Hilton Head Golf Guide: The Three Palmetto Dunes Courses

Hilton Head Island has more than 30 golf courses, but you don't need to leave the resort to play three of the best. Palmetto Dunes is home to three championship layouts, all within a few minutes of Villamare 3424 — and the resort's free Dunes Buggy shuttle (8 a.m.–9 p.m. daily in season, 843-689-4222) will get you to the first tee.

Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront

The flagship. Wide fairways, big greens, and the only oceanfront holes in the resort — the par-5 10th plays right along the dunes. It's the most forgiving of the three off the tee, which makes it a great first round of the trip.

Arthur Hills

The shot-maker's course. Tighter corridors through live oaks and lagoons, with some of the most photographed par-3s on the island. Bring extra balls if your draw tends to become a hook.

George Fazio

The quiet favorite. A classic design that rewards position over power, and usually the easiest tee time of the three to book. Regulars will tell you it's the best value in the resort.

Tips for booking

Spring and fall are peak season — book tee times a week or more out, especially for weekend mornings. Summer afternoons are the deal window: lower rates, and the sea breeze keeps it playable. Twilight rates typically kick in mid-afternoon.

After the round

All three courses have clubhouse dining, but the local move is the Dunes House — fish tacos and a frozen drink with your feet still in flip-flops, about a 10-minute walk from Villamare.