Plan the ultimate Hilton Head golf vacation for leisure and recreation

Do plan ahead

Hilton Head is an island, after all, and hotel rooms and tee times, while plentiful, go fast in the peak seasons. There are numerous vacation packages available with convenient accommodations and a sampling of area courses. Visit Hilton Head Golf Island for a list of courses, lodging options and stay-and-play packages.

Do check seasons and weather

Speaking of peak seasons, spring and fall are prime for golf and summer for family fun. Temperatures vary from cool to hot with mild winters,balmy summers and a refreshing gentle coastal breeze, offering gorgeous weather year-round.

Do pack accordingly

If planning a summer golf trip, be sure to pack sunscreen, moisture wicking attire and a good hat. For spring and fall, mornings and evenings can be cool (but refreshing), so a nice pullover or light golf sweater should do the trick. Each of the golf courses offer the latest in golf fashion so make sure you take your time to shop.

Do bring your appetite

Hilton Head is emerging as a foodie’s paradise, with a fistful of famous chefs opening island eateries. The menu is always fresh on the island dining scene with mouth-watering local seafood, farm to table produce and Lowcountry staples like Anson Mills stone ground grits. The myriad of restaurants offer a variety of price points and dining options from a casual seafood house to an elegant four-star establishment, sure to please anyone.

Do plan for time off the tee

After you finish your round, or if you are bringing along any family members or friends who are non-golfers, the island is home to a plethora of leisure and recreational activities like fishing, shopping, windsurfing and biking. So be sure to take advantage of all that Hilton Head has to offer, not just the golf.

Do not overlook Bluffton

Don’t overlook Bluffton. Just over the bridge is the charming and beautiful mainland town of Bluffton, S.C., home to antebellum homes, historic churches, moss-shaded streets and of course plenty of championship golf. Accessible by a quick car ride or scenic boat trip along the May River, Bluffton is home to a number of award-winning restaurants, unique boutiques, world-renowned accommodations and popular shopping centers such as the Tanger Outlets.

Do not miss out on the festivals and events

Hilton Head has a year-long schedule of can’t-miss festivals and events ranging from the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage in April to the Wine and Food Festival in March to Concours D’Elegance in November. Call and plan ahead if you want to experience one of the bigger events or festivals. There is always something going on.

Do not forget to reserve rental clubs

Particularly during high-season, they can be just in high-demand as the tee times and hotels. If you plan on traveling without your clubs, reserve a set in advance. Many of the courses offer top of the line rental clubs.

Do not neglect your handicap

Hilton Head has a high-concentration of world-class, quality golf courses, each with its own set of unique characteristics and challenges. Play courses that are in line with your handicap and level of difficulty.

Do not go near the alligators

You will surely encounter many of the indigenous gators while on your trip, and although it might be tempting to snap a photo of one up close and personal, it is illegal to go near or feed these reptiles – for your safety and theirs.