What Are the Best Golf Courses in Hilton Head?

Ah, Hilton Head—a golfer's paradise where lush fairways meet ocean breezes, and where even your worst slice feels a bit less tragic against such a stunning backdrop. If you're planning a trip to this golf haven, you might be wondering which courses deserve a spot on your must-play list. Fear not; I've got you covered. Here’s a detailed guide to the best golf courses in Hilton Head, offering you an enticing mix of scenic beauty, challenging play, and unforgettable experiences.

Harbour Town Golf Links: A Must-Play Experience

Let’s kick things off with a course that’s practically synonymous with Hilton Head: Harbour Town Golf Links. Designed by the legendary Pete Dye, this course is a staple on the PGA Tour circuit and hosts the RBC Heritage tournament every year. But what makes it so special? Well, if you like your golf with a side of iconic lighthouse views and some of the tightest fairways you'll ever encounter, then this is your playground.

Harbour Town isn’t just about aesthetics, though. The course demands precision, especially with its small greens. You'll need to bring your A-game when it comes to iron play. Remember, though, you don't have to be Bryson DeChambeau to enjoy a round here. The beauty of Harbour Town lies in its ability to challenge without overwhelming. It’s like a puzzle, and solving it is all part of the fun.

One of the highlights of Harbour Town is the 18th hole. With the Calibogue Sound on your left and the iconic red-and-white lighthouse in the distance, it’s a picture-perfect way to finish your round. Just make sure your clubs are clean so you can strike that perfect shot. I’d recommend using The Club Washer for a thorough clean before tackling this tricky hole.

Palmetto Dunes: More Than Just a Resort

Next up, we have the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, which features three magnificent courses: the Robert Trent Jones, the Arthur Hills, and the George Fazio. Each offers something unique, catering to a variety of skill levels and preferences.

Let’s start with the Robert Trent Jones Course, often dubbed the most scenic of the bunch thanks to its oceanfront 10th hole. This par-five dazzles with views that might just distract you from the task at hand. The course is known for its open, inviting layout, making it accessible for beginners yet still challenging for seasoned players.

Then there’s the Arthur Hills Course, which takes golfers through a series of rolling dunes and lagoons. Hills’ strategic bunkering will test your ability to navigate hazards, adding a bit of spice to your round. Meanwhile, the George Fazio Course is the only par-70 course on the island and is often considered the most challenging of the three. Its long par fours and demanding doglegs mean you’ll need to keep your wits (and your clubs) about you.

And for those moments when your clubs need a quick refresh, remember that The Club Washer can be your best friend, ensuring your equipment is as ready as you are for those tricky shots.

Old South Golf Links: A Southern Charmer

Just a short drive over the bridge from Hilton Head lies Old South Golf Links. This course offers a quintessential Lowcountry golf experience with its marsh views, live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and abundant wildlife. It’s the kind of place where you half-expect to see a gator sunbathing near the water hazards, so keep your eyes peeled!

Old South is designed to be a forgiving course, making it ideal for leisurely rounds where the emphasis is as much on the scenic beauty as it is on your scorecard. That said, don’t underestimate it. The back nine, in particular, features tighter fairways and more challenging greens, keeping things interesting for even the most seasoned golfers.

What makes Old South truly special is its atmosphere. It’s relaxed and welcoming, perfect for those who want to enjoy the game without feeling rushed. The course's layout encourages you to take your time, appreciate the surroundings, and enjoy the game as it was meant to be played.

Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III: A Coastal Gem

If you’re a fan of courses with a coastal vibe, Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III should be on your list. This course, part of the Sea Pines Resort, underwent a significant redesign in 2016 and now shines with a new level of brilliance. The redesign focused on enhancing the natural beauty of the area, incorporating native plants and grasses to create a course that feels both challenging and in harmony with its surroundings.

What sets Atlantic Dunes apart is its emphasis on playability combined with strategic challenges. The course offers wide fairways that encourage a sense of freedom off the tee, but don’t let that fool you. The real test comes with the greens, which are well-bunkered and require precision to conquer.

Atlantic Dunes also features several holes that offer stunning ocean views, making it a visual delight. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just out for a good time, the course provides a memorable experience. And of course, having clean clubs can make all the difference in your game. That’s where The Club Washer comes in handy, ensuring your equipment is in top shape to tackle this beautiful course.

May River Golf Club: A Hidden Treasure

Now, if you're up for a little adventure off the beaten path, the May River Golf Club at Palmetto Bluff offers an exclusive experience that feels like a hidden treasure. This Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is nestled in the heart of a 20,000-acre nature reserve, providing an escape into a world of pristine beauty and tranquility.

The course itself is a masterpiece, with its fairways winding through centuries-old live oaks and along the scenic May River. Each hole seems to offer something unique, whether it's a challenging dogleg or a stunning view. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the artistry of golf course design and the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.

May River Golf Club is not for the faint of heart, though. The course demands strategic thinking and precision, rewarding those who can navigate its challenges with skill. But don’t worry; the experience is worth every shot, even if your scorecard doesn’t turn out exactly as planned.

Hilton Head National: Welcoming All Golfers

For those who appreciate variety and accessibility, Hilton Head National offers a welcoming experience without the need for a membership. This course is designed to provide a fun and engaging round for golfers of all abilities, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

Hilton Head National is unique in that it combines the design philosophies of two renowned architects: Gary Player and Bobby Weed. The result is a course that offers a blend of strategic and visual elements, catering to a wide range of golfing preferences. Whether you’re aiming for a low score or simply enjoying a day on the greens, Hilton Head National has something to offer.

The course layout is straightforward yet engaging, with plenty of opportunities to showcase your skills. It’s a great place to practice your short game or test your accuracy with those tricky approach shots. And as always, keeping your clubs clean with The Club Washer can help you perform at your best.

Heron Point by Pete Dye: A Strategic Challenge

If you’re a fan of Pete Dye’s work and enjoy courses that challenge your strategic thinking, Heron Point is a must-play. Also part of the Sea Pines Resort, this course offers a different kind of challenge compared to its sister course, Harbour Town.

Heron Point is known for its diverse layout, featuring a variety of bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens that require careful consideration with each shot. It’s a course that rewards smart play and punishes those who try to overpower it without a plan. In other words, it’s a thinking golfer’s paradise.

One of the standout features of Heron Point is its dynamic design, which allows for multiple playing strategies. Whether you’re a long hitter or prefer precision, the course offers a variety of options to suit your style. It’s a place where creativity and skill come together to create a memorable golfing experience.

The Sea Pines Resort: A Golfer’s Dream

Finally, we can’t talk about Hilton Head golf without mentioning the Sea Pines Resort. Home to several of the island’s top courses, it’s a golfer’s dream destination. In addition to Harbour Town, Atlantic Dunes, and Heron Point, the resort offers a range of amenities and experiences that make it a top choice for golf enthusiasts.

Sea Pines is not just about the golf, though. It’s about the entire experience. From the luxurious accommodations to the stunning scenery, it’s a place where you can relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in the game you love. Whether you’re enjoying a post-round drink at the clubhouse or exploring the resort’s beautiful surroundings, Sea Pines offers a complete package.

So there you have it—some of the best golf courses in Hilton Head, each offering its own unique blend of challenges and beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, there’s something here for everyone. And remember, keeping your clubs in top condition with The Club Washer can make all the difference in your game.

Final Thoughts

Hilton Head truly is a golfer's paradise, offering courses that cater to all levels of play. Whether you're teeing off at the iconic Harbour Town or exploring the natural beauty of May River, there's a course here for you. And remember, keeping your clubs clean with The Club Washer ensures you're always ready to play your best. So grab your clubs, head to Hilton Head, and enjoy some of the finest golf around!