Travel

Myrtle Beach is one of those places that exists in pure dichotomy, where it seems you can be in two completely different places at the same time. On one hand, you have a jillion high-end golf courses to pick and choose from, most of which rival the best golf courses along the eastern seaboard. Several present not only a dazzling setting and an exciting challenge, but also a warm sense of southern hospitality, charm, class and sophistication. On the other hand, Myrtle Beach can be just as enticing off course, that is, if wearing a bib and chowing down on crabmeat or throwing back a pitcher of beer (or two) with your buddies is high on your list of things to do.

Put it this way: while other destinations prefer you freshen up after a round and change into a long-sleeved shirt and sportscoat for dinner, Myrtle Beach may be the only place in the country where you’re relegated to dressing down from a golf shirt and slacks to shorts, a T-shirt and sandals for a “classy” night on the town. You can literally play a nationally ranked golf course and settle bets in the company of local greenskeepers at the popular Caddyshack restaurant. Want entertainment? There’s plenty, ranging from the hoedown at Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede to the big-name headliners at the Alabama Theatre. Hooters or Calabash, linksland or parkland golf, you name it–it’s here on the Grand Strand.

Maybe that’s one of the reasons why so many golfers love Myrtle Beach. It has all the great stuff golfers want–amazing weather, phenomenal golf courses with unbelievable values, friendly locals and just about anything you can imagine when it comes to food and entertainment. Better yet, that’s how the folks in Myrtle Beach want it to be. It’s relaxed, casual, and chock-full of some of the best golf deals this country has to offer.

After-Golf Activities
Myrtle Beach has every kind of diversion imaginable. One can start with Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, Ripley’s Aquarium or Alligator Adventure. How about roller coasters, miniature golf or driving-simulated Formula F1 race cars on two NASCAR speedways? Then there are the horse shows, motorcycle expos, rodeos and the Dixie Stampede. Baseball fans can check out the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, the Atlanta Braves Class-A farm team.

For water-related activities, there are cruises and deep-sea fishing. The Gulf Stream is only 50 miles out, and the fish are always biting. For landlubbers, there’s always a tour of Southern mansions, parks and beautiful gardens, including the delightful 9,000-acre Brookgreen Gardens on the south end. For shopping, dining and nightlife, Broadway at the Beach is the place to be. This 350-acre, multipurpose mall has several restaurants, sports bars and specialty shops. On the north end, the sprawling complex at Barefoot Landing includes fine restaurants, Planet Hollywood, The House of Blues and a wildlife sanctuary. You may be surprised to learn that several big names pass through the area on various concert tours.

Of course, time spent in Myrtle Beach is best spent playing golf–many golfers find ways to squeeze in two rounds of golf each day they’re in town. And if 36 is too much, there’s nothing better than unfolding a chair and soaking up some beachside fun in the sun after a morning round of golf. Really, if you look beyond the fairways and neon, you’ll no doubt see that the town of Myrtle Beach is…well, still a beach!

Package Providers

Golf Holiday
Golf Holiday is a unified association of 80-plus golf courses throughout the area, dedicated to helping you find the perfect stay-and-play golf package. It makes the logistics easy, especially when it comes to scheduling 36 holes of golf a day and making sure your hotel, rental car or shuttle are always on time and ready for your next stop.
www.golfholiday.com

Patricia Resorts
Mixing deluxe hotel accommodations with great golf courses has been a hallmark of Patricia Resorts for years now. With five oceanside resorts to choose from and a variety of packages ranging from value to premium, Patricia Resorts is the expert in making your stay a memorable one.
www.patriciaresorts.com

Ambassador Golf & Beach Vacations
Featuring a variety of golf packages with or without accommodations, Ambassador Golf & Beach Vacations allows you to build your own vacation with preferential tee times, advanced reservations and more. Visit online for the latest seasonal incentives.
www.ambassadorgolfspecials.com

Myrtle Beach Golf Trips
Would you believe a package deal that runs in the neighborhood of $35 a day? Myrtle Beach Golf Trips makes it possible, and does so on several of the best golf courses along the Grand Strand. Custom options are also available, as are a variety of large group packages for parties of 16 or more.
www.myrtlebeachgolfvacations.com
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Golf Tips Must-Plays	_Ê
Tidewater GC and Plantation Every hole is an absolute gem, leaving an indelible mark on your memory. www.tide-water.com	Barefoot Resort & Golf With four courses designed by those known by one name (Love, Fazio, Norman and Dye), you can’t go wrong. www.barefootgolf.com
Grande Dunes A solid challenge for better players, this track is a true classic. www.grandedunes.com	The Dunes Golf & Beach Club A championship venue that has hosted several championships. www.dunesgolfandbeach.com

Golf Tips Must-Plays (cont.)	_Ê
Blackmoor Think Bagger Vance, but in South Carolina, not Georgia. www.blackmoor.com	Kings North at Myrtle Beach National A perfect blend of challenge and fairness with a breathtaking setting to boot. www.mbn.com
Tiger’s Eye at Ocean Ridge Plantation Elevation changes are rare in Myrtle Beach, but not at the spectacular Tiger’s Eye Golf Links. www.big-cats.com	World Tour Golf Links Play 27 holes inspired by several of the world’s most recognized holes. www.worldtourmb.com
Pine Lakes International The Granddaddy of Myrtle Beach, this course should be on everyone’s must-play. www.pinelakes.com	Thistle Golf Club Experience 27 holes of pure Scottish inspiration in Myrtle Beach. www.thistlegolf.com

GOLFAPALOOZA
Come Masters’ weekend every year, the next-best place to Augusta is Myrtle Beach–at the annual Golfapalooza event. Golfers can take part in a huge golf-equipment demo session, compete for prizes and purchase great golf equipment, all in the company of live Jumbotron telecasts of the Masters. On the heels of Golfapalooza is the annual Monday After the Masters Celebrity Pro-Am Charity Tournament, hosted by southern soul rockers, Hootie and the Blowfish. This star-studded event features an A-list roster of athletes and celebrities, including such names as Arnold Palmer, John Daly, Samuel L. Jackson, Dan Marino, Michael Waltrip, Peter Jacobson and more. For more information on the wild and crazy Golfapalooza and the Monday After the Masters festivities, log on to www.golfholiday.com/golfapalooza.cfm. _Ê_Ê_Ê _Ê

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More Info…
Myrtle Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau
www.myrtlebeachinfo.com
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World Amateur Handicap Championship
Itching for some serious amateur golf competition? The World Amateur Handicap Championship is as serious as it gets. Dubbed the “Mother of All Golf Tournaments,” the WAHC attracts almost 4,000 amateur players from all 50 states and more than 30 foreign nations for lots of fun, friendship and, most importantly, great golf excitement. The four-day competition takes place on more than 75 of the Myrtle Beach area’s bestchampionship courses, with each flight winner (and tie) competing in the Championship Round at the prestigious Dunes Club. Golfers not only have the chance to compete for more than $500,000 in prizes, but have the honor of being crowned the highly respected World Champion of Amateur Golf. For more information, visit www.worldamgolf.com.

Focus On Georgetown County, S.C.

TPC Myrtle Beach
6,950 Yards, Par 72 | Architect: Tom Fazio | Greens Fees: $95-$155
(843) 357-3399 | www.tpc-mb.com
TPC Myrtle Beach is a visual masterpiece, carved through wetlands and enhanced by the obligatory TPC spectator-friendly mounding. Since it opened in 1999, TPC has hosted numerous high-profile tournaments, including the 2000 Senior Tour Championship. It’s also certified in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program, an affiliation that ensures not only high environmental standards, but a maintained natural beauty that makes playing TPC Myrtle Beach a memorable experience.

Pawleys Plantation Golf and Country Club
7,026 Yards, Par 72 | Architect: Jack Nicklaus | Greens Fees: $77-135
(800) 367-9959 | www.pawleysplantation.com
One of the area’s best “inland” courses, Pawleys Plantation makes up for its lack of ocean views with plenty of lakes, marshes and old trees. Its four par-3s require forced carries over either man-made lakes or marshland. The 13th, a diminutive par-3, has been known to get under the skin of many a golfer. Not only does it feature a firm isthmus green that juts into the marshland, but it plays into the teeth of the prevailing headwinds. Another notable feature is the variety of trees and plant life, including coastal pines and moss-draped oaks. Nature lovers, be on the lookout for wildlife. A 600-acre nature preserve borders the course.

True Blue
7,062 Yards, Par 72 | Architect: Mike Strantz | Greens Fees: $85-$150
(888) 483-6800 | www.fishclub.com
As playable, player-friendly and easy-on-the-ego as Caledonia is, True Blue has a reputation for being the opposite. Since it was first built in 1998, True Blue has earned its fair share of compliments and criticism. Its challenging conditions were toned down recently (bunkers turned into grass, mounds leveled) so higher-handicappers wouldn’t feel like they’d just gone 10 rounds with Ali. It seems to have worked, and although True Blue is hardly a pushover, golfers are returning after its extreme makeover.

Caledonia Golf and Fish Club
6,526 Yards, Par 70 | Architect: Mike Strantz | Greens Fees: $95-$190
(800) 483-6800 | www.fishclub.com
If you’re inclined to believe the popular notion that Mother Nature is the best golf course architect, then Caledonia’s maverick designer Mike Strantz had a great collaborator. Strantz chose wisely for his first solo design back in 1995 when Caledonia first opened. By preserving the natural landscape (e.g., moving as little dirt as possible), Strantz maintained the one-time rice plantation’s natural beauty. Its name, Caledonia, is Latin for “Scotland” where Mother Nature designed her first courses.

Other Must-Plays

River Club: This 6,671-yard, par-72 Tom Jackson design features the only bent-grass greens in the Pawley’s Island area. There’s also lots of wet stuff. The River Club features water on 14 of its holes. (800) 882-3198 | www.mbngolf.com

Litchfield Country Club: A limited number of visitors can play this private club. It’s worth it. Litchfield is squeezed tight by narrow fairways, but makes up for its tough conditions with a beautiful natural landscape. Look for its trademark moss-draped oaks.
(800) 882-3198 | www.mbngolf.com

Greenlight Specials

The Tour Trio–Three-night stay, three rounds of golf and daily breakfast. Play TPC, Pawleys and Wachesaw East. Carts and range balls included.
$279-$534 | (800) 367-9959 | www.tourtriogolf.com

Best of the Beach–Play TPC, Caledonia and True Blue.
$226-$455 | (800) 642-3108 | www.golfdesk.com
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The home of golf in the United States is a hotly debated topic, but Charleston can actually lay claim to the nation’s first golf course and golf club–Harleston Green and the South Carolina Golf Club, both of which were established in 1786. And while Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head may be the main golfing destinations in the Palmetto State, Charleston also possesses its own rich golfing culture.

Golf in Charleston is fathomable and flat-out relaxing. Despite its popularity as a travel destination, the old town plays host to a limited number of golf courses, most of which sport designer names and are not afraid to charge accordingly. Some golfers may view this as a drawback; others may view it as charming and manageable. If you don’t want to deny yourself one of the true golfing pleasures in life, please choose the latter viewpoint.

Charleston area golf is strewn throughout a series of islands and peninsulas that collectively make up one of the most breathtaking golfing venues in the country. The most famed, revered and even feared of these golf facilities makes its home on Kiawah Island, just south of the city.

Kiawah is home to five golf courses, the most famous being the Ocean Course designed by Pete Dye. Many players and writers consider the Ocean Course to be one of the most difficult in the United States, what with its gusty, variable winds and legion of seaside holes.

The course hosted the Ryder Cup in 1991, just a year after it opened, and may be the closest thing on the East Coast to a true links-style course. Nicklaus’ Turtle Point Course opened in 1981. Fazio’s Osprey Course opened in 1988, and legend has it that arguably the greatest course designer of our time had to swallow a little pride when Dye’s Ocean Course burst onto the scene like a scalded 3-wood.

Isle of Palms is the island most conveniently located in relation to downtown Charleston, and it just happens to be home to the area’s second most popular golfing destination–Wild Dunes, where Tom Fazio has constructed the Harbor Course and the Links Course, both to critical acclaim from local and national media.

But not all the great golf in Charleston is out on the barrier islands. In fact, some of it is actually in Charleston and in nearby Mt. Pleasant. Dunes West, Stono Ferry and Coosaw Creek are local favorites. Wherever you decide to play, the courses will not disappoint, and the Carolina charm will certainly bring you back for more.

Best Places To Play

Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Kiawah Island

With five spectacular golf courses, including the renowned Ocean Course, Kiawah Island oozes classic golf. In fact, the game’s best architects, including Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Clyde Johnson and Gary Player, all have stamped their mark on a variety of golf holes, many of which are banked right on the edge of the majestic Atlantic Ocean. Accommodations include private oceanfront homes and villas, or luxury rooms and suites at the new Sanctuary Resort. Cougar Point is a Gary Player design and is considered a superb layout for players of all levels. Early holes play directly along broad expanses of tidal marsh, offering panoramic views of the Kiawah River and acres of needle rush and spartina grass.

The famed Ocean Course offers panoramic ocean views with 10 holes playing directly along the beach. It will host the 2007 Senior PGA Championship and the 2012 PGA Championship. Tom Fazio’s beautiful Osprey Point rests on a superb natural canvas and is a masterpiece in playability and variety.

Jack Nicklaus’ entry at Kiawah, Turtle Point, blends fairways and green settings into the natural landscape, a feature perhaps most evident along a spectacular three-hole stretch that weaves through rolling sand dunes bordering the ocean.

www.kiawahresort.com

Nestled in the Sandhills of central North Carolina lies a roughly triangular area encompassing the villages of Southern Pines, Aberdeen and the quaint little walking village of Pinehurst (designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who also created New York’s Central Park) and Pinehurst Resort. The center of Pinehurst-area golf is, and always has been, the Resort’s world-renowned No. 2 course. Today the area is home to nearly 50 excellent courses and counting. It’s known as the Home of American Golf.

Steeped in tradition, exuding refinement and genuine Southern hospitality, and with year-round golf weather, the Sandhills area is truly a golf mecca. In addition to Pinehurst Resort’s No. 2, several other courses are among the nation’s elite. The list of leading course designers includes Palmer, Maples, Nicklaus, Player, Jones and Fazio, but the name “Donald Ross” dominates. The legendary Scottish course designer came to Pinehurst in 1900 to redesign the new Resort’s #1, stayed for 48 years and created the Resort’s #s 2, 3 and 4 (significantly updated in 2000 by Tom Fazio and reopened as a new course), as well as the courses at Pine Needles and Mid Pines . In all, Ross designed or redesigned more than 400 others in North America, but considered No. 2 his home course, calling it “the fairest test of championship golf I have ever designed.”

In 2011, No. 2 reopened after a year-long restoration project by renowned architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. They dug into Ross’s original plans, removing acres of turf and creating vast areas of sandy waste areas to recapture the original’s “naturalist” flavor and better frame every brilliantly conceived hole. When the course hosted its fourth U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open back to back in June 2014, the raves were widespread and nearly unanimous.

Big Names And Big Events

Pinehurst and professional golf have long been synonymous. In 1940 Ben Hogan won his first pro tournament at Pinehurst. Sam Snead, Byron Nelson and Cary Middlecoff won tournaments here. A young Arnold Palmer was a regular at Pinehurst during college days at Wake Forest. And who could forget the 1999 U.S. Open at No. 2, where an exuberant Payne Stewart, clad in signature traditional knickers and tam-o-shanter cap, won his second Open just months before an untimely death. Pine Needles, site of the 1996 U.S. Women’s Open, again hosted the tournament in 2006. And Legacy Golf Links hosted the USGA’s 2000 Women’s Amateur Public Links Championship. Area courses also host other professional tournaments.

A trip to the Pinehurst area will reward golfers not only with first-rate golf, but experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. Play the area’s excellent newer courses, but do include at least one Ross venue on your itinerary and commune with both the spirit of this “holy” game and the spirits of golf’s greats who walked these hallowed fairways before you.

What To Bring

Depending on the season in which you make your trip, the weather can be hot and humid in the Sandhills area or a bit on the chilly side. Pick up some new shirts that are designed to perform in specific weather conditions. For the hot stuff, try one of the many modern shirt models that are capable of wicking away moisture throughout the round to help keep you dry and comfortable. On the sunny days, opt for shirts with a special UV coating, which will help reduce the effects of the sun’s powerful rays. If you visit the Sandhills in cooler weather, definite bring either a vest-style or full-length pullover.

For your feet, comfortable shoes are a must, particularly if you plan to walk (as you should). As far as clubs go, grab a few hybrid woods to help battle pine needle-strewn lies. These part-iron, part-wood clubs are the perfect recipe for a bad lie. Also, pack a dozen (or two) high-performance, value golf balls. There’s plenty of forest and brush to swallow your precious spheres. No need for premium balls with the ever-encroaching pine forests so eager to empty your wallet.

How To Get There

The Pinehurst area enjoys easy access by auto from Interstates 95, 85, 40, and 73/74. Airports include Fayetteville, Raleigh-Durham, Greensboro and Charlotte. The nearby Moore County Airport can handle private aircraft.

When To Go

December to Early February: Interesting visual contrast between over-seeded green fairways and dormant rough Bermuda. Avg. Highs: 45 to 46 degrees F.

February to Mid-March: Great opportunity to get a jump on the season with cool but mostly clear weather. Still a good idea to call well in advance of arrival (minimum of two months) to ensure your favorite tee times. Avg. Highs: 46 to 52 degrees F.

Mid-March to Mid-May: What golf is all about. Dogwoods, azaleas in bloom, Carolina blue skies, crisp clean air. Make your reservations well in advance for weekend play. Avg. Highs: 52 to 70 degrees F.

Mid-May to Mid-June: Ideal weather with a few hot days mixed in and you’ll save money compared to the spring season. Avg. Highs: 70 to 75 degrees F.

Mid-June to September: Good value, good conditions. Bermuda fairways are fully grown in. Lots of time to play early and late to avoid midday heat. Avg. Highs: 75 to 79 degrees F.

September to Mid-November: Many locals call it their favorite season. Slightly better value than in the spring. Avg. Highs: 52 to 72 degrees F.

Mid-November to December: Grab a sweater and enjoy less-crowded conditions and usually sparkling clear days. Avg. Highs: 52 to 64 degrees F.

More Information

Pinehurst CVB

www.homeofgolf.com

Sandhills Golf Association

www.sandhillsgolf.com

Editor’s note: This travel roundup was updated July 2018

Where To Play
Mid Pines Golf Club A Donald Ross classic that never goes out of style. Par 72, 6515 yards (71.4/127) (Donald Ross)(800) 323-2114 www.pineneedles-midpines.com	National Golf Club A modern masterpiece that rivals Pinehurst’s old legends. Par 72, 7122 yards (75.2/143) (Jack Nicklaus)(800) 471-4339 www.nationalgolfclub.com
Pine Needles Golf Club Pinehurst’s other home of championship golf. Par 72, 6708 yards (72.2/128) (Donald Ross)(800) 747-7272 www.pineneedles-midpines.com	Pinehurst Resort A golfing life without a round here is wasted. No. 2 – Par 72, 7588 yards (75.9/138) (Donald Ross)No. 4 – Par 72, yardage and rating TBA (Donald Ross/Tom Fazio; restoration by Gil Hanse 2018) No. 7 – Par 72, 7125 yards (74.4/140) (Rees Jones) No. 8 – Par 72, 7092 yards (74.0/135) (Tom Fazio)(800) ITS-GOLF www.pinehurst.com
The Carolina This Arnold Palmer-designed course takes advantage of dramatic elevation changes and preserved natural wetlands, producing a challenging layout for all levels. Par 72, 6587 yards (72.0/138) (Arnold Palmer)(888) PALMER2 www.thecarolina.com	Tobacco Road Golf Club A surreal and exciting callenge on another Mike Stranz award winner. Par 71, 6554 yards (73.2/150) (Mike Strantz)(800) 868-4455 www.tobaccoroadgolf.com

Pinehurst Must-Plays
Anderson Creek Golf Club Best new course in North Carolina for 2001. Par 72, 7180 yards (75.1/139) (Davis Love III)(910) 814-2115 www.andersoncreekgolf.com	Beacon Ridge Country Club This masterpiece with bent grass greens and Bermuda grass fairways demands accuracy and the full use of a variety of clubs. Par 72, 6511 yards (70.7/125) (Gene Hamm)(800) 416-5204 www.sevenlakesliving.com/golf.htm
Country Club of North Carolina A pair of must-plays from local favorites Byrd and Maples. Dogwood – Par 72, 7154 yards (73.5/131) (Ellis Maples/William Byrd) Cardinal – Par 72, 7005 yards (73.5/130) (William Byrd)(800) 692-6565 www.ccofnc.com	Country Club of Whispering Pines Two challenging 18s that are among Maples’ best designs. East Course – Par 72, 7110 yards (73.9/130) (Ellis Maples) West Course – Par 71, 6340 yards (70.3/128) (Ellis Maples)(800) 334-9536 www.whisperingpinesnc.com
Club at Longleaf One of the most popular and playable golf courses in the Pinehurst area. Par 71, 6600 yards (69.7/117) (Dan Maples)(800) 889-5323 www.longleafgolf.com	Deercroft Golf Club Experience the best-kept secret in the Sandhills, site of the 1986 PGA Tour Qualifier. Par 72, 6745 yards (72.6/125) (G. Gildey)(800) 787-7323 www.deercroft.com

Forest Creek Golf Club This 1996 Fazio gem is unlike any other in the Sandhills. Par 72, 6745 yards (72.6/125) (Tom Fazio)(910) 692-3572	Foxfire Country Club Foxfire is a semiprivate, full-service resort featuring 36 holes of championship golf with condominium and townhouse accommodations. East Course – Par 72, 6851 yards (73.5/130) (Gene Hamm) West Course – Par 72, 6742 yards (72.8/125) (Gene Hamm)(800) 736-9347 www.foxfiregolfcc.com
Hyland Hills Golf Club The most-played 18 holes in the area remain traditional and unique with rolling hills and gimmick-free golf. Par 72, 6726 yards (71.0/120) (Tom Jackson)(888) 315-2296 www.hylandhillsgolfclub.com	Legacy Golf Links The only golf course in the Pinehurst area to successfully combine a public course with private amenities. Par 72, 6495 yards (70.8/124) (Jack Nicklaus II)(800) 344-8825 www.legacypinehurst.com
Little River Farm Golf Club Once an equestrian landmark, the Farm has been transformed into a legendary championship golf course. Par 72, 6931 yards (73.6/133) (Dan Maples)(888) 766-6538 www.littleriver.com	Pinehurst If you can’t play the big boys at Pinehurst, these will suffice just as nicely. No 1 – Par 70, 6128 yards (69.4/116) (Donald Ross) No. 3 – Par 70, 5682 yards (67.8/115) (Donald Ross) No. 5 – Par 72, 6848 yards (73.4/137) (Ellis Maples) No. 6 – Par 72, 7157 yards (75.6/139) (George Fazio/Tom Fazio)(800) ITS-GOLF www.pinehurst.com

Pinewild Country Club The two championship courses are both stunning and challenging to golfers of all levels. Magnolia – Par 72, 7276 yards (75.6/135) (Gene Hamm) Holly – Par 72, 6425 yards (71.1/131) (Gary Player)(910) 295-5145 www.pinewildcc.com	Talamore Golf Club Not only a great course, but caddies you’ll remember for a lifetime–specially trained llamas. Par 71, 7020 yards (73/142) (Rees Jones)(800) 552-6292 www.talamore.com
The Pit Golf Links Stunning and jaw-dropping, very few courses can match The Pit’s flair for the dramatic. Par 72, 6600 yards (72.3/139) (Dan Maples)(800) 574-4653 www.pitgolf.com	Tot Hill Farm Golf Club Another solid, creative test from the mind of Mike Stranz. Par 71, 6614 yards (72.2/135) (Mike Strantz)(800) 868-4455 www.tothillfarm.com
Woodlake Golf Club Common local advice: “Play the Lake!” Ellis Maples Course – Par 72, 7012 yards (73.4/134) Arnold Palmer Course – Par 72, 7150 yards (74.1/134)(888) THE-LAKE www.woodlakecc.com	_Ê

Pinehurst Area Accommodations
There are literally hundreds of places to rest your golf-weary head in the Pinehurst area. From that list, here are a few of our favorites:

The courses of Pinehurst present plenty of challenge. Make sure your technique is up to the task at one of the area’s most popular learning centers.

Courtesy Golflinktravel.com

Although the lure of the links pulls strong in the Sandhills, there’s much more to do than play golf. Check out some of the more popular nongolf activities the area has to offer.

Perhaps no other region in the country has such a varied and stunning definition as the great Southeast. Depending on who you are and where you’re from, the states of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina probably have a different meaning to you. Take a 13-year-old kid from Wisconsin, for example, and Florida to him is all about thrill rides, waterslides and Jet Skis. To a middle-aged boating enthusiast from New York, the region is paradise for power boating, deep-sea fishing and sailing. But for the rest of us, the self-professed mass of golf freaks, addicts, aficionados, hackers and players, the Southeast means eclectic, Tour-proven golf, especially if you’re talking about hot spots like Kiawah Island in South Carolina, the Golden Isles of Georgia’s coast (including Sea Island, Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island), and the Sunshine State’s flagship destination cities of Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville and Daytona Beach. When Spanish gold explorers came looking for precious metals off the coast of this region some 400 years ago, little did they know the gold they were about to find would manifest itself in the rich array of top-tier resorts and golf courses that visitors enjoy today. Truly, the blend of coastal layouts and inland courses that take full advantage of the natural, wild environs of the area are, as a group, without peer.

Located midway between Savannah, Ga., and Jacksonville, Fla., the Georgian town of Brunswick and its four Golden Isles (there are actually a total of 15 islands, or “hammocks,” as locals refer to them) are home to some of the South’s most historical landmarks. Replete with legends and lore that have inspired countless Civil War ghost stories, it’s also a place where some of the world’s most iconic men, such as J.P. Morgan and William Rockefeller, took retreat from the daily grind to relax and enjoy a little Southern hospitality. And speaking of hospitality, there remains plenty of it today. Visitors seek the area for its world-class seafood, turn-of-the-century architecture, art galleries, fishing piers and a huge variety of water sports. The golf, as you can guess, is as illustrious as the area’s past.

Just to the north across the South Carolina border lies the city of Charleston and golf’s East Coast Shangri-la: Kiawah Island Resort and its five award-winning golf courses. Kiawah has been heralded not only for its aesthetic qualities, but also for the level of excitement the resort has contributed to competitive golf. In perhaps one of the most memorable moments in golf, Kiawah’s Ocean Course is where Bernard Langer missed his infamous six-foot putt, granting the Ryder Cup to the Americans in 1991. The Ocean Course, a Pete Dye design, features seaside views from almost everywhere, including 10 holes that play along the beautiful–yet distracting–ocean shore. Following are four additional designs by the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Clyde Johnson, Gary Player and Tom Fazio. All five courses are known for their knack to look tranquil, but at the same time levy a few hefty challenges on unsuspecting golfers.
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A trek inland and south takes one to Orlando and its 45 million annual visitors who seek adventure, exhilaration and entertainment at one of the nine major theme parks in the area, countless hotels (more than 110,000 rooms and counting) as well as offshoot attractions that sprinkle the swampy city surroundings. Popular tracks like Bay Hill and Grand Cypress will have you drooling for more. For even more salivating temptations, cruise east to the seaside town of Daytona Beach, home to not only 20-plus great golf courses, but one of the most outrageous stretches of sand on Earth.

In Jacksonville, one can expect to find a more natural theme park per se, replete with walking and hiking trails along white-sand beaches, palm tree forests and sea oats. Then again, the TPC of Sawgrass is nowhere near a simple walk in the park. It’s the most challenging course in Florida and should be on your must-play list.

Also, who can forget about places like Miami, home to the ever-popular Doral Resort and its 90 holes of golf? With its beaches, neon lights, Cuban food, dancing–put it this way–the party never cools down in Miami.

With so many options for golf, it may seem impossible to find time between rounds to enjoy the rest of what this region has to offer, which is okay by us for now.

When To Go
The southern Atlantic coast doesn’t experience a true cold season, as temperatures remain comfortable all year long. The summer months are the most unpredictable, with occasional thunderstorms and high humidity. In fact, the bulk of the area’s rainfall occurs in the damp months of June, July and August. Winter temperatures average in the low to upper 60s (degrees F), with summer months nearing the mid-90s in some regions. January through April, the weather is perfect, ranging in the 60s and 70s.

More Information
Curious about the weather, things to do, hotels and accommodations in Florida? If so, check out the state’s leading vacation planning Website, www.flausa.com. There you’ll not only find helpful tips on how to plan a wonderful trip to Florida, but an abundance of information and links to various destinations of interest, including golf courses in many of the state’s hottest resort areas. Also, check out the following links for an even closer peek at the state’s hot spots for golf.

Orlando Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.orlandoinfo.com

Tampa Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.visittampabay.com

Jacksonville Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.jaxcvb.com

Golf Daytona Beach
www.golfdaytonabeach.com

In addition, don’t miss the following Websites for information on golf, lodging and fun things to do on the Georgia coast and on Kiawah Island.

Brunswick and the Golden Isles Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.bgicvb.com

Jekyll Island
www.jekyllisland.com

Kiawah Island
www.kiawah.com

_ÊGT Selects	_Ê
Bay Hill Club Orlando, FL Known the world over as the home of Arnold Palmer, Bay Hill has a down-home atmosphere combined with supreme golf course challenges. Three nines, designed by Dick Wilson and retouched by Ed Seay and Palmer, encompass the facility, two of which host the PGA Tour’s Bay Hill Invitational. One of the strongest, yet fairest, tests of golf anywhere. (Dick Wilson/Ed Seay & Arnold Palmer) Par 72, 6647 yards (72.4/130) (888) 422-9445 www.bayhill.com	Doral Golf Resort Miami, FL With five courses, including one notoriously named the Blue Monster, Doral has enough golf to satisfy anyone. The Blue Monster is one of the toughest yet most rewarding courses in all of Florida, and the new Greg Norman-designed Great White is destined to be a crowd-pleaser for its distinctive, sandy palms design. Each course truly has a different look and feel, making Doral among the best golf hangouts in all of Florida. (See Website for course details) (800) 713-6725 www.doralresort.com
Grand Cypress Resort–New Course Orlando, FL The New Course is a throwback to yesteryear, with replications of the Old Course in St. Andrews, Scotland. The course is replete with pot bunkers, stone walls and other idiosyncrasies normally reserved for courses across the pond. The Grand Cypress Resort is state-of-the-art, offering upscale accommodations for active travelers. Twenty-seven other stellar golf holes lie in wait, as well. (Jack Nicklaus) Par 72, 6773 yards (72.2/122) (877) 330-7377 www.grandcypress.com	Jekyll Island–Pine Lakes Jekyll Island, GA This true masterpiece meanders through ocean forests and undisturbed hammocks populated by migratory birds. The longest of the four Jekyll Island courses, Pine Lakes was completely renovated in 2002 by Clyde Johnson, who took what was a near perfection and added his vision and flavor making it the premier course on Jekyll Island. (Dick Wilson/Clyde Johnson) Par 72, 6620 yards (71.3/130) (877) 4-JEKYLL www.jekyllisland.com
Kiawah Island Golf Resort–The Ocean Course Kiawah Island, SC One of the most highly ranked courses on the planet offers both beauty and challenge in huge amounts, with stern tests at every turn and ocean views on all 18 holes. Home to the 1991 Ryder Cup and 5-star rankings from every source imaginable. Par 72, 7296 yards (78.0/152) (Pete Dye) (800) 576-1570 www.kiawahresort.com	Kiawah Island Golf Resort–Osprey Point Kiawah Island, SC One of the true favorites on the island, Osprey Point is a visual masterpiece, carving its way through natural lakes, fingers of saltwater marsh and dense maritime forests of live oaks, pines, palmettos, and magnolias. Par 72, 6871 yards (72.9/137) (Tom Fazio) (800) 576-1570 www.kiawahresort.com
Ocean Hammock Resort Palm Coast. FL With the dramatic Jack Nicklaus-designed Ocean Hammock Golf Club as its foundation, the Ocean Hammock Resort is a golfer’s paradise overlooking the Atlantic. There are five courses total, one for every day of the workweek, yet each has a unique personality. Just look at the architect roster to see why: Nicklaus, Trevino, Lopez, Palmer and more. This kind of diversity makes Ocean Hammock the ideal “stay (for a long time) and play” destination. Ocean Hammock Golf Club was the first Oceanside golf course built in Florida since the 1920s when it made its debut in 2000. (Jack Nicklaus) Par 72, 7201 yards (77.0/147) (800) 654-6538 www.oceanhammock.com	Sea Island Resort–Retreat Course Sea Island, GA Davis Love III, Sea Island’s resident touring professional, brought to life his finest vision as a course architect, remaking the original Retreat Course. The result is challenging enough for a pro, yet comfortable enough for the casual player. A favorite with Sea Island regulars. Par 72, 7106 yards (73.9/135) (Davis Love III) (800) SEA-ISLAND www.seaisland.com

_ÊGT Selects (cont.)	_Ê
Sea Pines Resort–Harbour Town Golf Links Hilton Head Island, SC The lighthouse. The tartan jacket. The world’s best struggling against a short that’s deceptively short yet long on challenge. Play at the home of the MCI Heritage Classic and one of the all-time modern classics–Harbour Town Golf Links. Ranked the top-ranked course in South Caroliona is a Scottish-style layout that, above else, requires perfectly positioned shots, arrow-straight accuracy and unwavering consistency. Par 71, 6916 yards (74.0/136) (Pete Dye & Jack Nicklaus) (888) 807-6873 www.seapines.com	TPC at Sawgrass–Stadium Course Ponte Vedra Beach, FL The Pete Dye TPC at Sawgrass Stadium Course is the ultimate combination of brawn and beauty. As easy as it is on the eyes, it’s just as demanding on your ability to hit targeted golf shots with little room for error. Nevertheless, this Florida favorite is admired by the world every year at the PGA Tour’s Players Championship. Also noteworthy is its sibling, the Valley Course. The Marriott hotel on site is deluxe. (Pete Dye) Par 72, 6954 yards (75.0/149) (800) 457-4653 www.sawgrassmarriott.com
Walt Disney World Resort–Osprey Ridge Orlando, FL Truly dramatic fairways cut through forests of scrub oak, pine, palmetto, cypress and bay trees. The serene splendor of an elegant wilderness envelops a superb design. This spectacular course is one of the best in Florida. (Tom Fazio) Par 72, 7101 yards (74.4/131) www.disneyworld.com	Walt Disney World Resort–Palm Course Orlando The natural beauty of the Florida woodlands also makes this course one of Disney’s toughest courses. Sparkling lakes and tropical sand, with strategically placed palms. Offers golfers plenty of challenge, just as it does during the PGA Tour’s Funai Classic. (Joe Lee) Par 72, 6957 yards (73.9/138) www.disneyworld.com

_ÊSoutheast Must-Plays	_Ê
The Hampton Club St. Simons Island, GA The 18-hole Hampton Club, located on the historical Hampton Plantation on St. Simons Island, literally hopscotches several marshes, connected by a series of cart bridges that look as if they serve as anchors to make sure the holes don’t drift away into sea. The course looks challenging, but it’s more fun than it is demanding. It’s also a must-play for nature-loving golfers. (Joe Lee) Par 72, 6465 yards (71.1/135) (912) 634-0255 www.hamptonclub.com	Jekyll Island–Indian Mound Jekyll Island, GA This 18-hole challenge with its trademark strategically situated fairway bunkers plays through some of Jekyll Island’s most pristine lakes and marshes. It’s named Indian Mounds after the large oyster shell middens deposited by aboriginal tribes hundreds of years prior. (Joe Lee) Par 72, 6496 yards (71.3/130) (877) 4-JEKYLL www.jekyllisland.com
Jekyll Island–Oleander Jekyll Island, GA Created in 1964 on the grounds on what was once the 34th oldest registered golf course in the United States. Oleander, a local favorite, challenges golfers with numerous doglegs and holes that play only 300 yards from the ocean–watch out for those trade winds! (Dick Wilson) Par 72, 6521 yards (71.7/126) (877) 4-JEKYLL www.jekyllisland.com	Kiawah Island Golf Resort–Cougar Point Kiawah Island, SC Good value and great condition define Cougar point, a layout featuring holes that play hard against broad expanses of tidal marsh and which offe panoramic views of the Kiawah River and acres of needlerush and spartina grass. Cougar Point is designed to test the scratch player while providing an enjoyable round for all. (Gary Player) Par 72, 6887 yards (73.0/134) (800) 576-1570 www.kiawahresort.com

Must-Plays (cont.)_Ê	_Ê
Kiawah Island Golf Resort–Oak Point Kiawah Island, SC This Scottish-American-style course borders the historic Haulover Creek and the Kiawah River. Wide areas of windswept fairways stretch alongside salt marshlands interspersed with densely forested areas of live oaks. (Clyde Johnson) Par 72, 6759 yards (73.8/140) (800) 576-1570 www.kiawahresort.com	Kiawah Island Golf Resort–Turtle Point Kiawah Island, SC Opened in 1981, Turtle Point is a low-profile design with fairways and green settings blended into the existing landscape. Nowhere is this more evident than along a specatular three-hole stretch woven through rolling sand dunes directly along the Atlantic Ocean. With sparkling renovations completed in 2000, the new Turtle Point invites both past and new guests to experience the beauty of the course. (Jack Nicklaus) Par 72, 7054 yards (74.2/141) (800) 576-1570 www.kiawahresort.com
Sea Island Resort–Plantation Course Sea Island, GA Built on the Walter Travis’ venerated Plantation nine, the course was reshaped in 1998 and combined with Dick Wilson’s Retreat nine to create the brilliant 18-hole Plantation Course. Liberal sight lines between holes create a parkland feel with breathtaking ocean views, ancient live oaks, lakes, and flower-filled landscapes set against an artful canvas of fairways, bunkers and greens. (Rees Jones) Par 72, 7058 yards (73.9/135) (800) SEA-ISLAND www.seaisland.com	Sea Island Resort–Seaside Course Sea Island, GA A 1999 Tom Fazio redesign transformed two of Sea Island’s brilliant original nine-hole courses into an 18-hole thriller. Elevated tee boxes inspire play with magnificent vistas of Seaside’s ancient oaks and cedars, the salt marsh and sand dunes, and the St. Simons Sound. Par 70, 6945 yards (73.1/131) (Tom Fazio) (800) SEA-ISLAND www.seaisland.com
Sea Palms Golf & Tennis Resort St. Simons Island, GA Located on St. Simons Island and home to 27 newly remodeled holes, each nine has its own unique character. The Tall Pines nine is narrow, the West nine is shorter but full of water, and the Great Oaks nine is a hybrid of the two. All three feature stunning vistas and a healthy mix of easy and difficult holes destined to become memory-makers for novices and advanced players alike. (George Cobb) (800) 841-6268 www.seapalms.com	LPGA International Daytona Beach, FL Home of the LPGA and its Tour Titleholder Championship, the 36-hole International Club begins with the Rees Jones-designed Champions Course, a thought-provoking and picturesque layout with heavy Scottish influences and a variety of integrated nature preserves. The newer Arthur Hills-designed Legends Course is equally beautiful, with heavily bunkered greens and water on more than half its holes. Even though both these courses were designed specifically for women’s competition, both are man enough to challenge anyone. Legends: Par 72, 6984 yards (74.5/138) (Arthur Hills) Champions Par 72, 7088 yards (74.0/134) (Rees Jones) (386) 274-LPGA www.lpgainternational.com
Walt Disney World Resort–Eagle Pines Orlando, FL Rolling fairways and surrounding wetlands give Eagle Pines a unique look and an equally matchless challenge. A low-profile, Carolina-style course that follows the natural contours of the land where water and sand await errant shots. (Pete Dye) Par 72, 6772 yards (72.5/70.1) www.disneyworld.com	Walt Disney World Resort–Magnolia Orlando, FL Another course that plays host to the PGA Tour’s Funai Classic, the Magnolia–with its beautifully manicured links and abundance of fragrant magnolias–offers a natural setting with large greens and tranquil water hazards. (Joe Lee) Par 72, 7190 yards (74.9/136) www.disneyworld.com
Westin Innisbrook Resort–Copperhead Tampa, FL Innisbrook is one destination where you can literally stay and play–for good. There’s no reason to ever leave this magnificent property, with 72 holes of golf, six large pools, 600 guest suites, four restaurants, numerous tennis courts and a nature preserve–literally everything is here. The golf ranges from subdued to difficult, with its flagship course being the treacherous Copperhead, home to the PGA Tour’s Chrysler Championship. (Larry & Roger Packard) Par 72, 7295 yards (75.6/140) (877) 752-1480 www.golfinnisbrookresort.com	_Ê

_Ê

Where To Stay: Florida _Ê _Ê Bay Hill Club Orlando Play the best, the stay at a resort as friendly and warm as the King himself. (888) 422-9445 www.bayhill.com Doral Golf Resort Miami Famed Doral ranks among the best golf hangouts in all of Florida, if not the United States. (800) 713-6725 www.doralresort.com Grand Cypress Resort Orlando The Grand Cypress Resort is state-of-the-art, offering upscale accommodations for active travelers. (877) 330-7377 www.grandcypress.com Gulf States The Gulf Coast region of Alabama, Louisiana and the state we learned to spell phonetically–M-I-S-S-I-S-S-I-P-P-I–may not be the first place you’d think of for a golfing trip, but the more you learn about what it has to offer, the more you realize what a viable choice it is. The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Alabama, the Audubon Golf Trail in Louisiana and the Golf Coast Golf Trail in Mississippi are wonderful golfing venues that feature courses designed by some of the greatest architects and players in the game. They include Jones, Donald Ross, Pete Dye, Arnold Palmer, David Toms, Hal Sutton and Davis Love III. Add to that great culture, great food, great music and Southern hospitality, and you have one unforgettable golf vacation. Take the aspects that enhance the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. A Scottish-style course with more than 150 pot bunkers. Another course where water comes into play on 12 holes. A monstrous 701-yard par-5. Holes with 200-foot elevation drops. Courses with names like The Heartbreaker, The Backbreaker and The Mindbreaker. Rolling fairways. Huge pine trees. In all, there are 378 holes at eight locations throughout the state. A ninth site, the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at The Shoals, in Florence, Ala. as well as Ross Bridge, a 10th site located in Hoover, Ala., have recently been added. Green fees start at $35 and rarely rise above $57, plus tax. “The green fees are one of the great values in golf,” says Barbara Thomas, vice president of advertising and marketing for the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. “The courses are very challenging and memorable.” The Audubon Golf Trail in Louisiana–named after John James Audubon, the famous naturalist and artist who painted 80 birds of America during his time in Louisiana–also has plenty to offer. There’s the native terrain of bayous and wetlands. Cypress trees that are 400 to 500 years old. Golf courses cut out of sugar plantations. The new TPC of Louisiana at Fairfield. The nine locations have 171 holes full of challenges. Plus, there’s nearby New Orleans. As they say, it’s a true sportsman’s paradise. In Mississippi, the Golf Coast Golf Trail has 26 miles of diversity that run near or along the Gulf of Mexico. There are old courses like Great Southern Golf Club, which Ross designed in 1908, and modern courses like The Bridges Golf Club at Casino Magic, which Palmer opened in 1997. Kevin Drum, executive director of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Golf Association, says the variety of old and new courses makes this area different. _Ê _Ê_Ê_Ê _Ê _Ê_Ê_Ê _Ê “We have courses that are perfect for various budgets and various skill sets,” says Drum. “We have short courses, inexpensive courses and championship courses.” The Trail also has great seafood because of its proximity to the Gulf, as well as a magnificent ratio of 12 casinos to 15 golf courses. “We’re a destination golf trail,” says Drum. “You can find good places to eat, good casinos and good golf courses.” Truly, the Gulf golf trails are a premier stay-and-play destination. Says Eric Kaspar, administrator for the Audubon Golf Trail, “Golf down here has an old-world feel to it. It stems from the rich culture, our history and the beautiful, natural environs. More important, visitors will enjoy the very warm, very welcoming nature of the people. Southern hospitality flows through in everyone and everything.” Also, don’t forget the Southern shores, stretching from Gulf Shores, Alabama, all the way to New Orleans. Golf travel aficionados have already dubbed this stretch the next Myrtle Beach, as it seems golf courses continually sprout up each and every year. So there you have it. The Gulf States are fast becoming a golf destination right along side the nation’s other popular golf hotbeds. Come see for yourself. We know “ya’ll gonna have a great time.” Getting There Mississippi Unlike the other two Gulf trails, the Mississippi Golf Coast collection is tightly packed along the coast between Bay St. Louis and Gautier (a stretch of 60 miles, or one course per every four miles). The city of Biloxi is located in the middle of the trail, making it the best bet for flight departures and arrivals. Biloxi is but 90 miles from New Orleans, a major airline hub. Alabama To access the Trent Jones Golf Trail in Alabama, arriving in Birmingham is your best bet, as it’s the most centrally located city along the Trail, which spreads from Huntsville in the north to Mobile in the south and covering all points east and west. To reach Gulf Shores, Alabama, Pensacola Airport is a short 40 minute ride away. Louisiana The Louisiana Audubon Trail is equally spread out, covering all corners of the sportsman’s paradise. Audubon treks should begin in New Orleans or in the Trail’s northernmost outpost, Shreveport. More Information Mississippi Golf Coast www.golfcoast.com Louisiana Audubon Trail www.audubontrail.com Alabama Robert Trent Jones Trail www.rtjgolf.com Gulf Shores Golf Association www.golfgulfshores.com What To Bring & When To Go _Ê _Ê_Ê_Ê _Ê What To Bring Playing golf in the Gulf States of Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi doesn’t require an overabundance of packing. Shorts will make things comfortable, especially in the summer. Sunscreen is another plus, particularly when the sun gets strong. Insect repellent is a good option. Cooler weather creates the need for a rainsuit and/or long-sleeve wind shirt. Don’t forget lofted specialty clubs like a 5-wood, 7-wood or even a 9-wood to combat the thick Bermuda rough that’s so prevalent in the area. With a 5-wood or 7-wood, it’s easier to get the ball up and out of the rough because the clubhead is hitting down into it. On normal lies, the ball will fly higher with a utility wood, which is good when you’re hitting into the greens, most of which are bunkered or surrounded by rough. Finally, don’t forget to bring extra money, particularly if you’re playing in Mississippi, where there are 12 casinos (and 16 golf courses) along the 26-mile Golf Coast Golf Trail, including the king of all Mississippi gaming centers, Tunica (www.tunicamiss.com). When To Go Mild year-round temps translate into 12 solid months of tee times. Of course, expect cooler temps in the winter months, and humid heat, as well as the greatest amount of precipitation, in the summer months. Average Temps _Ê _Ê New Orleans, La. (High/Low, _¡F) January _Ê_Ê_Ê 63_¡/45_¡ February _Ê_Ê_Ê 66_¡/48_¡ March _Ê_Ê_Ê 73_¡/55_¡ April _Ê_Ê_Ê 79_¡/60_¡ May _Ê_Ê_Ê 85_¡/68_¡ June _Ê_Ê_Ê 90_¡/73_¡ July _Ê_Ê_Ê 92_¡/75_¡ August _Ê_Ê_Ê 92_¡/75_¡ September _Ê_Ê_Ê 88_¡/72_¡ October _Ê_Ê_Ê 81_¡/62_¡ November _Ê_Ê_Ê 72_¡/54_¡ December _Ê_Ê_Ê 65_¡/48_¡ Birmingham, Ala (High/Low, _¡F) January _Ê_Ê_Ê 52_¡/36_¡ February _Ê_Ê_Ê 56_¡/37_¡ March _Ê_Ê_Ê 66_¡/42_¡ April _Ê_Ê_Ê 74_¡/44_¡ May _Ê_Ê_Ê 81_¡/57_¡ June _Ê_Ê_Ê 65_¡/87_¡ July _Ê_Ê_Ê 89_¡/69_¡ August _Ê_Ê_Ê 99_¡/68_¡ September _Ê_Ê_Ê 83_¡/62_¡ October _Ê_Ê_Ê 74_¡/50_¡ November _Ê_Ê_Ê 67_¡/42_¡ December _Ê_Ê_Ê 57_¡/38_¡ Gulfport, Miss. (High/Low, _¡F) January _Ê_Ê_Ê 61_¡/42_¡ February _Ê_Ê_Ê 64_¡/45_¡ March _Ê_Ê_Ê 69_¡/51_¡ April _Ê_Ê_Ê 76_¡/58_¡ May _Ê_Ê_Ê 83_¡/66_¡ June _Ê_Ê_Ê 87_¡/71_¡ July _Ê_Ê_Ê 89_¡/73_¡ August _Ê_Ê_Ê 90_¡/74_¡ September _Ê_Ê_Ê 87_¡/69_¡ October _Ê_Ê_Ê 79_¡/58_¡ November _Ê_Ê_Ê 71_¡/51_¡ December _Ê_Ê_Ê 63_¡/45_¡ _Ê Where To Play _ÊLouisiana _Ê Carter Plantation (Springfield) David Toms shows love for his home state with the subtle, yet challenging design. Par 72, 7050 yards (74.4/140) (David Toms) (225) 294-9855 www.carterplantation.com Olde Oaks (Haughton) Hal Sutton’s tribute to the natural Louisiana environment. Meadow 9 Par 36, 3681 yards Cypress 9 Par 36, 3681 yards The Oak 9 Par 36 3622 yards (Hal Sutton) (318) 742-0333 www.oldeoaksgolf.com Graywood Golf Club (Lake Charles) Home to some of the strongest par-3s in the state. Par 72, 7233 yards (337) 562-1663 www.graywoodllc.com Tamahka Trails (Marksville) Routinely hosts local US Open qualifying tournaments. Par 72, 7019 yards (74.4/133) (Steve Smyers) (318) 240-6300 www.paragoncasinoresort.com TPC of Louisiana at Fairfield (Avondale) Home of the PGA Tour’s HP Classic of New Orleans. Par 72, 7600 yards (Pete Dye) (504) 436-8721 www.tpclouisiana.com _Ê _ÊMississippi _Ê Diamondhead Country Club (Diamondhead) Challenging yet playable for all skill levels. Par 72, 6831 yards (72.7/132) (Earl Stone) (800) 346-8741 www.diamondheadms.org Gulf Hills Golf Club (Ocean Springs) One of Mississippi’s oldest courses is still one of its best. Par 71, 6266 yards (Jack Daray) (228) 872-9663 www.gulfhillsgolf.com Great Southern Golf Club (Gulfport) Opened in 1908 and designed by Donald Ross, this is pure golf. Par 71, 6238 yards (70.4/124) (Donald Ross) (228) 896-3536 www.gsgc1908.com Mississippi National (Gautier) Strategy and shot placements are key on this beautiful course. Par 72, 6983 yards (73.1/128) (Earl Stone) (228) 497-2372 www.mississippinational.com Shell Landing Golf Club (Gautier) A Davis Love III, neo-classic design. Par 72, 7024 yards (73.2/128) (Davis Love III) (866) 851-0541 www.shelllanding.com The Bridges Golf Club at Casino Magic (Bay St. Louis) Arnold Palmer’s only course design in Mississippi. Par 72, 6841 yards (73.5.138) (Arnold Palmer) (800) 562-4425 www.casinomagic-baystlouis.com Capitol Hill (Prattville) 54 spectacular holes designed to make you play every shot in the bag. The Judge Par 72, 7794 yards (77.8/144) (Robert Trent Jones) The Senator Par 72, 7697 yards (76.6/131) (Robert Trent Jones) The Legislator Par 72, 7323 yards (74.1/126) (Robert Trent Jones) (334) 285-1114 www.rtjgolf.com The Oaks Golf Club (Pass Christian) Known as the ultimate tournament venue in Miss. Par 72, 6885 yards (72.5/131) (Landmark Company) (228) 452-0909 www.theoaksgolfclub.com _Ê Alabama _Ê Cambrian Ridge (Greenville) 27 holes of lushness and tranquility. Loblolly Par 35 3551 yards Canyon Par 36, 3746 yards Sherling Par 36, ,681 yards (Robert Trent Jones) (334) 382-9787 www.rtjgolf.com Grand National (Opelika) Beauty with bite. Links Course Par 72, 7311 yards (75.1/135) Lake Course Par 72, 7149 yards (74.3/136) (Robert Trent Jones) (334) 749-9042 www.rtjgolf.com Cypress Bend at Craft Farms (Gulf Shores) Popular for numerous doglegs and slick greens. Par 72, 6848 yards (72.4/127) (Arnold Palmer) (251) 968-7500 www.craftfarms.com Kiva Dunes Golf Club (Gulf Shores) One of the best coastal courses in the South. Par 72, 7092 yards (73.9/132) (Jerry Pate) (888) TEE-KIVA www.kivadunes.com Oxmoor Valley (Birmingham) Three courses with very distinct and enjoyable personalities. Valley Par 72, 7292 yards (73.9/135) Ridge Par 72, 7055 yards (73.5/140) Short (Par-3 Course) Par 54, 3360 yards (Robert Trent Jones) (205) 942-1177 www.rtjgolf.com The Woodlands at Craft Farms Creativity pays off on every hole here. Par 72, 6484 yards (70.8/123) (Larry Nelson) (800) 327-2657 www.craftfarms.com Gulf States Area Accommodations Whether you’re heading to Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana or all three, there is an abundance of great resorts where you can hang your head after full days of golf. Some of our are favorites are listed below: _Ê Where To Stay _Ê _Ê Kiva Dunes 815 Plantation Road Gulf Shores, Ala. (866) 540-7100 www.kivadunes.com Marriott at Capitol Hill 2500 Legends Circle Pratville, Ala (866) 330-5343 www.pchresorts.com Marriot’s Grand Hotel One Grand Blvd Point Clear, Ala. (251) 928-9201 www.pchresorts.com Paragon Casino and Hotel 711 Paragon Place Marksville, La. (800) 946-1946 www.paragoncasinoresort.com Cypress Bend Golf and Resort Center 2000 Cypress Bend Parkway Many, La. (877) 519-1500 www.cypressbend.com_Ê The Villas at Carter Plantation 23475 Carter Trace Springfield, La. (225) 294-7555 www.carterplantation.com Casino Magic Bay St. Louis 711 Casino Magic Drive Bay St. Louis, Miss. (800) WIN-BIG2 www.casinomagic-baystlouis.com _Ê _Ê _Ê Where To Learn _Ê _Ê Chuck Winstead Golf Academy University Club Baton Rouge, La. (225) 819-0800 www.universityclubbr.com The Academy of Golf Oxmoor Valley Golf Club Birmingham, Ala. (205) 769-1349 www.rtjgolf.com Mississippi Golf Schools The Club at North Creek South Haven, Miss. (800) 365-6640 www.afgs.com   Local Knowledge When fall begins and cooler weather starts rolling in, things really heat up in the Gulf States. Yes, it’s time for Southeastern Conference football, and for pigskin fanatics; it doesn’t get any better, unless you supplement your football weekend with a round or two of golf. Now, that’s living! For some, golf will always take a backseat to the gridiron exploits of LSU, Alabama, Auburn, Mississippi State and Old Miss. Savvy golfers, however, know there’s nothing better than combining pigskin and putts on fall weekends. Challenging courses can be found near the various campuses within the distance of a screen pass or a last-second, game-winning Hail Mary bomb. When the weekend is over, you won’t just be yelling “Go, Tigers!” (or whomever you’re rooting for). You’ll just be going back for more. Alabama In the campus’ hometown of Tuscaloosa, Ol’ Colony (www.tcpara.org) is a hidden gem that was one of the first courses designed by native Alabama son Jerry Pate. Large lakes come into play on five holes of the 7,066-yard, par-72 layout. Tall pines and oaks provide the feel of the Old South. The 435-yard, par-4 18th hole is entirely guarded by water on the right and woods on the left. If that’s not enough, the front left of the green is elevated and the back is tiered. Auburn Stay local and go to Grand National (www.rtjgolf.com) in Opelika, Ala., where the scenic Lake Course, featuring 12 holes that run along the shore of Lake Saugahatchee, may do the impossible and take your mind off the gridiron. Here’s the skinny on the 7,149-yard, par-72 layout, which is part of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail: Bring extra golf balls because the 230-yard, par-3 15th hole–complete with island green–is likely to diminish your supply. Louisiana State Ready for a 7,151-yard, par-72 course with a slope of 150 and a rating of 75.3? Then travel 45 minutes from Baton Rouge to The Bluffs on Thompson Creek (www.thebluffs.com), in St. Francisville. This Arnold Palmer design is both a beauty and a beast. “It combines beauty and a challenge,” says Patrick Meehan, men’s golf sports information director for LSU. “There’s no easy hole.” The ’04 NCAA Women’s Championship and the ’00 NCAA Men’s Championship were held on the Lakes Course. Mississippi State It may seem like a “hare” long to travel more than an hour from Starkville to Dancing Rabbit Golf Club (www.dancingrabbitgolf.com) in Philadelphia, Miss., but architects Jerry Pate and Tom Fazio have teamed up to create two 18-hole courses full of par-72 diversity. The Azaleas Course is 7,128 yards from the tips, while the Oaks is a mere 7,076 yards. The mega-resort, located on the land of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, also features casino gambling. Ole Miss Kirkwood National Golf Club (www.kirkwoodgolf.com) in Holly Springs, Miss., about 30 minutes from the Ole Miss campus in Oxford, is a true outdoor adventure from start to finish. Kirkwood’s key holes are the back-to-back 188-yard 4th hole, where the green is completely bunkered in front, with water in the back, and the 614-yard 5th hole, which doglegs toward a green elevated 30 feet above the fairway.   Golf In Hawaii Editor’s Note: This guide to Golf in Hawaii was updated April 1, 2019 Golf in Hawaii is a study in variance. At the same time, the island game is littered with awe-inspiring topography–replete with the expected natural beauty–and not-so-subtle dangers from tee to green. Perhaps that’s what makes playing golf on Hawaiian courses so intriguing: You don’t mind the occasional double bogey when you’re in paradise. Indeed, island golf is both beauty and beast — there’s no way to sugarcoat it. But after spending just a few hours on the islands, you wouldn’t want it any other way. Hawaii’s geographic wonders are incumbent on all sides, instilling the notion that you’re securely entrenched in a land with an undeviated link to earth’s prehistoric past. On several courses, at any moment, you half expect a Tyrannosaurus rex to lumber around the next corner and point its hungry head in your direction. Of course, that won’t happen, but you’ll surely get a little weak in the knees facing the awe-inspiring beauty of courses like Hokuala (formerly Kaua’i Lagoons), Poipu Bay Golf Course or all three course at Kapalua. Whatever the cost (even if it’s a dozen new Pro V1s), summon the courage, do the deed and walk away with a great story to tell all your friends; not that you slayed a T. rex, but that you met the challenge of some of the most scenic golf courses in all the world. A recent poll of professional golfers showed that Hawaii is their favorite place to visit. And it’s no wonder, with eight of the top 25 resort courses in the country situated amongst the Hawaiian Islands. It’s amazing how the world’s best golf course designers — Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones, Arnold Palmer — were able to visualize and create courses up, down, and around cliffs, beaches, rolling hills and lava fields. Of course, any trip to Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the encompassing beaches and ocean side resorts. In fact, when it comes to golf, it’s a safe bet that most golf courses are either affiliated with or located in close proximity to a variety of hotels and resorts. For more, visit our Stay and Play section, where you’ll find the best of both worlds. Aloha! Mexico Golf in Mexico isn’t as storied as it is in Scotland or Ireland. It isn’t as sexy as it is in Hawaii or as dreamy as its Caribbean counterpart. But this much is true: South of the border, the game and all of its resort trappings attract more American and Canadian golfers than any other international golf destination. In 2003, nearly three-quarter-million determined duffers made their way to first tees, from Los Cabos to Cancun. And these aren’t tee-shirt-and-denim short courses they’re showing up to see and play. Mexico boasts a burgeoning collection of high-end resort tracks designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Robert von Hagge, Robert Trent Jones II and Tom Weiskopf. And with a government committed to promoting tourism via fairways and greens, you can bet your bottom peso there are dozens more on the way. A trip through Mexico’s golf history is a short ride, beginning in the mid-’70s when the enterprising von Hagge made his way to San Luis Potosi to design nine new holes for the Punta Verde Golf Club. Over the next 20 years, the Houston, Texas-based architect would go on to design or codesign 12 courses in Mexico, opening the door for larger firms to sink their claws into the white-hot market. One such firm was Nicklaus Design. The Golden Bear’s expansive architectural shop got involved with its first Mexico-based project back in 1992 at Palmilla Resort in San Jose del Cabo in the Baja California Sur. Just two years later, Nicklaus designed the Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol, and the Mexican golf renaissance began in earnest. Los Cabos quickly became the epicenter of the explosion. In 1999, Corona beer heir Eduardo Sanchez Navarro struck while the iron was hot and hired Nicklaus to build a second course at tiny Cabo Real Resort. The ensuing track, El Dorado, eclipsed the original Rees Jones-designed Cabo Real course and went on to be mentioned in the same breath as the Ocean Course./ While in town, so to speak, Nicklaus added a new nine (Ocean) at Palmilla. In 2001, fellow Ohio State alum Tom Weiskopf arrived to craft the Desert Course amid Cabo del Sol’s craggy mountains and towering saguaro cacti. When the desert dust settled, Los Cabos had firmly cemented itself as a world-class golf destination. The golf boom in Los Cabos created something of a geographical trickle-down effect that spread to points south and east. The next metro area to take the little white ball and run with it was Puerto Vallarta. Named the world’s friendliest international city by readers of Cond”© Nast Traveler in 2001, Puerto Vallarta is also the beneficiary of one of the most postcard-ready settings in Mexico. The picturesque ciudad is snuggled against shimmering Banderas Bay with the hulking Sierra Madres Mountains serving as the backdrop. With its enviable setting, a climate similar to Hawaii and a newfound focus on tourism, it was only a question of time before high-end resort golf made its way to PV. Five courses opened between 1999 and 2003: a seaside Nicklaus design at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita; the 36-hole Nicklaus/Weiskopf collaboration at Vista Vallarta; the Mayan Palace Golf Club; and most recently, El Tigre at Paradise Village Resort, a sporty von Hagge/Rick Baril creation with three of the toughest finishing holes in all of Mexico. Taken collectively, the golf inventory of Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta would merit Mexico a reputation rivaled by only a fistful of international golf destinations. That traditional tourist cities like Acapulco and Cancun have bought into the “Mexico as golfing hotbed concept” is simply the sauce on the enchilada. Cancun is capitalizing on its reputation as a party town with few rivals and its quasi-Caribbean location to bolster its golf present and future. Looking for a sure sign that the Yucatan Peninsula is taking this golf thing seriously? The opening of a Nicklaus course should eliminate any doubt. The Golf Club at Moon Palace opened just over a year ago, paying compliment to the existing Golf Club at Playacar. Other notables include the Hilton Cancun Beach and Golf Club and Cancun’s elder statesman of golf, Pok-ta-Pok Golf Club. In a trend that defies just about every golf market in the world, 18 new courses are in the permit or construction phases, according to local golf officials, including three Greg Norman credits at the $1.35-billion Playa Mujeres Resort. “The future for golf (and new courses) for Mexico is virtually unlimited,” says von Hagge. “This is due to the magnificent properties still available in abundance and the present ease of the political and environmental permit process.” When To Go There’s never a bad time to travel south of the border, though you’ll need to grab a flight to get to the good golf. Even the closest Mexican golf destination, Los Cabos, is a 1,000-mile hike from the States. Aeromexico and Mexicana offer daily round-trip flights from most major cities. Both airlines offer faresaver specials and packaged vacations. Brand loyalists, take heart: More than 25 international airlines have extensive route systems, including Southwest, Delta, American and US Airways. Aeromexico www.aeromexico.com Mexicana www.mexicana.com Southwest www.southwest.com What To Bring “Don’t bring your slacks and a sport coat,” quips Scott Bowles, vice president of new business for Golf Adventures, a tour operator that offers golf packages to Los Cabos. “Cabo has some resorts formal dining, but for the most part it’s Jimmy Buffet casual.” On course, shorts and shirt sleeves work year-round. Thirty-six-hole-a-day types doing Mexico in the summer and early fall may want to bring along a change of clothes for afternoon rounds. Only winter mornings in Los Cabos may call for a light pullover or jacket. For a solid selection of gear designed to stand up to all the elements, check out Sun Mountain. The Montana-based outfitter stocks pullovers, vests, short-sleeve jackets and lightweight golf bags that travel well. As far as clubs go, grab a few sticks to battle the tropical breezes. The majority of resort courses in Mexico are located on or near the ocean, and winds in the range of 15 to 20 knots aren’t uncommon. A straw poll of local head pros yielded a proclivity toward utility clubs that produce low, straight shots. A close second was well-tested sand or gap wedges for negotiating waste areas and greenside bunkers. More Information All major Mexican golf resorts have extensive Websites and most have toll-free reservation numbers. Tracking down official tourism information is a bit trickier than researching domestic destinations. A huge crop of golf and vacation packaging services have popped up on the Internet, looking to take advantage of the country’s multimillion dollar golf industry. Many offer well-researched, accurate information on local conditions and amenities. Others don’t. A good place to start your vacation planning is www.visitmexico.com, the country’s official tourism Website. For a less “chamber of commerce-like” perspective, check out www.mexicofile.com and www.simmondsmexicotours.com. Both are creations of David Simmonds _â__Ò a cult-like figure who’s sampled every course and 19th hole from Tapachula to Mexicali. Where To Play Select Resorts _Ê Cabo del Sol Los Cabos Mexico’s most lavish stay and play option is home to the Ocean and Desert Courses, two of Mexico’s highest-rated resort tracks. A third course, designed by Tom Doak and Mark Parsinen, is in the works. Bed down at the Fiesta Americana or the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar tucked along the Sea of Cortez. (800) 386-2465 www.cabodelsol.com Cabo Real _ÊLos Cabos Cabo Real’s El Dorado Course is on the level with the Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol in terms of scenery, design and conditioning. The original Cabo Real Golf Course, a Robert Trent Jones II design, plays a close second fiddle with its three oceanfront holes. Play them both, then relax at one of Cabo Real’s seven resort hotels. (800) 393-0400 www.caboreal.com Palmilla Los Cabos Palmilla features twenty-seven holes of Jack Nicklaus-designed golf. The original 18-hole circuit helped put Cabo and Mexico on the international golf map. Nicklaus returned in 1999 to add the Ocean nine, with its 600-feet of elevation change. The boutique-style resort dates back to 1956 and was a favorite haunt of Hemmingway’s. (866) 829-2977 www.oneandonlyresorts.com Vista Vallarta Puerto Vallarta Vista Vallarta is PV’s premier multi-course golf resort, with 18-hole gems from Tom Weiskopf and Jack Nicklaus. The two former Ohio State Buckeye greats produced a couple of stunners just 15 minutes from the hotel zone and a stone’s throw from “Gringo Gulch” _â__Ò site of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor’s torrid affair while filming Night of the Iguana. Stay-and-play packages are available with seven local resort hotels. www.vistavallartagolf.com www.foremexico.com _Ê Four Seasons Punta Mita Resort and Golf Club Bahia de Banderas The Four Seasons Punta Mita, located 45 minutes north of downtown Puerto Vallarta, is a quaint collection of 140 guest casitas that spill down the coast to the Pacific. Nearby is Jack Nicklaus’ Punta Mita Golf Club, a stunning track laid out on a narrow nape of land next to Banderas Bay. (011-52 -329) 291-6000 www.fourseasons.com Moon Palace Golf Club Cancun Moon Palace Resort is Cancun’s premier stay-and-play property. The resort features a Jack Nicklaus-designed course (his first along the east coast of Mexico) that has been described as a jungle where a golf course broke out. (800) 635-1836 www.palaceresorts.com Estrella del Mar Mazatlan Estrella del Mar is a master-planned resort set on 3.5 miles of pristine Pacific Ocean beaches. The centerpiece of the property is a lush Robert Trent Jones II course routed through a series of glistening lakes. www.estrelladelmar.com _Ê     Hidden Gems _Ê The Raven Golf Club at Cabo San Lucas Los Cabos A Roy Dye design built on the site of the old San Lucas Country Club. The recently refurbished track is typically half the price of the big boys, and also affords prime views of El Arco, Land’s End. (877) 461-3667 www.ravenatcabo.com The Cozumel Country Club Cozumel This circa-2001 Steve Nicklaus design on chic Cozumel is the island’s first course _â” and what a course. Coral rock outcroppings and thick strands of red mangroves combine to create a golf experience that may make some forget about Cozumel’s world-famous snorkeling and scuba diving. (011-52-987) 872 9570 www.cozumelcountryclub.com.mx Campo de Golf and Marina de Golf Ixtapa Two 18-hole offerings from Robert Trent Jones II and Robert von Hagge located at the Palma Real Golf and Tennis Club. Camp de Golf was part of the original planned Ixtapa city that sprung up in the 1970s; Marina de Golf opened in 1994. (011-52-755) 553-1062 El Tamarindo Golf Club Manzanillo A David Fleming/Robert Trent Jones II design on the Costa Alegre situated midway between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo. El Tamarindo was laid out on oceanfront property and features a number of holes with view corridors to the Pacific Ocean. www.starwood.com Tres Vidas Acapulco A Robert von Hagge redesign outside of Acapulco that is widely considered one of the most scenic plays in Mexico. The Pacific Ocean actually comes into play on the 443-yard par-4 ninth hole and forms the backdrop for the sporty 190-yard par-3 third. (011-52-744) 444-5126 www.tresvidas.com.mx Isla Navidad Country Club Guadalajara Isla Navidad Country Club is a pristine Robert von Hagge design considered by many to be Mexico’s top course. Threes nines, the Ocean, Lagoon and Mountain, converge along a rocky swath of Pacific Ocean coastline. (011-52-333) 642-3703 www.islanavidad.com Travel Tip: Northern Ireland Like the mists that blow in off the Irish Sea, a sense of mystery tends to shroud golf in Northern Ireland. Indeed, the country itself possesses an aura of the unknown, particularly with Americans. It’s not as if the courses here are completely unknown, it’s just that they tend to be overshadowed by their more famous neighbors in Scotland, The Republic of Ireland and England. However, Northern Ireland has not only a rich golf history of its own, but also a collection of links layouts that stand up to any of its more heralded British Isles’ mates. Two, in particular, are capable of challenging for the title of best links course in the world: Royal County Down and Royal Portrush. Royal County Down Golf Club Located in the town of Newcastle, 30 miles south of Belfast, Royal County Down has imparted a solemn serenity for more than 100 years. This serenity may be dampened after a few trips into the impossible gorse that covers the immense sand dunes along the course, but a few deep breaths of salt air are all it takes to bring you back. Likely the reason Royal County Down is strikingly beautiful as a golf course is because the land remains largely as it was when first formed by the retreat of the Irish Sea so many centuries ago. There’s absolutely no hint of imposed development. It has become a description overused, but the course seems as if it has existed here along Dundrum Bay in the shadow of the Mountains of Mourne all along. None other than Old Tom Morris himself imagined the layout with some significant help from Mother Nature. Between the two of them, they created a stiff challenge for any golfer who ever picked up a mashie. There are no less than five tee shots where the landing area is hidden from view. Approach shots are extremely testy as well, with most greens well protected by flash-face bunkers. You’ll need a local’s skill to accurately read the greens. If you must know, the course stretches all the way out to just more than 7,000 yards, par-71. The length is but one difficulty here. Bounces can be unpredictable, fairway bunkers maddening and distances deceiving. But if you’re playing for a score at Royal County Down, you’re playing for all of the wrong reasons. Royal Portrush Golf Club There may be no other golf course on the entire island with the historical significance of Royal Portrush. Nestled within the resort town of the same name, Portrush hosted in 1951 the first British Open Championship ever contested outside Scotland and England. But its roots go much farther back than that. It also played host in 1895 to the first professional tournament ever held in Ireland. Want more? The first nine holes were laid out in 1888. That track, then called the County Club, bears no resemblance to the current course—the Dunluce (the Valley Links sit below this championship course). Designed by the famous Harry S. Colt in the early 1930s, this course has been described as magnificent, sound and subtle. All three adjectives still apply to Portrush, but you can throw in mesmerizing, invigorating and hearty. This club, located about 40 miles north of Belfast, is as fulfilling a links golf adventure as you can ever hope to find. Set upon land with less aggressive contouring than County Down, Portrush plays along the Atlantic Ocean on Northern Ireland’s northeastern most tip. It’s remarkable how often golfers who have played here comment on the quality of turf. But it’s true; the sand-based fescue provides an excellent surface to strike a golf ball. The massive and prevalent bunkers here are less pleasant from which to hit, especially the one they call “Big Bertha,” the aptly named giant that lurks on the right side of the 17th fairway. When To Go: Prime travel season is April through October. However, winters are relatively mild, but with a greater chance of rain. Accommodations North Bushmills Inn www.bushmillsinn.com +44 (0) 28 2073-2339 __68-__188 Accommodations South Slieve Donard Hotel www.hastingshotels.com +44 (0) 28 4372 3681 __105-__150 Getting There Direct flights into Belfast from all major East Coast cities. Preferred airlines are British Airways, Continental and American Arilines. More Information: Northern Ireland Tourist Board St. Anne’s Court, 59 North Street Belfast BT1 1NB www.discovernorthernireland.com +44 (0) 28 9023 1221 In Case you missed it Instruction How to Keep Your Game Red-Hot as the Leaves Turn Ted Odorico September 9, 2026 0 Golf News Shot Scope Partners with Women’s Golf Day Joanne Miller September 9, 2026 0 Golf News Tiger Woods Accepts Reckless Driving Plea Ted Odorico September 2, 2026 0 Golf News MLB Pitcher Tyson Ross Swaps Baseballs for Wedges Joanne Miller August 14, 2026 0 0 0 Your Cart Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop Continue Shopping