Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island offers a classic links-style challenge with firm greens, coastal winds, and iconic water views. Its strategic 18 holes combine precision demands with stunning Lowcountry scenery that appeals to a broad range of golfers.
Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island offers an 18-hole test that blends classic links-style golf with the distinct Lowcountry coastal environment of South Carolina. Known for its strategic design and immaculate conditioning, the course challenges players with wind-swept fairways, firm greens, and water hazards that demand careful shot selection. Its layout weaves around Calibogue Sound and Harbour Town Marina, creating a golfing experience shaped by natural tides and shifting breezes that subtly influence every hole.
Though modest in length compared to some championship venues, Harbour Town requires precision. Fairways are relatively narrow, inviting a thoughtful approach from tee to green. Bunkers with sand imported from the island itself line many holes, acting as both hazards and visual focal points that test accuracy. The putting surfaces are notably smooth yet can be tricky, rewarding those who read subtle breaks well.
This course strikes a balance appealing to skilled low handicappers looking for strategic complexity, as well as mid-handicappers seeking a memorable, walkable round. Harbour Town demands respect from every tee shot but is approachable when played with patience and course management in mind. The course’s signature 17th hole, a short par-3 set against the waterfront with the iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse framing the backdrop, epitomizes the blend of beauty and challenge found throughout the round.
Amenities include a clubhouse rich in golfing history, a well-equipped practice facility, and the support of expert caddies who are mandatory for all rounds, elevating the experience with valuable guidance under changing coastal conditions. Walking is encouraged, with relatively flat terrain and well-maintained cart paths offering comfortable footplay.
Whether pursued as a bucket-list destination or a welcome return for seasoned players, Harbour Town Golf Links delivers a demanding yet rewarding round where natural elements play as important a role as architectural design. It remains a centerpiece of Hilton Head’s golfing landscape, inviting golfers to measure their skills against one of the Southeast’s most respected coastal courses.
Famed for its coastal links-style layout, Harbour Town stands out with its narrow fairways flushed with native grasses, real island sand bunkers, and the waterfront 17th hole draped by the Harbour Town lighthouse. The course is renowned for its mandatory caddie program that adds strategic insight amid coastal winds and water hazards. Practice facilities and a clubhouse museum highlight the area's rich golf heritage and enhance the overall experience.
Experience one of golf's most legendary courses
Direct booking • No commissions
11 Lighthouse Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
Harbour Town Clubhouse, featuring a pro shop, dining, and the Sea Pines Resort golf concierge
Walking is encouraged and manageable due to mostly flat terrain; comfortable golf shoes recommended, with optional golf carts available.
Tee times require prior reservation; resort guests and members receive booking priority.