Tucked away along the winding banks of the Sapelo River in Shellman Bluff, Georgia, Sapelo Hammock Golf Club offers a tranquil escape for golfers seeking more than just a round of golf. This coastal gem is a member of the prestigious Georgia Golf Trail, a collection of the state’s most scenic and memorable courses. With its moss-draped live oaks, tidal marsh views, and a layout that rewards both strategy and serenity, Sapelo Hammock Golf Club is a destination that invites discovery, reflection, and pure enjoyment of the game.
A Coastal Canvas of Golfing Beauty
Sapelo Hammock Golf Club is a visual feast from the moment you arrive. The 18-hole course winds through a landscape shaped by centuries of coastal ecology, where salt marshes shimmer under the shifting light and towering oaks cast dappled shadows across fairways. Spanish moss sways gently in the breeze, adding a timeless elegance to the surroundings. Each hole offers a unique perspective of the Georgia coast, with water hazards and marshland not just serving as challenges, but as integral parts of the course’s natural rhythm.
The course itself is a par-72 layout that stretches just over 6,800 yards from the tips, offering a balanced test for golfers of all skill levels. While the front nine eases players into the round with generous landing areas and forgiving greens, the back nine demands precision and patience, especially as the marshland begins to assert itself more boldly. The signature 17th hole—a par-3 that plays over a tidal inlet—is a favorite among visitors, not only for its challenge but for its breathtaking view of the surrounding wetlands.
A Hidden Gem on the Georgia Golf Trail
Sapelo Hammock Golf Club is proudly part of the Georgia Golf Trail, a curated collection of more than 20 premier golf destinations across the state. From the mountains to the coast, the Trail showcases Georgia’s diverse landscapes and rich golfing heritage. Doug Hollandsworth, founder of the Georgia Golf Trail, once remarked, “Sapelo Hammock is one of those places that reminds you why you fell in love with golf in the first place. It’s peaceful, it’s beautiful, and it’s authentic Georgia”.
Being part of the Trail means Sapelo Hammock Golf Club is recognized not just for its exceptional course quality, but also for its excellent hospitality, amenities, and ability to offer a complete golf experience. Travelers can plan itineraries that include Sapelo Hammock alongside other coastal favorites like Sea Island Resort and Jekyll Island Golf Club, making it an essential stop for those exploring Georgia’s golf-rich shoreline.
More Than Just a Round of Golf
What sets Sapelo Hammock Golf Club apart isn’t just its scenic layout—it’s the sense of place. The club is deeply rooted in the Shellman Bluff community, serving as a hub for social events, charitable tournaments, and local outreach. It’s a place where members and guests are greeted by name, where the staff takes pride in sharing the club’s story, and where the pace of life slows just enough to savor every moment.
One of the most interesting aspects of Sapelo Hammock Golf Club that many visitors don’t know is its proximity to Sapelo Island, a barrier island rich in Gullah-Geechee culture and history. Accessible only by ferry, Sapelo Island is home to Hog Hammock, one of the last remaining Gullah-Geechee communities in the Southeast. The cultural significance of the area adds depth to the golfing experience, reminding visitors that they’re playing in a region shaped by centuries of heritage and resilience.
A Gateway to Coastal Exploration
Located just 50 minutes south of Savannah and 50 minutes north of Saint Simons Island, Sapelo Hammock Golf Club is perfectly positioned for travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate coastal experience. The town of Shellman Bluff itself is a charming fishing village, where shrimp boats bob in the harbor and seafood shacks serve up fresh catches with Southern flair. After a round of golf, visitors can explore nearby nature trails, kayak through the marshes, or relax with a cold drink on the clubhouse veranda.
The course’s location along the Sapelo River means that tides play a significant role in shaping the scenery, altering the course’s appearance throughout the day. Morning rounds might be greeted by mist rising off the water, while afternoon play reveals sunlit expanses of marsh grass and the occasional glimpse of coastal wildlife. It’s this dynamic environment that makes each visit to Sapelo Hammock Golf Club feel like a new adventure.
Membership and Hospitality
Sapelo Hammock Golf Club offers a variety of membership options for those who want to make the experience a regular part of their lifestyle. Members enjoy priority tee times, special events, and access to a welcoming community of fellow golf enthusiasts. But even for those just passing through, the club’s hospitality is second to none. The pro shop is well-stocked, the staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and the clubhouse offers a relaxed setting to unwind after your round.
The club also hosts tournaments and events throughout the year, drawing players from across the region. Whether it’s a charity scramble or a competitive stroke-play event, the atmosphere is always one of camaraderie and celebration. It’s this blend of challenge and charm that keeps golfers coming back—and telling their friends.
Why Sapelo Hammock Golf Club Belongs on Your Bucket List
For golfers who crave authenticity, beauty, and a sense of discovery, Sapelo Hammock Golf Club is a must-play. It’s a place where the game of golf meets the soul of the Georgia coast, where every swing is accompanied by the rustle of marsh grass and the call of distant shorebirds. As part of the Georgia Golf Trail, it stands among the state’s finest, yet retains the quiet charm of a hidden treasure.
Whether you’re planning a golf road trip through Georgia or simply looking for a peaceful retreat with world-class golf, Sapelo Hammock Golf Club delivers an experience that’s as memorable as it is meaningful. It’s not just about the scorecard—it’s about the stories, the scenery, and the serenity that define this remarkable destination.
For more information about Georgia and the Georgia Golf Trail, please visit Georgia Golf & Travel.
