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.
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.
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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
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Wednesday, April 12th
RBC Heritage Pro-Am
7:00 am-7:00 pm
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Thursday, April 13th
First Round
Starting Times: 7:20 am-9:00 am & 11:50 am-1:30 pm
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Friday, April 14th
Second Round
Starting Times: 7:20 am-9:00 am & 11:50 am-1:30 pm
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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.
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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.
