The Clubhouse

Discovering America’s golf island: An epic golf trip to Hilton Head Island

After a recent golf trip to picturesque oceanfront town of Hilton Head, our Golf Vacation Specialist listed out some of their favorite moments.

Ana Otano
Ana Otano
9 mins read
South CarolinaStay & playLuxuryGolf & beach

If you’re a golfer searching for your next unforgettable adventure, Hilton Head Island in South Carolina is calling your name. With jaw-dropping scenery, some of the best golf courses in the country, and top-notch accommodations, this is a golfer's paradise you simply can't miss.

Let’s dive into what makes Hilton Head the perfect destination for your next golf trip!

Palmetto Dunes: A golfer's dream

First on the list is Palmetto Dunes, a resort that boasts three incredible golf courses, each offering a distinct experience. The Robert Trent Jones Course is famous for its par-5 10th hole, which offers a breathtaking oceanfront view. With its wide fairways and expansive greens, this course is both scenic and challenging, providing an unforgettable golfing experience.

Meanwhile, the Arthur Hills Course demands strategic play, with its rolling dunes, dense forests, and tricky water hazards keeping you on your toes. The third course, designed by George Fazio, is widely regarded as the most challenging on the island, featuring long par 4s that require precision from tee to green.

When it's time to unwind, the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort is the ideal place to stay. With a variety of luxurious villas and vacation rentals, you'll have easy access to the golf courses, pristine beaches, and an array of dining options. The resort also offers extensive biking trails and a world-class tennis center, providing plenty of activities when you're not on the greens.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes

Palmetto Hall: A perfect blend of beauty and strategy

For golfers who appreciate a blend of natural beauty and strategic design, Palmetto Hall is a must-visit. The Arthur Hills Course here is another gem, combining the lush landscapes of the Lowcountry with a challenging layout that tests both skill and patience.

Nearby, the Robert Cupp Course, with its unique geometric bunkers and undulating fairways, stands out as a visually striking and demanding course.

Palmetto Hall's clubhouse

Oyster Reef Golf Club: A scenic challenge

Another highlight is the Oyster Reef Golf Club, designed by the legendary Rees Jones. This course is renowned for its pristine conditions and its famous par-3 sixth hole, which offers stunning views of Port Royal Sound. With its strategic layout and picturesque surroundings, Oyster Reef provides a truly exceptional golfing experience.

Oyster Reef Golf Course in Hilton Head.

Oyster Reef Golf Club

Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club: A historical twist

Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club adds a touch of history to your golf trip. The Barony Course, one of the island's oldest, features narrow fairways and small, well-bunkered greens that require accuracy and finesse.

Meanwhile, the Robber's Row Course, set on former Civil War grounds, blends history with challenging play, offering tree-lined fairways and captivating marsh views. Planter's Row, with its water hazards and scenic beauty, presents yet another unique challenge for golfers.

For those looking for luxury, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa is the ultimate choice. After a long day on the greens, you can pamper yourself with a spa treatment, indulge in a gourmet meal at one of the resort's excellent restaurants, or simply relax by one of the three oceanfront pools.

Port Royal Golf Club, Barony Course.

Barony Course at Port Royal Golf Club

Shipyard Golf Club: A hidden gem

Tucked away on the island, the Shipyard Golf Club offers a trio of courses that shouldn’t be overlooked. The Clipper Course, designed by George Cobb, challenges golfers with its narrow fairways, large greens, and multiple water hazards. The Galleon Course is known for its demanding layout and stunning scenery, while the Brigantine Course, with its mix of water hazards and tree-lined fairways, offers a variety of tests for golfers of all levels.

Brigantine Course at Shipyard Golf Club

Sea Pines Resort: The iconic experience

No trip to Hilton Head would be complete without a visit to the Sea Pines Resort, home to the legendary Harbour Town Golf Links. This Pete Dye-designed course, with its narrow fairways, small greens, and iconic lighthouse backdrop on the 18th hole, is a must-play for any golfer.

Also part of the resort is Heron Point, another Pete Dye creation, known for its risk-reward layout and stunning vistas. For a modern twist, Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III, a redesign of the historic Ocean Course, offers oceanfront holes, natural sand dunes, and native grasses.

To make your stay even more memorable, consider The Inn & Club at Harbour Town, which offers elegant rooms, personalized service, and easy access to Harbour Town Golf Links. Alternatively, choose from various vacation homes and villas within Sea Pines Resort, many of which offer stunning views of either the golf courses or the beach.

Atlantic Dunes, Sea Pines Resort.

18th hole at Harbour Town Golf Links

17th hole at Harbour Town Golf Links

Clubhouse and putting green at Harbour Town Golf Links

Patio at The Inn, Harbour Town

Hilton Head National: A pleasant surprise

Just a short drive from the island, the Hilton Head National Golf Club provides a delightful surprise. Featuring designs by both Gary Player and Bobby Weed, this course combines rolling terrain with strategic bunkering and pristine conditions, ensuring a memorable round of golf.

Hilton Head Golf Course

Final thoughts: Pack your clubs & get ready!

Hilton Head Island isn’t just another golf destination; it’s a whole experience waiting to be explored. With its diverse selection of courses, luxurious accommodations, and stunning natural beauty, it offers something for every golfer.

Whether you’re sinking a putt on the iconic 18th hole at Harbour Town or enjoying the comfort of The Westin, Hilton Head promises a trip filled with unforgettable moments both on and off the course. So, grab your clubs, book your vacation, and get ready for the golfing adventure of a lifetime!

Hilton Head Island harbor

Feeling inspired?
Famous for its championship golf courses, great weather and sun-drenched beaches, it’s little wonder Hilton Head Island is a hotspot for golfers.

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Ana Otano

Client Services Coordinator

Client Services Coordinator, helping customers on all elements of their golf trip

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