If you are a passionate golfer looking to play your favorite game in the historic city of Charleston, South Carolina, you have plenty of options. From world-class courses to hidden gems, this vibrant city offers something for everyone. In this article, we will provide a detailed review of some of the best golf courses in Charleston and offer helpful tips on how to enjoy them.
RiverTowne Country Club
RiverTowne Country Club in South Carolina is a challenging course with breathtaking surroundings. Designed by Arnold Palmer, the 18 holes layout works its way through the beautiful South Carolina Lowcountry, taking advantage of the marshlands and native live oaks. The first nine holes have tree-lined fairways, while the back nine is considered to be the tougher part of the course, with 13 holes along the Horlbecck Creek and the Wando River. The course spans over 7,188 yards with a 147 slope, making it perfect for avid golfers that seek a challenge.
RiverTowne Country Club has an innovative design that earned it the distinction of being named the ‘Charleston Golf Course of the Year’ in 2015. Golfers who enjoy a scenic and challenging course are delighted with RiverTowne Country Club’s design. Notable features of this course include the stunning views of the Horlbeck Creek and Wando River throughout the back nine. To maintain its challenging layout and improve the game for golfers, the RiverTowne Country Club maintains that incorporating strength training is essential in a golfer’s regimen.
Location: 1700 Rivertowne Country Club Dr, Mt Pleasant, SC 29466
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, situated in South Carolina, is one of the top public courses in the country. As ranked by Golf Digest, it landed in the top five courses in South Carolina in 2017-18. It features a distinctive links style with 18 holes and spans over 7356 yards with a slope of 144. Pete Dye, an iconic architect, designed this course. It is a windswept seaside course featuring small elevated greens and is hosting the PGA Championship for a second time in 2021.
In addition to its scenic beauty, the Ocean Course is famous for its challenging holes, especially those off the tees, where the wind can be a factor. Beyond the course, Kiawah Island Golf Resort spans 24,000 square feet and reflects its surrounding natural beauty. It houses a memorable 19th hole, a luxurious Adirondack-style clubhouse, The Sanctuary Hotel, and villas. All this creates an ultimate getaway for golfers looking for an upscale experience.
Location: 1000 Ocean Course Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Links Course at Wild Dunes Resort
The Links Course at Wild Dunes Resort spans the coast of Isle of Palms and is the debut of Tom Fazio’s design career. This 6500-yard course is known for its narrow, rolling fairways, which offer a challenging game for even the most experienced players. Fazio’s bunkers and waste areas litter the course, giving players plenty of opportunities to demonstrate their aptitude on the green. The final three holes run towards and along the Atlantic Ocean, and golfers will encounter tall, tawny grasses as they progress towards the signature 18th hole – a challenging par 3.
The Links Course has become a staple of professional, challenging play. As golfers traverse the narrow, rolling fairways, they will encounter some of the most difficult bunkers and waste areas in the world, making it ideal for seasoned pros. The final stretch of the course offers players a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as an incredibly challenging set of holes, making the culmination of the round as exciting as it is beautiful. If you’re looking for a course that truly tests your skills, the Links Course at Wild Dunes Resort is the ideal destination.
Location: 10001 Back Bay Dr, Isle of Palms, SC 29451
Harbor Course at Wild Dunes Resort
Harbor Course Wild Dunes Resort features natural lagoons and salt marshes, 18 holes, and a 133 slope. Its 6,359 yards of narrow fairways and numerous water hazards are flanked by elegant palms, creating a challenging yet stunningly picturesque course. The greens are firm, fast, and smaller than those on The Links, while Holes 9 to 11 are frequently lauded as the course’s signature, thanks to their unique layout that runs alongside the Intracoastal Waterway, the world’s longest water hazard.
To ensure a well-rounded golfing experience, the Harbor Course offers facilities such as a chipping area, putting green, and driving range. The course demands precision and skill, with a narrowness that even surpasses that of The Links. Incorporating these features, Harbor Course is an excellent choice for golfers seeking an exciting yet challenging course with unmatched views and an alluring atmosphere.
Location: 5891 Palmetto Dr, Isle of Palms, SC 29451
Charleston Municipal Golf Course
Because of having gained popularity on its own merits, Charleston Municipal Golf Course does not need any recognition. The course sits on natural terrain and offers stunning views of the Ashley River and Lowcountry landscape, making it a true jewel. Its classic layout is designed with Raynoresque template holes that make it challenging for experienced golfers without being too demanding for beginners.
The course boasts 18 holes with a 72-par, spanning 6565 yards, with a slope of 137. Despite its long history, the course continues to attract a regular clientele. The greens are still firm, and the friendly staff takes pride in ensuring a comforting experience for every golfer. Charleston Municipal Golf Course is an excellent place to spend a day out in nature, enjoying a round of golf on a captivating course.
Location: 2110 Maybank Hwy, Charleston, SC 29412
Charleston National Golf Club
Charleston National Golf Club is the only golf course in the local area that was designed by Rees Jones, the legendary golf course architect. The course has been consistently ranked as the best non-resort golf course in the Charleston area, and for excellent reason. The course features vast stretches of natural wetlands and lagoons, which serve as home to an abundance of wildlife. The picturesque pine and oak tree forests also serve as a beautiful backdrop alongside the golden marshland, making every shot from the back tees at 7,100 yards and four other teeing options a true joy.
With five sets of tees and generally wide fairways, Charleston National Golf Club is suitable for both novice and professional golfers alike. The course’s tricky greens especially add an extra layer of excitement, keeping golfers of all skill levels on their toes. Located in the verdant and peaceful Mount Pleasant, Charleston National Golf Club is a haven for golfers who enjoy quiet but challenging surroundings. Wooden bridges add to the course’s charm, making it a perfect golfing destination for everyone who wants to enjoy a serene and exciting game of golf.
Location: 1360 National Dr, Mt Pleasant, SC 29466
Links At Stono Ferry
Located just a half hour’s drive from downtown Charleston, Links At Stono Ferry is a true gem in the golfing world. Voted by Golf Digest as one of the top 15 courses to play in South Carolina, this course truly boasts a unique experience for beginners and pros alike.
The front-nine of the course winds its way through native pines, while the back-nine features several holes along the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway. Holes 12 and 13 are the most scenic, with views across the river. Additionally, this course showcases 18 holes with a par of 72, stretching over 6756 yards with a 135 slope. Known for its tough greens, the course features a variety of old oaks and magnolias, as well as the original ferry landing and mature coastal forests, tidal creeks, and the Intercoastal Waterway. At Links At Stono Ferry, golfers will enjoy not only a challenging course but also stunning views.
Location: 4812 Stono Links Dr, Hollywood, SC 29449
Crowfield Golf & Country Club
Crowfield Golf & Country Club is a public course with an impressive signature hole par 5 9th. It is surrounded by a vast wetland area that leads to a narrow fairway. The course covers an area of 6964 yards with a 72 par and a 141 slope. Many doglegs make it challenging and exciting for golf enthusiasts.
Apart from the course itself, Crowfield’s range of amenities is extensive, inclusive of a top-notch driving range. Visitors can enjoy a fast-paced game on the course, followed by a relaxed session at the lounge. Friendly staff will make sure you have everything you need as you enjoy the lush greenery and fast green. Crowfield Golf & Country Club provides the ultimate golfing experience for both amateurs and professionals alike.
Location: 300 Hamlet Cir, Goose Creek, SC 29445
Yeamans Hall Club – River Course
Yeamans Hall Club – River Course is among the top 100 golf courses in the United States, offering an indulging experience with seaside features and magnificently designed fairways. Situated in Charleston, this club is amidst the sandy seaside featuring sweeping fairways made beautiful by live oaks and large pines. The course’s traditional design includes wide, tree-lined fairways and greens.
The 18-hole course measures 6725 yards with a par of 70, featuring shrunk greens and contoured fairways. Among the impressive feature holes of the course is the par-three 6th, known as the “Redan.” Players trying to navigate this particular hole must face a narrow green sloping from right to left with magnolias, oak trees, and three bunkers serving as an additional challenge. Yeamans Hall Club – River Course is a private club that boasts an impressive 132 slope, providing enthusiasts an exciting golfing experience.
Location: 900 Yeamans Hall Rd, Hanahan, SC 29410
Patriots Point Links
Patriots Point Links boasts of an 18-hole public course with 4 sets of tees suitable for various levels of expertise, stretching over 6955 yards with 126 slopes. Golfers enjoy sweeping views of some of the Lowcountry’s most famed sites, including the scenic Fort Sumter, Shem Creek, and the historic downtown skyline. Furthermore, they can relish one of its unique features, the “Best Par-3 in the Lowcountry” on the 17th hole.
Also, the premises comprise a driving range, a practice green, and a clubhouse with a grill. As a result, patrons can enhance their golf swings and interact with other golf enthusiasts in the ideal locations. The staff is also praiseworthy, ensuring that all golfers experience top-quality service, including ensuring that golfers get the most out of their visits. Overall, Patriots Point Links provides a tranquil, scenic, and enjoyable golfing experience suitable for everyone.
Location: 1 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
Oak Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s Oak Point course is an idyllic location for golf enthusiasts. Located on the Kiawah River with picturesque views of the Haulover Creek and surrounded by the beauty of maritime forest, Oak Point offers private and scenic gameplay. Known for its challenging par 72 course, it spans 6701 yards with 137 slopes, with bunkers and contours reminiscent of Scottish-style courses.
In addition to the course’s natural beauty, Oak Point boasts pristine oak-lined fairways and salt marshes. To provide optimal playing surfaces, the course uses platinum paspalum on tees, fairways, and greens. Golfers will relish not only the course’s stunning views but also the opportunity to complete their unforgettable golfing experience with a set of riverside finishing holes. Oak Point is a must-visit destination for all golf lovers.
Location: 4394 Hope Plantation Dr.Johns Island SC, 29455
Crooked Oaks at Seabrook Island Resort
Crooked Oaks at Seabrook Island Resort boasts a classic 18-hole track with signature rolling fairways and large, undulating greens. The 72-par course stretches across mature Bermuda greens and winds through the marsh, maritime forests, and moss-hung, century-old live oaks, offering a picturesque and challenging experience. With 6780 yards and a 137 slope rating, the course presents plenty of diversity in the holes, along with lots of marshes, creeks, and ponds.
The only downside of the Crooked Oaks at Seabrook Island Resort is the mediocre food served in the clubhouse. Nonetheless, friendly staff services enhance the guest experience on this nice course at the beach. Overall, with its impressive track, picturesque surroundings, and a range of challenges for golfers of all levels, Crooked Oaks at Seabrook Island Resort is an exceptional destination for passionate golfers seeking a memorable experience.
Location: 3772 Seabrook Island Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455
Briar’s Creek
Briar’s Creek is a private, professional golf course built on a natural environment that is home to natural resources such as water, marshes, wetlands, minimal trees and wildlife such as white ibis, and wood stork bald eagles. Designed by Rees Jones, the course features multiple tee boxes and signature hole par four hole 16. Golfers can enjoy various marsh and riverside vistas throughout the course. The occasional bunker, rough and gently rolling, along with a quick putting surface, make for a challenging golf experience.
For golf enthusiasts who appreciate nature, Briar’s Creek caters to your need to minimize environmental impact while providing world-class amenities. The course’s minimal tree-cutting helped preserve the environment while still delivering a challenging course. The location, surrounded by natural resources, provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere for a round of golf, with each hole featuring visually stunning marsh and riverside vistas. Golfers can test their skills on multiple tee boxes, bunkers on both sides of the fairway, all while maintaining the integrity of the area’s natural resources. Overall, Briar’s Creek is the ideal location for golfers looking to appreciate the natural environment while also enjoying a challenging round of golf.
Location: 4000 Briars Creek Ln, Johns Island, SC 29455
Conclusion
Charleston, South Carolina, is home to some of the best golf courses in the country. From Stono Ferry and Crowfield Golf & Country Club to Patriots Point Links on Charleston Harbor and Oak Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, golf enthusiasts can find a course that meets their needs and preferences. Each course features its own unique design, features, and amenities. With these golf courses, golfers can enjoy a challenging game of golf in the scenic surroundings of the Lowcountry while also enjoying top-notch service from staff. With the detailed reviews of each course, golfers in Charleston can now make an informed decision about which one is best suited for them.
