Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort stands as one of the premier golf destinations on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Spanning 2,000 acres along three miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean beachfront, this world-class resort offers golfers an unmatched experience with three distinct championship courses, each designed by legendary architects. Whether you’re a low-handicap player seeking a challenge or a weekend golfer looking for a memorable round, Palmetto Dunes delivers excellence at every turn.
Three World-Class Golf Courses
What makes Palmetto Dunes truly exceptional is its collection of three championship courses, each offering a unique playing experience. All three courses have earned four stars or higher from Golf Digest’s Places to Play ratings, testament to the quality of design and course conditions.
Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course
The crown jewel of Palmetto Dunes, the Robert Trent Jones Course was named South Carolina’s Golf Course of the Year. This par-72 layout stretches over 7,000 yards from the championship tees but offers five sets of tees to accommodate all skill levels.
The course’s signature feature is the par-5 10th hole, one of only two oceanfront holes on all of Hilton Head Island. The panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from the elevated green create one of the most memorable golf experiences in the Lowcountry. The course features wide fairways, expansive greens, and subtle elevation changes that showcase Jones’s masterful design philosophy.
Arthur Hills Course
Opened in 1986, the Arthur Hills Course has earned a legendary reputation, having hosted college golf tournaments featuring future legends like Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and David Duval during their collegiate years. This par-72 layout emphasizes accuracy and precision over raw distance.
The course’s distinctive characteristic is its lack of fairway bunkers, replaced instead by natural mounding and contouring that creates challenging off-balance lies. With lagoons winding through 10 different holes and ever-present ocean breezes, the Hills course demands strategic play. The course is also home to the historic Hilton Head Range Light Station, a Lowcountry landmark that guided ships into Port Royal Sound beginning in the late 1800s.
George Fazio Course
The George Fazio Course is Hilton Head Island’s only public par-70 layout and is widely regarded as the most challenging course on the island. Playing just under 7,000 yards from the tips, this layout features a slope and rating of 74/145 from the back tees, making it a true test for accomplished golfers.
With only two par 5s, the heart of the Fazio course lies in a series of demanding par 4s, beginning with the 432-yard first hole and culminating with the 462-yard 18th. The front nine features open, tree-lined fairways, while the back nine becomes progressively tighter. The course was named to Golf Digest’s list of America’s 100 Best at a remarkably young age and recently earned South Carolina Golf Course of the Year honors.
Course Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | Robert Trent Jones | Arthur Hills | George Fazio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 72 | 72 | 70 |
| Yardage (Tips) | 7,005 | 6,651 | 6,873 |
| Signature Feature | Oceanfront 10th hole | No fairway bunkers | Long par 4s |
| Best For | All skill levels | Strategic players | Low handicappers |
World-Class Amenities
Palmetto Dunes offers far more than exceptional golf courses. The resort has invested in amenities that enhance every aspect of your golf experience.
Toptracer Range
Palmetto Dunes became the first resort in the entire Southeast to open a Toptracer Range, located at the Robert Trent Jones course. The driving range features 15 covered outdoor bays equipped with high-speed cameras and TV monitors powered by Toptracer technology. Guests can compete against friends, play virtual courses from around the world, and receive instant shot feedback to improve their game.
Golf Academy
The award-winning Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy provides instruction for golfers of all skill levels. From beginners seeking their first lessons to experienced players fine-tuning their swing, the academy’s PGA professionals offer personalized coaching that can transform your game.
Custom Club Fitting
SwingFit provides custom club fitting services at Palmetto Dunes, ensuring your equipment is optimized for your swing. Using advanced technology and expert analysis, you can find the perfect clubs to maximize your performance on the course.
On-Course Dining
Each clubhouse offers dining options to fuel your round. Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza at the Robert Trent Jones clubhouse serves up delicious fare from 7:00am to 9:00pm. Arthur’s Grill at the Arthur Hills course provides the perfect setting for a post-round meal on the patio overlooking the course.
Practical Information for Golfers
Booking Tee Times
Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. You can reserve multiple rounds at all three courses online through the Palmetto Dunes website. The resort offers convenient booking options and often features package deals that include accommodations.
Hours of Operation
- Robert Trent Jones Course: Daily tee times available
- Arthur Hills Course: 6:30 AM - 4:00 PM
- George Fazio Course: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Green Fees and Packages
Rates vary by season, with peak pricing during spring and fall when Hilton Head golf is in highest demand. Golf packages that combine accommodations with rounds at multiple courses often provide the best value. Check the resort’s website for current rates and seasonal specials.
What to Expect
- All courses welcome visitors on weekdays and weekends
- Walking is permitted on all courses
- Golf carts with Visage GPS Mobile Golf System are available
- Golf Bikes are available at the Robert Trent Jones course
- Full practice facilities including driving range, short game areas, and putting greens
- Pro shops at each clubhouse
Tips for Your Palmetto Dunes Golf Trip
Play Multiple Courses: With three distinct layouts, consider playing at least two courses during your visit to experience the variety Palmetto Dunes offers.
Arrive Early for Practice: Each course offers excellent practice facilities. Take advantage of the Toptracer Range at the Jones course for a unique warm-up experience.
Consider the Wind: Ocean breezes significantly impact play on all three courses. Factor wind into your club selection and shot strategy.
Book the Monday Golf Exhibition: A free golf exhibition is held every Monday at 4:00 PM at the Robert Trent Jones course, offering entertainment and instruction.
Stay Hydrated: Hilton Head’s subtropical climate can be demanding. Bring plenty of water and take advantage of beverage cart service.
Plan Your Palmetto Dunes Golf Getaway
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort offers everything golfers dream of: three championship courses designed by legendary architects, state-of-the-art practice facilities, and the beauty of the Hilton Head Island coastline. Whether you’re planning a dedicated golf vacation or looking to squeeze in a round during a family beach trip, Palmetto Dunes delivers an unforgettable experience.
Stay at Stone’s Throw from the Beach, our comfortable Hilton Head Island vacation rental located just minutes from Palmetto Dunes. With two bedrooms, proximity to the beach, and easy access to the island’s best golf courses, it’s the perfect home base for your Lowcountry golf adventure. Book your stay today and tee up your perfect Hilton Head golf vacation.