South Carolina Golf Courses: A List for Golfers of All Levels

A Comprehensive Review of South Carolina Premier Golf Destinations

| Feb. 15, 2025 5:22 am

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South Carolina, a state steeped in history and natural grandeur, has emerged as a premier golfing destination within the United States. Its diverse landscape, spanning from coastal marshes to rolling hills, provides the Palmetto State with a vast array of courses to challenge and delight golfers of all skill levels. From the world-renowned Kiawah Island Golf Resort to the hidden gems of the Upstate, South Carolina boasts an abundance of options.

When selecting a golf course in South Carolina, several key factors should be considered. Foremost is the course’s difficulty level. Are you seeking a demanding test of your abilities, or a more forgiving layout that allows you to savor the game without undue pressure? South Carolina caters to all preferences, offering a spectrum of courses from beginner-friendly tracks to championship-caliber designs.

Secondly, the course’s amenities can significantly shape your overall experience. Do you prioritize a well-stocked pro shop, a luxurious clubhouse, or top-notch practice facilities? Many South Carolina golf courses showcase world-class amenities, including state-of-the-art driving ranges, putting greens, and fitness centers.

Thirdly, the course’s location and surrounding environment can play a pivotal role in your decision-making process. Are you drawn to the scenic beauty of the coast, the historic charm of Charleston, or the tranquil atmosphere of the Upstate? South Carolina presents a variety of settings, each with its distinct allure.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the premier golf courses in South Carolina, highlighting their unique features, challenges, and rewards. We will explore the renowned Kiawah Island Golf Resort, home to the Ocean Course, which has hosted major championships, as well as the hidden gem of Congaree Golf Club, a modern masterpiece designed by Tom Fazio.

We will also examine the historic courses of Charleston, such as the Country Club of Charleston and the Charleston Municipal Golf Course, which have hosted numerous prestigious events. Additionally, we will shine a spotlight on the scenic beauty and demanding layouts of the Myrtle Beach region, a popular destination for golfers worldwide.

Beyond the courses themselves, we will discuss the rich golfing heritage of South Carolina, tracing the history of the game in the state and honoring the contributions of legendary figures such as Bobby Jones and Arnold Palmer. We will also explore the impact of golf on the local economy and community.

By the end of this guide, you will possess a comprehensive understanding of the best golf courses in South Carolina and be well-equipped to plan your dream golf vacation. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a novice, the Palmetto State offers an unparalleled golfing experience.

Picture yourself teeing off against the backdrop of the iconic candy-striped lighthouse, as the Calibogue Sound shares its gentle whispers on the breeze and sailboats drift peacefully by. This isn’t a mere photograph—it’s the daily reality at Harbour Town Golf Links, consistently acclaimed by locals as one of South Carolina’s finest courses. Offering far more than a championship layout that has tested legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson, Harbour Town delivers an unparalleled golfing experience. Visitors can trace the paths of PGA Tour professionals during the RBC Heritage, where the legendary 17th hole, a par 3 protected by water and showcased by the lighthouse, captures national attention. Local enthusiasts praise the course’s strategic mastery, where thoughtfully positioned water hazards and skillfully crafted bunkers require careful shot placement. Beyond its challenges, Harbour Town’s natural splendor captivates visitors. Peaceful lagoons and pristinely maintained greens create a golfer’s sanctuary, while the historic Sea Pines Resort provides an enchanting atmosphere that completes the experience. For those seeking a course that combines championship heritage, stunning vistas, and a touch of local folklore, Harbour Town Golf Links stands ready to deliver an unforgettable round.
Discover Dunes Golf Club, repeatedly ranked among the top courses by locals for its remarkable combination of heritage, sporting challenge, and stunning oceanfront vistas. Situated along Myrtle Beach’s renowned coastline, Dunes Golf Club carries a storied history, having played host to distinguished events including the Senior PGA Championship. The course, crafted by acclaimed architect Tom Fazio, stands as an architectural triumph, flowing naturally through majestic dunes while offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean from virtually every hole. The course presents an engaging challenge for players of all abilities, with its strategic sand traps, rolling greens, and constant ocean winds requiring precise shot execution. Yet the true magnificence of Dunes Golf Club resides in its distinctive atmosphere. Picture yourself driving off while the ocean’s rhythmic sounds provide nature’s soundtrack, or completing a crucial putt as sea spray touches your face. Dunes Golf Club delivers an encompassing experience that connects golfers with the natural splendor of South Carolina’s coastline. From its challenging design to its breathtaking environment, Dunes Golf Club remains an essential destination for any golfer seeking a remarkable round along the Grand Strand.
Sage Valley Golf Club, a cherished local destination tucked within the undulating terrain of Graniteville, South Carolina. According to Upstate golf enthusiasts, Sage Valley distinguishes itself through its distinctive character. The course, crafted by acclaimed architect Tom Fazio, artfully integrates the region’s natural splendor, featuring stately pines that border perfectly groomed fairways and glistening ponds that accent the landscape. Each hole offers a strategic test, requiring carefully considered shot selection while rewarding accurate execution. Yet Sage Valley remains accessible to newcomers. Various tee positions accommodate players of all abilities, ensuring an enjoyable and engaging experience for every golfer. Beyond the links themselves, Sage Valley radiates a warm, inviting ambiance. The sophisticated clubhouse provides panoramic views of the course, creating an ideal setting for post-round relaxation. Whether celebrating an ace or discussing a near-miss putt, Sage Valley’s attentive staff and genuine Southern hospitality ensure a remarkable experience that transcends the final score.
This is the experience at Kiawah Island’s renowned Ocean Course. This Pete Dye masterpiece transcends the ordinary golf outing, presenting a challenge against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, which remains ever-present with its seaside holes and dynamic winds. Local golfers share stories of the legendary 17th hole, a par three demanding a tee shot across an expansive stretch of water to reach a narrow green, testing both skill and composure. Yet the Ocean Course offers more than spectacular views and daunting shots. Its expertly maintained fairways, thoughtfully positioned bunkers, and demanding layout craft an unforgettable experience for players of every ability. According to experienced golfers throughout South Carolina, the Ocean Course represents more than just a premier destination in the state’s golf landscape; it stands as a must-play venue that harmoniously blends exceptional natural beauty with a championship-level challenge.
Kiawah Island’s Cassique Golf Course showcases a Pete Dye design that artfully combines traditional refinement with contemporary challenges. Picture yourself driving off beneath majestic oaks adorned with Spanish moss, carefully plotting your way through corridors of pines and shimmering lagoons. Each hole reveals itself like a stunning photograph, featuring precisely groomed greens and thoughtfully positioned bunkers that demand accuracy while rewarding strategic play. Local enthusiasts particularly value Cassique’s dedication to environmental stewardship. The course harmoniously integrates with the island’s natural setting, providing encounters with indigenous wildlife and creating an atmosphere of playing within an unspoiled sanctuary. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a recreational player seeking a scenic retreat, Cassique delivers a memorable golfing experience that resonates well beyond the final hole.
Entering the revered grounds of the Country Club of Charleston transports visitors to golf’s golden era. Established in 1895, this exclusive club carries a distinguished history deeply interwoven with Charleston’s golfing legacy. Distinguished golf architect Donald Ross skillfully designed the layout, creating a strategic challenge that harmonizes with the natural beauty of the Carolina Lowcountry. Majestic live oaks embrace the course with verdant moss, their twisted limbs forming natural obstacles that frame spectacular views of the Ashley River. Local enthusiasts cherish the Country Club of Charleston not merely for its heritage, but for the exceptional golfing experience it delivers. Each hole presents its own strategic challenge, requiring careful shot placement and precise execution. The course, however, maintains an inviting character, offering players a profound sense of achievement upon mastering its subtle intricacies. Stories circulate of legendary players like Bobby Jones and Ben Hogan gracing these fairways, lending an air of golf history to the experience. For the sophisticated golfer seeking a historic venue rich in tradition and natural grandeur, the Country Club of Charleston stands among South Carolina’s premier destinations, offering an extraordinary journey through both time and sporting challenge.
Situated within the Lowcountry’s unspoiled landscape, Colleton River features two championship courses designed by Pete Dye—the Nicklaus Course and the Dye Course. Each layout flows naturally through stately oaks, cypress wetlands, and glistening lagoons, delivering a distinctive combination of strategic challenges and stunning vistas. Complementing the courses, Colleton River Club enhances the experience with premium amenities, including an elegant clubhouse, cutting-edge practice facilities, and a dynamic social schedule. Whether you’re embarking on a competitive round or simply enjoying the Lowcountry atmosphere, Colleton River Club delivers a memorable golfing experience, treasured by discriminating local enthusiasts.
Haig Point, an exclusive club situated on Daufuskie Island, South Carolina. Haig Point transcends the ordinary golf venue; it presents an unparalleled experience. Local enthusiasts affirm that its seclusion and unspoiled natural splendor establish it among the region’s finest destinations. Here, you find yourself immersed in stunning Lowcountry vistas – featuring majestic oaks adorned with Spanish moss, unspoiled shorelines caressed by gentle waves, and diverse wildlife. The course itself, crafted by celebrated architect Pete Dye, blends seamlessly into this natural landscape. Each hole presents its own challenge, with thoughtfully positioned water features and artfully designed bunkers testing your abilities while preserving spectacular views. Yet Haig Point delivers beyond the fairways. Guests can refresh in an elegant clubhouse, savor exceptional dining, or simply unwind on the beach, embracing the island’s serenity. Haig Point exemplifies a golfer’s paradise – offering an escape to a private island sanctuary where you can master a Pete Dye masterpiece while surrounded by the Lowcountry’s incomparable natural grandeur.
Legends Golf Resort, widely praised by area residents as one of the state’s premier golfing destinations, delivers an exceptional experience that goes beyond an ordinary round. This celebrated course, crafted by the renowned Pete Dye, features a demanding yet balanced layout that meanders through spectacular natural landscapes. Strategic water features throughout the course require precise shot selection, while expertly maintained greens reward skillful putting. Beyond its pure sporting challenge, Legends creates an enchanting setting with its distinctive final hole, the par-3 18th, featuring a dramatic shot over water to an isolated island green. This signature moment, combined with the course’s sophisticated design and stunning vistas, has established Legends as an essential destination for both experienced players looking to test their abilities and recreational golfers seeking an unforgettable experience amid South Carolina’s natural grandeur.
If your ready to step up to the first tee on a prestigious course crafted by Tom Fazio, then play at a golf course architect renowned for creating masterpieces that both test and motivate players. This is what awaits at Daniel Island Club, consistently rated as one of South Carolina’s finest courses by area residents. Set within immaculate coastal surroundings, Daniel Island Club delivers far more than just spectacular scenery. Its perfectly groomed fairways, thoughtfully positioned bunkers, and distinctive water elements combine to create an engaging challenge for players at every skill level. Charleston locals praise the course’s sophisticated design for its rare combination of difficulty and accessibility, challenging golfers to elevate their game while maintaining an entertaining round. Complementing the course, Daniel Island Club features cutting-edge practice facilities, an elegant clubhouse offering magnificent water vistas, and a hospitable environment that encourages fellowship among players. From experienced professionals to weekend enthusiasts seeking a remarkable round, area residents concur: Daniel Island Club presents an incomparable golf experience in South Carolina.