Hilton Head Island, a renowned haven for golf enthusiasts, boasts some of the world’s most exceptional golf courses. From legendary architects to breathtaking landscapes, these courses offer a diverse range of experiences for golfers of all levels. Whether you seek a test of skill or a chance to bask in natural beauty, Hilton Head has the perfect course for you.
1. Harbour Town Golf Links – Sea Pines Resort
Historical Significance and Coastal Elegance
Distinguished for its historical importance, Harbour Town Golf Links is a prime destination for avid golfers. Nestled against the backdrop of the iconic Harbour Town lighthouse, this course’s challenging layout features small greens, water hazards, and strategic bunkers. The proximity of Calibogue Sound adds a unique dimension to the course, making it an unparalleled experience.
Address: 11 Lighthouse Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
2. Atlantic Dunes – The Sea Pines Resort
Renovated Beauty by the Sea
Atlantic Dunes, skillfully rejuvenated by Davis Love III and his team in 2016, is a masterpiece that combines the serenity of the beach with a challenging course layout. With larger greens, captivating water hazards, and a refreshing sea breeze, this course offers both visual delight and an exhilarating golfing adventure.
Address: 100 N Sea Pines Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
3. Robert Trent Jones Course – Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort
Scenic Challenges and Ocean Views
Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort is a testament to exceptional design. With picturesque lagoons accompanying 11 of its 18 holes, this course provides stunning views and challenging shots. The signature par-5 10th hole, with its elevated green overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, is a visual and strategic marvel.
Address: 7 Trent Jones Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
4. Arthur Hills – Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort
Ingenious Design and Natural Beauty
The Arthur Hills Golf Course stands out with its ingenious layout, featuring ten holes with water hazards that challenge players’ skills. This course exemplifies how masterful design harmonizes with natural beauty. From sandy bunkers to strategic water placements, it offers an all-encompassing golfing experience.
Address: 4 Queens Folly Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States
5. George Fazio Course – Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort
Challenging and Rewarding
The George Fazio Course, recently awarded ‘South Carolina Golf Course of the Year,’ offers a challenging yet rewarding golfing adventure. This course, with its well-designed layout and scenic beauty, remains a stern test for golfers of all skill levels.
Address: 7 Carnoustie Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
6. Crescent Pointe Golf Club
Arnold Palmer’s Legacy
Designed by Arnold Palmer, Crescent Pointe offers a distinctive golfing experience. The standout par-3 ninth hole and breathtaking river views enhance the challenge and enjoyment of the course.
Address: 1 Cres Point Dr, Bluffton, SC 29910, USA
7. May River Golf Club
Exclusive Elegance
May River Golf Club is known for its exclusivity and meticulous maintenance. With mandatory caddies and access limited to Montage Palmetto Bluff guests, this course offers a premium golfing experience surrounded by natural beauty.
Address: 350 Mt Pelia Rd, Bluffton, SC 29910, USA
8. Old South Golf Links
Nature and Clyde Johnston’s Design
Old South Golf Links, designed by Clyde Johnston, features a blend of inland and marsh-side holes. Its serene surroundings and challenging design make for a unique golfing escapade.
Address: 50 Buckingham Plantation Dr, Bluffton, SC 29910, USA
9. Hilton Head National Golf Club
Affordable Excellence
Hilton Head National Golf Club offers a well-maintained course with no homes overlooking it, allowing players to connect with the natural environment and wildlife while enjoying a challenging round of golf.
Address: 60 Hilton Head National Dr, Bluffton, SC 29910, USA
10. Heron Point – The Sea Pines Resort
Challenge and Beauty Unite
Heron Point, designed by Pete Dye, offers a challenging course with elevated fairways and water hazards. Its lush surroundings, sandy bunkers, and varying tee options make it a perfect choice for golfers seeking a memorable experience.
Address: 100 N Sea Pines Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
11. Barony Course – Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club
Historical Charm and Risk-Reward
The Barony Course by George W. Cobb boasts a risk-reward layout that challenges golfers to navigate through marshlands and small greens. Its historical significance and unique design make for a captivating round of golf.
Address: 10 Clubhouse Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
12. Robber’s Row – Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club
Civil War History and Strategic Play
Robber’s Row, situated on former Civil War grounds, offers an educational and thrilling golfing experience. The course’s small greens, thick roughs, and strategic hazards demand precise shot placement.
Address: 10 Clubhouse Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
13. Oyster Reef Golf Club
Lush Beauty and Golfing Excellence
Oyster Reef Golf Club’s lush landscape and challenging layout have earned it a spot among the Top 25 Courses in America. Its stunning visuals and meticulously designed holes create an unforgettable golf adventure.
Address: 155 High Bluff Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, USA
14. Haig Point – Signature Course
Island Golfing Excellence
Although not on Hilton Head Island itself, Haig Point’s Signature Course on Daufuskie Island is a short boat trip away. Designed by Rees Jones, this course offers a unique blend of challenge and history, making it a must-play.
Address: 10 Haig Point Ct, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
15. Nicklaus Course – Colleton River Plantation
Lowcountry Beauty and Golfing Splendor
The Nicklaus Course at Colleton River Plantation offers a balance of challenge and beauty. Its wooded and swampy holes, alongside water hazards, create a stunning golfing experience in the Lowcountry.
Address: 60 Colleton River Dr, Bluffton, SC 29910, USA

Comparison Table: Best Golf Courses in Hilton Head
| Golf Course | Designers | Unique Features | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harbour Town Golf Links | – | Small greens, water hazards, iconic lighthouse view | 11 Lighthouse Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Atlantic Dunes | Davis Love III | Sea breeze, larger greens, coastal layout | 100 N Sea Pines Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Robert Trent Jones Course | Robert Trent Jones | Lagoon views, elevated green, stunning ocean vistas | 7 Trent Jones Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Arthur Hills | Arthur Hills | Ingenious layout, water hazards, scenic beauty | 4 Queens Folly Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| George Fazio Course | George Fazio | Challenging layout, recent award winner | 7 Carnoustie Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Crescent Pointe Golf Club | Arnold Palmer | Par-3 ninth hole, riverbank holes | 1 Cres Point Dr, Bluffton, SC |
| May River Golf Club | – | Exclusive access, premium experience | 350 Mt Pelia Rd, Bluffton, SC |
| Old South Golf Links | Clyde Johnston | Blend of inland and marsh-side holes, serene surroundings | 50 Buckingham Plantation Dr, Bluffton, SC |
| Hilton Head National Golf Club | – | Natural beauty, no homes overlooking course | 60 Hilton Head National Dr, Bluffton, SC |
| Heron Point | Pete Dye | Elevated fairways, water hazards, multiple tee options | 100 N Sea Pines Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Barony Course | George W. Cobb | Marshland play, historical significance | 10 Clubhouse Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Robber’s Row | George W. Cobb | Former Civil War grounds, strategic hazards | 10 Clubhouse Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Oyster Reef Golf Club | – | Lush landscape, Top 25 Courses recognition | 155 High Bluff Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Haig Point – Signature Course | Rees Jones | Island experience, 20 holes, Golf Digest recognition | 10 Haig Point Ct, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Nicklaus Course – Colleton River | – | Wooded and swampy holes, Lowcountry beauty | 60 Colleton River Dr, Bluffton, SC |
Video Guide
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Hilton Head Island is a golfer’s paradise, featuring an array of exceptional courses that cater to golfers of varying skill levels. Whether you’re seeking historical significance, stunning scenery, or challenging fairways, Hilton Head offers an unforgettable golfing journey. Explore these courses and immerse yourself in the world of golfing excellence.
FAQ
Harbour Town Golf Links is renowned for its historical importance and iconic Harbour Town lighthouse view.
Atlantic Dunes boasts a refreshing sea breeze, larger greens, and a coastal layout, providing a unique golfing experience.
Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort offers stunning views of lagoons and the Atlantic Ocean.
Arthur Hills Golf Course is known for its ingenious layout with water hazards and captivating scenic beauty.