Harbour Town Golf Links is one of those rare courses that feels inevitable — as if the 18 holes were already there in the Lowcountry landscape and Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus simply uncovered them. The layout winds through live oaks draped in Spanish moss, along Calibogue Sound, and culminates at the 18th hole with the red-and-white striped lighthouse as its backdrop — arguably the most iconic finishing hole in American golf outside Augusta National.
Built in 1969 as part of the original Sea Pines Resort development, Harbour Town has hosted the RBC Heritage every year since, making it one of the longest-running PGA Tour events at a single site. The course rewards shot-making creativity over power — it plays under 7,000 yards and the tight, tree-lined fairways demand a ball-striker who can work both directions.
For a group trip, Hilton Head itself provides exceptional infrastructure: excellent dining, beach access, and the broader Sea Pines Resort with additional courses (including Heron Point by Pete Dye) keeps the experience varied across multiple days. This is a classic destination that earns its reputation.
The Pete Dye/Nicklaus classic — tight fairways, live oaks, iconic 18th lighthouse backdrop
Sea Pines' secondary Pete Dye layout — marsh views and great variety
Ocean Dunes renovation by Love III — a solid complement to Harbour Town
Boutique inn steps from the 18th green and the lighthouse, within Sea Pines Resort. 60 rooms with Lowcountry decor, a pool, and immediate access to the golf shop and practice facilities.