St. Simons Island, Georgia
Few American resorts blend Golden Age DNA, bold coastal strategy, and PGA TOUR pedigree like Sea Island Seaside. Every tee shot asks for thinking and nerve, especially as the marsh unfolds on the dramatic back nine. From recent world-class renovations to 18 matchless holes ripped by Atlantic winds, this is must-play, bucket-list territory.
Bobby Jones played Seaside in August 1930, between the third and fourth legs of his Grand Slam, and later called it one of the best nine-hole courses he had ever seen.
Sea Island Seaside is the rare American resort course that authentically channels the links spirit. Colt and Alison’s original routing gifted Fazio a network of tidal inlets, marsh, and sand, giving rise to a strategic tapestry of heroic carries, angle-dependent approaches, and fierce greens surrounded by short grass and bold bunkering. The 2026 restoration by Love Golf Design introduced state-of-the-art surfaces and masterfully restored the playing corridors, but the heart remains: firm fairways, wind-driven variety, and greens that challenge putter and wedge alike. Every hole feels distinct, yet the experience is seamless—a modern classic with a Golden Age soul.
Tom Fazio’s vision honors Colt and Alison’s original tactical framework while amplifying natural movement and landform. The 2026 upgrades by Love Golf Design keep the DNA intact, raising the bar on green quality and hazard restoration.
Historically the toughest hole on the course, this classic dogleg par 4 features a tee shot flanked by marsh and fairway bunkers, leading to a well-guarded, slightly raised green. It sets the tempo for the challenge ahead and is a favorite of course strategists.
Aggressive line risks marsh; conservative tee placement provides best attack angle.
Misses left flirt with marsh, while right leaves awkward approaches to a green protected by bunkers and slope.
Freshly restored, greens true and quick, fairways firm; little rough, but huge sandy and marsh hazards everywhere.
Efficient but thorough—expect resort pace, with possible waits on weekends or during tournaments.
Upmarket southern luxury with attentive service, tradition, and a clubby but welcoming feel.
Collared shirts, golf attire required; traditional expectations, resort-luxe details.
Score is made on approaches into small, firm greens—bring your best mid-iron game.
Ocean and marsh breezes shape every round; layer up and don’t be afraid to club up or down.
Restored, deep bunkers protect most scoring holes; practice high, soft escapes.
Tee times require on-property stay or package; plan ahead for prime-season and tournament weeks.
Original Seaside nine designed by Harry S. Colt & Charles Alison opens
Robert Trent Jones updates routing
Tom Fazio reimagines Seaside, merging nines and introducing marshland links character
Course begins hosting the RSM Classic (formerly McGladrey Classic, PGA TOUR)
The Seaside Course was crafted to evoke the feel of a true links—windswept, rugged, and open to the elements—while rooted in the marshes and beauty of the Georgia coast. Fazio’s 1999 rework fused the classic Colt/Alison holes with a Scottish spirit, giving players a one-of-kind Atlantic challenge.
Each year, the RSM Classic brings the world’s best to St. Simons, with closing holes like 13 and 18 swinging the tournament—and fortunes—in the final stretch. Few venues can match the blend of strategic risk and natural threat on display for Sunday drama.
Sea Island approached its 25th anniversary as a reimagined Fazio masterpiece by entrusting Love Golf Design to renovate bunkers, rebuild all greens to USGA specs, and re-grass the fairways. The 2026 reopening signals a new era of elite conditioning on classic land.
The par-4 13th is more than just a signature hole; it’s a shot across open marsh toward the heart of Seaside’s landscape. Pros and amateurs alike call it one of the most visually unforgettable—demanding nerve, precision, and respect.
The Seaside Course’s original designer, Harry S. Colt, also designed Muirfield and Royal Portrush.
15 of 18 holes border marsh or tidal water for a true 'links-on-the-marsh' vibe.
The RSM Classic is held on Seaside every November, attracting a Who’s Who of PGA TOUR stars.
The 2026 restoration brought Platinum paspalum fairways and brand-new greens to USGA specs.
The renowned Cloister Hotel and Seaside Course are just steps apart—resort luxury meets golf tradition.
Convenient, strong resort play with classic coastal holes.
Accessible, fun, historic island golf anyone can book.
Ultra-private, prestigious—if you score an invite, don’t miss it.
Historic nine with links feel and easygoing pedigree.
True marshside test for serious value and scenery.
St. Simons Island—close to Seaside, dining, and additional resort options
Courses with the most similar DNA profile — matched by deviation shape across all eight playing characteristics.
Why it matches: There is real overlap here. TPC Deere Run offers similarly polished playing surfaces, making it a compelling counterpart to Sea Island Seaside Course.
Why it matches: If Sea Island Seaside Course is your kind of course, Augusta National Golf Club is worth a look because it a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character.
Why it matches: If Sea Island Seaside Course is your kind of course, Firestone Country Club (North Course) is worth a look because it puts the same premium on presentation.
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