Atlantic Dunes Golf Course

The opening 397-yard par four at Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III gives you room to start, yet the lagoon following the right edge of the fairway and bunkers short left of the green make a careless line costly. From the Love tees, this par 72 measures 7,065 yards, with a 73.6 rating and 140 slope, and it rewards players who can place the ball before attacking. Coquina shell, coastal grasses and water give the course its Lowcountry character. The 526-yard fourth is a par five where a drive safely clear of the coquina bunker on the left can bring its three-level green into reach in two. At the 535-yard ninth, the decision is sharper still, with the option to lay up or take on a green surrounded by water, particularly demanding when the flag is cut back or right.

The course occupies the ground of Hilton Head Island’s original Ocean Course, though the complete rebuild by Davis Love III has given it a more modern strategic feel. The 15th is the standout short hole, played towards the Atlantic with bunkers pinching a long, slim green from both sides. It is one of three championship courses at The Sea Pines Resort, alongside Harbour Town Golf Links and Heron Point by Pete Dye, making varied rounds easy to arrange during one stay. Atlantic Dunes and Heron Point share the 23,000 square foot Plantation Golf Club, while a driving range, caddie service, fitting and tuition are available before or after a round.

The Inn & Club at Harbour Town provides a small scale base, with 60 guest rooms of 480 square feet. For extra space, the Fairway Suite includes a lounge, kitchenette and a private sheltered terrace with views across Harbour Town’s first and ninth holes. Links, an American Grill, looks out over the course and pairs grilled dishes with a wine list recognised by Wine Spectator. Between rounds there is a serenity pool, fitness centre and bar service throughout the day, while resort transfers and seasonal beach concierge service make time at the Sea Pines Beach Club straightforward.