RBC Heritage 2026 tees off, boosting Hilton Head economy

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. (WSAV) — One of the Lowcountry’s biggest sporting traditions is back Thursday as the RBC Heritage tees off for its 58th annual tournament, drawing world-class golfers and tens of thousands of visitors to the South Carolina coast.

Held at the iconic Harbour Town Golf Links, the tournament is a staple of the PGA Tour calendar – and far more than just a competition. It also serves as a powerful economic engine for Hilton Head Island and the surrounding Lowcountry.

Crowds are already building, with more than 100,000 visitors expected to arrive throughout the week. Many are eager to see which golfer will claim the tournament’s signature prize – the iconic plaid jacket.

The influx comes on the heels of spring break travel and the Masters Tournament, creating back-to-back waves of tourism that are keeping hotels, restaurants, and vacation rentals at full capacity.

Local leaders told WSAV that the RBC Heritage marks the unofficial start of the region’s peak visitor season.

Officials estimate the tournament generates more than $135 million annually for the local economy. Businesses across Hilton Head Island prepare months – sometimes all year – for the surge in customers.

Longtime establishments like Reilley’s Grill said they’ve fine-tuned their operations over decades to handle the rush that comes with Heritage Week.

Beyond the economic boost, the tournament also has a strong charitable component. Organizers report that more than $4.4 million was raised for local charities last year alone, contributing to a total exceeding $60 million over time through the Heritage Classic Foundation.

Charlie Clark of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce said excitement is high as the island transitions into its busiest season.

“Business is ramping up on Hilton Head Island and throughout the Lowcountry right now,” Clark said. “We’re just coming off spring break travel, and that moves right into the RBC Heritage, which has really become the unofficial kickoff to our busy visitor season.”

She added that the event is sold out, with “golf fever” fueled by fans still energized from the Masters.

The first round begins today, April 16, with play continuing through Sunday, April 19. Tee times start just after 7 a.m., and tickets remain available online, with prices starting around $180.

For many players, the RBC Heritage offers a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere following the intensity of the Masters – something often compared to a “spring break” for golfers. With warm weather and elite competition, Hilton Head Island is once again at the center of the golf world.