Hilton Head Golf Trip – Vacation Planner

One of a handful of vacation destinations in the United States, which has a reputation for being a golfing mecca. Hilton Head Island, in South Carolina’s Lowcountry however is more than that, it’s a golfing pilgrimage.

Page Contents

• Why go on a golf vacation to Hilton Head Island?
• Where to stay on a golf trip to Hilton Head?
• Hilton Head Golf Resorts
• Hilton Head Golf Vacation Rentals
• Hilton Head Golf Vacation Packages
• The best Hilton Head public golf courses to play
• Places to eat and drink in Hilton Head
• What to do on your day off

Why go on a golf vacation to Hilton Head Island?

The island isn’t the largest destination being just 180 kilometers squared. When you compare this to some of the country’s other popular golf destinations like Scottsdale, Myrtle Beach, Palm Springs and Naples, Hilton Head is tiny.

But what it lacks in overall quantity of square footage, it makes up for in so many other ways. Gorgeous scenery. Eye-wateringly scenic views. Miles upon miles of golden beaches. And most importantly, the quality of golf.

And believe it or not, this is just scratching the surface. Families flock here for family-friendly vacations. Whilst couples enjoy the romantic sunsets and numerous seafood restaurants. 

And groups of golf buddies soak in the endless affordable golf designed by some of the greatest names in golf course architecture.

But Hilton Head Island hasn’t always been the popular resort destination we all know today. In fact, even back in the 1950s, it was a relatively under-developed backwater. It had a reputation for fertile land and plenty of cotton crops, but very little else. 

Yet as soon as it was eyed up by investors, who saw the potential of Hilton Head Island as a resort destination, it has grown rapidly into being one of the foremost vacation destinations in the United States. 

The first golf course was opened back in the 1960s (the Ocean Course at Sea Pines Resort for those interested), and they’ve never really looked back.

The temperature also helps. A warm and humid subtropical climate prevails, which means the summers never get too hot, and the winters never too cold. Even when the temperature does rise to uncomfortable levels, the sea breezes keep things cool. 

 In short, this is perfect golf weather. 

Where to stay on a golf trip to Hilton Head?

Because of the fact nowhere is too far on Hilton Head Island, there are no specific hubs to speak of. Everywhere is accessible and in a way, that makes choosing where to stay even easier. 

Everywhere is near a beach and a golf course. With that in mind, the most important decision is whether to stay in a resort, hotel, or vacation rental.

Hilton Head Golf Resorts

Throughout the island, there are some outstanding lodging options. Condos, villas, hotels and luxury resorts are all on offer here. 

Some golf resorts in Hilton Head have grown their own reputation over the decades. This is due to golf courses they own, hosting elite tournament golf events. 

For example, Sea Pines Resort is arguably one of the most recognised, primarily due to one of its resort courses, Harbour Town Golf Links, hosting the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage event on an annual basis.

It is without doubt one of Hilton Head’s premier resorts and has been a mainstay of the island’s growing golf scene ever since the game first emerged in the 60s.

The resort features a choice of different accommodation options. The Inn & Club at Harbour Town is Hilton Head’s only Forbes Four Star hotel and is renowned for its elegant surroundings and top class service.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort is yet another which embodies pure luxury and first class service. Like Sea Pines Resort, there are three championship golf courses to choose from, all of which are considered some of the finest resort courses in the state.

Again, this is a resort perfect for all different sizes of groups. Couples, families, larger groups of golfing buddies, they’ll have what you need. 

Alongside this you have the usual medley of amenities such as beach activities, on-site restaurants and marina access.

Last but not least amongst the best Hilton Head golf resorts, is the sensational Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa. This is a luxury five star resort offering some of the best Atlantic Ocean views anywhere on the island. 

Unlike the other two resorts, the Westin offers more traditional hotel guest rooms synonymous with most other city destinations. But these aren’t any old hotel rooms. We’re talking the utmost luxury and comfort with calming coastal décor. 

Hilton Head Golf Vacation Rentals

For those of you looking to go down the condo or vacation rentals route, Sea Pines Resort and Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort have everything you need.

Sea Pines Resort offers you the choice of over 400 homes and oceanfront properties. This huge range will allow you to select different levels of comfort and amenities. 

Similarly, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort has a selection of villas, condos and home rentals offering anything from 1 to 6 bedrooms. The rental homes have anything from 3-6 bedrooms whilst the vacation villas range from 1-4 bedrooms.

Naturally all the villas and homes offer all the mod-cons and have a range of amenities to enjoy. Getting a Hilton Head golf vacation rental has never been easier!

Hilton Head Golf Vacation Packages

When looking to book your golf trip to Hilton Head, naturally you want to ensure you are getting the best possible deals.

Amongst all the companies selling packages, I personally recommend Golfbreaks.com. Every year they send hundreds of thousands of golfers on golf trips all over the world. Because of this, they get some of the best deals available. 

You tell them where you want to go, the courses you’re looking to play and what your budget is and they’ll do all the organizing, calling around and bookings for you. And to top things off, their service is second to none. 

Don’t know which course you want to play? Give them your budget, how far you want to drive, the average handicap in the group, and they recommend courses. It really is that easy. 

It’s also worth considering that many golf course owners also have preferred hotel or condo partners. This means they’ll offer even more affordable Hilton Head golf packages. Rest assured, the team at Golfbreaks.com will be more than happy to help pick them out for you. 

Here is a selection of some of the best golf vacation packages in Hilton Head using Golfbreaks.com.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort 5*

5 nights self-catering, 3 rounds

from $619pp

Find out more

Sea Pines Resort 5*

5 nights self-catering, 3 rounds

Price on enquiry

Find out more

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa 5*

5 nights room only, unlimited golf

from $719pp

Find out more

The best Hilton Head public golf courses to play

From a golf standpoint, one of the great things about Hilton Head Island is the fact a large proportion of the golf courses are open to the public. 

For example, the likes of Harbour Town Golf Links, one of South Carolina’s highest ranked golf courses can be played. As can any of the other Sea Pines courses including Davis Love III’s Atlantic Dunes and Pete Dye’s Heron Point.

The same can be said for the outstanding collection of golf courses at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort including the superb Robert Trent Jones Course.

If you are interested in exploring all your options, I’ve written a separate article outlining the best public golf courses in Hilton Head. 

But you’re not restricted to staying on Hilton Head Island. Just over the bridge back to the mainland, are some other fantastic courses. 

The likes of Hilton Head National Golf Club and Old South Golf Links are both literally over the bridge. In fact they’re so accessible, many golfers venture over just to play a round, and then pop back!

Keep in mind, the courses you choose to play are most likely going to be influenced by where you stay. For example, if staying at Sea Pines Resort, you’ll get much better rates playing the onsite courses.The same can be said for other resorts. 

But rest assured, you’ll have no shortage of options.

Places to eat and drink in Hilton Head

So many great options. Regardless of where you’re located across the island, you’ll find under-the-radar sensational eateries. Whilst most of the resorts also offer great restaurants.

But a few personal favorites include Lulu Kitchen, just off the William Hilton Parkway. 

This place is a hit and never fails to deliver, epitomizing Hilton Head perfectly. Low key vibe whilst offering a wide range of American favorites including New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Mac & Cheese, New York Strip, Shrimps…and the list goes on. 

Skull Creek Boathouse is another fantastic choice and one which is ever-popular with locals and tourists alike. On the northern side of the island, the restaurant occupies a stunning scenic spot overlooking Skull Creek.

It primarily specializes in market fresh fish as well as offers an indoor sushi bar. Huge outdoor seating area, perfect for groups or couples.

Next to Coligny Beach Bridge is my last recommendation, and this is the Black Marlin Bayside Grill.

Yet another waterfront joint serving fresh seafood but also a range of tacos, sandwiches to die for, and their award-winning Bayside Seafood Chowder. Need I say more.

What to do on your day off

This is an island reputed for its vast and magnificent outdoors. It may not surprise you then that most of the activities to enjoy on a day off, will revolve around getting out and about.

One of the best ways to explore the island is believe it or not, on a bike. There are more than 60 miles of leisure pathways connecting all the main hubs. 

Swapping bikes for boats is another favorite way to explore the myriad waterways. With incredibly warm waters, you might even be tempted to hire some kayaks or paddle boards.

Alternatively, for a bit of retail therapy, head down to Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina where you’ll find a wide array of boutique shops and merchants. There are also plenty of choices for dining or simply a cold drink. 

And if all else fails, just walk to your nearest beach, relax and soak in the sensational Atlantic views. No one would blame you. 

*Occasionally I will recommend services which I think add value to you the user, and offer you a way to find out more about a particular golf resort or course. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, I may earn an affiliate fee. However, please rest assured yourgolfcourses.com is 100% independent and these commissions in no way influence the content OR rankings 🙂