Top Hilton Head Golf Courses: Where to Play a Round

One of the main draws to this South Carolina island are the famed Hilton Head golf courses. Known to attract PGA tournaments and golfers of all skills, Hilton Head features dozens of courses. Players will find challenging holes as well as beautiful scenery, providing a perfect outdoor activity. When planning a day on the greens, read about these top Hilton Head golf courses.

Top 5 Hilton Head Golf Courses: Private and Public Options

Bear Creek Golf Club, private

This 18-hole Rees Signature designed course features more than 6,800 yards and five tees. This was the first original Rees design and has been a top among Hilton Head golf courses for more than 30 years. Super Dwarf TifEagle Bermuda grass, diverse wildlife and marsh views guide players through this championship course. Bear Creek’s clubhouse offers family-friendly dining, as well as a patio to enjoy a drink or meal. Additionally, events held at Bear Creek include the 2014 Hilton Head Amateur and Hilton Head Open.

Old South Golf Links, public

Located near Hilton Head in Bluffton, Old South Golf Links has been a local a favorite for more than 20 years. A Southern landscape on the Intercoastal Waterway and surrounded by oaks and wildlife – from deer to alligators who live in the lagoons – make this a popular course for golf lovers. With 18 holes, yardage ranges from 4,700 to 6,700. The Restaurant at Old South ranks high for breakfast and burgers, and serves a variety of sandwiches and salads.

Oyster Reef Golf Club, private

This award-winning Rees Jones course has been a top golf spot for more than 30 years. Offering 18 holes and set on 190 acres, golfers play their way through lagoons, vegetation and island views. Oyster Reef’s greens range from 5,288 to 7,014 yards, and its Par 6 No. 6 hole has the Port Royal Sound in the backdrop. Also on-site, guests can relax in the clubhouse or dine at the LagerHead Cavern, which features Southern comfort food with a twist and handcrafted cocktails.

Palmetto Hall Plantation’s Arthur Hills Course, public

Another popular 18-hole course in Hilton Head, these heavily wooded greens are surrounded by pines and moss-draped oaks. Guests enjoy lake views, and the 18th hole is noted as one of the best in the Lowcountry. The plantation also focuses on providing wildlife habitats and conserving natural resources. Head to the clubhouse to experience Southern hospitality on the two-story porches, as well as dining options.

Sea Pines Resort, public

Home to three separate golf courses, Sea Pines offers golf variety, including technical challenges, ocean-side holes and marsh-laden fairways. The most-famous course, Harbour Town Golf Links is a must-play spot and home to PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage. In addition, Harbour Town has been touted as one of the best by Golf Digest. Golfers, whether novice or expert, also enjoy both Heron Point by Pete Dye and the Ocean Course. Dining options include: Links, an American Grill; Sea Pines Beach Club; Live Oak; and more.

If visiting Hilton Head soon, don’t miss these great restaurants! Want to stay on a golf course? Check out these Hilton Head vacation rentals.