Where Is the RBC Heritage Golf Tournament Played?

By Sarah Miller · January 17, 2043

The RBC Heritage golf tournament is played annually at Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

Overview of the RBC Heritage Tournament Location

The RBC Heritage is one of the PGA Tour's most iconic events and has been held at the same venue since its inception in 1969. The tournament takes place at Harbour Town Golf Links, a world-renowned course located in the Sea Pines Resort community on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Known for its scenic beauty, strategic design, and challenging layout, this course provides a unique test for professional golfers each spring.

Why Harbour Town Golf Links?

Harbour Town Golf Links was designed by Pete Dye in collaboration with Jack Nicklaus and opened in 1969. It was specifically created to host a PGA Tour event, making it one of the first courses in the U.S. built exclusively for tour-level competition. Its coastal location, narrow fairways lined with trees, small greens, and signature lighthouse backdrop make it instantly recognizable and beloved by fans.

Hosted the RBC Heritage every year since 1969 (except 2020 due to pandemic schedule changes)
Par 71, measuring approximately 7,054 yards from the championship tees
Features low-country terrain with marshes, water hazards, and sea breezes affecting play
Consistently ranked among the top resort courses in the United States

Course Layout and Key Holes

Harbour Town Golf Links challenges precision over power. Unlike many modern tour venues that favor long hitters, this course rewards shot-making, strategy, and course management.

Signature Holes at Harbour Town

18th Hole – Par 4, 442 yards: Finishes dramatically near the red-and-white striped lighthouse, one of the most photographed finishes in golf.
9th Hole – Par 5, 575 yards: A risk-reward hole playing along Calibogue Sound, where wind direction heavily influences approach decisions.
13th Hole – Par 3, 184 yards: A demanding island green surrounded by water, often impacted by coastal winds.

RBC Heritage Venue History and Significance

Since its founding, the RBC Heritage has become synonymous with Hilton Head Island and the Lowcountry region. The event typically follows The Masters and serves as a contrast to Augusta National’s lush landscape with its maritime forest setting and ocean-influenced conditions.

The tournament was originally established to extend the PGA Tour season beyond The Masters and promote professional golf in the southeastern United States. Over time, it evolved into a staple of the spring schedule and a favorite among players for its relaxed island atmosphere and fan-friendly environment.

Year	Winner	Winning Score	Winning Margin	Location
2024	Jordan Spieth	-18	1 stroke	Harbour Town Golf Links
2023	Corey Conners	-20	2 strokes	Harbour Town Golf Links
2022	Camilo Villegas	-17	1 stroke	Harbour Town Golf Links
2021	Stewart Cink	-17	Playoff	Harbour Town Golf Links
2019	Jim Furyk	-18	1 stroke	Harbour Town Golf Links

Table data source:1, 2

The table above shows recent winners of the RBC Heritage, all of whom triumphed at Harbour Town Golf Links. Notably, winning scores average around -18, indicating consistent scoring conditions despite the course's tight layout. Most victories are narrow, often decided by one stroke or playoff, highlighting the competitive nature of the venue.

Tournament Week Experience and Fan Access

Fans attending the RBC Heritage enjoy a uniquely accessible golf experience compared to larger tournaments. With no grandstands on most holes and open viewing areas, spectators can closely follow top players in a laid-back, southern coastal atmosphere.

Held annually in April, usually the week after The Masters
Free parking shuttles and bike rentals available across Hilton Head Island
Kids attend free with paid adult admission (PGA Tour Family Program)
VIP packages include lighthouse views, gourmet dining, and player sighting opportunities

FAQs About the RBC Heritage Golf Tournament

Where exactly is the RBC Heritage golf tournament played?

The RBC Heritage is played at Harbour Town Golf Links, located within the Sea Pines Resort on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

Has the RBC Heritage always been held at the same course?

Yes, with the exception of 2020 when the tournament was rescheduled due to the pandemic, the RBC Heritage has been held at Harbour Town Golf Links every year since 1969.

What makes Harbour Town Golf Links unique compared to other PGA Tour courses?

Harbour Town emphasizes precision over distance, featuring narrow fairways, small greens, and heavy tree coverage. Its coastal Lowcountry setting, finishing hole by the lighthouse, and player-favorite status distinguish it from most modern tour venues.

Who designed the Harbour Town Golf Links course?

Harbour Town Golf Links was designed by architect Pete Dye in collaboration with Jack Nicklaus and opened in 1969.

Is the RBC Heritage part of a major golf series or ranking system?

Yes, the RBC Heritage is an official event on the PGA Tour schedule and awards FedEx Cup points. It is also recognized as a Signature Event, offering increased prize money and field strength starting in 2024.