Michigan Golf Journal December 2020

11 December 2020 www.michigangolfjournal.com a multimillion-dollar transformation in 2007 and is now called Heron Point by Pete Dye. Just a smooth 9-iron from Sea Pines on Hilton Head’s south end is Shipyard Plantation, which offers 27 holes designed by Cobb and Byrd that can be played in a trio of 18-hole combinations. Each 9-holer — called Clipper, Galleon and Brigantine — possesses its own merits, but there is one constant: water comes into play on nearly every hole. Nevertheless, all 27 holes at Shipyard are imminently and enjoyably playable. Located at the Hilton Head “heel” — meaning mid- island and north end — are Palmetto Dunes Oceanfron t Resort, with its Robert Tren t Jones, George Fazio and Arthur Hills courses, and Port Royal Resort, with 54 holes designed by Pete Dye, George Cobb and Willard Byrd. Each layout is unique in its own right and a considered a must play on any Lowcountry bucket list. Bounded by three miles of Atlantic Ocean beach on one side and a sheltered Intracoastal Waterway marina on the other, Palmetto Dunes serves up a storied history of unparalleled golf experiences for guests from all corners of the globe. The trio of golf courses at Palmetto Dunes has each been honored with South Carolina’s “Golf Course of the Year” award in the past 15 years. On Hilton Head Island’s northwestern point is Port Royal Resort — home to the original landing site of William Hilton, the explorer for whom the island is named. Similar to Sea Pines and Palmetto Dunes, Port Royal is also renowned for its world-class tennis center and other outstanding amenities, including the luxurious Westin Hilton Head Resort & Spa. Hilton Head Island boasts plenty of culture and nightlife, and fancies itself more sophisticated and upscale than its neighbor Continues on next page >> Golden Bear Golf Club