The Grand Strand & Beyond: A Golfer’s Paradise Awaits
South Carolina’s golfing tapestry is woven with a rich blend of locations. From the iconic sands of Myrtle Beach to the pristine barrier islands and the serene beauty of the Lowcountry, every region offers a distinct flavor. Buckle up, because we’re embarking on a whirlwind tour of the state’s most prestigious fairways:
Top 25 Golf Courses of South Carolina:
- Kiawah Island Resort (Ocean): Located on Kiawah Island in South Carolina, this course is known for its stunning ocean views and challenging layout, having hosted major championships like the Ryder Cup and the PGA Championship.
- Yeamans Hall: A private club in Charleston, South Carolina, Yeamans Hall is revered for its classic design, strategic layout, and pristine conditions, offering a pure golfing experience amidst natural beauty.
- Congaree: Situated in Ridgeland, South Carolina, Congaree is a Tom Fazio-designed course known for its environmental stewardship, world-class facilities, and emphasis on fostering camaraderie and philanthropy among its members.
- Harbour Town: Home to the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage tournament, Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is renowned for its tight fairways, small greens, and iconic finishing holes along Calibogue Sound.
- Palmetto: One of the oldest golf clubs in America, Palmetto Golf Club in Aiken, South Carolina, offers a traditional parkland-style course with strategic bunkering, mature trees, and a rich history dating back to the late 1800s.
- Long Cove: Designed by Pete Dye, Long Cove Club on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, features a challenging yet scenic layout characterized by moss-draped oaks, water hazards, and tight fairways.
- Dunes Golf & Beach Club: Located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, this Robert Trent Jones Sr. masterpiece is renowned for its picturesque oceanfront holes, dramatic elevation changes, and challenging yet fair design.
- Sage Valley: Nestled in Graniteville, South Carolina, Sage Valley Golf Club offers a pristine, Augusta-like setting with immaculate conditioning, strategic bunkering, and a serene ambiance amidst rolling hills and pristine lakes.
- Caledonia: Situated in Pawleys Island, South Carolina, Caledonia Golf & Fish Club boasts a stunning Lowcountry setting with moss-draped oaks, marshland vistas, and a challenging yet playable layout designed by Mike Strantz.
- Secession: A hidden gem in Beaufort, South Carolina, Secession Golf Club features a links-style layout with expansive fairways, strategic bunkering, and stunning views of the surrounding marshes and tidal creeks.
- May River: Located at Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, South Carolina, May River Golf Club offers a scenic Lowcountry setting with oak-lined fairways, marshland views, and a Jack Nicklaus-designed layout that provides a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience.
- Chechessee Creek: Tucked away on Chechessee Creek in Okatie, South Carolina, this private club features a Tom Fazio-designed course known for its natural beauty, strategic layout, and emphasis on shot-making skills amidst tidal creeks, marshes, and dense forests.
- Greenville (Chanticleer): Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Chanticleer at Greenville Country Club in Greenville, South Carolina, is a classic parkland-style course known for its tree-lined fairways, challenging greens, and scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Bulls Bay: Situated north of Charleston in Awendaw, South Carolina, Bulls Bay Golf Club offers a secluded and natural setting with a Mike Strantz-designed course featuring undulating fairways, dramatic bunkering, and breathtaking views of the surrounding marshes and tidal creeks.
- Country Club of Charleston: Founded in 1900, the Country Club of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina, features a historic Seth Raynor-designed course known for its strategic bunkering, challenging greens, and timeless elegance.
- Spring Island Club: Located on Spring Island in Okatie, South Carolina, Spring Island Club offers a links-style experience with a Davis Love III design that incorporates tidal marshes, ancient oaks, and stunning views of the surrounding waterways.
- Kiawah Island Club (Cassique): Part of the Kiawah Island Club on Kiawah Island, South Carolina, Cassique is a private club featuring a Tom Watson-designed course known for its challenging layout, scenic beauty, and oceanfront holes.
- Colleton River Plantation (Pete Dye): Situated in Bluffton, South Carolina, Colleton River Plantation boasts two championship courses, one designed by Pete Dye, offering challenging play amidst stunning Lowcountry scenery, marshes, and water hazards.
- Musgrove Mill: Located in Clinton, South Carolina, Musgrove Mill Golf Club features a Gary Player-designed course set amidst rolling hills, hardwood forests, and the Enoree River, offering a challenging yet picturesque golfing experience.
- Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards: Nestled on the shores of Lake Keowee in Sunset, South Carolina, this private club offers a Tom Fazio-designed course with panoramic lake views, challenging elevation changes, and immaculate conditioning.
- Kiawah Island Club (River): Another offering from the Kiawah Island Club, the River Course is designed by Tom Fazio and provides a challenging yet scenic golfing experience with tidal marshes, ancient oaks, and stunning river views.
- Haig Point (Rees Jones Signature): Situated on Daufuskie Island near Hilton Head, South Carolina, Haig Point Club features a Rees Jones-designed course known for its dramatic coastal setting, strategic layout, and pristine conditions.
- Colleton River Plantation (Nicklaus): The second championship course at Colleton River Plantation, designed by Jack Nicklaus, offers a challenging yet playable layout amidst marshes, waterways, and panoramic views of the Lowcountry.
- Cliffs at Mountain Park: Located in Travelers Rest, South Carolina, this private club features a Gary Player-designed course set amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering dramatic elevation changes, breathtaking views, and a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience.
- Briar’s Creek: Situated on Johns Island near Charleston, South Carolina, Briar’s Creek Golf Club offers a secluded and environmentally sensitive setting with a Rees Jones-designed course featuring expansive marsh views, strategic bunkering, and pristine conditions.
Planning Your South Carolina Golf Getaway: We’ve Got You Covered!
Ready to transform your South Carolina golf dream into reality? Here at Golf Getaway, we understand that crafting the perfect golf vacation requires meticulous planning. But fret not, fellow traveller! This guide equips you with all the essentials to ensure your South Carolina escapade surpasses expectations:
- Pick Your Perfect Playground:
South Carolina’s diverse golfing landscape offers something for everyone. Consider your preferences:
- Challenge Seekers: Opt for iconic courses like the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island or TPC Myrtle Beach for a test of skill.
- Breathtaking Scenery: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Harbour Town Golf Links or Caledonia Golf & Fish Club for unforgettable vistas.
- Historical Charm: Tee off at the historic Palmetto Golf Club or explore the diverse layouts of Legends at Myrtle Beach.
- Find Your Ideal Accommodation:
South Carolina caters to all styles, from luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels:
- Luxurious Retreats: Indulge in unparalleled service at resorts like Sea Pines Resort or Kiawah Island Resort. Enjoy championship courses, world-class spas, and gourmet dining.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Barefoot Landing Resort offers a vibrant atmosphere, diverse restaurants, and on-site activities, perfect for a memorable family golf vacation.
- Boutique Charm: Explore the unique offerings of independent hotels near your chosen course for a personalized and intimate experience.
- Tee Time Magic: Booking & Beyond:
- Research & Reserve: Secure your tee times well in advance, especially for popular courses like the Ocean Course. Utilize online reservation systems or contact the courses directly.
- Packages & Deals: Many resorts offer attractive golf packages with discounted accommodation and green fees. Explore options on resort websites or utilize Golf Getaway’s curated travel deals.
- Consider the Season: Peak season (spring & fall) offers ideal weather but higher prices. Shoulder seasons (spring & fall) provide a balance of good weather and affordability.
- Beyond the Green: Exploring South Carolina’s Treasures:
While golf is the star attraction, South Carolina offers a wealth of off-course experiences:
- Hit the Beach: Relax on the pristine shores of Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head, soak up the sun, and indulge in water sports.
- Explore Charming Towns: Immerse yourself in the Southern charm of Charleston or explore the historic streets of Beaufort.
- Culinary Delights: Savor fresh seafood, indulge in Lowcountry cuisine, or sample award-winning barbeque.
- Cultural Gems: Visit historic plantations, explore art galleries, or catch a live performance.
- Pack Like a Pro: Essential Gear & More:
- Course-Appropriate Attire: Pack comfortable, breathable clothing that adheres to dress codes.
- Reliable Clubs: Ensure your clubs are in top condition for optimal performance.
- Sun Protection: Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to combat the Southern sunshine.
- Rain Gear: Be prepared for occasional showers with a lightweight rain jacket and umbrella.
- Travel Essentials: Don’t forget essential travel documents, chargers, and comfortable walking shoes.
Have you played any of these gems?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Book your next Golf Getaway and tee off amongst some of the Top 25 South Carolina Courses by contacting Golf Getaway at www.GolfGetaway.tv/Contact