Since opening for play 27 years ago, Hilton Head National golf course has received numerous awards by local publications for “public golf courses” in the Lowcountry.
According to Thomas Schultz, director of golf sales, Hilton Head National is unique in that it is the only course in the Lowcountry without any sort of “development” around it, such as homes, condos or hotels.
In addition, it’s also the only course that has a different designer for each nine. “I don’t think you could ask for much better than a World Golf Hall of Famer Gary Player and a Pete Dye protégé and former chief designer for the PGA Tour, Bobby Weed,” Schultz said.
The front side, designed by Weed, has larger and deeper greens that are more undulated. The back side, designed by Player, has smaller greens with well-placed bunkers.
While playing Hilton Head National, you feel that you are out in nature at its best. The water hazards and marshes are strategically placed where good golf shots are rewarded. The tees, fairways and greens are always in excellent condition.
The signature hole, No. 6, proves that a hole doesn’t have to be long to be challenging. This par 4 hole is less than 300 yards long and has a lake along the entire right side of the hole and winding behind the green.
There are strategically placed bunkers along this narrow fairway. The green is elevated, and over 120 feet deep with undulation. This allows for many challenging pin positions.
You don’t need a GPS system of your own to play the course. Every golf cart has the Visage High resolution GPS system that gives you all the yardages you need to play each hole.
It is also monitored in the Pro Shop, which allows the pros to keep up with pace of play. The system even has a convenient food and beverage ordering system straight to the restaurant.
This course is fun for all levels of players with four sets of tees to choose from. Beginners will enjoy the course from the front tees since there are no “forced” carries over trouble.
Also most holes are open in front of the green to allow for a run up shot as opposed to high lofted shots to elevated greens.
Advanced players will need to keep their drives in the fairway and will want to use fairway woods and hybrids off many of the teeing grounds.
For tee times, call 843-842-5900 or visit www.golfhiltonheadnational.com.
Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at Brown Golf Management courses. jean.golfdoctor.harris @gmail.com; www.golfdoctorjean.com
