Best Places to Play Golf on Hilton Head
Hilton Head Island isn’t just a vacation hotspot—it’s a golfer’s dream come true. With its lush coastal scenery, meticulously designed courses, and year-round mild climate, this island is home to some of the most sought-after golf experiences in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned pro chasing the perfect round or a casual golfer looking to soak in the Lowcountry charm, Hilton Head has a course for you.
From championship layouts crafted by legends to hidden gems that locals swear by, we’ve rounded up the best places to tee off on Hilton Head Island. And according to Trish Hall, a trusted Hilton Head Realtor from Southern Maple Team, these stunning fairways are more than just golf courses—they’re lifestyle destinations. Ready to take your swing in paradise? Let’s explore the top golf spots on Hilton Head where breathtaking views and unforgettable rounds go hand in hand.
Country Club of Hilton Head
Image from: Official FB Page
Where Championship Golf Meets Southern Hospitality
If you’re searching for a challenging yet scenic round of golf, look no further than the Country Club of Hilton Head. Nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway, this Rees Jones-designed masterpiece offers rolling fairways, strategic water hazards, and stunning Lowcountry views that will have you reaching for your camera as much as your putter.
This par-72 course isn’t just about beauty—it’s about strategy. With its doglegs, well-placed bunkers, and fast greens, it’s a course that rewards precision and smart play. Golfers love the signature 12th hole, a dramatic par-3 that requires a confident shot over marshland—a true Hilton Head golf experience!
Beyond the course, the Country Club of Hilton Head provides an elevated club experience with exceptional amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a welcoming clubhouse perfect for post-round relaxation. Whether you’re a local or a visitor looking to experience a top-tier private club, this course delivers in both challenge and charm.
Country Club of Hilton Head
70 Skull Creek Dr,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
843 681 2582
www.invitedclubs.com/clubs/country-club-of-hilton-head
May River Golf Club at Palmetto Bluff
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A Breathtaking Lowcountry Escape With World-Class Golf
If you’re looking for a golf experience that feels like a retreat, the May River Golf Club at Palmetto Bluff is the ultimate destination. Tucked within the serene beauty of Palmetto Bluff, this Jack Nicklaus Signature Course offers a stunning blend of championship golf and Lowcountry tranquility. With centuries-old oak trees, winding tidal marshes, and pristine fairways, this course delivers both a visual masterpiece and a strategic challenge.
The par-72 layout is designed to reward smart play, featuring subtle elevation changes, deep bunkers, and undulating greens that keep even experienced golfers on their toes. The signature 7th hole, a gorgeous par-5 that hugs the banks of the May River, is a favorite among players for its mix of beauty and precision. And with hand-cut greens and sand-capped fairways, every round here is as smooth as it is scenic.
May River Golf Club isn’t just a course—it’s a luxurious golfing sanctuary where the beauty of Hilton Head’s natural landscape is as much a part of the experience as the game itself. Whether you’re playing a round or simply soaking in the views, this is one of the most exclusive and breathtaking places to tee off in the Lowcountry.
May River Golf Club at Palmetto Bluff
350 Mt Pelia Rd,
Bluffton, SC 29910
866 706 6565
www.palmettobluff.com/experience/golf
Dolphin Head Golf Club
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A Hidden Gem With a Laid-Back Vibe and Pristine Fairways
For golfers who appreciate a peaceful, unpretentious atmosphere with impeccably maintained greens, Dolphin Head Golf Club is a must-play. Designed by the legendary Gary Player, this course blends seamlessly with Hilton Head’s natural beauty, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
The tree-lined fairways and strategically placed water hazards keep you on your toes, while the rolling terrain and scenic marsh views provide a serene backdrop for every shot. The par-72 layout is designed to test precision over power, making it perfect for shot-makers who enjoy a strategic round. Local golfers rave about the friendly atmosphere and the club’s commitment to keeping the course in top-notch condition year-round.
Whether you’re a resident looking for a relaxed home course or a visitor hoping to discover one of Hilton Head’s best-kept secrets, Dolphin Head Golf Club delivers a welcoming experience, exceptional greens, and a refreshing break from the crowded resort courses.
Dolphin Head Golf Club
56 High Bluff Rd,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
843 681 5550
www.dolphinheadgc.com
The George Fazio Course at Palmetto Dunes
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Hilton Head’s Toughest Test – A Course for the Bold
If you’re looking for a serious challenge, the George Fazio Course at Palmetto Dunes is where you’ll find it. Known as one of the toughest public courses on Hilton Head Island, this par-70 gem was crafted by legendary designer George Fazio and remains the only course of its kind in the area. With long par 4s, tight fairways, and fast greens, it’s a true test of precision, patience, and skill.
A strategic bunkering, elevated greens, and a thrilling back nine that demands your A-game from start to finish. The par-4 18th hole is particularly legendary, offering a high-stakes finish that can make or break your round. But don’t let the difficulty scare you—this course is also incredibly scenic, with beautiful tree-lined fairways and a layout that makes every round an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a low-handicap golfer looking to test your skills or simply want to experience one of the best-designed courses on the island, the George Fazio Course delivers an unforgettable challenge in a breathtaking Lowcountry setting.
The George Fazio Course at Palmetto Dunes
7 Carnoustie Rd,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
888 909 9566
www.palmettodunes.com/golf/george-fazio-course
Wexford Golf Club
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Exclusive, Elegant, and One-of-a-Kind on Hilton Head
For golfers who crave a private, ultra-exclusive experience, Wexford Golf Club is one of Hilton Head’s most prestigious courses. Designed by Arnold Palmer, this par-72 masterpiece is as visually striking as it is strategically challenging. The course winds through lush maritime forests, picturesque lagoons, and beautifully sculpted fairways, offering a world-class golfing experience in a setting that feels both intimate and grand.
What sets Wexford apart? It’s one of the few golf courses in the country with a fully private lock-controlled harbor, giving members the option to arrive by boat before teeing off—talk about luxury! The course itself is a seamless blend of beauty and challenge, with fast greens, risk-reward par 5s, and undulating fairways that demand precision and smart course management. The signature 18th hole, a breathtaking par-5 finish, leaves golfers with a final test of skill that’s as rewarding as it is memorable.
Membership at Wexford Golf Club comes with access to world-class amenities, including a yacht club, tennis center, and an elegant clubhouse, making it more than just a golf course—it’s a lifestyle experience. If you ever get the chance to play here, consider yourself lucky—this is Hilton Head golf at its finest.
Wexford Golf Club
111 Wexford Club Dr,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
843 686 8810
www.wexfordhiltonhead.com/golf
Bear Creek Golf Club
Image from: Official FB Page
A True Golfer’s Course With a Relaxed, Private Feel
If you’re looking for a pure golf experience away from the crowds, Bear Creek Golf Club is the perfect hidden gem on Hilton Head Island. This Rees Jones-designed course is known for its quiet, relaxed atmosphere and a layout that rewards both strategy and precision. With tree-lined fairways, well-placed bunkers, and undulating greens, it’s a course that challenges golfers of all levels while still being approachable and fun to play.
Bear Creek’s par-72 layout weaves through the scenic Sea Pines Forest Preserve, offering a mix of tight fairways and generous landing zones that require smart shot-making. The signature 7th hole, a risk-reward par-5 with a tricky green, is a favorite among players who love a bold approach shot. And with consistently smooth greens and excellent course conditions, Bear Creek ensures a top-tier playing experience year-round.
As a private club, Bear Creek offers an exclusive yet welcoming atmosphere with a strong sense of community among members. If you get the opportunity to tee off here, take it—this course is a Lowcountry treasure that serious golfers will truly appreciate.
Bear Creek Golf Club
237 Whooping Crane Way,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
843 681 9510
www.bearcreekhhi.com
Tee Off in Paradise: The Best of Hilton Head Golf
Whether you’re chasing the thrill of a championship course, looking for a laid-back Lowcountry escape, or seeking an exclusive private club experience, Hilton Head’s golf scene has something for every player. From the strategic challenges of the George Fazio Course to the serene beauty of May River Golf Club, each course offers a unique blend of scenic charm, course design, and top-tier playing conditions.
According to Trish Hall, a trusted Hilton Head Realtor, golf isn’t just a pastime here—it’s a lifestyle woven into the island’s identity. With breathtaking coastal views, meticulously maintained greens, and courses designed by some of the biggest names in golf, it’s no wonder Hilton Head continues to be a bucket-list destination for golfers from around the world.
So, whether you’re lining up a weekend round or planning your dream golf getaway, these courses guarantee an unforgettable experience. Ready to hit the fairways? Grab your clubs, book your tee time, and experience the best golf Hilton Head has to offer!
(For more local insights and expert recommendations, visit Southern Maple.)
