living the lake life is the best life there is:


  1. b2ap3 medium LakeLife Harbor Club on Lake OconeeBanish boredom
    Whether you are super-active or more laid back, life on the lake offers so many awesome things to do. One minute you’re doing some adrenalin-pumping jet skiing, and the next you’re lounging at the dock sipping a glass of sangria. What’s your pleasure? Boating or birding, lake life has you covered.

  2. Photo ops
    When you live on or near a lake, there will be tons of great photo opportunities. You’ll find beauty everywhere. From sunrises to sunsets, “boat life” to wildlife, your smartphone can capture the best of all of it. Of course, you can’t forget the fantastic backdrops a lake provides for your awesome selfies.

  3. Easy entertaining
    Parties, cookouts, boat rides, bonfires — when you have an event at the lake, you can be sure that invitees will not flake at the last minute. In fact, you’ll probably have more than expected. But that’s ok. You’re at the lake. The entertainment is ready-made.

  4. Fitness that’s FUN
    The lake offers up tons of fitness opportunities. Think about it – canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, kayaking and rowing, just to name a few. Even fishing is considered a sport. All of them involve you being outside in the fresh air and moving your muscles–all while having a great time.

  5. Lake hair, don’t care
    Ladies, when you are on or in the water, proper etiquette stipulates that you really don’t have to worry about your hair or makeup. Besides, swimming and non-waterproof mascara really don’t mix. And beachy-waves are super cool right now anyway.

  6. Super sunsets
    There’s nothing quite like a sunset at the lake. For some reason, the colors and hues are more vibrant — redder reds, pinker pinks and bluer blues. Add in a few puffy clouds and some pretty pines and you’ve got a gorgeous, naturally framed, postcard-perfect sunset. Bonus if the lake is calm enough to reflect the whole picture.

  7. Bonfires
    An evening at the lake can be made perfect with a bonfire by the water. Roast marshmallows, make s’mores, and tell ghost stories. No matter if you are young or old, everyone loves to hang out together by the fire as it dances, snaps and crackles.

  8. Epic watersports
    Tubing, water skiing, wakeboarding, wakesurfing — these are all watersports that are loads of fun on the lake. Even better, each of these activities are just as enjoyable to watch as they are to do. So whether you are an adrenalin junky or simply a spectator, you’ll be highly entertained either way.

  9. Spontaneous socializing
    Socializing at the lake can happen at a moment’s notice. One minute you’re boating by yourself and the next, you’re hooked up with a bunch of other boats in a manmade island of fun, suddenly hanging with a bunch of new friends. When you combine the lake with food, outdoor activities and watersports, you are swiftly connected with other like-minded neighbors who appreciate the same things you do, making socializing easy and a true pleasure.

  10. Relaxation
    Studies show that being around water provides a unique way to relax. It gives your brain a rest from overstimulation. Believe it or not, it can actually induce meditation, allowing you to be more mindful. It can help stave off stress and anxiety, as well as boost your ability to think more clearly and even sleep better. After a long day of work, there’s nothing quite like coming home to the peace and serenity of a beautiful lake view to help you relax.

 Want to experience #LakeLife for yourself? Discover Harbor Club today!