With its stunning landscape, a mild climate, and a fantastic array of championship courses, South Carolina’s coastal region is a haven for golf enthusiasts. Among its diverse courses, the golf resorts along the state’s barrier islands, particularly the courses found in Myrtle Beach, stand out as premier golf destinations. In today’s blog, we will explore some of these gems, their unique designs, and rich histories.
Myrtle Beach: South Carolina’s Golf Capital
Think of golf in South Carolina, and undoubtedly, Myrtle Beach pops into your mind. This vibrant resort city is considered the ‘Golf Capital of the World’, and it’s not hard to see why. With over 100 golf courses designed by notable architects and golf legends, it offers a diverse golfing experience to players of all levels.
The Dunes Golf and Beach Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones, is an iconic Myrtle Beach course. With signature holes that embrace the natural sand dunes and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, it provides not only a challenging round of golf but also a breathtaking visual experience.
Just a few miles away, the Grande Dunes Resort Club, designed by the Roger Rulewich Group, stretches along the Intracoastal Waterway. This expansive 76-yard course gives golfers an unparalleled, immersive experience. Each hole furnishes a beautiful view of the waterway, offering a peaceful backdrop for a thrilling round of golf.
Charleston’s Barrier Islands
Charleston’s barrier islands feature some top-notch golf resorts offering an exciting mix of Lowcountry-style golf with the tranquility of island life. With many courses placing a strong emphasis on the region’s natural beauty, golfing these islands is a truly unique experience.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort, host of the 2021 PGA Championship, is set against the Atlantic’s sparkling shoreline. Five championship courses including the famed Ocean Course, often touted as one of the most beautiful courses in the world, are sure to leave players awe-struck.
Just a short drive from Charleston, the Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms offers two outstanding Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole courses. The Links Course and Harbor Course both showcase the best of South Carolina low country golf, winding through marshland, oak trees, and along the island’s borders.
Golfing Hilton Head Island
Last, but not least, Hilton Head Island’s golf clubs charm golfers with their cozy, yet high-quality golf experiences. Harbour Town Golf Links at the Sea Pines Resort, designed by golf course architect Pete Dye, is one of the most revered courses in the country. With a design that encourages strategic thinking and precise play, it’s a course that delivers a satisfying golfing session.
Also on Hilton Head is the palatial Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. This AAA Four Diamond resort boasts three unique golf courses designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., George Fazio, and Arthur Hills, respectively. Each course showcases a unique play strategy and distinctive features like the oceanfront fairway at the Jones course or the tight, bunkered greens at the Fazio course.
Conclusion
Golfing the barrier islands of South Carolina reveals a side to the game that the golf enthusiast may not have experienced before. Whether it be the panoramic ocean views at Myrtle Beach, the lush landscapes of Charleston’s islands, or the precision-promoting courses at Hilton Head, there is something here for every golf lover.
The variety, however, goes beyond just the courses. Each resort city and island boasts an array of attractions apart from golf, like diverse gastronomy, local culture, shopping, nature explorations, and more, making them perfect vacation destinations. So, next on your golf bucket list, make sure to include the coastal resort gems of South Carolina.
Just a quick question: Does anyone know if any of the Myrtle Beach courses offer beginner classes? It’s always been my dream to learn golf. I’ll be heading to Myrtle Beach in a few months, and I figured it would be a great opportunity to finally pick up the clubs. Besides, it’s high time I figure out why my friends keep raving about Myrtle Beach’s golf courses!
Great post! I’ve had the pleasure of playing at a few of these places and your descriptions are spot on. The tranquility of island golfing really adds a unique element to the game. It’s not all about the swing and putt, sometimes it’s also about taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of our surroundings. I haven’t been to Harbour Town Golf Links yet though, and after reading your post, it’s going on my list. Anyone else played there and have tips to share?