South Carolina is a golfer’s paradise, with over 350 golf courses scattered throughout the state. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide where to play. To help you plan your next golf vacation in South Carolina, we’ve put together a list of the top five must-play golf courses in the state.
- The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort – Kiawah Island This course is consistently ranked as one of the top golf courses in the world. The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is known for its challenging layout, stunning ocean views, and iconic 18th hole. This course has hosted numerous major championships, including the 1991 Ryder Cup, the 2012 PGA Championship, and the 2021 PGA Championship.
- Harbour Town Golf Links – Hilton Head Island Harbour Town Golf Links is a classic course designed by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus. This course is known for its signature red-and-white-striped lighthouse, which overlooks the 18th green. The course features tight fairways, small greens, and challenging bunkers, making it a must-play for any serious golfer.
- Caledonia Golf & Fish Club – Pawleys Island Caledonia Golf & Fish Club is a stunning course that winds its way through oak trees and along the Waccamaw River. This course is known for its beauty and challenging layout, with water hazards and strategically placed bunkers that require precision shots. The clubhouse features a wraparound porch that offers views of the course and the river.
- Pinehurst No. 2 – Pinehurst, North Carolina While technically not in South Carolina, Pinehurst No. 2 is only a short drive from the state line and is a must-play for any golf enthusiast. This course has hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. Designed by Donald Ross, Pinehurst No. 2 is known for its unique greens, challenging bunkers, and undulating fairways.
- The Dunes Golf & Beach Club – Myrtle Beach The Dunes Golf & Beach Club is a classic course designed by Robert Trent Jones. This course features a mix of pine and hardwood trees, as well as views of the Atlantic Ocean. The course is known for its challenging layout, with tight fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging greens. The 13th hole, known as “Waterloo,” is a signature hole that requires a shot over Lake Singleton.
These five courses are just a sample of the many great golf courses in South Carolina. Whether you’re looking for a challenging championship course or a scenic round of golf, South Carolina has something for everyone.
North Carolina sneaking into a South Carolina list, haha. Pinehurst No. 2, while not technically in SC, still deserves a spot on every golfer’s bucket list. Its undulating fairways and unique greens designed by Donald Ross are true masterpieces. Kudos for not limiting the list strictly within the borders!
As someone who’s played golf in South Carolina for over a decade, I reckon an honorable mention could be TPC Myrtle Beach? It’s got its own challenges but doesn’t get as much of a look in as the others. Haha, maybe I’m biased since it’s where I played my first under-par round. Also, didn’t we loan Pinehurst No. 2 to NC? 😉
Played at Harbour Town Golf Links last year. You’re right about the tight fairways and small greens. Course management is key especially when you add in the coastal winds. Plus, there’s no beating the view of that lighthouse on the 18th. Awesome recommendations here and can’t wait to try out some of the others!
Great stuff! I’ve had the pleasure of playing at The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, seriously tough but the views are unbelievable. I’d definitely second your recommendation! Planning to hit Harbour Town Golf Links next, fingers crossed that I fare better there. From a typical golfer’s standpoint, would you say Harbour Town requires more precision or power play? Any tips?
I would make a joke about water hazards, but I fear it may fall flat, much like my ball into any nearby lake or pond. As a hobby golfer, I find these courses both enthralling and humbling. Any good tips on how to handle ‘Waterloo’ at The Dunes? That hole terrifies me.
Haven’t managed to make it to Kiawah Island yet, but everyone I know sings praises of the Ocean course. Would you recommend it for intermediate players or is it too difficult? Honestly, all these courses look so inviting it’s hard to choose just one but guess that’s a good problem to have.