What to Know About RBC Heritage 2023

When’s the busiest time on the island, you ask? Other than gorgeous, hot summer days that beckon not only visitors out of their hotel rooms, but residents of surrounding towns to flock to the beach?  If we’d have to guess, we’d say the weekend that the RBC Heritage Golf Tournament is wrapping up and competition is coming down to the wire—it’s a busy time for sure, but it’s oh so exciting!

This year’s RBC Heritage will take place April 10th-16th.

That being said, if you’ve booked a stay during this time period and have no interest in golf whatsoever, the good news is that you’ll have no problem finding a spot on the beach to catch some rays. We do recommend making dinner reservations to your favorite places, getting those rental bikes reserved in advance, and staying clear of the Harbour Town area.

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So, what exactly is the RBC Heritage?

2023 marks the 55th playing of this golf tournament at Harbour Town Golf Links, an award-winning golf course that was named the best course in South Carolina. A stop on the PGA Tour, the RBC Heritage directly follows the Masters in Augusta. This year’s purse is said to be $20,000,000, which is more than double that of 2022, meaning that even more popular golfers are expected to attend. Exciting, indeed!

Hilton Head Island’s image as a resort destination is heavily linked to this tournament. Charles Fraser, developer of Sea Pines, announced that the first Heritage Classic would be played on this little-known sea island in 1969. Golf legends such as Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus brought attention to both the tournament and the island itself. Now, more than 100,000 golf fans flock to the island each year to catch a glimpse of the action. Learn more about the tournament’s traditions here.

Another component of the RBC Heritage is the Heritage Classic Foundation. Founded in 1987, donations upward of $49.1 million have been sent to charities in South Carolina. With focuses on the local community, educational scholarships and grants, the environment, and more, this foundation is passionate about the betterment of the region.

According to Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, they were chosen by the Heritage Classic Foundation to be their charity beneficiary of choice for this year’s PGA Tour Charity Challenge. Follow the following members on their selected 8-player fantasy team as they play in tournaments scheduled from January to August:

Scottie Scheffler

Justin Thomas

Tom Kim

Davis Riley

Gary Woodland

Joel Dahmen

John Rahm

Will Zalatoris

Take a look at this year’s schedule of events:

Monday, April 10th

Pro-Am Presented by Boeing

The course is closed to spectators.

Tuesday, April 11th

Opening Ceremonies

12:00 pm

18th Green

Attend the traditional opening ceremonies and parade in Harbour Town. This year’s parade will include 2022 RBC Heritage Champion, Jordan Spieth, board members of the Heritage Classic Foundation, volunteers of the tournament, and state dignitaries.

Youth Day Putting Contest

2:00 pm-3:00 pm

Putting Green

Children under the age of 15 years old can compete in this contest. Those wanting to join may register in the tent beside the Harbour Town Golf Links Clubhouse.

Pro Practice Rounds

All day

Wednesday, April 12th

RBC Heritage Pro-Am

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Thursday, April 13th

First Round

Starting Times:

7:20 am-9:00 am

11:50 am-1:30 pm

Friday, April 14th

Second Round

Starting Times:

7:20 am-9:00 am

11:50 am-1:30 pm

Saturday, April 15th: Plaid Nation Day

Third Round

Starting Times: 8:30 am-1:30 pm

Plaid Nation Games

12:00 pm-2:00 pm

Heritage Lawn

Don’t forget to wear your plaid!

Spectators are encouraged to compete in hole-in-one, various trivia, and a best-dressed competition.

Sunday, April 16th

Sunrise Service

7:30 am

Liberty Oak

No ticket is needed to attend this nondenominational service.

Final Round

Starting times: 8:30 am-1:30 pm

The trophy presentation will be held immediately after play has ended on the 18th green.

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Fore the Love of Golf!

As kids, we like to emulate what our parents and grandparents do. I personally can remember watching my grandfather work a nine-to-five job and then rush home to spend any extra time left in the day to perfect his golf game. His love for the sport and dedication eventually paid off when he was chosen to be a part of the Professional Golfers’ Association of America Tour also known as the PGA Tour. Intrigued by not only my grandfather’s success, but by the sport itself, I eventually caught the “golf bug”.

My golf passion grew over time and it became a full-on hobby. I was active in several after-school golf programs throughout middle school and high school, then continued my journey in college where I was captain of the golf team. One of the perks of the team was we were fortunate to travel nationally and play on some of the most prestigious courses designed by legendary professional golfers. However out of all the courses we played, the one that was forever engraved in my memories was a course in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Designed by the sensational Arnold Palmer, the Wexford exclusive golf course not only challenged my skills, but the views of Broad Creek, marshlands, and the harbor, made this experience one that I would never forget.

I knew I would never be the next Tiger Woods, but after visiting Hilton Head once, I was hooked. After I graduated college it wasn’t long before I decided to uproot my life to the Lowcountry and become a permanent resident on Hilton Head. This island has provided me with an opportunity to have a career and continue to play golf conveniently with the abundance of golf communities and courses it has available.

Living on Hilton Head Island is a golfer’s paradise. The weather is ideal for most of the year, especially now, in October, when there is an ocean breeze in the air and the temperature is in the mid to high 70’s. Whether you’re a tourist just vising for a couple of days or a permanent resident, Hilton Head has a golf course for every skill level. It won’t be long before you too decide to call Hilton Head home.

In the meantime, here are some of the courses we recommend you check out on your next Hilton Head vacation.

Port Royal Golf Club

10 Clubhouse Dr
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Located along the Atlantic coastline on the northwestern point of Hilton Head Island, is the Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club. Designed by prolific golfer, George Cobb, the Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club features 2 different courses, Robber’s Row and Barony Course.

Make sure you stop in Robber’s Row Grille and indulge in their seasonal menu that features all the freshest local ingredients. In those months where the temperature does drop a little, there is a fireplace in the dining area and on the verandah to keep you nice and cozy.

Oyster Reef Club

155 High Bluff Rd
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Oyster Reef Golf Club opened in 1982, was immediately ranked as one of the Top 25 New Courses in America. This Rees Jones design has been voted one of the Top 20 Courses in the Carolinas and enjoys a reputation as a favorite among locals. The course tests golfers’ skills of all levels. Oyster Reef is known in the Hilton Head Island golf community for a warm greeting, and a friendly hand whenever you need it.

After you play a round with your friends, stop in at the LagerHead Tavern for a cold refreshing beer, alongside a tender Grilled Coulotte Steak, smothered with tarragon butter, charred onions, and fresh-cut French fries. A widely popular choice among guests.


Bear Creek Golf Club

237 Whooping Crane Way
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

Another north end gem is Bear Creek Golf Club within the gates of Hilton Head Plantation. This Rees Jones-designed golf course stretches over 6,800 yards of the plantation. Surrounded by tall pines and natural areas, it has a set of five different tees that cater to every level of golfer. Grab some lunch, a draft beer or two, and enjoy a day of golfing with friends and family!

Palmetto Hall Plantation

108 Fort Howell Dr
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

Palmetto Hall Plantation Club consists of two championship golf courses, the Arthur Hills Course and the Robert Cup Course. In addition to these signature courses, the club offers a variety of amenities including tennis and swimming, making these courses extremely popular for families.


Dolphin Head Golf Club


56 High Bluff Road
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

This semi-private course opened in 1974 and was professional golfer, Gary Player’s first course in the Hilton Head area. With stunning views at every turn, Dolphin Head Course quickly became a premier golf destination for many. The course layout offers players of all skill levels, an exceptional and challenging golf experience. This is definitely a course you must try!

Don’t pay full price for a round of golf! Vacation fun at an affordable price is a top priority at Hilton Head Guest Services! With our FREE TICKETS and DISCOUNTED VIP PACKAGES, you can indulge in your getaway without spending a lot of money! Get ready to enjoy all that Hilton Head has to offer. Call 843-612-6917 or fill out the short form below for more information and receive our Mini Island Discount Packet!