The Arthur Hills golf course has received plenty of accolades over the years from 2009 South Carolina Golf Course Owners’ Association Course of the Year to being awarded 4.5 stars by Fodors Golf Digest. Our popular course has one more jewel to add to its crown this year as the South Carolina Golf Course Ratings Panel named it to their 2013 Best You Can Play list.
Criteria used in judging include, routing, variety, strategy, equity, memorability, aesthetics and the golfer’s experience.
“There are so many outstanding courses that you’re really splitting hairs in the voting,” says Michael Whitaker, the panel’s executive director. “When you think about the number of really good golf courses in this state and reduce that number to 30, it’s a daunting task. Some of the older courses have stood the test of time, some have improved with some relative small tweaks and others that have undergone renovation or restoration to their original design features have increased in quality.”
The Arthur Hills Hilton Head golf course, where collegiate stars like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson honed their talents and a favorite of former President Bill Clinton, takes full advantage of the natural beauty of Hilton Head Island.
Its spectacular layout represents a careful blend of beauty and challenge. Stands of palmetto trees line the graceful fairway and it’s built on a series of rolling dunes. The Arthur Hills Course presents many opportunities for off-balance lies, while ocean breezes add to the challenge. Ten holes on the water further encourage precision play and the course plays 6,651 yards from the back tees.
“We are thrilled that the experts have once again recognized the Arthur Hills Course as one of the most popular layouts in South Carolina,” says Brad Marra, vice president of resort operations for Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. “We offer three golf courses that provide our guests a wide variety of looks and challenges, and we are proud of them all. It is pleasing to know that the game’s connoisseurs agree.”
Have you played the Hills course? What’s your favorite hole?
We also have two other championship Hilton Head golf courses, which give you entirely different experiences all at one resort. The Robert Trent Jones Course has one of only two oceanfront holes on the island, and the George Fazio Course is known as one of the island’s most challenging courses with its bunkers and water hazards. Be sure to check out all three!
We offer a variety of Hilton Head golf packages for all levels of golfers that include lessons, multi-course play and multiple rounds. Call us at 866-744-7558 for more information or to book a package or tee time or fill out our online form to get a quote request for a group golf outing.
Here in the south we are blessed to play host to two of the best golf tournaments, and Palmetto Dunes is either just a few minutes or just a few hours’ drive from both!
The Masters, held at Augusta National in Augusta, Ga., every year, is April 11-14, and the RBC Heritage, on Hilton Head Island, follows April 18-21. We think these make for great opportunities to extend your trip with a few extra days of golf at the beach.
Our South Carolina golf resort is offering a special package for those traveling down for either tournament. The Ultimate PGA Tour Stay and Play Package offers accommodations (three-night minimum) plus three rounds of golf at our three championship Hilton Head golf courses starting at $184/night for stays through April 27, 2013.
As if that’s not good enough, we’re throwing in one more perk to sweeten the deal! If you book this package online or by phone using code PGA, for every night you stay with us, we’ll enter you to win a pair of 4-day RBC Heritage tickets with VIP passes to our SkyBox. The winner will be announced April 2.
When you play golf on Hilton Head Island with Palmetto Dunes, you get three different but amazing award-winning courses to choose from, including the oceanfront Robert Trent Jones course with one of only two oceanfront holes on the entire island.
We also have a new Palmetto Dunes smartphone golf application to help you maximize your game downloadable on iTunes or Android phones. With a live leaderboard, hole information, GPS yardage and one-click call dining reservations, you’re set to have your best game ever followed by a cold beer and BBQ ribs at the new Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza Hilton Head restaurant at the Jones course.
Plus, Golf Digest recently named Hilton Head Island as a top Best Buddies getaway. So grab a group of friends, head to the Master’s or the RBC Heritage and then stop off at Palmetto Dunes before or after for a perfect South Carolina golf getaway. Request golf rates here or call us at 866-744-7558 to get started.
Where do you go when you want to have fun with your best buds? Golf Digest says Hilton Head, and we agree, of course! Lucky for you, Palmetto Dunes is located on Hilton Head and home to the finest golf courses on Hilton Head Island! There’s no better choice than Palmetto Dunes for your group golf trip, where we specialize in providing a top-notch, first-class golf experience!
In their December 2012 issue, Golf Digest ranked their top 36 destinations for a “Best Buddies” getaway. Hilton Head came in at No. 9, with our Arthur Hills course named as a key golf course. Golf Digest editors created the list by surveying panelists of more than 1000 avid golfers who rank their biennial
America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses.
To add to Hilton Head’s impressive list of awards, the island was named No. 8 for Best Value, No. 8 for Best Courses, No. 9 for best weather, No. 10 for best food and drink, No. 10 for best lodging, and No. 7 as best for couples (Palmetto Dunes offers great romance packages for you and your special someone).
Throughout March, we’re giving you even more incentive to come play golf with your buddies at Palmetto Dunes and see if you agree with Golf Digest! When you book a golf group, you’ll get your fourth round free AND free replays based on availability. When your group plays golf at Palmetto Dunes, we also provide a dedicated on-site group coordinator, as well as complimentary range balls and yardage books plus resort discounts and free tennis court time!
Another great thing about a Hilton Head guys getaway (or girls!) to Palmetto Dunes is all the OTHER activities we offer to keep you busy. Get everyone together for a deep sea fishing charter or kayak through our peaceful inland lagoon. Run on the beach or bike some of Hilton Head’s 50 miles of paved bike paths. We also offer two hours of free tennis daily for each night you stay in one of our Hilton Head vacation villas. We’ll keep you as busy as you want to be!
Request a group golf rate proposal here and be sure to check out all our great Hilton Head golf packages, some of which include lessons and other activities. We promise you’ll love your stay and our championship golf courses!
Here at Palmetto Dunes, we believe that improving your golf game often times starts in your head. Our Hilton Head golf school, the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy, offers a variety of classes that work on your mental golf game. Our head of golf instruction, Doug Weaver, is a big proponent of spending time on the mind in order to improve your skills.
“The average person is so busy, they don’t have time to master the perfect golf game. Plus, every golfer is restricted by the limits of his physical skill,” says Doug. “The one thing within our control, however, is how we approach an overall round, a specific hole or a given shot.”
We offer a Mental Golf Workshop weekly, as well as part of our three-day Hilton Head golf school. Before you even come to class, you’ll fill out a survey online, which takes about 15 minutes, that determines your golf personality. The result is a 24-page report that Doug uses to improve your game during the Hilton Head golf class. With the survey, you’ll get an analysis of your golf temperament, golf fitness tendencies and ability to work with instructors and get customized strategies for pre-round preparation, playing shots and course management.
Doug teaches his students how to concentrate and not just think on a conscious level, but a subconscious level. But he promises, no hypnotism involved :). “It’s a fun way to play golf,” says Doug.
He encourages his students to envision a good golf shot before ever taking a swing and even to try putting with eyes closed, or with eyes on the cup and not the ball.
Come try Doug’s methods of using your mind to become a better golf player. Read more about our 2- and 3-day golf schools and variety of golf clinics. Call us at 866-744-7558 to reserve your spot today or to book one of our South Carolina golf getaways that include lessons, tee times and accommodations.
Here in Hilton Head where most days the skies are blue and the weather is mild, there is plenty to do to keep active during the winter months. Here are our top 10 winter activities on Hilton Head Island:
1) Polish your golf game – Our Hilton Head golf academy offers a variety of classes for golfers all winter long. Learn to play more carefree like Bubba Watson, improve your mental golf game or enjoy daily 50-minute clinics on different skills. See our winter golf academy schedule. Or just head out for a round with some pals. Winter is a great time to play golf in Hilton Head, as the crowds of summer are long gone, making for better pace of play, and temperatures are mild.
2) Ride a bike! – With some 50 miles of paved bike paths on Hilton Head Island, there’s no excuse not to get out and enjoy the beauty of our island. Hilton Head Outfitters offers Hilton Head bike rentals for every member of your family, including cruisers, kiddie carts, tag-a-longs and child seats.
3) Get in a cardio workout by playing tennis – Tennis gets the blood pumping for sure and the milder weather makes for more comfortable outdoor play. Try a Hilton Head tennis lesson from our Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center or take it up a notch with our Cardio Tennis class offered during the winter months on holidays.
4) Shop! – There are plenty of unique boutiques and stores on Hilton Head to make sure you head home with a one-of-a-kind souvenir of your Hilton Head vacation. Try Shelter Cove Harbour waterfront shops or shop our Hilton Head golf pro shops and tennis pro shop for some great finds.
5) Kayak or canoe the lagoon – Plan to rent a kayak or canoe from Hilton Head Outfitters and head out mid afternoon, when the weather should be at its warmest. Enjoy a peaceful tour of our 11-mile inland lagoon system, take in the wildlife and see Palmetto Dunes in an entirely new way.
6) Take a walk on the beach and look for shells – With fewer people visiting Hilton Head in the winter, you’ll enjoy a quiet stroll and have a better chance of finding some great shells. Keep your eye out for dolphins in the surf and see what kind of treasures have washed ashore. Here are more tips on beachcombing in Hilton Head.
7) Catch a redfish! – Fall and winter are some of the best times to catch a “big red” and our team of fishermen can help you do it. Whether you take an offshore or inshore Hilton Head fishing charter, learn to fish from the pros and see if you can earn bragging rights to a trophy red.
8) Eat oysters – Here in the south, we say that months ending in “r” are the best ones to eat oysters, so before December winds down, take this last opportunity! There’s a fine art to eating an oyster (or you can just slurp it down, of course J) whether you enjoy it with a touch of lemon, hot sauce or just plain!
9) Go birdwatching – The birds are out in winter, and in fact, during Hilton Head’s last Christmas bird count they totaled up more species than ever before! Grab some binoculars and head out on a kayak in the lagoon or a Hilton Head boat tour to Daufuskie Island or Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge for some great birdwatching. More Hilton Head birdwatching tips in the Hilton Head Outfitters blog.
10) Do nothing! After you’ve done our top 9, why not relax, unwind and do nothing :)? Kick back in your Hilton Head vacation rental from Palmetto Dunes and enjoy an ocean or palm tree view. Grab a good book, a cup of coffee and rest. Ahhh….
Palmetto Dunes offers plenty of packages to help you work in all of these things from our Monthly Stay & Sports Membership to our Spa Packages to Hilton Head tennis packages and Hilton Head golf packages. If we can answer any questions or book you a stay or tee time, please give us a call at 866-744-7558.
Finding the right holiday gift for every person in your life can be more than a little stressful! But when you come shopping in Hilton Head, you’re likely to find some unique gift items to both surprise and delight your family and friends. To help you with your holiday shopping, we’ve compiled some of our favorite gift ideas from around our famous South Carolina resort and neighboring Shelter Cove Harbour.
For the golfer:
For the tennis player:
Check out our DeFeet Dura Gloves, which are multi-season gloves perfect for cold weather play. They have a nylon nonslip palm grip and are available in neon yellow, black, light pink and a bright pink with the breast cancer awareness ribbon on the interior. These are priced at $15.99 and also make a great stocking stuffer.
For the outdoor enthusiast:
For an artistic or unique gift:
Head across the road from the resort to the Shelter Cove Harbour Waterfront Shops and stop by Nash Gallery. The longtime Hilton Head art gallery features all North-American artists with a variety of unique art pieces and décor for the home.For anyone:
Here are more holiday deals at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort and Shelter Cove Harbour. If you can’t make it in person to shop, feel free to give us a call at 866-744-7558 and we’ll be happy to ship.
How far along are you on your holiday gift list? Will any of these golf gifts, tennis gifts or other ideas make your list? Happy shopping!
It’s getting to be the time of year where the weather up north starts to get cold, with snow and chilling winds as the norm. But here in Hilton Head the weather is mild year round with the average high between 60 and 72 November through February. In fact, you can check our website home page any time of year for the current temperature and see our Hilton Head weather chart for average highs year round.
With sunny days so tempting, we have lots of folks who like to come spend a month or more with us in the winter, and to cater to these loyal guests, we offer a variety of fun options to keep them busy at our Hilton Head beach resort.
Our Monthly Stay and Sports Membership is great for active individuals who love to enjoy the great outdoors. It includes resort accommodations for 30 days in a Hilton Head vacation home or villa, unlimited golf on our three legendary Hilton Head golf courses and bike rentals throughout your stay, two two-hour kayak rentals to enjoy our calm 11-mile lagoon system, two hours of tennis court time daily and the best rates on all other activities at the resort. Plan to burn a few calories with this monthly sports membership!
Golf aficionados will love our Monthly Golf Membership that gives you a 30-day unlimited golf pass to our three championship courses. You also receive discounts at our Hilton Head golf pro shops, golf grills and range. Imagine how much your golf game will improve with so much practice!
If you’re a tennis player, you’ll be excited to know that with any stay at a Palmetto Dunes-managed Hilton Head vacation villa or home, you receive two hours of complimentary tennis daily. So play your heart out!
Outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy a weekly – or even yearly -- kayak or canoe rental from Hilton Head Outfitters. Yearly members pay $199 for one person for unlimited use of the store’s standard kayaks and canoes in the Palmetto Dunes inland lagoon system, as well as receive half off for a second person and 10% off all other rental equipment. Monthly bike passes are also available for $59.99 for exploring the more than 50 miles of paved Hilton Head bike paths.
Which monthly sports membership is ideal for you? Call our vacation planners today to schedule your chance to get out of the cold and into the bright Hilton Head sun this winter!
Doug Weaver, head of golf instruction at Palmetto Dunes golf resort, is all about making the game of golf fun. He wants you to leave your stress behind when on your Hilton Head golf vacation, forget about throwing clubs and relax and enjoy the game.
Easier said than done, right?
According to Doug, he strives to make people “players”. He says, “a player is somebody who plays well without a perfect swing, understands the game and doesn’t get bogged down in all the mechanics.” A pro golfer who embodies that “player” mentality is Bubba Watson, a playful, imperfect golfer who gets the job done, but has fun while he’s doing it.
Palmetto Dunes offers a variety of classes at our Hilton Head Golf Academy that address these frustrations and helps bring the joy back to the game of golf. They include:
Bubba Golf – Learn how to play like Bubba in this weekly 50-minute class with Doug. The class focuses on the mechanics of making specific trouble shots while learning to think less and focus better.
Mental Golf Workshop – Part of our three-day Hilton Head golf school, the Mental Golf Workshop lets you complete a “golf personality” profile before beginning class. This helps Doug to better understand your personality and areas you need to work on, allowing him to personalize your instruction.
Off the Knees and Under a Branch – In Doug’s Short Game II workshop, he teaches you how to get out of the toughest situations on the course, even when you’re “on your knees, under a branch.” With the confidence that you can play your way out of a worst case scenario, your game will improve!
“Every round has failures in it, if you overreact, that’s how a lot of rounds are ruined,” says Doug. “Golf is fun. Learn how to handle those challenges, and that’s when you really have fun.”
The three championship courses at Palmetto Dunes lend themselves to having fun while you’re on your Hilton Head vacation. They are challenging but not too much so. They’re a good blend, says Doug, meeting the needs of every type of golfer.
Palmetto Dunes offers a range of options for South Carolina golf vacations, including a golf stay and play package, the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy Package with two full days of instruction, monthly packages and more. Call us at (866) 744-7558 for more details.
So next time you feel like throwing a club out of frustration, remember these words from Weaver: “Golf is not a game of perfect. It’s a game of good.” And have fun out there!
It never fails. You think you’ve packed everything you need for a vacation, and then you realize you left your brand new golf glove on the kitchen counter or your new tennis attire in the dryer. Or perhaps you just “feel” like you need a little something new to up your game – and who doesn’t want to come home from their Hilton Head vacation with something to add to their wardrobe? Since any purchase doubles as a souvenir, stocking up at our Hilton Head pro shops is totally justifiable. In fact, it’s a win-win!
Our Hilton Head tennis pro shop and our Hilton Head golf pro shops offer all the essentials -- from the outfit to the equipment – as well as a few awesome extras. We’ve picked five great finds at our Pro Shops just in time for your fall or winter Hilton Head vacation and for the holidays.
In our golf pro shops:
1) GARMIN Approach S3 GPS Golf Watch -- The S3 is an innovative GPS golf watch preloaded with more than 27,500 courses domestically. It offers a high-resolution touch-screen display and shows the shape/layout of each green, allowing the user to select hole locations for precise distances. It also displays yardages to doglegs and lay-ups, and allows the user to calculate distances of an individual shot, not just distance to the hole.
2) 9 & Dine Ladies Apparel -- This collection does very well, and we’re currently stocking the new fall collection. It offers coordinating tops and skorts for a number of unique looks. 9 & Dine is designed for performance without sacrificing fit or style. In addition, every piece in the collection is made in the USA.
3) Titleist 913D2 & 913D3 Drivers -- Titleist begins shipping new drivers in November, just in time for you to use one on our three Hilton Head golf courses during your vacation! The new 913D2 is a 460cc driver with innovations to the face insert, rear weight and lower CG location that deliver the best combination of speed and forgiveness.
For tennis enthusiasts:
4) TASC Apparel -- Our Tennis Center pro shop recently added logo apparel from TASC, which many of you know stands for Technical All Season Comfort. The fabric used in this clothing line for men and women is light weight, has 4-way stretch, UPF 50+, anti-odor, breathable and moisture wicking.
5) LoveAll Shirts -- The shop also carries a new shirt line for women called LoveAll. These shirts are made for tennis lovers by tennis lovers. They infuse their products with the intimate knowledge of the game and the absolute obsession for the sport. LoveAll’s vision is to serve up sizzling merchandise that reflects your passion while remaining divinely comfortable and flattering. Serious and fun; just like you.
What sounds good to you? Any good ideas for holiday gift giving? If you don’t see what you need, head over to our Hilton Head pro shops or give us a call at (866) 744-7558 for some ideas and for shipping rates.
There are games of chance and games of skill. Golf certainly is a game of skill and the best way to improve your game is to tweak things now and again.
While enjoying your Hilton Head vacation, make sure you sign up to attend at least one of the programs offered at our top-notch Hilton Head golf academy so you can score lower and enjoy the game even more. Even if you don’t think you need to tweak your game, you should consider getting a friend or family member to sign up for a program or two then you can just tag along for moral support (wink-wink, nudge-nudge).
In fact, the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy is currently running a special for 10% off if you sign up for a multi-day program. If another golfer signs up with you, you get 15% off. The two-day programs offer a 4:1 ratio for three hours of instruction per day, nine holes of golf daily and much more. The three-day programs also have a 4:1 ratio for four hours of instruction per day, 18 holes of golf and more.
The Golf Academy is led by former PGA Tour player Doug Weaver. As Director of Instruction Weaver manages the Palmetto Dunes golf academy and supervises all golf instruction. “The two- and three-day schools are great because they have a slow pace and you can enjoy learning at whatever your playing level,” Weaver says.
In addition to the multi-day programs, the academy offers nine golf programs about an hour in length nearly every day of the week. Each class focuses on different aspects of the game, including beginner golf, back to basics and the short game. The programs are appropriate for golfers from ages 12 to adult. Eleven teaching pros, some of whom are former PGA Tour professionals, provide hands-on instruction to golfers with varying levels of proficiency.
Weaver says the Power and Distance Class helps you learn the five different ways to hit the ball harder and more precisely using moves that are best for your body type. Every golfer’s body creates power uniquely. The experts will show you the five major power moves and which ones you should focus on.
Another good Hilton Head golf lesson we offer is the Mental Golf Workshop, which helps you concentrate better and keep your energy high. In short, you learn how to concentrate like a pro and maintain it.
Speaking of concentration, the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy has created a class that zeroes in on Bubba Watson’s unique approach to golf. “Bubba is one of the greatest players of our time,” Weaver says. “He’s relaxed and care free. He’s casual yet very competitive and he understands it’s a game of opposites – the harder you try, the worse you do.”
Unsure which school is right for you? Contact us for more information or to make a reservation for any of our Hilton Head golf lessons at (866) 744-7558.
Remember when you were a kid and you stayed outside from sun up to sun down? Fall is the perfect time to do just that on Hilton Head. With milder temperatures and fewer crowds, fall is a fabulous time to enjoy all the outdoor fun that Hilton Head and Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort have to offer.
Love to be on the water? We have several options for you during your stay. Rent a kayak or canoe to explore Palmetto Dunes’ 11-mile lagoon system by your own power. Choose from single or double kayaks, and a one-, two- or three-person canoe rentals! We like that the canoes and kayaks (generally) have two speeds: paddle and drift. That makes them both a perfect mode of transportation for slowing down to really enjoy the Hilton Head wildlife and the fall weather.
Speaking of paddling, you can also rent a stand up paddleboard during your stay. This sport has quickly grown in popularity and when you’re out there balancing on the water, you’ll see why. It’s peaceful and a workout all at the same time.
Palmetto Dunes also offers several options for you to charter a boat at Shelter Cove Marina for deep-sea or inshore fishing excursions, as well as leisure cruises such as dolphin cruises, sunset cruises, dinner cruises and more.
For land-lubbers, Palmetto Dunes has plenty of activities to keep you outside until dark. We have three world-class golf courses and a top-ranked tennis center featuring 23 clay and two Nova ProBounce courts (six of which are lighted for night play). Don’t forget to check out all of the great Hilton Head vacation packages we offer for you and your group to stay and play golf, tennis and more at special rates this fall.
Like to bike? We have you covered. Simply make a reservation with Hilton Head Outfitters to have bikes delivered right to your hotel or Hilton Head vacation rental on the day you arrive. All you have to do is hop on and ride. Explore Hilton Head by bike in the cooler morning temps and meander the island’s more than 50 miles of public bike trails in the sunny but mild afternoons.
After you’ve enjoyed a day on the water, the courts or the greens, head on over to Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza restaurant at the Robert Trent Jones course, the Dunes House open to resort guests and which boasts ocean views, or Shelter Cove, where you can enjoy waterfront dining -- and meander from shop to shop -- in the beautiful fall weather.
Need help planning your fall Hilton Head vacation or have questions about our outdoor activities? Contact a Vacation Planner for more information or call us at (866) 744-7558.
Beautiful weather, beautiful greens, an early tee time and still plenty of sunlight left in the day to walk the beach, rent a bike or play another round! Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? That’s what your fall getaway to can be to Hilton Head’s Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. With temps in the 70s through October, clear blue skies and sunny days with decreasing humidity, fall is just about perfect for your Hilton Head golf vacation.
Tee Time
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort has not one, not two, but three world-class golf courses on the property, so you don’t even have to venture outside the resort to tee-off from three different, challenging courses. Each distinguished course was designed to make the most of your abilities … and then some.
For example, the Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course is one of only two oceanfront holes on the entire island. Its 10th hole, a par-5, offers a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t let this beauty fool you, however. The course is tough and was rated among the best courses in the Southeast by readers of Golfweek magazine.
The George Fazio Course is the only par-70 golf course on the island and is considered Hilton Head’s most challenging championship course. Fazio designed the course with plenty of bunkers and water hazards to make sure you use all the skills our pros can teach you! The course demands a combination of long play and precise golf shots and ranks among America’s top 100 golf courses.
The Arthur Hills Course was built on a series of rolling dunes and is framed by palmetto and live oak trees. It offers many opportunities for off-balance lies and has 10 holes on the water, which means you need to take into account the ocean breeze before you swing.
Have Some Fish and Chips
We know a few people who enjoy the peace of fishing combined with the challenge of golf, and we agree. These two activities are the perfect complement.
So this fall, we’re offering our “Fish & Chips” package that lets you take advantage of the amazing redfish abundant in our waters this time of year with an inshore fishing charter along with two rounds of golf per person. It also includes a $100 gift card for dining at the resort, including our new Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza restaurant at the Jones course, a sleeve of golf balls, $50 gift card per person at our Hilton Head pro shops and a two-hour kayak rental to take in our lovely lagoon. Call us at (866) 744-7558 for more about this package.
We also offer a variety of other golf vacation packages from monthly memberships to unlimited golf and more.
Take a Lesson
Take some time to improve your golf skills this fall with a lesson or two from one of our golf pros. Our fall schedule at the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy offers a range of options from the novice to the expert golfer.
Our Director of Golf Doug Weaver is a big proponent of the power of the mind when it comes to the game of golf. Take his Mental Golf Workshop and learn how to concentrate like a pro. It also offers a pre-class evaluation of your mental golf style. Ladies can work on putting, chipping, pitching and full swing at our Ladies Only golf workshop.
Need help generating more power? Take our Power and Distance class and learn about the five major power and distance moves and which you need to focus on. Enjoy watching the free-spirited Bubba Watson? We’ll teach you how to model his playful attitude and show you how he makes those crazy shots in our Bubba Golf workshop.
And Then Some
In addition to golf, Palmetto Dunes has a host of other activities for you and your group: fishing, tennis, biking and lots of activities and events. You name it, we probably offer it! If you have more questions about what Palmetto Dunes offers for fall getaways in Hilton Head, visit our website or call us at (866) 744-7558.
Here at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, a top South Carolina golf resort, we can think of many reasons for you and your family or group to come play golf courses in Hilton Head any time of year. But for this blog post, we’ve boiled it down to our top 5 reasons. Drum roll please:
No. 1 – Three Varied Golf Courses
A lot of our guests love that they don’t have to leave Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort to play on three different and very challenging Hilton Head golf courses. Our courses fit the mood of any golfer whether you’re looking for more of a challenge, more of a view or a more relaxed and fun game.
The Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course is one of only two oceanfront holes on the island. Its 10th hole, a par-5, offers a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t let this beauty fool you, however. The course is tough and was rated among the best courses in the Southeast by readers of Golfweek magazine. The Jones Oceanfront Course plays 6,122 yards from the middle white tees.
The George Fazio Course is the only par-70 golf course on the island and is considered Hilton Head’s most challenging championship course. Fazio designed the course with plenty of bunkers and water hazards to keep players on their toes. The course demands a combination of long play and precise golf shots and ranks among America’s top 100 golf courses. The Fazio plays 6,239 yards from the middle white tees.
The Arthur Hills Course was built on a series of rolling dunes, framed by palmetto and live oak trees, offering many opportunities for off-balance lies. Ten holes on the course are on the water, which means you need to watch out for ocean breezes. Graceful yet challenging is a great way to describe this course, which plays 6,122 yards from the middle white tees.
No. 2 - Hilton Head Weather
The weather in Hilton Head is balmy and sub-tropical year-round, which allows for allows for all types of outdoor activities throughout the year. We don’t slow down when things cool off a little around here. In fact, our three golf courses heat up with travelers who enjoy playing golf on Hilton Head in 70-degree temps through October and in the 60s through December. While January is our coldest month, with a temperature range of 40-59 degrees, that’s still perfect for snowbirds who flock to our sunny golf courses during winter wearing shorts and T-shirts. And if you want to come in the summer, no worries. Read reason No. 3:
No. 3 – Air-Conditioned Golf Carts
When you’re playing one of the most popular golf courses in South Carolina during the balmiest days of summer, it’s such a treat to retreat to air conditioned golf carts. In fact, our entire fleet of golf carts is air-conditioned. Just load your clubs, hop in and cool off with a cold beverage as you ride in luxury to the next hole. Arrive refreshed and ready to make par. Ahhh….
No. 4 - Segway Golf Transporters
Spice up your mode of transport from green to green by renting one of our Segway Golf Transporters. We’re the only Hilton Head Island resort who offers them! A great open-air alternative to golf carts, these fun yet practical rides can reach speeds of more than 12 MPH. Our Segway X2 all-terrain vehicle is wider with deeply treaded tires. They’re easy to operate and maneuver and allow for superior preservation of the golf course.
No. 5. Beauty
Palmetto Dunes lives up to the reputation as one of the most popular South Carolina golf resorts and one of the finest resort destinations in the world. It’s garnered the attention of such respected travel resources as Travel + Leisure Family, Forbes, Fodor’s Golf Digest Places to Play, Frommer’s The Carolinas and Georgia, Golf Magazine and more. All of these resources tout the natural beauty of the resort, as well as its amenities.
Palmetto Dunes is picturesque at every turn from our pristine beach to the 11-mile inland lagoon system that winds through the resort, to the superbly sculpted golf courses framed by palmetto and live oak trees. The resort truly showcases the natural beauty of the island.
Do you need more reasons to play golf courses in Hilton Head? We think not! Come play a round with us and book your tee time by calling (866) 744-7558.
Remember, Palmetto Dunes also offers many more activities besides golf, including world-class tennis, fishing, bike rentals, shopping, dining, kayaking and lots more to give you a well-rounded Hilton Head vacation.
A long weekend is on the horizon (Yay!). And we can’t think of a better way to spend your days off than on a Labor Day golf getaway to Palmetto Dunes!
Here’s a rundown of the things you can do at this ever popular South Carolina golf resort, including plenty of golf but some other Hilton Head activities, as well:
Tee Time
The Hilton Head Celebrity Golf Tournament kicks off Friday Aug. 31, 2012 at our famed Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course, one of our three world-class golf courses. Since 1979, the annual event has raised more than $3.8 million for well-deserving children’s charities of the South Carolina Lowcountry.
Celebrities at this year’s tournament include actors Richard Schiff of The West Wing and Brian Baumgartner, Kevin from The Office; TV personalities Paul Goodloe of the Weather Channel and Holly Sonders of Golf Channel’s Morning Drive; numerous professional athletes and plenty of South Carolina favorites including Bobby Cremins; and George Rogers, NFL running back, University of South Carolina graduate and 1980 Heisman Trophy winner.
While you won’t be able to play the Jones course Friday (it will be closed for the tournament), you can certainly go and enjoy the festivities! Or you could plan to play one (or both) of the other golf courses at Palmetto Dunes: the George Fazio Course (called the most challenging course in Hilton Head) and the Arthur Hills Course (with 10 holes on the water!). Of course, the Jones course will be back open on Saturday and Sunday.
We also have a special deal right now on Saturday that you can take advantage of while in town. If you book a tee time after 11 a.m. you get half off resort rates if you use code SSSPECIAL12 and book your tee time online here.
Boogie Down
While HarbourFest fireworks are over for the season, Shannon Tanner hasn’t gone home yet! Shannon is a family entertainer, who’s been singing and playing music to crowds at Shelter Cove since 1988. Shannon will be performing Friday at 6:30 and 8 p.m. with other live entertainment Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Cappy the Clown will be on hand 6-9 p.m. all weekend and there will be lots of other family activities to do, as well. So bring the whole bunch and experience a new family tradition!
Bike Around Town
Rent a bike from Hilton Head Outfitters, THE place for Hilton Head bike rentals, and explore. Hilton Head Island has more than 50 miles of bike paths that take you beneath live oaks draped with Spanish moss, past creeks and marshes, and close to an assortment of beautiful flowers in bloom.
What’s going on Labor Day weekend at Palmetto Dunes? As you can see, a lot! In addition to the events above, be sure to check out our event calendar for more information on daily tennis clinics, golf demonstrations and after-hours activities at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort! Enjoy your long weekend!
Thinking of planning a golf vacation at a South Carolina golf resort? What are you looking for: A great deal? A convenient location? Top-notch lodging? Oh yes, and a variety of challenging yet fun golf courses?
Ding! Ding! Ding! We have a winner: Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort is a South Carolina golf resort you must visit if you are a golf aficionado.
Here’s why:
Great golf
We have three renowned courses, each one designed by a hero in the world of golf:
The Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course was named one of the best golf courses in the Southeast by Golfweek magazine. The 10th hole of this par-five course is one of only two oceanfront holes on the island! The rest of the course ambles along our 11-mile lagoon system. Here’s a fun fact: We book more rounds at the Jones course than any other course on the entire island!
The George Fazio Course is definitely a challenging choice with its varied bunkers and water hazards. The Fazio is ranked in the nation’s top 100 courses and is the only par-70 course on Hilton Head.
The Arthur Hills Course was ranked 4.5 stars by Fodor’s Golf Digest. It has been played by Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, who no doubt enjoyed its careful mix of beauty and challenge. It’s positioned on a series of dunes, which presents many opportunities for off-balance lies. In addition, the course offers 10 holes on the water and the ocean breeze adds to the challenge.
Great prices
When it comes to pricing, Palmetto Dunes offers high quality and ways to save. For example, book in advance and save up to 50% off the Resort Golf Rate, which is already very affordable. We also offer multi-round rates, junior programs and a 30-day golf pass, as well as an array of golf packages.
Great location and lodging
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort spans 2,000 acres in the heart of Hilton Head Island and boasts three miles of beachfront. We also have an award-winning tennis center and more activities than you can shake a golf club at.
In addition, Palmetto Dunes offers all guests a luxurious stay, whether you choose a villa with a view of Broad Creek or a well-appointed oceanfront home, we offer special rates and packages, including the best rates on golf and all resort activities, when you book directly through Palmetto Dunes.
Ready to book your vacation at an amazing South Carolina golf resort? Contact a vacation planner today, or visit our website for more details!
Golf fans around the world have been talking since April about “the shot” that PGA Tour professional Bubba Watson pulled out of his bag to win the 2012 Masters at Augusta National.
The stone-cold hook seemed to defy physics as the ball flew off pine needles toward the fairway, seemingly making a hard right and landing on the green. (It’s a hook because Watson is left handed.)
Learn some of those shots at our new “Bubba Golf” weekly series by PGA professional and Palmetto Dunes Director of Golf Instruction Doug Weaver.
Doug will teach golfers how to be creative while mastering the game and have a blast along the way. Doug describes “Bubba Golf” as adventurous, light-hearted and instinctive. The program focuses on the mechanics of making specific trouble shots while learning to think less and focus better. Think of it--you’ll only slice when you want to. Imagine that. Doug vows to teach players how to increase their smiles and decrease their strokes.
Join us for “Bubba Golf” every Thursday from 3-3:50 p.m. at the Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort through August. The cost is $25 per session and is open to golfers ages 10 and older. “Bubba Golf” is one of 12 programs currently offered as part of the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy. Private lessons are also available.
If you really want to pull off the total “Bubba” look, head to the Robert Trent Jones Course Pro Shop. It has the largest selection on Hilton Head Island of Travis Mathew, Bubba’s preferred label. You also can pick up a “Bubba Golf” T-shirt.
To reserve a spot for “Bubba Golf,” call Palmetto Dunes toll free at 877-567-6513. Let us help bring out your inner “Bubba.”
Palmetto Dunes has come up with a new place for families to unwind inside the resort for breakfast, lunch or dinner or for golfers to enjoy a meal after a round or two of golf. Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers and Pizza overlooking the Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course is now open seven days a week for a casual breakfast, lunch or dinner.
In addition to barbecue, burgers and pizza, we also have plenty of Southern dishes, soups, salads, seafood and steak, as well as a kids’ menu. Not only did we tap the culinary talents of Jim Self, one of the developers of Palmetto Dunes, and his Tennessee slaw and barbecue sauce, we took to heart suggestions from our guests for a spot where families can gather for a relaxing meal that won’t bust the budget.
At Big Jim’s, you’ll find big-screen TVs for catching the latest golf tournament, happy hour specials and live entertainment from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It’s also a perfect vantage point for Tuesday night fireworks launched all summer long as part of HarbourFest at Shelter Cove Harbour.
Big Jim’s is in the heart of the resort close to the beach, Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center and Hilton Head Outfitters. It’s a perfect spot to dine after a day of swimming, playing tennis, kayaking the lagoon or cruising around on bikes. It adds to the mix of restaurants our guests already enjoy: The Dunes House for lunch and dinner, pre- or post-round meals at Arthur’s Grille and the Fazio Grille at our two other golf courses, or fine dining at Alexander’s.
Join us this summer at Big Jim’s for a relaxing meal on our outdoor deck. You can also call us at 843-785-1165 for take out or catering. See you around!
We’re kicking off 2012 with four wonderful tournaments for all our golf and tennis friends out there. While we know many of you are stuck in snow and ice, why not head to Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort and spend a little time outside in milder temperatures at one of these entertaining events.
On January 21, we’ll hold the Martin Luther King Golf Tournament at our Arthur Hills course. Locals will invade our golf course to play in honor of the great Martin Luther King Jr. Next, during the first weekend in February, the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center will host the No-Snow Tennis Classic from the 3rd – 5th of the month. Grab your racquet and head down to Hilton Head for some great tennis play with a guarantee of no snow!
We’ll also honor all those in the food and beverage industry in Hilton Head with our annual F&B Golf Tournament on February 16. This will be the tournament’s 8th year at our George Fazio course and you can enter now by simply clicking here. This tournament is all about the locals and at least one person from your team needs to be in the food and beverage industry.
The 26th Annual “Luck of the Irish” Doubles Tournament will bring us into March with tennis teams that are sure to please. We hope to see lots of men’s, women’s and mixed doubles team this year. It’s only $45 per person for one event or $55 a person for two events. You can register your doubles team by clicking here and filling out the entry form.
We feel very lucky to have such amazing events happening this winter season and to be able to engage with all the Hilton Head locals and out-of-towners through these events. Whether you “love” tennis or golf, we hope this blog post got you on “par” with some tournaments to enjoy this year!
While most of the country is bundling up and sitting by their fireplaces, here at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort we’re out and about playing in 70-degree weather. From tennis and golf to fishing and kayaking, the activities don’t slow down here in Hilton Head when winter rolls in. To keep our winter visitors, active we’ve got some great seasonal deals for the tennis, golf or outdoors fanatic.
Hilton Head Outfitters is offering unlimited biking, kayaking and canoeing throughout the winter. For $49 per person you can rent a bike for the whole month or you can buy a bike for 25% off! Guests can also buy a year membership for $300 per couple or $199 per person, and enjoy unlimited kayak and canoe rentals!
Winter is actually the best time to start fishing in our lagoon system, because red fish, speckled sea trout and sheephead are bountiful. Head on over to Shelter Cove Harbour to take one of the many fishing charters with Captain Trent Malphrus. You’re sure to reel in a big one!
If tennis is more up your alley, you can purchase a monthly membership through February for only $200 per person that includes two hours of court time per day. Finally, if you’d like to play with us AND stay with us, we’ve got a 30-night resort accommodations package that includes golf, bikes, kayaks and tennis starting at only $1,200 per person. We think that’s a deal!
Call us 866-744-7558 and find out all the ways you can save this winter season!
While winter may slow down most of the country, visitors to Hilton Head can stay active no matter the time of year. With daytime temperatures averaging between 50-60 degrees during the winter, it’s great weather to get outside and play a round of golf with us here at Palmetto Dunes.
This winter we’re offering two new golf packages and programs that will not only help improve your game but will bring a little piece of Canada to our Island.
If you’re looking to improve your golf game while the weather is milder, the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy is offering a new “Five Ways to Better Golf” assessment and coaching package. Led by Doug Weaver, Palmetto Dunes’ director of golf instruction, guests receive assessments of the following five systems of their golf game: mental, full swing technical, short game technical, equipment and fitness.
Hailing from Granby, Quebec, Michel Dion, joins our golf team this winter to help with instruction. Winter brings many of our Canadian golfers to Hilton Head and Dion’s experience and French-speaking abilities will bring a whole new dynamic to Palmetto Dunes.
Spend your winter with us improving every aspect of your golf game, and we’ll have you looking like a star in time for spring and summer!
Our Robert Trent Jones Course was the first golf course built at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, and it’s a favorite of many. In fact readers of Golfweek magazine voted it among their favorite courses in the Southeast. The course offers 18 holes, 11 of which wind alongside an 11-mile lagoon system. The Jones course is most famous for its par-five 10th oceanfront hole, one of only two on the Island.
Built in 1967 by Robert Trent Jones and significantly reconstructed in 2002 by longtime protégé Roger Rulewich, this course aims to please. After reshaping tees, elevating fairways and improving the drainage system, the course re-opened and was named the 2003 Golf Course of the Year by the South Carolina Golf Course Owners Association and is ranked four stars by Golf Digest. The Jones course plays 7,005 yards from the championship tees.
And that’s not all! The course also claims the largest pro-shop at Palmetto Dunes, and one of the largest on the Island. From Nike and Adidas to Burberry and Travis Mathew, we have it all. After you purchase those new clubs make sure you hit our free custom club fitting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday! We hope to “tee” you soon.
The weather is starting to cool down which means it’s a great time to get a group of friends or bring your loved one on a golf getaway here at Palmetto Dunes. There’s no better time to play golf than in the fall here in South Carolina. We have tons of beautiful Hilton Head rental homes and villas that overlook one of our three award winning golf courses but 951 Inverness is a must-see villa!
Remodeled in 2009 and situated on the 12th hole of the George Fazio course, this three-bedroom, three- bath villa is perfect for a group or a family. After a morning on the fairways you can cool off in the community pool that’s only a short walk from your villa or chill out by watching TV on the flat screen in the living room!
Make sure to take advantage of our other activities, such as the two hours of free tennis court time and discounted bike rentals, that you receive when you book your villa through Palmetto Dunes. Another great bonus of renting with Palmetto Dunes is that you can enjoy lunch, dinner or mid-afternoon cocktails at The Dunes House!
951 Inverness is ready to make your fall golf outing perfect, so check out its availability, gather up your gang of guys or group of gals and call us at 866.380.1778. Fore!
Designed by American professional golfer and golf course architect George Fazio, this Palmetto Dunes course is often perceived as the most challenging Hilton Head golf course. Fazio, known for his uniquely-shaped bunkers, designed long par-4s beset in water hazards and bunkers.
The George Fazio Golf Course is the only par-70 course on Hilton Head Island and requires players to not only be precise in their play but to be prepared to play long. Starting play off with a 432-yard 1st hole and ending the game with a 462-yard 18th hole gives you an idea of how demanding the course can be.
In 2010, the course underwent grass replacement to promote consistent year-round play for our golfers. We replaced the TifDwarf Bermuda grass with a more shade-tolerant, Diamond Zoysia grass, a warm-weather grass that handles salty soil and high traffic well. This upgrade has created a more enjoyable and consistent experience for players on all 18 holes of the George Fazio Course.
Ranked among the Nation’s Top 100 Courses, the Fazio course at Palmetto Dunes was built in 1974 and is still referred to by many visitors and locals alike as their favorite course on the Island!
See a complete Course Map and get some tips from the pros on playing this course.
The Arthur Hills course, ranked 4.5 stars by Fodor’s Gold Digest, features a series of rolling dunes, as well 10 holes on the water. Named the South Carolina Course of the Year in 2009, the course was designed to encourage precision.
The dunes create many opportunities for off-balance lies and the ocean breezes present an additional challenge. TravelGolf.com says, “There is very little sand on the course, making the hazards a little harder to pick out. Beware the swales, tight fairways and lots of water.”
Most people recognize the Hills course by the Leamington Lighthouse that sits on the 15th hole. The lighthouse, built sometime between 1879 and 1880, was part of a navigational system of lights guiding ships into Port Royal Sound. It’s the only historic lighthouse on Hilton Head and one of only a few surviving in the state of South Carolina.
Don’t forget we serve breakfast and lunch at the grill and we dish up a mean New England Clam Chowder that you have to try. We hope to see you all out at the Hills course and if you have any questions ask for our head pro there, Clark (he’s wonderful).
Here at Palmetto Dunes we have three award-winning golf courses that we love to brag about. What you may not know is that besides the courses themselves, we also have three amazing pro-shops located on each course!
Our main pro-shop is located at the Robert Trent Jones course and is the largest on the island with a wide variety of merchandise. At all of our pro shops, you can find the newest up-and-coming designers, like Travis Mathew, and many of the classics, such as Cutter & Buck and Underarmour. All three also have the latest equipment from Titleist, Cobra, Cleveland, TaylorMade and Nike.
Beyond our collection of clothing and equipment, each pro-shop also has a grill inside that is open daily for lunch and dinner. Every Thursday the Jones course has all you can eat tacos from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m! Need something warm before a cold tee time? Come by the Arthur Hills grill and try a bowl of Liz’s homemade New England clam chowder. It’s delicious!
Have you been to our pro shops? Did you find something you can’t live without?
The British Open ended July 17 with a win from Irish player Darren Clarke, who, at 42, became the oldest Open champion since 1967. What you may not know is that he played The Open with the R11 driver by TaylorMade, a driver you can find right here at our pro shops at Palmetto Dunes.
The R11 can activate the three dimensions to distance with Moveable Weight Technology, Flight Control Technology and the Adjustable Sole Plate. All these aspects came in handy for Clarke’s big July 17 win.
Did you know TaylorMade products have been used in 32 worldwide victories, surpassing all other brands?
If you’re looking to play like a champion, come try it out at our free custom golf fitting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. See you on the greens!
What will you be doing this Labor Day weekend? What about participating in Hilton Head’s annual Celebrity Golf Tournament?
At the tournament, amateur golfers are paired with a different celebrity each day of the three-day event. Celebrities include a variety of sports figures, news anchors, dancers, comedians and more. Here’s the complete celebrity roster list.
The first round, which takes place at our very own Robert Trent Jones Course, is Friday, September 2, followed by the Pete Dye Course at Colleton River on day 2 and Harbour Town Golf Links on day 3.
Opening day of the tournament is also Greenwood Appreciation Day to honor Greenwood Communities and Resorts for being a part of this Labor Day golf event for over 30 years. We are so proud to be a part of the Greenwood family and the location of Round 1 of this year’s Celebrity Golf Tournament!
Since 1979, The Celebrity Golf Foundation has raised more than $3.8 million for our community’s children. This year, the event’s proceeds will benefit 20 children’s charities in the Lowcountry.
Sound like fun? Make it a family affair this Labor Day weekend. Let the kids get active at Palmetto Dunes with golfing, tennis, surfing and more while you hit the links.
Here’s some good news for all of our athletes out there: playing other sports can help your golf game! The reason? The motion involved in other athletic activities, such as swinging a tennis racket, hitting a baseball or throwing a Frisbee, are very similar to the mechanics used in a golf swing.
An article in Golf Tips magazine encourages readers to hold a football and pretend to be a quarterback handing off a ball to the running back. This motion is similar to the initial takeaway of a golf swing. “Just as you would with a football handoff, the takeaway begins with the rotation of the body to the right and the club out in front of the chest.” By practicing motions with sports you’re already comfortable with, you can start breaking down the individual motions in a golf swing.
Our resident golf pro at Palmetto Dunes, Doug Weaver, is an avid believer in this athletic approach to improving your golf game. Weaver says, “You will play better tennis if you play golf and vice versa.” At Doug’s junior clinics, the kids do football drills, soccer drills and even hula hooping to help them loosen their hips and improve their follow-through motion.
So remember, the master of another sport CAN master golf too.
Here in Hilton Head we rarely have a day where it’s too cold to play golf, but some days the heat can be a bit of a factor. For those summer days on the steamier side, we help cool you down with specialized cooling golf carts.
Tuesday we were lucky to have a visit from two-time Heritage champion Boo Weekley. The Jones Pro Shop had a crowd lined up out the door to get Boo’s autograph and picture! He graciously signed a picture for every person who came and posed for photos with some of our golf team members.
When you vacation at Palmetto Dunes, you’ll be hard pressed to find yourself bored. But just in case there’s a moment that finds you wondering what to do next, we have 5 great don’t-miss activities that are part of the ultimate Palmetto Dunes experience. Stay tuned for future posts on more top activities at the resort!