Harbour Town Golf Links is an iconic golf course known for its stunning views, challenging holes, and prestigious tournaments.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to play and manage your game at Harbour Town.

History of Harbour Town Golf Links

Harbour Town Golf Links is located in the Sea Pines Resort. It was designed by renowned golf course architect Pete Dye in 1969. It opened for play in 1970 and has since hosted the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage tournament every year. The course has also been consistently ranked as one of the top courses in the country by various publications such as Golf Digest and Golf Magazine.

Course Layout and Features

Harbour Town is a par-71 course with a total yardage of 7,099 yards. The front nine holes are known for their tight fairways and smaller greens while the back nine offers more open spaces and longer shots. The course also features iconic landmarks such as the Harbour Town Lighthouse on the 18th hole.

Playing Tips

Here are some tips to help you navigate through the challenging layout at Harbour Town:

• Accuracy is key: With narrow fairways and small greens, precision is crucial in every shot.
• Pay attention to wind conditions: Being located near the coast, the winds can significantly impact your game. Be mindful of wind direction and speed when selecting your clubs.
• Choose the right approach shots: The greens at Harbour Town are known for being small and well-guarded by bunkers. Plan your approach shots accordingly to avoid getting stuck in tricky positions.

Managing Your Game

Several holes—like 4, 8, 14, 17, and 18—offer minimal space between the greens and water hazards. Strategic tee shots and lay-ups are essential for setting up clear approaches to the greens, as overhanging trees can block shots even from the fairway. This challenge affects a significant number of holes (1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, and 16), making Harbour Town stand out among other courses.

The ninth hole, a short par 4 at around 325 yards, tempts golfers to attempt the green off the tee despite its small size and the surrounding bunkers. The two finishing holes run along the picturesque Calibogue Sound, where changing tides influence play. While the hazard line remains constant, shots can sometimes be taken from the sand during low tide. Wind is a critical factor here, especially on the seventeenth hole. 17 is a par three that typically plays into a headwind as it heads southwest.

The eighteenth hole is Harbour Town’s signature, offering a striking finale. This northward par 4 features the Calibogue Sound guarding the entire left side, with out-of-bounds stakes lining the right. The iconic red-and-white-striped Harbour Town lighthouse provides a scenic backdrop and often serves as a helpful aim point for approach shots.

Enhance Your Experience at Harbour Town

• Book a caddy: Caddies at Harbour Town are seasoned professionals who can provide valuable insights on how to navigate the course. They also assist with club selection and reading greens.
• Visit the pro shop: Stop by the pro shop before or after your game to browse through a wide selection of golf apparel, equipment, and souvenirs.
• Enjoy the amenities: The clubhouse at Harbour Town offers a variety of amenities such as fine dining, a bar, and a locker room with shower facilities. Take advantage of these perks to fully relax and unwind after your game.

Conclusion

Playing and managing your game at Harbour Town Golf Links is truly a memorable experience. With its rich history, challenging layout, and stunning scenery, this course is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. So grab your clubs and get ready to tee off at Harbour Town on Hilton Head Island!

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org.