Hilton Head Island: Golfer’s Paradise, Gourmet Traveler’s Delight

Eat, drink and play.

These are the basic needs for many travelers when choosing a holiday destination.

Hilton Head Island has an impressive record in these categories, with numerous restaurants to feast on and plenty of beach space to enjoy in the sun.

For those looking to play off the beach, the championship-level golf courses won’t disappoint, even if your golfing experience disappoints.

Golf paradise for travelers

Golf lovers will be in paradise on Hilton Head Island as it is home to 24 world-class golf courses. Whether you’re an experienced pro or a beginner, there’s a course for you to suit your playing style.

Of course, some courses definitely stand out more than others.

Harbor Town Golf Links Golf Course: Located at the Sea Pines Resort, this course is home to the RBC Heritage PGA Tour and is consistently ranked as one of the best courses in the country. The course offers stunning views of Kalibog Sound, while its narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers challenge golfers.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort: This resort is home to three of the best courses: Arthur Hills Course, George Fazio Course and Robert Trent Jones Course. All three courses offer stunning ocean views and complex layouts, making Palmetto Dunes a must-see for golfers.

Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III: Also located at the Sea Pines Resort, Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III is the first golf course on Hilton Head Island. Ocean Course Golf Course has recently undergone a complete refurbishment, allowing for breathtaking shots with great views.

Delight of the gourmet traveler

When you dine on vacation, you want every meal to be memorable, you want to enjoy the flavors and take them home with you.

Hilton Head Island has a variety of delicious eateries, of course, seafood dishes predominate. After all, when you’re near the water, you need a fresh catch.

Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, an acclaimed waterfront seafood restaurant, is known for its fresh fish, seafood favorites and lowcountry dishes. Hudson’s is also one of the best restaurants to watch the sunset. Dinner with a sunset view is a must when visiting Hilton Head Island.

For seafood and a little southern charm, head to Nectar Farm Kitchen. Local ingredients go a long way and this restaurant goes above and beyond. You can thank me later after you try their classic fried green tomatoes and then the southern poutine dish with its delicious sauce, which I may or may not have wanted to dip in because why not, right?

For classic American grub, One Hot Mamas is always a hit. Fish camp on Broad Creek has become quite popular. The Salty Dog Cafe is of course one of the staples.

But my personal favorite is It’s Greek for Me, with its wonderfully sized gyros and tzatziki sauce, which brings my taste buds and my mind back to what I experienced in Greece on my honeymoon.

Food touches us, and the seemingly endless selection of restaurants on Hilton Head Island is something to write home about.

Other Notable Attractions on Hilton Head Island

In addition to golf and food, Hilton Head Island offers travelers many other things to do.

The island has over 50 miles of bike paths, making it a great place to cycle. Nature lovers can visit the island’s many parks and reserves, or take a boat tour to see the local wildlife. And of course, no visit to Hilton Head Island is complete without a trip to the beach.

The island boasts 12 miles of sandy beaches. Stop by Coligny Plaza for some shopping before heading to the beach right there or to the nearby pirate ship playground across the street. Families should also add pony riding at Lawton stables and a petting zoo to their to-do list. This is a great activity for kids while dad plays golf.

All in all, Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for golfers and foodies looking to relax and unwind in a beautiful coastal setting. With its great food, delicious restaurants, and endless outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in this South Carolina gem.