by: Rich Neste
Hilton Head Island is one of the nicest places to vacation, regardless of what time of year you decide to stay. And I must inform you that a stay in Sea Pines Plantation must be top on your list. The island is home to more than 40,000 full time residents and over 2.2 million vacationers each year. With an average temperature around 70 degrees and so many outdoor activities available, this is a vacation that will keep you active and healthy.
The PGA MCI Heritage Classic is held each year in April at the Harbour Town Golf Links located inside Sea Pines Plantation. Thousands of golf enthusiasts enjoy the weekly activities with friends and family. Former winners include Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, and this year’s winner Peter Lonard. This is a great golf tournament with a lot of history and is always an enjoyable experience for all who attend.
There are three golf courses in Sea Pines Plantation. Harbour Town Golf Links is ranked the #1 course in South Carolina by Golf Magazine and is the most sought after golf course to play on Hilton Head Island. The Ocean Course was the first golf course on Hilton Head Island, rebuilt in 1995 by Mark McCumber and features the signature oceanfront 15th hole with panoramic ocean views. Last is the Sea Marsh Course, which is my favorite. With length not a factor and very wide fairways, I recommend this course if you want to feel good about your golf game when you leave the course.
The Sea Pines Racquet Club has grown into one of the premier resources for tennis players. Under the guidance of Stan Smith, Director of U.S. Olympic Men’s Coach and former U.S. Open and Wimbledon Champion, everyone receives the personal attention that makes each guest feel important.
The great advantage of having a Hilton Head Island vacation is you have the liberty to stay wherever you want, there are great deals and golf packages and you can arrange for almost any type of activity on the island, whether it is bicycle rentals, tee times, free tennis, or water activities.