Escape to Sea Island and indulge in luxury
Nestled on the Golden Isles of Georgia, Sea Island is a serene barrier island renowned for its pristine beaches, coastal landscapes, and Southern hospitality. Just off the southeastern U.S. coast, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and luxury, making it an exceptional choice for a US golf vacation.
With its mild year-round climate, Sea Island is ideal for golf, relaxation, and outdoor adventures. Beyond the championship fairways, visitors can explore salt marshes, tidal creeks, and the scenic Atlantic shoreline. The nearby towns provide charming local culture, historic landmarks, boutique shopping, and authentic Southern dining. Sea Island feels like a true escape while still being well-connected for international and domestic travellers.
Why book a Sea Island golf package?
- Play world-class championship golf in a stunning coastal setting
- Discover pristine beaches, tidal marshes, and unspoiled natural beauty
- Enjoy authentic Southern dining, boutique shopping, and local history
- Benefit from a mild year-round climate, perfect for golf and outdoor activities
Golf trips in Sea Island – Georgia’s Golden Isles
This barrier island is home to exceptional courses and a golf heritage that includes hosting the PGA TOUR’s RSM Classic. With its mix of seaside links-style golf, scenic parkland, and welcoming resort layouts, Sea Island offers variety, challenge, and Southern charm in equal measure.
Travel tips for golfers visiting Sea Island:
- Best time to visit: March–May and September–November for ideal playing conditions and comfortable weather.
- Top tip: The shoulder seasons often offer great value, with fewer crowds and excellent course conditioning.
- Travel time: About 1 hour from Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and 75 minutes from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV).
- Transport: Regular shuttles make it easy to get between courses, accommodations, and nearby attractions.
- Booking tip: Tee times at top courses fill up fast, so plan early, especially for weekends and vacations.
Some of our favorite Sea Island courses:
Seaside Course Architects: Harry Colt & Charles Alison (1929), updated by Tom Fazio | Par: 70 | Length: 7,005 yards
The jewel of Sea Island, Seaside is a links-style course set along tidal creeks, salt marshes, and sweeping Atlantic views. Consistently ranked among the Top 100 courses in the U.S., it hosts the PGA TOUR’s RSM Classic each November. Wind is a constant factor, demanding creativity and precision.
Signature holes: The par-3 13th over marshland is breathtaking, while the par-4 17th is a classic risk-reward test. Insider tip: Play early in the morning for calmer winds and the most spectacular sunrise views.
Plantation Course Architects: Rees Jones & Davis/Mark Love (redesign) | Par: 72 | Length: 7,058 yards
Plantation blends wide fairways, mature trees, and coastal views into a welcoming yet strategic parkland design. It co-hosts the RSM Classic with Seaside and is known for its playability and balance, suiting golfers of all abilities.
Signature hole: The par-5 18th, reachable in two but heavily guarded by water, is a thrilling finish. Insider tip: Plantation is the friendliest of the championship layouts, perfect for warming up before tackling Seaside.
Retreat Course Architects: Davis Love III & Mark Love (2001) | Par: 72 | Length: 7,106 yards
The Retreat Course is a fun, player-friendly layout with wide landing areas and strategic bunkering. While more forgiving than its siblings, it still offers thoughtful design and memorable moments, making it popular with families and groups.
Signature hole: The par-4 6th, short, drivable, and tricky, is a true risk-reward gem. Insider tip: Retreat is ideal for a relaxed second round in the same day after tackling Seaside or Plantation.
Where to stay on your Sea Island golf vacation
If you’re planning a golf trip to Sea Island, you’ll find an outstanding selection of luxury resorts, intimate lodges, and private cottages that make your stay every bit as memorable as the golf itself. With its blend of Southern charm, five-star service, and championship fairways, Sea Island is the ultimate U.S. golf escape.
From grand oceanfront hotels to golfer-focused lodges and spacious private homes, there’s something for every type of traveller. Wake up to Atlantic breezes, enjoy a hearty Southern breakfast, and step straight onto world-class golf courses.
Best for all-in-one golf & leisure retreats Perfect for those who want everything in one place, golf, spa, dining, beach, and relaxation.
- The Cloister at Sea Island | 265 elegant rooms and suites The resort’s flagship property, The Cloister overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway, and landscaped gardens. Guests enjoy access to all three golf courses, a Forbes Five-Star spa, multiple dining venues, and the private Beach Club. It’s ideal for couples, families, or groups seeking luxury and variety in one setting.
Best for golfers who want to stay right on the course Designed for those who want championship golf and practice facilities right on their doorstep.
- The Lodge at Sea Island | English manor-style retreat With just 43 rooms and suites, The Lodge is steps away from the Seaside and Plantation Courses. Guests enjoy 24-hour butler service, private cottages, and fine dining at Colt & Alison. With panoramic course and ocean views, this is the ultimate choice for golfers who want a refined stay paired with effortless access to the fairways.
Best for relaxed stays with great value Ideal for families, groups, or those who want a casual base with full Resort Access.
- The Inn at Sea Island | 85 guest rooms A modern and welcoming hotel with a laid-back atmosphere. Guests enjoy amenities such as a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary bicycles. With golf packages, guests staying at The Inn receive Resort Access, unlocking privileges at The Cloister, The Lodge, and all three championship golf courses.
Best for space, privacy & longer stays Great for families or groups who want home-style living with five-star resort access.
- The Cottages | Multi-bedroom residences Set across the resort, these luxury homes and cottages offer spacious living, private pools, fully equipped kitchens, and multiple bedrooms. The Cottages are ideal for family gatherings, golf groups, or extended stays, with the added option of private chefs or in-home catering.
Want more flexibility? Try a customized US golf tour If you’d like to experience the very best of the southern US, why not combine a stay at Sea Island with other nearby gems? A tailor-made US golf tour allows you to:
- Play Sea Island’s courses plus other nearby favorites
- Choose from many different kinds of accommodation based on your group’s needs
- Add downtime for beaches, historic tours, or exploring amazing cities
- Customize your itinerary with spa treatments, fishing charters, or cultural excursions
As the world’s No.1 golf tour operator, we can help you design the perfect Sea Island golf escape, whether it’s a championship-focused trip, a luxury family vacation, or a group celebration.
"Sea Island is one of those rare destinations where world-class golf meets breathtaking natural beauty. Golfers who play here are spoiled for choice with layouts that are as scenic as they are challenging. Add in the year-round climate, Southern charm, and pristine beaches, and Sea Island delivers an unforgettable golf experience both on and off the course."
Golf travel tips for Sea Island
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Activities & things to do off the course
Beyond the fairways, Sea Island combines coastal beauty with Southern charm. With its pristine beaches, tidal marshes, and easy access to nearby Golden Isles towns, it’s the perfect base for a golf vacation that balances championship golf with culture, relaxation, and adventure.
Popular golf vacation types in Sea Island:
- All-inclusive golf vacations – Enjoy a seamless experience where golf, dining, and leisure come together. With five-star accommodations, championship courses, and award-winning restaurants, Sea Island offers the ultimate all-in-one golf vacation.
- Group golf vacations – With three courses, varied accommodations, and customizable packages, Sea Island is a top choice for group trips. Add private dining, coaching sessions at the Golf Performance Center, or even fishing charters to create a trip that suits everyone.
- Stay & play golf packages – Wake up just steps from the fairways at The Lodge, relax in style at The Cloister, or choose the more casual Inn at Sea Island. Stay & play packages give golfers the chance to combine luxury accommodation with pre-arranged tee times for the ultimate convenience.
Beyond the fairways in Sea Island
- St. Simons Island Lighthouse – A historic landmark dating back to 1872, offering panoramic views of the coast and a fascinating museum.
- Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island – One of the most photographed beaches in the U.S., with ancient driftwood trees creating a dramatic backdrop for walks and sunsets.
- Cumberland Island National Seashore – Accessible by ferry, this untouched island is famed for its wild horses, pristine beaches, and historic ruins.
- Fort Frederica National Monument – Explore the remains of an 18th-century British settlement on nearby St. Simons, perfect for history lovers.
- Marsh Kayaking & Eco Tours – Paddle through tidal creeks and salt marshes, spotting dolphins, herons, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Fishing & Boating – Charter a boat for deep-sea fishing, or enjoy a scenic cruise along Georgia’s coastline.
- Local dining & Southern hospitality – Sample coastal Georgia cuisine, from fresh seafood shacks to upscale restaurants, and soak in the warm, welcoming atmosphere.
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