Sea Island

The Verdict

Sea Island is Southern hospitality with a scorecard. The Seaside Course, Rees Jones's reworking of a Colt & Alison original, winds through tidal marshland on the southern tip of St. Simons Island. Live oaks draped in Spanish moss frame the fairways. Salt breeze off the marsh shapes every shot. It's not the hardest course on this list — it's one of the most enjoyable. The kind of place where you could play 36, grab dinner at The Lodge, and wonder why you don't live here.

What to Expect

• Seaside Course — the crown jewel of Sea Island's three 18-hole courses. Marsh views on nearly every hole.
• Tidal creeks — water comes into play on multiple holes. The marsh defines the routing.
• Three courses on property — Seaside, Plantation, and Retreat. Seaside is the one.
• The Lodge — five-star accommodations. The men's locker room is worth a visit even if you're not playing.
• PGA Tour stop — the RSM Classic is played across Seaside and Plantation every fall.
• Southern charm — the service is what you'd expect at a Forbes Five-Star property. This is resort golf done right.

Scorecard

Logistics

Resort access — stay at The Cloister or The Lodge. Seaside Course rates ~$250–$350 depending on season and guest status. Caddie available, forecaddie recommended. ~75 minutes from Jacksonville International or 20 minutes from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport. Book well ahead for peak spring/fall seasons.

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