Long Cove Golf Club is more than just a golf course; it’s a work of art meticulously crafted by the legendary Pete Dye. The course's national and international acclaim becomes evident from the moment players step onto its pristine fairways, where Dye's genius is on full display.
The story of Long Cove began in the early 1970s when Frank Duane and Arnold Palmer initially designed the routing. At that time, Pete Dye was fully engaged in the creation of TPC Sawgrass and declined the opportunity to design Long Cove. However, after completing Sawgrass, Dye was persuaded to take on the challenge of creating something truly unique on Hilton Head Island. With his experience from designing nearby Harbour Town, Dye sought to create a course that would stand apart from any other.
Dye’s approach involved incorporating distinctive features such as knobs, mounds, framing berms, and generously sized greens. His vision included two strategically placed holes along the picturesque Colleton River, adding a dramatic and scenic element to the course. The construction crew for Long Cove was a veritable who's who of future golf course architects, including Bobby Weed, Tom Doak, David Savic, Ron Farris, Scott Pool, and Pete’s own son, P.B. Dye. Over time, the course became overgrown, and in 2018, Bobby Weed, known for his work on Olde Farm, was selected to restore Dye’s original design. This restoration brought back the opportunity for golfers to employ running shots on 16 of the 18 greens, preserving the strategic essence of Dye’s original vision.
Long Cove Golf Club is a shot-maker’s paradise, demanding both precision and strategy. The course's layout is a brilliant blend of beauty and challenge, reminiscent of Scotland with its wetlands, marshes, oak trees draped in Spanish moss, stands of pine, love grass, and long rough. Each hole offers a unique test, requiring golfers to think their way around the course rather than simply relying on power.
Signature Holes:
- Hole 3 – The third hole is a par-4 that exemplifies Dye’s design philosophy. With a dogleg left, this hole demands an accurate tee shot to avoid the water hazard that guards the left side of the fairway. The approach shot is equally challenging, requiring precision to navigate the bunkers protecting the green. The green itself is undulating and fast, making putting a true test of skill.
- Hole 7 – The seventh hole is a par-5 that offers a classic risk-reward scenario. The fairway is flanked by water on the right and trees on the left, demanding a well-placed tee shot. The approach to the green is guarded by bunkers and a water hazard, challenging golfers to decide whether to lay up or go for the green in two. This hole is a perfect example of Dye’s ability to create a hole that rewards both strategy and skill.
- Hole 10 The back nine begins with the tenth hole, a par-4 that plays along the Colleton River. This hole offers breathtaking views and a challenging layout that requires a well-placed tee shot to set up an approach to a green surrounded by bunkers. The natural beauty of the river and the marshes adds to the allure of this hole, making it one of the most memorable on the course.
- Hole 14 The fourteenth hole is a stunning par-3 that plays over water to a green guarded by bunkers. The green is large, but its undulations make it difficult to find the right spot. Club selection is crucial here, as the wind and the surrounding water can make this short hole play longer than it appears. This hole is a true test of accuracy and touch.
- Hole 18 The eighteenth hole at Long Cove is a par-4 that provides a fitting end to a round of golf. This hole features a dogleg right, with water running along the right side and bunkers strategically placed to challenge the drive. The approach shot is to an elevated green surrounded by bunkers, requiring precision and control. The panoramic views of the surrounding landscape make this hole a spectacular finish to a round at Long Cove.
Long Cove Golf Club is not just about the course; it’s about the complete golfing experience. The exclusivity of the club ensures that members enjoy a tranquil and private environment, with fewer than 60 rounds played daily. This allows for a pace of play that is unhurried and enjoyable, offering members the chance to fully immerse themselves in the game. The clubhouse at Long Cove is a hub of activity, offering upscale dining options where members can relax and enjoy gourmet meals. The ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, making it the perfect place to unwind after a round of golf.The club hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including member tournaments, social gatherings, and special events that foster a strong sense of community among members. These events are designed to enhance the member experience and provide opportunities for friendly competition and camaraderie.
Long Cove Golf Club’s excellence has been recognized both nationally and internationally. It has earned numerous accolades, including:
- #17 in the Top 200 Residential Golf Courses in the U.S. (Golfweek, 2023)
- #63 in America’s Best Top 100 Modern Golf Courses (Golfweek, 2023)
- #188 in America’s Second 100 Greatest Golf Courses (Golf Digest, 2023)
- #4 in Best Private Courses in South Carolina (Golfweek state-by-state rankings, 2023)
Long Cove Golf Club is more than just a round of golf; it’s an experience that embodies the very best of golf course design and the natural beauty of Hilton Head Island. With its strategic layout, stunning scenery, and exclusive atmosphere, Long Cove is a course that every golf enthusiast should aspire to play.
