The Golf Tourism Campaign That Delivered 369K+ Visitor Rounds

Services: Full-Service Golf Tourism Marketing | Social Media | Influencer Marketing | Content Creation | Digital Advertising | Strategic Brand Positioning | Public Relations

Hilton Head Island, home to 15.5 on-island golf courses, is one of America’s most celebrated golf destinations (and golf is the #2 driver of the local economy, generating more than 55% of all tourism-related jobs in Beaufort County). But in a competitive Southeast golf market dominated by destinations like Myrtle Beach — with marketing budgets exceeding $9 million annually — the Lowcountry Golf Course Owners Association (LGCOA) needed a partner to help them:

✓ Creat and Protect Hilton Head Island’s brand as The Golf Island

✓ Expand into younger, digital-first golf audiences

✓ Generate measurable economic impact for local businesses during spring, fall, and winter shoulder seasons

✓ Compete effectively with reduced post-COVID marketing budgets

The Approach

Our strategy focused on three key pillars:

1. Elevating the Destination Brand

We created visual storytelling that positioned Hilton Head Island as more than just golf; highlighting its championship courses, luxury accommodations, dining, and Lowcountry charm.

2. Influencer-Driven Engagement

We generated authentic interest through influencer events, including the Discover SC Cup and the @chazonehunit and @holein1trickshots collaboration — reaching millions of potential travelers across YouTube, Instagram, and radio.

3. Precision Market Targeting

We allocated 100% of the budget to audiences outside a 50-mile radius, using connected TV, geo-targeted digital ads, print/digital placements in state golf association channels, and paid search to capture high-intent golf travelers.

The Numbers Tell the Story

High-Value Travel with Measurable Economic Return

  • 98% of golf vacationers traveled from outside 50 miles
  • 87% stayed in hotels, villas, or rental homes, averaging 4+ nights per stay
  • 45% stayed a week or longer, playing 4+ rounds
  • 99% said they’re likely to return
  • ATAX collections from golf increased by 48% over 2021 and continue to drive year-round revenue for local businesses

These numbers aren’t just statistics — they represent real golfers booking trips, filling tee sheets, and boosting Hilton Head Island’s reputation as America's Golf Island.

A Major Player in Golf Travel

Hilton Head Island Now has a Scalable, Future-Proof Golf Marketing Strategy that:

  • Positions the destination as the leading golf tourism hub in the Southeast
  • Consistently attracts high-spend, out-of-town golfers
  • Delivers tangible ROI to stakeholders and local businesses
  • Bridges the gap between traditional travelers and the next generation of golf tourists

Your Golf Destination Need Help?

Golf destination marketing is one of our highest areas of excellence with more than 25 years of experience. Whether your golf destination needs a boost, or looking for greater direction, our golf tourism experts stand ready to help.

Lets "Co!"

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