On many of the holes, placement is preferred to length. Most of the holes are designed so if you play good shots, par is obtainable. If you stray from the fairway, the bunkers, wetlands and trees lining most holes will cause problems. The Bermuda grass provides nice lies in the fairways and the bentgrass greens that have matured into soft surfaces that hold shots exceptionally well. The Colonial was on the leading edge of golf course design that dictated many tee boxes on each hole so courses can accommodate all levels of players.
Golfers pick from five tee boxes.
With reference to the area, all the names of the tees are actual Colonial names. For example, Archers Hope was the name of a large plantation back in Colonial times. Today the Williamsburg Winery resides on that location. This also provides the golfer with a different experience regardless of his handicap. Many courses are designed to be played just from the back tees.