Top South Carolina Golf Courses: A Detailed Look
Choosing the "best" golf course is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, the following courses consistently rank among the top choices due to their design, condition, challenge, and overall experience:
Course Name Location Designer Why It's Special Key Features Ocean Course Kiawah Island Pete Dye Arguably the most famous course in South Carolina, the Ocean Course hosted the 1991 Ryder Cup and the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships. It's known for its challenging layout, breathtaking ocean views, and exposure to the elements. Wind-swept fairways, strategically placed bunkers, elevated greens, stunning Atlantic Ocean vistas, challenging for all skill levels depending on tee selection. Harbour Town Golf Links Hilton Head Island Pete Dye (with consultation from Jack Nicklaus) A true test of strategic golf, Harbour Town emphasizes shot placement and accuracy over length. It's the home of the RBC Heritage tournament on the PGA Tour. Small, undulating greens, tight fairways lined with trees, the iconic Harbour Town lighthouse, requires precise iron play, favors strategic thinkers. Caledonia Golf & Fish Club Pawleys Island Mike Strantz A visually stunning course that winds through ancient oak trees and along former rice fields. Caledonia offers a unique and memorable golfing experience. Dramatic elevation changes, beautiful landscaping, wildlife sightings, challenging approach shots, a blend of natural beauty and strategic design. Dunes Golf and Beach Club Myrtle Beach Robert Trent Jones Sr. One of the classic courses on the Grand Strand, the Dunes Club is known for its demanding layout and immaculate conditions. It has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments. Long, challenging holes, strategically placed water hazards, undulating greens, a true test of golfing skill, demanding but rewarding. Yeamans Hall Club Charleston Seth Raynor A classic, Golden Age design that showcases Raynor's signature features, including template holes inspired by iconic courses around the world. Bold bunkering, geometric green complexes, strategic fairway shaping, a meticulously maintained classic course, emphasizes strategic play and accuracy. May River Golf Club at Palmetto Bluff Bluffton Jack Nicklaus Nestled within the luxurious Palmetto Bluff community, this course offers a challenging yet playable layout with stunning views of the May River. Generous fairways, challenging approach shots, beautifully manicured greens, scenic views of the May River, a blend of playability and challenge.
