Harbour Town Golf Links is the best of the three courses at the Sea Pines Resort and it was created by Pete and Alice Dye and Jack Nicklaus.
Harbour Town Golf Links is the best of the three courses at the Sea Pines Resort and it was created by Pete and Alice Dye and Jack Nicklaus.
Harbour Town Golf Links is the best of the three courses at the Sea Pines Resort and it was created by Pete and Alice Dye and Jack Nicklaus. The resort's two other courses, Heron Point and Atlantic Dunes, both feature prominently in our South Carolina Best in State rankings.
Home to the annual Heritage Classic (now called the RBC Heritage), Harbour Town opened for play in 1969 and it has remained in the top echelons of resort golf ever since. The course is laid out on relatively flat ground with the fairways flanked by pines. The smallish greens are very fair and not tricked up in any way.
With a wonderful closing hole, it’s likely that Harbour Town will remain lodged in the memory for years. The 18th is a brutish par four which measures 478 yards from the tips. A solid drive on the line of the lighthouse will find the landing area which juts out into the Calibogue Sound. The lighthouse here at Harbour Town reminds us of a jollier version of the other famous lighthouse at the fabulous Turnberry Resort in Scotland.
Writing in The Confidential Guide to Golf Courses , Tom Doak said: “Harbour Town hold a special place in my heart, because it gave an impressionable 10-year-old an interest in design. It is rightly famous as a turning point in the history of American golf architecture, and it remains one of the favorite courses on Tour, because few others place such a premium on straight hitting off the tee and precise iron shots to small greens. There are also a lot of excellent strategic holes, and plenty of endearing features like its picture-postcard par-3’s, and the V-shaped 9th green, the boarded bunker that fronts the 13th green, the world’s first waste bunker alongside the 16th, and the two iconic finishing holes. The course continues to fall in the rankings because of the things it doesn’t have, but maybe we should focus more on the things it does.”
The latest ranking of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the World serves as the ultimate global golf bucket list. Most members of our World Top 100 Panel are seasoned golfers, each playing 20-30 of these courses annually while travelling extensively over decades to form their opinions on others. We recognise that opinions vary—even among our panel members. Rankings are subjective, and there are undoubtedly 50 or more courses in the UK and USA alone that could easily fit onto this list. Links Golf Pilgrimages The rankings
California, United States
New Jersey, United States
Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
New York, United States
New York, United States
Things to do away from Harbour Town Golf Links Outside Harbour Town Golf Links at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, there's a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From stunning natural preserves and historical sites to family-friendly entertainment and water sports, Hilton Head offers a diverse array of experiences. Here are some highlights: Dolphin Cruises: Join a sunset dolphin cruise to witness the island’s abundant marine life, including the chance to see dolphins up close. Coligny Plaza: This bustling plaza features shops, eateries, and entertainment options, from high-end fashions to casual beachwear, alongside coffee shops and ice cream stores. It also hosts a movie theatre and free live music during busier months. Harbour Town Lighthouse: Climb this iconic lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and to explore its museum-like interior filled with exhibits on the island's history. Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge: Offers guided interpretive programs, permitted saltwater fishing, and miles of trails for exploration by foot or bicycle. Stoney Baynard Ruins: Explore the remains of a once-grand home from the 1790s, offering a glimpse into the island's Civil War history. Arts and Entertainment: From live music under the old Liberty tree in Harbour Town to performances at the Arts Centre of Coastal Carolina, there's a vibrant arts scene. Outdoor Activities: The island is a designated Bicycle Friendly Community with numerous bike trails, including the Sea Pines Forest Preserve and the larger Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, which are great for hiking and cycling. Beach Parks: Enjoy the serene beauty of Mitchelville Beach for a quiet beachside escape, or visit Driessen Beach Park for a mix of beach fun and shaded areas. Adventure Cove: Offers an arcade and mini-golf, making it an ideal spot for family fun. Gullah Heritage Trail: Embark on a narrated bus tour to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Gullah people of South Carolina. Food Tours: Dive into Hilton Head's culinary scene with a guided tour, sampling local seafood, tapas, and drinks. Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina: A hotspot for water sports and fishing, offering beautiful waterfront dining and shopping experiences. Find out more about travel to SouthCarolina Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive US Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips.
Top 10 places to eat and drink around Harbour Town Golf Links Hilton Head Island, particularly around Harbour Town Golf Links, boasts a diverse array of dining and drinking options catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Here’s a curated list of ten places, each offering something unique to enhance your experience outside the golf links: Truffles Cafe Sea Pines Centre: A great hidden gem featuring American cuisine with prompt and pleasant service, located a short distance from the Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum. Coast, Oceanfront Dining: Offers fresh seafood with stunning oceanfront views. Located at the Sea Pines Beach Club, it's a perfect spot for enjoying a frozen cocktail by the beach. Giuseppi's Pizza in Sea Pines: Known for its Italian, American, and pizza options, it provides a cozy spot for enjoying some of the best pizzas on the island. Fraser's Tavern: A relaxed ambiance where guests and golfers can enjoy Southern barbecue while watching sports events. It's well-loved for its American cuisine. Ocean Lounge: Elevate your oceanfront dining at this upscale destination known for its extensive bourbon list and captivating scenery, located at the Sea Pines Beach Club. Delisheeyo: Offers healthy American, cafe, and medicinal foods. It's highly praised for its incredible, healthy options. Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana: A top-rated spot for Italian cuisine including Tuscan, Romana, and Sicilian dishes. It's a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Lowcountry Produce Market & Cafe: Another American cafe offering a pleasant brunch experience. It's conveniently located within Sea Pines Centre. Harbour Town Bakery & Café: Start your day here with a comforting caffeinated beverage and a freshly baked pastry, enjoying the historic charm and delicious breakfast offerings. Quarterdeck Market: Offers fresh and local seafood and meals to go, as well as Häagen-Dazs ice cream and hand-spun milkshakes. It's a good spot for grabbing a quick and delightful bite. Each of these places not only provides a rich culinary experience but also reflects the diverse cultural and gastronomical landscape of Hilton Head Island. Whether you're looking for an elegant dinner, a casual meal, or a health-focused snack, the area around Harbour Town Golf Links has something to suit every palate. Find out more about travel to South Carolina Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive US Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips.
10 Facts about Harbour Town Golf Links at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina Harbour Town Golf Links at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is not just famous for its picturesque views and challenging holes; it's also steeped in history and unique features that make it a standout destination for golf enthusiasts around the world. Here are ten interesting facts about this renowned golf course: Designed by Legends: Harbour Town Golf Links was designed by the acclaimed golf course architect Pete Dye, with consultation from Jack Nicklaus. This collaboration between two legends of the golf world helped to create one of the most distinctive courses in existence. RBC Heritage: Since 1969, Harbour Town has been the home of the RBC Heritage, a PGA TOUR event. This tournament has a rich history and is known for its iconic red and white lighthouse backdrop on the 18th hole. Signature Lighthouse: The Harbour Town Lighthouse, located at the 18th hole, is one of the most iconic lighthouses in the United States and has become a symbol of Hilton Head Island. It offers panoramic views of the course and Calibogue Sound. Strategic Design: The course is renowned for its narrow fairways, small greens, and the strategic placement of hazards, demanding precision and strategy over power from players. This design philosophy was somewhat revolutionary at the time of its creation. Pete Dye’s Design Philosophy: Harbour Town is a testament to Pete Dye’s innovative design principles, blending the course seamlessly with its natural surroundings and including railroad ties, pot bunkers, and overhanging trees to challenge golfers. Environmental Harmony: The course is designed to blend into its natural environment, with careful consideration given to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife habitat of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Award-Winning Course: Harbour Town Golf Links is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the United States by various golf publications, celebrated for its design, challenge, and beauty. A Golfer’s Test: The course is famous for its par-4 18th hole, which is considered one of the most challenging finishing holes on the PGA TOUR, often playing a decisive role in the outcome of the RBC Heritage tournament. Luxurious Amenities: Beyond the course, the Sea Pines Resort offers luxurious accommodations, dining, and other amenities, making it a premier destination for golfers and vacationers alike. Influential Legacy: Harbour Town Golf Links has influenced the design of many other courses around the world and is often cited by golf course architects as an example of integrating modern design with natural landscapes. Harbour Town continues to be a bucket-list destination for golfers, offering a blend of challenge, beauty, and history that stands out even in the rich tapestry of American golf courses. Find out more about travel to Harbour Town Golf Links at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive US Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips.
