Designed with the meticulous expertise of Pete Dye, in collaboration with Jack Nicklaus, this masterpiece has solidified its status as one of Dye's premier creations. Consistently acclaimed among the best in both the region and the entire United States, Harbour Town Golf Links annually plays host to the prestigious RBC Heritage golf tournament. This challenging course attracts top professional golfers from around the globe, drawn not only by its technical design but also by the breathtaking views that accompany each round. Since its inauguration in 1969, the RBC Heritage has evolved into a beloved tradition, captivating over 100,000 spectators each year, and the promise of the 2024 event suggests further elevation of this storied tradition. The RBC Heritage, a fixture since 1969, has become synonymous with Harbour Town Golf Links and is proudly sponsored by the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). Following the Masters Tournament in April, it holds the esteemed title of being South Carolina's sole PGA Tour event.
The course itself is adorned with distinctive features, including small Tif Eagle grass-covered, sloping greens, and strategically placed oaks, pines, and palmetto trees. The first sixteen inland holes offer a different atmosphere, situated between homes while maintaining strategic demands that captivate players' focus. The collaborative work of Dye and Nicklaus, coupled with the natural surroundings, ensures a visually engaging experience. The bunkers, diverse in shapes and sizes, add an interesting dimension to the course. Tee shots at Harbour Town align with expectations garnered from televised views over the years. While precision is paramount, straight shots remain viable, and the course rarely excludes the use of a driver. The presence of four tee boxes, ranging from 5,047 to 6,681 yards, caters to various skill levels. The accuracy requirement is emphasized, though the course manages to maintain an open feel, despite challenges posed by water, sand, and doglegs. Approach shots at Harbour Town vary from straightforward to challenging, depending on the preceding tee shot. Despite the relatively small greens, approach shots benefit from manageable stances and favorable lies in the minimal rough. The potential challenges off the tee, be it sand, trees, or angles, dictate the complexity of approach shots. Fairway bunkers, strategically deepened, demand prudent decision-making, while tree-lined areas provide opportunities for strategic recovery or bold plays.
The Uber challenging par 3's aside, the spotlight shines brightest on the 458-yard par 4 18th hole, demanding a precise tee shot towards the iconic lighthouse, set against the backdrop of the Calibogue Sound. The strategic design of the course necessitates golfers to execute precise tee shots and lay-ups to navigate fairways, all while contending with potential challenges from overhanging trees. Harbour Town's signature challenge lies in the angles, with fairway positions occasionally limiting clear shots to the green. Players must choose between laying up, bailing out, or attempting the almost always ill-advised hero shot. The course's layout encourages the use of the entire bag, offering a diverse range of shots, from wedges to long irons, depending on the hole. Harbour Town Golf Links distinguishes itself through an emphasis on precision shot-making, demanding control over both line and distance. The course's unique challenge lies in navigating trouble effectively, showcasing players' abilities to handle adversity. A round at Harbour Town serves as a true test of shot-making prowess, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to experience this exceptional course.
The practice facilities at Harbour Town Golf Links reflect its PGA Tour hosting capabilities, offering a robust practice area within steps of the first tee. Encompassing a large putting green, short game area, and a well-designed driving range, these facilities cater seamlessly to the demands of the actual course. The practice green mirrors the course's speed, while the short game area hones-in on precision, with small targets testing players' skills. While the driving range may not be overly extensive, it provides numerous target greens to sharpen shot-making abilities. The customer service and amenities at Sea Pines Resort, home to Harbour Town Golf Links, contribute to the overall experience. The expansive facility boasts a massive clubhouse, featuring a pro shop adorned with merchandise bearing the iconic red and white lighthouse. Additionally, the Pete Dye Room provides an opportunity to delve into the course's history and architecture. Customer service at Harbour Town is exemplary, with assistance available from the moment visitors arrive. The mandatory caddies, essential for local knowledge, enhance the overall experience. While the course is easily walkable, groups opting for carts are provided with a forecaddie.