The long and storied relationship between golf and Hilton Head Island is well documented and often celebrated. With a little help from the locals, visitors traveling from near and far can see it for themselves.

The 12-mile long, 5-mile wide island is a golfer's paradise whose charm and natural beauty has been maintained by the relentless efforts of its residents for the millions of annual visitors to enjoy.

With more than 20 public courses, not to mention those in the surrounding area, and a host of full-service beachfront hotels and villas not to mention dozens of dining options, trying to make a step-by-step itinerary for your stay on Hilton Head Island can be just as stressful and frantic as the everyday grind you're trying to leave behind.

So why not leave that job up to those who know the island best.

A number of golf vacation planners specialize in creating a memorable HHI experience and focus solely on customizing trips to this low country getaway.

There are numerous outfits to chose from when it comes to planning your special excursion, but no matter which one earns your endorsement they all offer unparalleled knowledge of Hilton Head Island.

Local travel companies boast an intimate knowledge of the courses because they've played or visited them. They know the ins and outs of the resorts and rental properties because they've take the time to inspect the amenities and accommodations offered. So why would you book a Hilton Head golf vacation with other companies that have never even played a round of golf on Hilton Head Island?

Golfisland.com is a comprehensive website complete with online quoting. The site details travel options, lodging, and entertainment and offers a detailed history of Hilton Head along with other historical and helpful information.

The current monthly special is a 3 night stay in the Sea Pines Resort which includes 3 rounds of premium golf at Harbour Town Golf Links, home of the PGA's annual Verizon Heritage Classic, The Ocean Course and the new Pete Dye creation - Heron Point.

Booking your trip through a local provider can also save you money and time - companies on the island often get the best rates and can plan every aspect of your trip up to six months in advance.

Another site worth a look is hhigolfvacations.com which prides itself as a local vacation wholesaler. Working with villa rental companies and hotels island-wide, this site can develop a package that suits your needs and price range.

Hotel reservations can be confirmed up to a year in advance and depending on the course, tee times can be confirmed up to 6 months in advance and sometimes can be done so at discounted rates.

Hiltonheadgolf.net offers a wide variety of golf packages featuring the Heritage Group's holdings on the island which include Palmetto Hall, Port Royal, Shipyard Plantation and the Oyster Reef Golf Club.

The site has five recommended, award-winning packages available to choose from but also allows the golfer to fully customize his or her own unique experience by selecting their length of trip, courses and lodging options.

Whether you're making a long-term plan or shopping for a spur of the moment trip, it's best to leave the logistics to the locals.