This Week at TravelGolf.com: Jan. 23, 2008

Revisiting Hilton Head Island golf

Hilton Head Island, S.C. is one of those places you never tire of visiting.

If you're a golfer, you have a near-dazzling array of choices. Even in an area heavy on top-notch private courses, the public-access golf courses on Hilton Head are excellent, if a tad on the high side when it comes to green fees. Same with the island's golf resorts and hotels – excellent, but pricey.

The island's developers have done an admirable job of keeping a "green" look, even with all the roads and development and the local politicians make sure if you cut down a tree, you'd better have a good reason for pulling out the chainsaw.

Hilton Head is a year-round destination, enjoying the warming influence of the Atlantic Ocean, but be aware the winter months can bring some chilly, blustery weather. Still, although the average high is 58 in the winter months, temperatures often rise into the 70s, making both the beach and the golf course enjoyable.

Some of the island's better public courses include Harbour Town, a PGA Tour stop for many years, as well as the resort's other two courses, including the recently re-done Sea Marsh, now known as Heron Point. Pete Dye had the design honors. The other golf course, the Ocean, was also recently renovated, by Mark McCumber.

Palmetto Dunes is also home to three courses, including the Arthur Hills layout. Though not long, the Hills course has always been a must-play for visiting golfers because of its subtle, cerebral requirements. George Fazio and Robert Trent Jones designed the other two courses at the resort.

In an area that can boast such wealth, it isn't surprising some of the best private golf courses in South Carolina are on or near the island. Sometimes you can get on these courses with just a phone call; other times, you'll need to be a corporate CEO or be friends with the governor. Also, some private clubs have reciprocal arrangements with others.

Secession Golf Club is perennially ranked as one of the state's best, for good reason. It combines a Scottish flavor with lowcountry views and is very exclusive: No spur-of-the-moment tee times here.

Other terrific private courses include Old Tabby Links on Spring Island, Chechessee Golf Club, Long Cove and Haig Point.

As always, TravelGolf.com welcomes your comments.

Hilton Head Island nightlife: Classy martini cigar bars, to jazz clubs, and much more

You may not know it when you first drive around Hilton Head Island, with all those stately oaks, dignified homes and well-groomed families riding around the well-manicured bicycle trails, but Hilton Head does have a nightlife. True, it doesn't exactly offer the raucous strip clubs or drink-all-night specials of rowdy neighbor Myrtle Beach, but you may be surprised. After many visits by our dedicated staff, and with input from frequent patrons, here is a recommended sampler...

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