Tag: South Carolina

Cherokee Valley Club – Greenville’s Hidden Gem

In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains north of Greenville, South Carolina lies the Cherokee Valley Course and Club. If you want mountain views but still need to be close to town, this hidden gem of a community is ideally located to satisfy all your needs. Sitting just 30 minutes north of downtown Greenville and less than an hour from Ashville, North Carolina, the Cherokee Valley Course and Club offers a relaxed environment with plenty to do.

This 450 acre development sits adjacent to North Greenville University and offers an outstanding array of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fly fishing, white water rafting, boating and more. Cherokee Valley enjoys a mild four season climate which permits outdoor recreation all year long. It is this wealth of activities and climate that make the area such a popular destination for families and retirees alike.

The wonderful 6,728-yard, par 72 P.B. Dye designed golf course is the centerpiece amenity at Cherokee Valley and has everything you want in a mountain golf course – dramatic elevation changes, scenic vistas, great playing conditions, smooth fast greens and plenty of opportunities to score with a properly struck shot. Other amenities include a modern 4,000 square foot fitness center, tennis courts, outdoor pool, putting green, driving range w/ indoor golf academy and the innovative Core 450 restaurant on the top floor of the clubhouse, overlooking the 9th and 19th greens.

The golf course starts out with a forgiving downhill tee shot, but you quickly discover that this is a true test of mountain golf. The greens are smallish in size, and are often perched on ledges or plateaus with huge drops on one side or more. Things really get interesting on the 226-yard par three 6th hole, with amazing views and a more than 70 foot drop from tee to green. Another 70-plus foot drop awaits on the 387-yard par four 7th hole. My high, drawing tee shot hit the downslope and jumped forward, bouncing and rolling down the hill and ending up almost pin high. From there however, I was faced with a flop shot to a tight pin on the green that was at least 10 feet above me. Number 11 is another picturesque hole, and then you get into some devilish short holes with a blind tee shot on 13 followed by the tricky par four 14th that has a creek flowing on both sides of the fairway and in front of the green. Climbing back up the hill on the par five 16th hole leaves you with a risk-reward downhill approach shot over water to the green. You may have managed to successfully navigate your way around the first 16 holes, but don’t get too cocky, because you are left with two of the toughest holes on the course (both long par fours) to end your round.

Cherokee Valley isn’t just a great residential community and golf club, but it’s also a perfect golf getaway for a group. The club owns and maintains several spacious, well appointed Cottage homes right on the golf course. The cottages vary in size, but the one I stayed in sleeps 8+ in four large master suites, a huge great room, full kitchen and a fantastic wrap-around porch to relax on and watch the world go by. The Cottages are just a short walk from the clubhouse, restaurant and practice facilities. Honestly, I don’t think you can do much better as a destination for a 3 or 4 day stay & play package. The rates are amazingly affordable – For example, bring 8 people and everyone can stay in Cottage #1 for $600 per night + $45 per player for golf (Weekends). That’s only $120 per player, per day for golf and accommodations!

Whether you are looking for a place to settle down and raise a family, an active community to retire to or a place for your next buddy trip, Cherokee Valley Course and Club will not disappoint!

Key Mileage Figures

14 Miles to Furman University

18 Miles to Greenville, SC

20 Miles to Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP)

35 Miles to Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)

48 Miles to Asheville, NC

50 Miles to Clemson University

102 Miles to Charlotte, NC

January 31, 2022
Fall 2021 Golf Packages in the Carolinas
The end of the golf season may be just a few months away in the Northern states & Canada, but in North & South Carolina the season is still going strong! The arrival of Autumn in the Carolinas means the hot, humid conditions typical of summer in the Southeast give way to cool nights, sunny days and moderate temperatures. The Blue Ridge Mountains are the perfect place to spend a week or two relaxing, playing golf and enjoying the numerous outdoor activities the region has to offer before gearing up for the holiday season.

Two of the better choices for a fall golf trip in the Carolinas are Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure, North Carolina and Cherokee Valley Course and Club in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. These two gems are worth a serious look any time of year, but the fall season is a particularly great time of year in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here’s some details about the resorts, and the fall vacation packages they have to offer.

Rumbling Bald

Tucked along scenic Lake Lure and surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rumbling Bald is secluded yet eminently accessible from myriad metro areas. Charlotte, Asheville and Raleigh, N.C., Knoxville and Nashville, Tenn. and Greenville and Spartanburg, S.C. are all between one and five hours away. The idyllic retreat features two contrasting 18-hole layouts: W.B. Lewis-designed Bald Mountain and Dan Maples-designed Apple Valley.

Rumbling Bald’s marquee course, Apple Valley, stretches to nearly 6,800 yards and features expansive views of Bald Mountain and the surrounding Lake Lure area. Maples estimated 75% of shots at Apple Valley are either level or downhill, virtually unheard of for a mountain course. Shimmering mountain lakes adorn 12 holes, but water only occasionally comes into play.

Rumbling Bald is rich with amenities and activities, including scenic Lake Lure boat tours, boat rentals, tennis, pickleball, a full-service spa and hiking trails. Families enjoy the Trout Stream Pool and Lazy River, winding its way through the outdoor pool area where guests relax under fan-cooled covered seating. It’s the perfect basecamp for exploring the natural wonders of western North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The property’s 150 vacation rental homes, condos and studios are ideal for golf groups of various sizes and feature golf course and mountain views. Post round, golfers can relax at Legends on the Lake, casual dining along the shores of Lake Lure, or grab a hearty sandwich and cold drink at Pinnacle Southern Kitchen at the Apple Valley clubhouse.
Fall Vacation Packages at Rumbling Bald

Starting at $313 per person, the popular “Hole-in-One” package features a two-night stay, two rounds of golf on the Apple Valley and Bald Mountain courses and unlimited range balls at both course’s recently upgraded practice areas. Lodging options abound, including the Apple Valley Studios (across from Apple Valley) and two- and four-bedroom Fairway Villas situated along Bald Mountain just steps from the first tee.

With a nod to the long-awaited 2021 Ryder Cup at Destination Kohler’s famed Whistling Straits in Wisconsin, Rumbling Bald continues to offer its limited availability “Ryder Cup Package” this fall. Expert golf vacation planners are available to design an exciting, Ryder Cup team formatted event for golf groups in search of an unforgettable experience.

The Ryder Cup Package starts at $541 per person and includes: three nights’ lodging; three rounds of golf scored and handicapped; complimentary replays on either course; a team shirt and hat; private, one-hour opening reception with wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres and unlimited use of the practice facilities. With the Ryder Cup played in the Central Time Zone, golfers compete against their buddies in the morning with plenty of time to catch the action from Whistling Straits in the afternoon.

For groups of 12 or more, Rumbling Bald offers gratis golf for group leaders upon booking their first trip to the property. The “12+ Comp” is ideal for PGA Professional-member trips, tournaments, or large golf buddy trips.

To learn more about Rumbling Bald’s golf courses and packages, visit www.rumblingbald.com, or email jdoran@rumblingbald.com. To book packages directly, or to speak with a golf vacation planner, call (828) 694.3072.

Cherokee Valley Course and Club
Cherokee Valley Course and Club is situated amid the rolling foothills of Upstate South Carolina’s scenic Blue Ridge region adjacent to North Greenville University. It features the region’s only P.B. Dye-designed golf course, a mountain-style gem winding through rolling hills and deep dales, sprinkled with ample stretches of gently rolling fairways and trademark Dye green complexes.

A round of golf on Cherokee’s P.B. Dye-designed mountain-style layout can be added for $35 on weekdays (Mon. – Thurs.), $45 on weekends (Fri. – Sun.) or $60 for “all you can play,” subject to availability. Golfers have a choice of playing on an exciting Finn Cycle electric scooter or the new E-Z-GO RXV golf carts equipped with high-resolution GPS screens and Bluetooth speakers. All For more information on cottage rates, configurations, availability or to book visit the course and club’s Accommodations Page.

Cherokee Valley’s cottage collection features three elegantly appointed homes along the golf course. Each is equipped with four bed-and-bath suites offering privacy and ample room. Rates start at $130 a night for one room with one bed, $600 for a four-bedroom cottage with two beds per room, and $1,000 for “Cottage Six,” a two-story home with four bedrooms upstairs and a king bed master suite, one bedroom with four queens, two bathrooms and a game / theater room downstairs.

Golfers enjoying a golf package at Cherokee Valley can now walk from their cottage to the course and club’s new full-service restaurant and gathering place, Core 450. Opened in May, Core 450 overlooks the ninth and 18^th greens evoking memories of a classic mountain retreat. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains and the expansive outdoor patio is the perfect place to dine or sip a drink while taking in the mountain air and Carolina sunshine.

Cherokee Valley has also partnered with the historic Westin Poinsett in beautiful downtown Greenville to offer value-laden packages. Located in the heart of one of America’s most acclaimed cities, the AAA Four Diamond hotel is an easy 30-minute drive from the course. Packages include a 350-square-foot guest room with one king or two queen beds, 42-inch flat screen, mini-fridge, 24-hour Westin Workout Fitness Studio and a round of golf with cart. Rates vary by season and can be obtained via our Partners Page.

For more information on golf packages and memberships, visit www.cherokeevalleyclub.com.
August 27, 2021
Swing into Spring at These Southeastern Golf Destinations
While the blooming dogwoods and azaleas of the Southeastern U.S. and the 2021 Masters are behind us, the golf season is just getting started. And oh, what a season it is shaping up to be.

Golf participation surged in 2020 as avid golfers played even more golf, new players were introduced to (and stuck with) the game, and an influx of juniors has the future of the game looking brighter than ever. And if 2020 was the year for playing golf around town, 2021 is looking like the year to grab the clubs and hit the road.

Fortunately, this golf-rich region serves up some of the best golf destinations the country has to offer. Here’s a sampling of top shelf resorts from the land of BBQ, bourbon and college football.

Florida

Innisbrook Golf Resort –Innisbrook’s Copperhead Course is a favorite among PGA TOUR pros, and it’s also one of the most difficult on the circuit. This highly amenitized resort west of Tampa on the Gulf of Mexico houses four courses along with a variety of rooms, suites and vacation rentals.

PGA National Resort and Spa – Palm Beach County is a hotbed of golf, and it doesn’t get any hotter than PGA National Resort and Spa, home of the PGA TOUR’s Honda Classic. Five courses, including the Jack Nicklaus designed Champ, await golfers willing to test their mettle against this tournament tested venue.

PGA Golf Club – The flagship public property of the PGA of America, PGA Golf Club is a 54-hole golf panacea with a world-class practice range, short game area and short course. Catch a bite to eat in the Taplow Pub and stay a few nights in the adjacent Perfect Drive Villas or neighboring Hilton Garden Inn.

Streamsong Resort – One of Florida’s newest golf resorts got even newer with the opening of its Gil Hanse-designed Black Course in 2018. The resort’s Red and Blue courses have also quickly moved atop the national rankings, and the Streamsong Lodge is the perfect place to kick back and relax, post round.
- Streamsong Red
Georgia

Callaway Resort and Gardens – Golf may not be the first thing that comes to mind at this famous water-skiing stronghold, but the 18-hole Lake View and Mountain View Courses are a couple underrated gems. Golfers can chose from the AAA Four Diamond Lodge, cottages or villa accommodations.

Reynolds Lake Oconee – Reynolds Lake Oconee is to Georgia as Pinehurst Resort is to North Carolina. That is to say, a seemingly endless supply of golf in the form of six highly-ranked layouts designed by Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Rees Jones, Bob Cupp and Jim Engh. Lodging ranges from cozy cottages to the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Lake Oconee.

Sea Island Resort – While Georgia is better known as the home of The Masters, the RSM Classic at Sea Island Resort is a PGA TOUR player favorite. So much so, several pros make their home at this golf haven on Atlantic. The Seaside Course is a Tom Fazio redesign perched hard on the Atlantic, the Plantation Course was recently renovated by natives Davis and Mark Love, who also recast the Retreat Course in 2001.
North Carolina

Grandover Resort – Golfers need only veer off I-85 in Greensboro to access this 36-hole collection designed by Gary Panks. A full-service onsite hotel offers all the accoutrements, from casual and fine dining to a spa and fitness center.

Pinehurst Resort – Nine 18-hole courses, including the famed No. 2, frequent U.S. Open host course, make Pinehurst Resort the largest golf resort in the U.S. Golfers also love The Cradle, a nine-hole short course designed by Gil Hanse, and Thistle Dhu, a 75,000 square-foot putting course. Golfers can choose from three hotels, including the recently renovated Manor Inn, just a short walk to the new Pinehurst Brewing Co.

Rumbling Bald – Spring in Western North Carolina means mountain golf and Rumbling Bald along scenic Lake Lure obliges with two 18-hole tracks, Apple Valley and Bald Mountain, designed by W.B. Lewis and Dan Maples. Spacious vacation rentals are available for stay-and-plays, and the lake offers endless off-course activities.
South Carolina

Cherokee Valley Course and Club – Upstate South Carolina’s premier golf destination, Cherokee Valley is home to a P.B. Dye mountain-style layout, on-site cottages and a brand-new casual dining restaurant, Core 450. Get game ready at one of South Carolina’s most expansive practice facilities.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort – For golfers who want to play where the pros play this year, Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s Ocean Course is hosting the 2021 PGA Championship in May. If Pete Dye’s diabolic oceanside layout it too tough to tackle, four other 18-hole courses adorn this majestic barrier island near Charleston. Catch a good night’s rest at the Sanctuary at Kiawah, a AAA Five Diamond hotel.

Myrtle Beach – While it’s not a resort, per se, the Grand Strand one of the world’s most iconic golf destinations. Accommodation options are limitless, and lineup cards can be filled with vaunted venues like Tidewater Golf Club, Grande Dunes Resort Course, King’s North at Myrtle Beach National, Caledonia Golf and Fish Club.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort – Hilton Head is known as “Golf Island,” and the three brawny layouts at Palmetto Dunes are a big reason for that moniker. The Robert Trent Jones features one of the island’s only oceanfront holes, and the George Fazio and Arthur Hills courses round out the bill. Golf groups love the popular “Birdies and Beer Getaway” and the resort’s comfy vacation rentals.

Sea Pines Resort – Settled along Hilton Head Island’s south end, The Sea Pines Resort is home of the PGA TOUR’s RBC Heritage tournament and famed Harbor Town Golf Links. Two other championship caliber tracks reside inside the gates, Heron Point by Pete Dye and Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III. The Inn and Club at Harbor Town is just a pitching wedge from the clubhouse and the famed Yacht Basin is a short jaunt away.
- Sea Pines – Harbor Town Golf Links
May 5, 2021
Destination: Hilton Head Island

When it comes to golf getaways, Hilton Head still holds its own with any golf destination in North America. More than $200 million has been invested in upgrading “Golf Island’s” hotels, resorts and golf courses over the past decade.

There are more than 30 courses clustered within the island’s 70 square-miles and sprinkled around neighboring Bluffton and Beaufort, so the next round of golf is never more than a few minutes away. And with the spring forward to daylight savings time, the Hilton Head area sets up perfectly for a 36-hole-a-day golf binge.

Here’s a lineup of premier on- and off-island courses, as well as the inside scoop on accommodations, dining and transportation.

Top Tier

Harbour Town Golf Links at The Sea Pines Resort is the long-time home of the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage, a fan and player favorite. This Pete Dye/ Jack Nicklaus collaboration epitomizes Lowcountry course design replete with live oak-lined corridors, diminutive greens and Dye’s trademark bulkheads lining languid lagoons.

Walking off the 16^th green and toward the tee box on the par-3 17^th, the Calibogue Sound comes into view with shrimp and sailboats passing by. Harbour Town concludes with one of America’s most famous finishing holes, the par-4 18^th playing into the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse.

Just a smooth 3-wood away from Harbour Town, Sea Pines Resort’s Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III is a masterful overhaul of the resort’s historic Ocean Course, the island’s first course. Completely reinvented by Love Golf Design, native seaside grasses and coquina shells meld with pines and oaks to create a calming coastal ambiance that puts golfers at ease.

The Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort is widely considered one of the most scenic and challenging courses in the state. Having opened in 1967 just two years before Harbour Town, the two courses’ histories are forever linked by two World Golf Hall of Fame architects.

Jones’ former protégé Roger Rulewich updated the course in 2002, elevating the fairway on the signature par-5 10^th hole for even better views of the Atlantic Ocean. Credited with designing the majority of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Rulewich spent considerable time reworking every tee box and green.

George Fazio’s Palmetto Dunes – #16

Solid Seconds

While it’s technically in Bluffton just off the island, Old South Golf Links is the area’s most underrated layout. Designed by local golf course architect Clyde Johnston, Old South is the only area public course playing along the Intracoastal Waterway.

The front and back nine views, with MacKay Creek and the Calibogue Sound in the distance, are among the best in the region and are a great way to welcome your golf group to the Lowcountry. The variety of indigenous terrain is also surreal – oak forest, pastures and tidal marshes are all on display, and in play.

Back at The Sea Pines Resort, Heron Point by Pete Dye (formerly the Sea Marsh course) was a labor of love for the renowned golf course architect, who returned several times to tweak its putting surfaces and greens surrounds. From its 7,035-yard tips and with a slope of 140, it gives Harbour Town a run for its money as the resort’s toughest track.

Playing to more than 7,000 yards with a 139-slope rating from the tips on the island’s north end, Oyster Reef continues to challenge low handicap golfers while appealing to players of all skill levels with its spectacular setting. Jones returned in 2018 to lead a full-scale bunker renovation project, restoring the course to its circa 1982 splendor.

At Palmetto Dunes, George Fazio Course is Hilton Head Island’s only par-70, and with a slope of 144 from the 6,873-yard back tees, it’s considered by many to be the most difficult resort course on the island. With just two par 5s and a series of meaty par 4s, proper tee selection is paramount.

Preferred Private

It’s a well-established pattern: a week-long visit to Hilton Head Island one year turns into a month-long stay the following year. Eventually golfers fall in love with Golf Island and relocate to enjoy its laid-back lifestyle year-round. And when they do, Sea Pines Country Club is often the private golf venue of choice.

The only private club located inside the gates of the Sea Pines community – a 5,000-acre masterplan including the resort, Beach Club, shops, dining and more – Sea Pines Country Club’s Arnold Palmer-Clyde Johnston-designed layout is a pure Lowcountry offering replete with live oaks draped in Spanish moss, languid lagoons and native grasses.

While not as widely known as the 18^th hole on Harbor Town, the finishing hole at the club, set along one of the island’s largest tidal marshes, is an absolute stunner. Post round, members enjoy their favorite beverages and a variety of eats at the Blue Heron Pub and Grille or relax by the club’s expansive resort-style pool.

Where to Stay

For sheer convenience during a multi-day golf trip, it’s hard to top a rental home or villa at The Sea Pines Resort or Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. These vacation residences are fully-appointed with all the amenities of home, including flat screen TVs, washers and dryers, wireless internet and fully-equipped kitchens.

Dining and Nightlife

There are more than 250 restaurants on Hilton Head Island ranging from celebrity chef-driven restaurants to locally owned seafood joints. For a true taste of Lowcountry waterfront dining, check out Skull Creek Boathouse or Skull Creek Dockside.

Replenish calories burned from a long day on the links with a full Italian meal at Frankie Bones or a dry aged steak from WiseGuys. And whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, do not miss the chance to visit Java Burrito for the region’s best “Fresh Mex” and espresso.

For those who prefer to grab a bite at or near the golf course, options abound. At Palmetto Dunes, Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers, Pizza at the Robert Trent Jones Course clubhouse is open seven days a week serving three meals a day. Links, an American Grill, in the stunning new Harbour Town Clubhouse, serves up signature filet, strip and porterhouse steaks. The LagerHead Tavern at Oyster Reef showcases Southern comfort food with a twist.

Getting Here

Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH) on the island’s north end offers non-stop and one-stop service from multiple hub cities and connections via American Airlines. Seasonal Saturday flights to/from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) are offered as of April 10, 2021

The new route complements year-round service from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and seasonal service from Washington Reagan Airport (DCA), Chicago (ORD), Dallas/Ft. Worth (DFW) and Philadelphia (PHL). Book your flight to Hilton Head Island at www.AA.com.

Delta Air Lines Airlines also offers nonstop and one-stop service to HHI via its Atlanta (ATL) hub with connections from 200+ cities worldwide.

Golfers can also utilize Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), with direct flights from numerous East Coast, Midwest and Texas airports. Southwest Airlines service began in March with six flights from five markets.

Hilton Head Golf Island expert golf vacation planners are available to help you design your ideal Hilton Head Golf Island golf trip. Click here to complete a brief form and to receive a custom quote.

April 13, 2021
Discover the Hidden Side of Hilton Head Golf

While the PGA TOUR goes on a (hopefully) brief hiatus, we’re left with enough collective time to plan our next golf trip. And if jumping on an airplane doesn’t sound all that appealing right now, we’ve got good news: 80 percent of all South Carolina visitors arrive by car.

Even from Canada, believe it or not, travel bans notwithstanding.

That also pertains to the Palmetto State’s storied Lowcountry region, including Hilton Head, also known as “Golf Island.” While the RBC Heritage was cancelled along with all of April and most of May’s PGA TOUR events, Hilton Head, Bluffton and Beaufort still await traveling golfers from points north and south.

From exclusive private courses and high-end resorts to must-play mid-tier daily fee layouts, the region is rife with golf options. It’s easy to unearth the wildly popular tracks, like Harbour Town and the Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes.

But dig a little deeper, call in a few favors or even pony up for a membership to go private, and golfers will discover a hidden side of Hilton Head golf to be fully explored and treasured.

May River Golf Club, Montage Palmetto Bluff

Located just off the island in idyllic Bluffton and originally opened in 2004, May River Golf Club has developed a reputation as of one of Jack Nicklaus’ finest designs. The Golden Bear returned in 2017 to restore the Signature layout to its first-class form.

Nicklaus’ deft delineation between formal and native bunkers adds a unique design element architecture aficionados will appreciate. The layout meanders around the May River and coastal wetlands of Palmetto Bluff, and caddies educate golfers on optimal angles and club selection.

Golfers can bed-down at the Montage Palmetto Bluff set within 20,000 acres of Palmetto Bluff’s maritime forest and surrounded by 32 miles of riverfront. The boutique features three pools, eight restaurants, a spa and a seemingly endless array of activities.

The Club Course, Sea Pines Country Club

Sea Pines Country Club’s Club Course is a pure example of Lowcountry golf course design, with its narrow, tree-lined fairways, doglegs, subtle green complexes and languid lagoons. There’s a since of intrigue on every tee box of this Arnold Palmer-designed layout as to what style of hole comes next.

A private, invitation only club situated in Sea Pines Plantation, members are not required to live inside the gates to join. The club sets up perfectly for those relocating to Hilton Head or east Bluffton who want freedom of residential choice. As the saying goes, every Hilton Head visitor is a future resident, and every resident a future golfer.

The Club Course, updated by Clyde Johnston in 2001, has even been referred to as “Little Harbour Town” due to its similarities to the Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus masterpiece just a sand wedge to the south. Apropos, given that original architect Palmer won the inaugural RBC Heritage in 1969 and incorporated many of Harbour Town’s design elements.

Old South Golf Links, Hole 18

Old South Golf Links, Bluffton

Also designed by Johnston, Old South Golf Links is the only area public course playing along the Intracoastal Waterway. The front and back nine views, with McKay’s Creek and the Calibogue Sound in the distance, are among the best in the region, public and private venues considered.

The variety of Lowcountry terrain is also fascinating – oak forest, pastures and tidal marshes are all on display, and in play. The finishing stretch, holes 16 through 18, is vintage Lowcountry with target fairways and greens requiring carries over marshland. Golf packages are offered with other area courses.

One round at Old South and golfers will appreciate Johnston’s brilliant routing and subtle approach to Lowcountry golf course design.

Oyster Reef

When Oyster Reef Golf Club on Hilton Head Island opened in 1982, it was recognized by many golf experts as one of the best new courses in the U.S., because of its fortunate location, a marquee designer in Rees Jones and a strategically compelling layout.

Playing to more than 7,000 yards with a 139-slope rating from the tips, Oyster Reef continues to be a place where golfers go to look for a challenge, as well as one of the most visually appealing courses in the entire region.

Atlantic Dunes, The Sea Pines Resort

Having opened in 2016, Atlantic Dunes is the newest course at The Sea Pines Resort, wrought from what was once the oldest course on Hilton Head Island. Originally the Ocean Course, Davis Love III, brother Mark and lead architect Scot Sherman completely overhauled the layout to present a pure coastal aesthetic.

Love Golf Design removed hundreds of aging trees (all environmentally approved), restored natural dune lines and added coquina shells and native seaside grasses. The par-3 15^th hole is one of just two holes on the island with an unencumbered view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Getting There

Hilton Head is within a half-day’s drive of major Southeastern cities like Atlanta, Charlotte and Raleigh, and just over eight hours from Washington D.C. Kentucky, Tennessee and Ohio — all popular golfer origins, are six to 12-hour drives. Golfers have two airport options, Savannah Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), or Hilton Head Airport (HHH) on the north end of the island. Service was once limited to HHH, but has been exponentially expanded with direct flights on Delta, American and United from nine major cities

Shane Sharp is a longtime member of the Golf Writers Association of America and contributing editor to GOLF Magazine. He’s based in Greenville, S.C. where he owns Southbound 4, a golf-focused content marketing and PR firm.

April 2, 2020
Hilton Head Island’s Golf Gems

Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III Hole #15 – Photo courtesy of The Sea Pines Resort / Rob Tipton

All eyes were on “Golf Island” in April as the PGA TOUR came to Hilton Head. The RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing – a Lowcountry tradition and South Carolina’s only PGA TOUR event – was played on the iconic Harbour Town Golf Links at The Sea Pines Resort on April 13 – 16.

Both on and off-island layouts are experiencing some of the best course conditions in years. Coupled with temperatures in the 70s and more direct flights than ever into Savannah / Hilton Head International Airport, spring is the perfect time to visit Golf Island. Keep reading to learn about some of the golf gems in Hilton Head and the surrounding area.

On-Island Gems

Harbour Town Golf Links, designed by the legendary Pete Dye, is a favorite venue among TOUR players, and anchors a stable of championship-caliber tracks across Hilton Head Island. Here’s a sampling of some of the destination’s most challenging and player-friendly layouts appealing to a wide swath of players.

Hole #4 Heron Point – Photo courtesy of The Sea Pines Resort / Rob Tipton

Also designed by Dye, Heron Point was named South Carolina’s 2015 Golf Course of the Year. Dye supervised recent enhancements including softening green surrounds and contours, enlarging several putting surfaces and adding numerous ornamental landscape beds. Additionally, the putting surfaces were transitioned to Tif-Eagle Bermuda.

Opened in October 2016, Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III is a complete reconstruction of the historic Ocean Course, Hilton Head Island’s first course. The new layout features entirely rebuilt holes with modern shot values and scenic corridors. The pronounced seaside ambience and Lowcountry feel is accented by coquina shells and seaside grass.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort also showcases a trio of tournament-tier golf courses, designed by three legendary architects: Robert Trent Jones, George Fazio and Arthur Hills. Switch things up by renting a Golf Bike instead of a cart for your round.

The Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes sports one of only two oceanfront holes on Hilton Head Island. It is widely renowned for its open, inviting layout and challenging yet fair play. It is the most open of the three and breezes roll off the Atlantic Ocean to constantly affect play. Ranked one of Golfweek’s “Best Resort Courses” for 2017, the Jones Course appeals to novices and experienced players alike.

Hilton Head Island’s only public par-70 design, the George Fazio Course at Palmetto Dunes has just two par 5s, both offering a good opportunities to score. The layout balances open, tree-lined fairways on the front nine with tighter and more severe routing on the back nine. With new, state-of-the-art Diamond Zoysia greens, the Fazio Course delivers a peak golf experience.

Palmetto Dunes – Arthur Hills #16

Measuring 6,651 yards from the tips, the Arthur Hills Course at Palmetto Dunes places a premium on accuracy and precision rather than distance. With an extensive network of lagoons winding through 10 different holes, continuous lines of dunes and thick stands of palmettos, the Hills Course seamlessly integrates the area’s natural beauty into its challenging design.

Off-Island Gems

Just over the bridge from Hilton Head Island, Old South Golf Links showcases the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. At this local favorite, golfers play beneath towering live oaks and alongside the Intracoastal marshes of Mackays Creek. Three holes end at picturesque island-like greens. Water and wetland pose a threat on all but three holes. Recognized by Golf Digest as one of the “Top 10 New Public Courses” of 1992, Old South remains one of the area’s finest layouts 25 years later.

The Pete Dye Signature Golf Course at Hampton Hall is a classic links style with wide fairways and landing areas, unobstructed green approaches and a safe route on every hole. Playing at 7,503 yards from the tips, length is an important factor. Nestled within a private golf community, the course does allow limited outside play. Golfers may call the pro shop up to one week in advance to schedule a tee time.

Day Tripper

Less than an hour north of Hilton Head Island, visitors can combine American military history with a round of golf. Situated within Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, The Legends Golf Course at Parris Island features beautiful marsh views and a challenging – and unique – golf experience. Originally designed by Fred Findley and George Cobb in the 1940s, the par-72 course was redesigned by Clyde Johnston in 2000. Last September it became the first military golf course in the world to earn the Golf Environment Organization’s certification. Parris Island has been training Marines since 1915. Before or after a round of golf, visitors can explore the depot’s many monuments, statues and memorials commemorating generations of Marines.

A designated Wildlife Sanctuary, Fripp Island’s 3000 acres of natural beauty are home to over 175 species of birds as well as raccoons, gators and an abundance of deer. Its two courses – Ocean Point and Ocean Creek – have at least one thing in common: spectacular scenery. A George Cobb design, Ocean Point boasts dramatic views of the ocean or inlet on 10 of its 18 holes. Both the front and back nine finish against a stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. The other layout, Ocean Creek, was Davis Love III’s first signature course. Its magnificent panoramic views of the Great Salt marsh and freshwater lakes are ideal for viewing some of the abundant wildlife in their natural habitat.

Sanctuary Golf Club at Cat Island is a player-friendly layout that rewards good shots. Although a selection of elevated greens appear daunting, overall the course is a fair test. Located on a 400+ acre barrier island, Sanctuary Golf Club is Lowcountry golf at its best with statuesque oak trees draped in Spanish moss and splendid views of Port Royal Sound throughout.

Grab your clubs and journey to Hilton Head Golf Island. Natural beauty, outstanding golf and a relaxing island vibe await your arrival.

April 26, 2017
7 Reasons to Visit Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island has long been one of the most popular and beloved vacation destinations in the United States, but have you visited the island lately? They are upping their game and ready to impress. Some say Hilton Head Island is too expensive, but if you think that you simply aren’t looking hard enough. While Hilton Head Golf Island offers plenty of upscale, premium golf experiences, there are also some fantastic deals available without having to skimp on quality.

#10 Jones Course, Palmetto Dunes

“Spring is the peak season for golfers to visit Hilton Head Island to experience our world-class golf courses, stunning Lowcountry scenery and amazing culinary offerings,” says Cary Corbitt, President of the Lowcountry Golf Course Owners Association and Vice President of Sports and Operations at Sea Pines Resort. “Many resorts have made significant upgrades and improvements – totaling more than $200 million – to both their golf courses and accommodations to make everyone’s golf experience here truly memorable.”

If you are searching for a great value for a buddies golf trip or even a family getaway, you need to take a serious look at Hilton Head Island. Below are just seven reasons why you should visit the Carolina Low Country this spring.

#16 Fazio Course – Palmetto Dunes

7 Reasons to Visit Hilton Head Island This Spring
1. Hilton Head Golf Island’s territory includes over 30 golf courses on and around the island, including championship designs from legendary golf course architects like Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones, George Fazio and Pete Dye.
2. Hilton Head Golf Island’s courses and resorts have earned top 10 rankings in seven categories by Golf Digest, including “Best Buddies Trip Destination,” “Best Accommodations,” “Best Couples Trip,” “Best Courses,” “Best Food and Drink,” “Best Weather” and “Best Value.” Hilton Head Island also was named the International Association of Golf Tour Operators’ Golf Destination of the Year for North America for 2016.
3. The PGA Tour stops by Hilton Head Island every spring to play the RBC Heritage at Harbor Town Golf Links. The PGA Tour pros love spending a week on Hilton Head Island. It’s always ranked one of their favorite tournament stops every year.
4. Hilton head Island is easy to get to. It’s less than an 8 hour drive up or down I95 for millions of people, and Savanah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is very convenient for those traveling by air. SAV has daily non-stop flights on JetBlue from Boston and New York City, and Allegiant Air flies non-stop from Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Baltimore, Pittsburgh and others. 14 other locales offer non-stop service to SAV from Chicago, Detroit, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Philadelphia and Washington D.C.
5. There’s much more to do than just golf! To start, Hilton Head Island is home to 8 of the world’s top 100 tennis resorts and boasts over 500 public and private tennis courts. Then there’s world class inshore and offshore fishing and boating and kayaking, miles and miles of beaches, bike trails, nature walks and bird watching, plenty of art galleries, shopping and dining.
6. The weather is fantastic. You’ll be at the very southern tip of South Carolina, near the Georgia border. With an average low of 57° and an average high of 75°, you are more likely than not to get great weather when you visit. March, April & May are the best months, with average temps in the low 60s to mid 70s.
7. It’s not as expensive as you think. In fact, it’s pretty cheap! Take Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort’s “Birdies and Beer Getaway” package for example – Guests enjoy four days/three nights in a two-bedroom villa at the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, and three rounds of golf on the resort’s three championship courses: Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront, Arthur Hills and George Fazio. Starting at $180 per golfer/per night, the promotion features breakfast and beers via a resort gift card. Also offered: two hours of court time per day per villa at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center, range balls, dining and pro shop discounts, and preferred rates and priority access to all resort activities and amenities. $180 per night at a high quality resort like Palmetto Dunes is hard to beat!
#16 Hills Course – Palmetto Dunes

For additional information about rates, restrictions and other package inclusions, or to receive a quote, visit: www.hiltonheadgolfisland.com or call (800) 523-3373
March 1, 2016
Sea Pines Resort & Harbour Town Golf Links
Click to enlarge

When listing some of the premier golf destinations in the United States, The Sea Pines Resort on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina is always near the top of the list. The flagship golf course at Sea Pines is the legendary Harbour Town Golf Links. Designed by Pete Dye in 1969, it remains one of the most beloved and admired courses in the US. It is a favorite of PGA TOUR professionals also, who come to Hilton Head Island to play in the prestigious Heritage Tournament every year. The iconic finishing hole, bordered by the Calibogue Sound and framed by the famous Harbour Town Lighthouse, is one of the most recognizable holes in golf. Heralded by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the “World’s Best Places to Stay”, I decided to see for myself what the Sea Pines Resort is all about.

My first observation of the Sea Pines Resort was how vast it is. Occupying the southern third of Hilton head Island, the resort is located along 5000 acres of oceanfront property that stretches across the island to Calibogue sound on the north side. Because the resort area is so large, you never get the feeling of being cramped or rushed. Sea Pines really has an old southern feel and pace to it. My only concern was having enough time to explore the entire resort! One thing is for sure – This isn’t simply a golf resort. It’s much more than just golf.

Visitors have several choices for accommodations when booking a stay at Sea Pines. The villas and homes are perfect for small groups and families, and there are four distinct areas to choose from for your stay. The Oceanside villas are just as the name implies – a short walk to the beach or directly on the beach itself. Many are also a short distance to the Sea Pines Beach Club as well as the Heron Point and Ocean golf courses. Harbour Town’s villas and homes allow quick access to the famous Harbour Town Lighthouse, boutiques, galleries, waterview restaurants , cafes, lounges and more. Here guests can also enjoy the nightlife and dinner cruises after spending a day on the water with jet skis, parasailing and fishing charters. At the center of the resort, the Plantation villas and homes offer something for nature buffs. Set among huge oaks and miles of nature trails, guests can enjoy bike rides, cook outs by the pool or just watch the world go by.

For those looking for a more upscale, full service experience at Sea Pines Resort, there is the Inn at Harbour Town. This AAA Four Diamond European style boutique hotel sits adjacent to the Harbour Town Golf Links, the Sea Pines Resort Racquet Club and the Harbour Town Conference Center, and is also walking distance to Harbour Town’s shops, restaurants and marina. The Inn offers luxurious suites and rooms, private butler and concierge service, imported bed linens and soaking tubs, among other luxuries. The service is second to none, and the all British staff gives the Inn a distinct European charm. Our room on the third floor overlooked the first tee and putting green of the golf course. I thoroughly enjoyed the peace and quiet while sitting on the balcony in the early morning watching the sun rise over the inn, drenching the clubhouse and golf course with its warm rays. The Inn at Harbour Town is the perfect place to stay in my opinion. It is close to everything, wonderfully staffed and comfortable enough to stay in your room all day if you so choose. The overall feel is intimate and uncrowded, and because there are only 60 guest rooms I imagine it will always feel this way.

Harbor Town Golf Links – Sea Pines Resort

Click to enlarge

With the golf courses that await visitors at Sea Pines, you won’t want to stay in your room very long. While there is certainly lots to do here, golf remains the focal point of the resort for good reason. Famed course architect Pete Dye (With input from Jack Nicklaus) created the Harbour Town Golf Links in 1969 and it has played host to the best golfers in the world ever since. Not a long course by today’s standards at 7101 yards (The course was lengthened by the addition of several new tee boxes since the PGA TOUR played it last April), it remains a stern test of golf, sporting a slope rating of 147. Pete Dye utilized large waste areas, railroad ties, water hazards and huge oaks draped with Spanish moss to create a modern golf masterpiece. The resort has taken steps to ensure the course remains in fantastic shape, and as such motorized golf carts are relegated to cart paths only. You’ll want to leave the heavy staff bag at home however, because the combination of a classic design and strong caddie program makes this a perfect course to walk. Studying the design, there seems to be a pattern for how to attack each hole that alternates with an uncanny rhythm. For example – The first hole must be approached from the right side, the second from the left side, and the third from the right again. The same pattern emerges again on the back nine on holes 12 through 15. (Left, right, left, right)

As I just alluded to with regards to the design, most of the holes move in one direction or the other and golfers must approach the green from a specific side of the fairway to get at the pin. A perfect example of this is the par 4 eighth hole. As if measuring 473 yards from the back tees wasn’t enough, you must hit your tee shot to the right side of the fairway to even have a chance to go for the green. After a 280 yard tee shot that split the fairway, I was still left with a shot of some 200 yards that I had to draw 15 yards from right to left around the towering oaks on the corner of the dogleg. I was pretty happy to leave that hole with a five. Not only does a player have to think about which side to approach the greens from, but some holes require you to decide how far away you should be to approach the green. Hitting a tee shot too far on the 9th or 16th holes could leave you with an impossible shot around or over trees, or in the case of the 16th hole, a tree. There is a sole palm tree in the middle of the fairway that can reek havoc on a poorly placed tee shot. On the 15t hole, should your lay-up shot not go up the right side, far enough past the corner of the trees, you’ll be left with no shot to the green. Every hole at Harbour Town requires thought and a sound strategy. The reward for a well played hole is relatively small and flat putting surfaces and a chance for birdie. With only four feet of elevation change, the course is very flat, but you won’t even notice. That is just part of the genius of this design.

While I didn't play my best, I was very happy with a solid 76 from the Heritage tees, given that the course rating is 75.6 and I actually played a longer course than the PGA TOUR guys did (until the 2012 Heritage at least). My round was highlighted by a wedge shot from 83 yards on the second hole that spun back into the hole for eagle, and a closing birdie on 18 after a crushed tee shot and solid 8 iron approach as the sun was setting over Calibogue Sound. The new tee box on the 18th hole stretches it to 472 yards, up from 444. Just aim at the lighthouse and swing hard! I'm proud that I managed to make par on all four of the par three holes at Harbour Town. As I discovered first hand, Harbour Town's par 3s are among the finest collection of short holes in the world. In fact, the 14th hole (which measures 192 yards and is protected by a small green with water all the way up the right side) is consistently ranked as one of the toughest par 3s on the PGA TOUR. We finished the day with our own ceremonial tee shots into Calibogue sound, minus the cannon of course. Our second day at Sea Pines Resort included a round of golf at Heron Point, another Pete Dye design. On its own, Heron Point would probably be the highlight of any golf trip at most other resorts, but in the presence of Harbour Town Golf Links, it is forced to play second fiddle at Sea Pines. Compared to Harbour Town, the landing areas at Heron Point are more generous and undulating. To compensate, Dye made the greens more undulating as well and surrounded them with deep sand bunkers, water hazards lined with railroad ties and his signature mounding. A complete reconstruction in 2007 gave this course new life. Some who have played it may call it "Harbour Town lite", but Heron Point is no easy track as evidenced by the almost identical yardage, rating and slope as its big brother on the other side of the property. Joining us at Heron Point that morning was Josh, our caddie from the previous day at Harbour Town, and Adam who also works at the resort. I really had to be on my game, as Josh was a member of the 2011 division III collegiate golf national championship team. We had a great time trash talking each other all day, and since Josh and Adam had to work the bag drop after our round I took the opportunity to avail myself of their services, rudely barking out orders for fun. In all seriousness, Josh was a good sport, great caddie and an ideal playing partner. He knows the courses at Sea Pines intimately and his yardages were always spot on. His ability to learn his player's game and provide club selection is a trait that separates very good caddies from all the others. [caption id="attachment_3664" align="alignleft" width="300"] Click to enlarge[/caption] The third course at Sea Pines Resort is the Ocean Course. It is the original golf course built on Hilton Head Island back in 1960 by George Cobb, and was rebuilt in 1995 by Mark McCumber. It is the most friendly of the three courses and a favorite of casual golfers and beginners, measuring 6906 yards from the longest tees with a slope of 142 and a 73.4 rating. Despite its name, there is only one actual oceanfront hole - the 210 yard, par 3 15th. This doesn't detract from the overall experience however. The Ocean course shares a clubhouse with the Heron Point course on the east end of the resort, and is a short walk away from the beach club. I didn't get to play the Ocean course during my stay on Hilton Head Island, but I hope to return and see it for myself one day soon! While golf may be the focal point at Sea Pines Resort, it is also just the beginning. To me, a perfect compliment to a great golf resort is a world class tennis club, and that's what you get at the Sea Pines Resort Racquet Club. Under the direction of former Wimbledon and U.S. Open champion Stan Smith, the racquet club has been consistently ranked as one of America's top tennis resorts by TENNIS magazine. It boasts 23 green clay courts and a wealth of instructional programs led by the staff of USPTA-certified professionals. All guests get two hours per day of complimentary tennis, and more time can always be booked if you are in the mood. Being a former tennis professional myself, I can really appreciate a facility like this. Walking out of the front entrance of the Inn at Harbour Town puts you within a stone's throw of the tennis club, and I took the opportunity to watch as several nationally-ranked young players went through their paces with the pros in fast paced practice sessions. To review thus far, if you love golf and tennis you'll fall in love with the Sea Pines Resort. Compared to most other resorts of this caliber it would more than hold its own with 3 world class golf courses and a top notch tennis club, but there is much more! Being on the ocean, it goes without saying that beach access is a primary attraction. Guests have five miles of pristine shoreline to explore for swimming, sunning and relaxation. There is also fishing, kayaking, charter boat tours, sailing, paddle boarding, water skiing and even jet ski rentals. Visitors can also enjoy a bike ride through a 605 acre forest preserve that is home to over 130 species of birds. In fact, a bicycle may just be the best way to get around the grounds, with 15 miles of trails that interconnect every area of the resort. The resort's bicycle shop offers a wide selection of bikes for everyone. If you prefer to let someone (or something) else do the work for you, head over to Lawton Stables and take a horseback ride instead. Lawton Stables is a full service equestrian center offering trail rides, pony rides for kids and a petting farm. On top of all that, guests can also take alligator boat tours, forest preserve hayrides, use the fitness center for a work out, get a spa treatment at Le Spa and enjoy some shopping at the Harbour Town Shops. Whew! I know what you are thinking - after doing all that, you are going to be hungry! Fortunately you have many dining options at Sea Pines Resort. Every corner of the resort is covered, and guests can leave the cash at home and simply charge the meal to their rooms. Be careful though, it adds up pretty fast! Not only are the restaurants at the resort very good, but Hilton Head Island has a large number of dining options too if you feel like something different. You aren't tied down to the resort area here. [caption id="attachment_3665" align="alignright" width="300"] Click to enlarge[/caption] My time spent at Sea Pines Resort was far too short to see and do everything. Even a full week packed with activities would not be enough to explore all the activities, dining options and locations of this 5000 acre destination. To further augment the already impressive list of things to do, the resort guide lists special seasonal events and activities that are far too numerous to list here. The sheer size of the resort area, world class accommodations, superb golf & tennis, incredible array of activities and a knowledgeable staff combine to make Sea Pines Resort a must visit. Before playing Harbour Town Golf Links I would not have placed it in my top 10 favorite courses, but after playing it twice, it has taken its rightful place in my personal top three. Golfweek Magazine recently ranked Harbour Town at #12 on its list of the best resort courses. Considering the company it is in (Pebble Beach, Pacific Dunes, Whistling Straits, Pinehurst and TPC Sawgrass to name a few) Harbour Town deserves to be on everyone's must-play list, but perhaps the greatest endorsement I can give is this: I could have spent an entire week at Sea Pines Resort without playing a single round of golf and still been very satisfied with my stay. But common, that's crazy talk! Spending a week on Hilton Head Island without playing golf? That should be a felony. INSIDER TIPS: If you are planning a stay at Sea Pines, here are a few tips to make your stay a little more enjoyable.
- Stay an extra day or two. With so many things to do, you'll have more time to explore or just relax.
- Play Heron Point by Pete Dye and the Ocean Course first, or you may suffer a bit of a letdown after playing the Harbour Town Golf Links first.
- At Harbor Town, make your tee time about four and a half to five hours before sunset. That way you'll arrive on 17 and 18 just as the sun is going down for an unforgettable experience.
- Bring your carry bag and walk Harbor Town with a caddie.
- Go up the lighthouse at sunset, and bring your camera!
- Take a lesson. Golf or Tennis, the pros on staff here are among the best anywhere.
- Check the calendar for seasonal events and plan ahead so you don't miss anything.
- When dining off resort, check with the locals for recommendations. My favorite was China Bistro, just a few minutes from the main gate.
- Bring your friends! Everything is more fun in a group, and you get discounts.
For more information about the Sea Pines Resort and to book your stay, visit http://www.seapines.com
Traveling to Europe this summer? Check out these fabulous Algarve golf hotels!

Subscribe to our email updates! You'll get the latest fresh news, reviews and stories delivered right to your inbox or RSS reader, and automatically be entered in our latest contests and giveaways! We are 100% SPAM FREE! Also, don't forget to check in with our Facebook fan page for exclusive content and get involved by leaving us comments on what you think!
December 27, 2011