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Article:
Hilton Head Island is Golf Heaven - and the Ocean Too by: Mark Ridgway Imagine, 42 square miles of golf and surf Hilton Head Island is appropriately called Golf Island. Located just off the coast of South Carolina, the semi- tropical 12-mile barrier island is devoted to providing world-class golf, tennis or water-recreation activities to the 2.5 million visitors who arrive annually. The majority are seniors, who faithfully return each year during the balmy winter months. Hilton Head Island was the first eco-planned destination in the United States, in the mid-1950s. Those early efforts to protect the unique, scenic ecosystem have served as historic models for contemporary land-use planning. Any visitor today encounters the same fertile salt marshes, forests of moss- draped oaks, and pristine beaches enjoyed by the island's early settlers. Golf Island's total devotion to pleasing travelers didn't just happen on its own. It was painstakingly designed to create a first-class resort and recreational mecca. The island is warmed by the Gulf Stream (how about the golf stream?), which keeps average temperatures about 70 degrees. That assures a year-round golf season, with a million rounds of golf played annually in Hilton Head, SC. Let's Talk some Serious Golf There are 24 golf courses on the Hilton Head Island (10 of them private). Some of these are world-class championship courses (hosting major tournaments like the Heritage and the Celebrity Golf Tournament). And if that's not enough choices for you, there's easy access to another 40 courses conveniently reached off the island, in the Hilton Head, SC area. But don't feel like you've got to be an outstanding golfer to get the most enjoyment out of the available courses. Facilities exist for every skill level. And the Golf Coordinator at Hilton Head Rentals & Golf can match your own personal style and skills to the best courses for you. The range of packages offered keeps golfing holidays affordable. There's no such thing as a charge for a golf cart. They're always included, along with guaranteed tee times and green fees. Tennis also provides another major attraction for tourists. Tennis lovers can enjoy over 300 tennis courts, along with an abundance of tennis training professionals and tournaments. No Interest in Golf or Tennis? There's still the Ocean Start with twelve miles of sandy, year-around beaches that overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Add eight marinas. You're ready for fishing and water sports. For a person hankering for something more strenuous than sightseeing, waterskiing, windsurfing, scuba diving,and crabbing beckon. Or just try stretching out on the sand. There's a lot to be said for doing nothing but soaking up the sun and sand - as much as you can. Capturing Memorable Experiences A person can't play golf or tennis (or even fish) all the time - no matter how pleasant. So relaxation-seeking visitors are enticed by a huge selection of enjoyable amusements or cultural events. Start with the island's 250 plus restaurants that cater to every taste, ethnic cuisine, and price range. And don't overlook the array of freshly caught seafood. You're looking for a total experience, much like a symphony. All the parts (lodging, recreation, quality of service, dining) merge harmoniously together - without a single sour note. That's what every visitor stores up and takes back home, once the vacation is over. Enjoy a Symphony of Pleasures If you're expecting the finest 'symphony' of experiences, where you choose to stay needs to be just as unforgettable as the island's first-rate recreational offerings. Accommodations can be found to match every taste and price range. Choose from: '6
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