The Barony Course was designed by George W. Cobb in the early 1960s and was one of the first courses on Hilton Head Island. Featuring doglegs, strategically placed bunkers, and plenty of risk-reward opportunities, the course was an instant classic. From the tee box, many of the holes appear to be relatively open, but as players approach the newly resurfaced Bermuda greens, the real challenge becomes clear. The greens are generous and protected by thick rough and unforgiving bunkers, forcing the player to have good touch with mid- to short-range iron shots. Accuracy, not length, is paramount. The Barony course alternates tough holes with easier ones and long holes with short ones. Players will score well if they hit straight shots off the tee and seek placement, not distance. At the green, the course favors both short-iron players and those who prefer running the ball up because nearly all the greens have access in the front for a ground game. The front nine is a little easier than the back, so get your game going early. This is a left-hander’s dream course. The most memorable hole is No. 13, a tough hole that looks easy on the scorecard. This sharp dogleg left requires a precise drive, but that alone isn’t enough to score well.  It  sets up a wicked shot to a small green with a dense tree canopy and a minefield of huge bunkers in front of the green. Don’t be deceived into thinking the bunkers are right at the green because they are not. The prevailing ocean winds provide a further challenge.