Harbour Town Golf Links 18th Hole

The 18th hole at Harbour Town Golf Links, a par-4 measuring 472 yards from the tips, stands as one of golf's most recognisable and demanding finishing holes. With its narrow fairway lined by out-of-bounds stakes and the iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse serving as a backdrop, it tests both skill and nerve.

This hole is a true testament to Pete Dye's strategic genius, demanding precision over power.

❝It's one of the most intimidating tee shots on the PGA Tour❞ - Webb Simpson

❝You have to hit two perfect shots to have a chance at par❞ - Matt Kuchar

❝That lighthouse staring you down, it adds a little extra pressure❞ - Luke Donald

❝It's a great finishing hole, a real test of golf❞ - Stewart Cink

Payne Stewart's Triumph (1989)
Payne Stewart, known for his flamboyant attire and passionate play, sealed his victory with a clutch par on the 18th. Facing immense pressure, he navigated the narrow fairway and guarded green with precision, cementing his place in Heritage history.

Boo Weekley's Dance (2008)
In a moment that captured the hearts of fans, Boo Weekley, after securing his second consecutive Heritage title, performed a celebratory "horsey ride" down the 1st fairway. This spontaneous display of joy highlighted the unique atmosphere of the tournament.

Wesley Bryan's Hometown Victory (2017)
Hilton Head native Wesley Bryan, playing on his home course, delivered a dramatic finish. With the hometown crowd roaring, he navigated the 18th with composure, securing a victory that resonated deeply with the local community and highlighted the significance of the course.

Club Selection
Driver is often the play for many players or even a 3-wood but accuracy is required to avoid the out of bounds. The approach shot requires precise distance control, as the green is well-guarded by bunkers.

Aim & Execution
From the tee, aim for the center of the fairway, favoring the right side to open up the approach. The approach requires a precise shot to a relatively small green. Pay attention to wind direction, as it can significantly affect the ball's flight.

Mental Approach
Stay calm and focused. The pressure of the finishing hole can lead to mistakes. Trust your swing and avoid being intimidated by the narrow fairway and out-of-bounds stakes.

Additional Tips
Study the wind patterns before playing the hole. The wind off the Calibogue Sound can be tricky. Pay close attention to pin placement. The green is relatively small, and pin positions can significantly impact the difficulty of the approach.

Knowing the lay of the green is crucial, many subtle breaks can cause problems.

South Carolina is a premier destination for golf holidays, boasting a stunning array of courses that cater to every skill level and preference. For a truly unforgettable experience, a round at The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island is a must. This Pete Dye masterpiece is renowned for its challenging layout and breathtaking oceanfront views. Be prepared for swirling winds and demanding shots, as this course has tested the best in the game, having hosted the Ryder Cup and multiple PGA Championships. The undulating greens and strategic bunkering require precision and thoughtful club selection, making it a memorable, albeit difficult, round.

Another gem at Kiawah is Cougar Point, a Gary Player design that offers a different but equally rewarding challenge. Following a significant renovation, Cougar Point is celebrated for its playability and dramatic marsh vistas. The course features a blend of short and long par-4s, risk-reward par-5s, and scenic par-3s, demanding a strategic approach to navigate the layout successfully. While not as relentlessly difficult as its famous neighbor, Cougar Point still provides a thorough test of golf and is often considered one of the most enjoyable courses on the island.

Venturing to Hilton Head Island, Heron Point at Sea Pines presents another exceptional golfing opportunity. Also designed by Pete Dye, this course underwent a $10 million renovation to stand alongside the famed Harbour Town Golf Links within the Sea Pines Resort. Heron Point is visually appealing and strategically designed to challenge golfers of all handicaps with its seven sets of tees. The reworked fairways and the introduction of new grasses add both beauty and variety to the course. Water hazards and strategically placed bunkers demand careful consideration on every shot, making it a thinking golfer's paradise.

Moving towards the Myrtle Beach area, golfers will find a diverse selection of courses, including Myrtlewood Golf Club. This established club offers a classic Myrtle Beach golf experience with well-maintained fairways and greens. While perhaps not as visually dramatic as the coastal courses, Myrtlewood provides a solid and enjoyable round of golf, often praised for its playability and good value. It typically features a layout that rewards accurate tee shots and well-placed approaches.

Also in the Myrtle Beach area is TPC Myrtle Beach, a Tom Fazio-designed championship course that is part of the prestigious TPC network. Known for its excellent condition and challenging layout, TPC Myrtle Beach has hosted numerous high-profile amateur events. The course winds through towering pine forests, and water comes into play on several holes, demanding accuracy and strategic course management. It offers a true test of golfing ability and a taste of professional-level conditions.

Finally, the Hills Course at Palmetto Dunes on Hilton Head Island provides a different style of play. Designed by Arthur Hills, this course emphasizes precision over power. Featuring continuous lines of dunes, numerous water hazards across ten holes, and thick stands of palmettos, the Hills Course demands accurate shot-making and strategic thinking. The undulating terrain and ocean breezes add to the challenge, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a course that rewards thoughtful play.

Handicap: 5
Favourite Course: Pebble Beach Golf Links
My 'Expert' areas: USA, UAE, South Africa, Mauritius
Best trip I've done: Monterey, California
Where my next trip is to: New Zealand

Give Simon a call on 0800 043 6644 to arrange your next golf break.

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