Planning a tee time on Hilton Head Island? Here are five practical ways to enjoy the Gary Player design at Dolphin Head and walk off the 18th a little happier—warm-up routines, smart tee selection, simulator tune-ups, on-course strategy, and where to refuel after the round.
1. Warm Up With Purpose (10–15 Minutes Beats “A Few Swings”)
- Arrive a touch early and split your warm-up into thirds:
- Short game (5 min): 10–15 chip or pitch shots focusing on contact and carry.
- Putting (5 min): Lag a few 30–40 footers, then roll 6–8 inside six feet.
- Full swings (5 min): 7-iron to driver with one swing thought: tempo.
Quick win: Treat the first tee like the 11th ball of your warm-up, not a cold start.
2. Choose the Right Tee to Score More & Stress Less
Gary Player’s routing rewards placement over power. If your average 7-iron carry is modest or you’re new to the course, consider a middle or combo set. You’ll face friendlier carries and better approach angles, which keeps the big numbers off your card.
3. Use the S2 Sim & Sports Lounge to “Pre-Round Tune”
When weather, daylight, or time is tight, the S2 Sim & Sports Lounge is your shortcut to sharper golf:
- Gapping & launch data: Know your real carry numbers before game day.
- Target practice: Simulate approach distances you’ll see on course.
- Social rounds: Keep the swing alive on rainy days or after work.
Pro tip: 30 minutes of wedge and 7-iron calibration on the simulator pays off immediately outside.
4. Think Angles, Not Heroics
On several holes, the widest part of the fairway sets up the best scoring angle. If a dogleg tempts you to cut the corner, ask: Can I cover the carry—and is it worth it? Often a position-first tee shot yields a full, confident number into a receptive green tier.
- Front pins: Land it short/center and feed it forward.
- Back pins: Take enough club to clear the front trouble.
- Miss smart: When in doubt, leave your next shot uphill.
5. Get Better Faster With a Plan (Not More Grind)
Our coaching team blends fundamentals with technology—on the range, on the course, or in the simulator:
- New golfers: Build contact, aim, and short-game basics.
- Improvers: Tidy up start lines, fix a two-way miss, sharpen wedges.
- Scorers: Course-management session: targets, misses, and decision-making.
One focused lesson plus two purposeful practice sessions will move the needle more than endless buckets.
After the Round
Refuel with post-round favorites (and a cold drink) at Dolphin Cafe. It’s the ideal spot to relive your birdies, plan the rematch, or register for a member event.
