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It’s a challenge for some of us every year: how to support the Heritage, even if we don’t like golf.
But it’s not as hard as it seems. The Heritage has long been about much more than golf; in fact, many islanders have wonderful Heritage stories that don’t involve watching a single shot. So buy a weeklong pass, fresh spring clothes, get comfy shoes and a bottle or two of sunscreen, and pick your Heritage pleasure
Make The Heritage a grand reunion.
Islanders have long used the Heritage to get everyone back together: kids, grandkids, in-laws and friends all descend on the island to celebrate our own grand rite of spring. Make it an old home week — you’re bound to encounter someone unexpected.
Embark on an amateur architectural tour.
You may not know it, but many Sea Pines homes are designed backwards: Their most interesting sides face the golf course. Stroll the cart paths and gaze at architecture that spans 50 years, from the almost-hidden early cottages to today’s more grand residences, most of which are already decorated for tournament-week parties. Pay particular attention to the homes from tee to green on the 10th hole. Wander the streets behind the Clubhouse toward the 17th and 18th holes to view an eclectic group of townhomes. And of course, the grand multi-story townhouses along the 18th fairway facing Calibogue Sound will have you longing to take a peek inside.
Stop to smell the roses.
Sea Pines and Harbour Town are never as colorful as they are during Heritage Week. The Greenery plans to bring in over 2,000 geraniums to dress the clubhouse and golf course, along with fern baskets, begonias, caladiums and other flowers in keeping with the redand-white theme. Look for lush landscape on the greens and tees, and be sure to check the lagoons for alligators, wading birds, turtles and fish — sometimes they appear to perform on cue for Heritage guests.
Watch the fashion show.
The Heritage is the Easter parade, spring break and Kentucky Derby all at once. There’s some good people-watching out on the course, of course, but many of the high-heeled beauties never get that far out, so stick around the Clubhouse for the best viewing. But don’t stop there: Check out the guys in the colorful plaid and animal-print pants. And some of the golfers put on quite a fashion show as well, if you’re inclined to look behind the ropes.
Eat your way from tee to green.
From the Van Landingham Rotary Club’s popcorn behind the 8th green to the BBQ and hot dogs served up by the Montessori school parents along the 10th fairway, the Heritage offers lots of choices, so forget the healthy-food plan and splurge for a weekend. All on-course food concessions are run by local civic groups; it’s not unusual to hear “Cold beer for the kids!” when you pass by the Hilton Head Preparatory School’s booth behind the 17th green.
Still, if you want to kick it up a notch, a Clubhouse pass ($190 for the week) gets you into the Clubhouse Oasis on the 7th hole, the Clubhouse II on the 15th and the Harbour Town Clubhouse deck bar, Grill and Champion’s Pavilion. The Sunset Rotary Club is running the 19th hole, and Chef Robert Irvine is providing tapas at the Grey Goose Lounge along the 18th fairway. Both are open to all. And, of course, the restaurants circling the Harbour are always delightful for dining and people watching.
Float the boats.
Harbour Town’s 90 slips will be filled with an eclectic collection of boats from 28 ft. to more than 100 ft., a full 40 of which will be here just for the week. It’s been called a “Floating Frat Party.” Others are encouraged to come to the Heritage on your own boat and anchor off the 18th green; about 100 boats do so each day. The Harbormaster’s shuttle boat will taxi you in — just be sure you set the anchor right so your boat doesn’t drift away on the changing tides.
Don’t forget health and fitness.
The 6,973-yard Harbour Town course offers you a 5-mile walk — which, at a brisk pace, should take you about an hour and a quarter. Start early one morning, and when you reach the 18th green, face Calibogue Sound and Daufuskie Island, slather on the sunscreen and soak up the Vitamin D. It doesn’t get more glorious than this.
Get some shopping done.
The Harbour Town shops, pro shop and Sea Pines merchandise tents will be bursting with temptations. At the Heritage Expo Village near the Clubhouse you can go booth to booth for free give-aways. And don’t miss the new BMWs parked over by the Liberty Oak. Looking for more shopping? The shops and restaurants at Sea Pines Center are located next to holes #2, #3, #6 and #7.
Free things for the fearless.
Folks have been known to crash a few hospitality tents, house parties and skyboxes for some of the island’s best catered food. Dress nicely, smile broadly and stroll right in as though you belong. Better yet, early in the week, ask your banker, Realtor, insurance agent, and business associates if they are planning Heritage hospitality. Chances you’ll be invited to a house along the course with wellstocked bars and bathrooms.
Do not miss the lighthouse.
The scene around the Harbour Town Lighthouse — both indoors and out — is never more friendly and celebratory than it is during Heritage weekend. There are bars, bands and folks toasting their good fortune to be in this place at this time. So go get your plaid on!
