Among the eastern United States' great family vacation destinations is Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Hilton Head is also known for its great golf. Home to the PGA TOUR's Verizon Heritage, Harbor Town Golf Links leads a host of other great courses that are complemented by a wide variety of activities the whole family will enjoy.
When entering the island, which measures 12 miles from heel to toe, vacationers will be struck initially by the lack of visible commercialization. Although a family vacation and tourist destination full of every convenience imaginable, planners succeeded in keeping the signs so plentiful and visible everywhere else from easy view. All business signs, such as restaurants and shopping centers, are kept at eye-level, which succeeds in making the island less commercial and more naturally beautiful.
Hilton Head Island Golf
On Hilton Head and in the surrounding area, there are literally dozens of great courses to play, which causes some difficulty in deciding where to tee it up. The most widely acclaimed is, of course, Harbor Town Golf Links. Located in the Sea Pines area of the island, this course provides spectacular views of Calibogue Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, as well as lots of the native flora. As it is a PGA TOUR venue, it is immaculately maintained and deserving of it's high rating. If you plan to play, contact the course well in advance of your arrival to secure a tee time. Expect to pay upwards of $200 for the privilege.
The Palmetto Dunes area of the island is home to three courses by famous golf course designers; the Robert Trent Jones Course, the Arthur Hills Course; and the George Fazio Course. They are within a few minutes of each other and located approximately in mid-island. Palmetto Dunes has beachfront and beach view lodging and dining for any budget, as well as activities for the kids. The location and amenities makes Palmetto Dunes a great place to stay and play on the island.
Lodging and Activities
Few places so beautiful have as much to offer by way of golf and other activities as HHI. When looking for places to stay on on the island, expect to pay more than you would in the surrounding areas; however, it is worth the extra money to experience the island's beauty and activities. Several rental companies can provide great lodging referrals and reservations to fit most budgets. Island Getaway, a vacation rental company, has access to numerous locations and the staff are friendly, courteous and willing to assist with any question or concern.
Everyone has different shopping tastes and Hilton Head has something for everyone. From the Shelter Cove Mall, which contains a Saks Off 5th Avenue and other national stores, to the outlet malls just off the island, to the numerous boutiques and shops throughout, no shopping taste will go unsatisfied.
For golfers, Golf Outfitters and Golf Headquarters are two popular HHI golf shops. The two golf retailers have a full selection of golf equipment from Adams, to Callaway, to Taylor Made. Both also offer golf club rental and golf equipment rental in case you can't bring your clubs along.
In short, if anyone in your family loves golf, Hilton Head Island is a great choice for your next family vacation. The golfers and non-golfers alike will have a spectacular time.
