Charleston, South Carolina, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich history, making it an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts.
With a variety of exceptional golf courses in Charleston, players can experience unique challenges and breathtaking scenery that elevate every round.
Here’s a closer look at some of the top golf courses Charleston has to offer.
1. RiverTowne Country Club
Located just 30 minutes from downtown Charleston, RiverTowne Country Club is a must-visit for any golfer.
Designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, this course winds through the enchanting South Carolina Lowcountry, showcasing local marshlands and majestic live oaks.
The back-nine presents a more challenging segment characterized by tree-lined fairways that open up to scenic Horlbeck Creek.
Rated 4.5 stars by Golf Digest and named ‘Charleston Golf Course of the Year’ in 2015.
RiverTowne promises stunning vistas and an unforgettable golfing experience.
2. Harbor Course at Wild Dunes Resort
Wild Dunes features two outstanding courses, with the Harbor Course designed by Tom Fazio being particularly noteworthy.
This layout emphasizes precision and strategic play as it navigates through natural lagoons and salt marshes.
Holes 9 to 11 are especially picturesque alongside the Intracoastal Waterway, providing both challenge and beauty.
Stretching to a maximum length of 6,359 yards, golfers of all skill levels will find this course engaging while honing their skills on its narrow fairways.
3. Links Course at Wild Dunes Resort
The Links Course at Wild Dunes Resort is another gem crafted by Tom Fazio, known for its challenging design set against the backdrop of the Isle of Palms’ coastal beauty—just 16 miles northeast of downtown Charleston.
Spanning 6,500 yards from the tips, this course features narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers that require careful shot selection.
The final three holes wind toward the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views that make every round memorable.
4. Charleston National
Charleston National stands out as the sole Rees Jones-designed golf course in the vicinity open to the public.
Recognized by Golf Digest as the ‘Best Non-Resort Golf Course in the Charleston Area,’ it holds a special place in the hearts of local golf enthusiasts and visitors alike.
The course presents challenges with natural wetlands, lagoons, and dense pine and oak tree forests, requiring precision from tee to green.
Spanning 7,100 yards from the back tees, Charleston National provides a formidable test for golfers.
However, with four additional tee options, players of all skill levels can relish the excellence of Jones’s design.
The concluding series of holes, set amidst expansive golden marshland acres, is widely regarded as the most distinctive in the local landscape.
5. The Links at Stono Ferry
Nestled within the historic grounds of the 1779 Battle of Stono Ferry, The Links at Stono Ferry offers a distinctive golfing experience.
Recognized by Golf Digest in 2021 as one of the top 15 courses to play in South Carolina, it stands as a noteworthy highlight for anyone planning a golf vacation in Charleston.
The front-nine meanders through native pine landscapes, while the back-nine presents players with captivating holes along the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway. The course culminates with the formidable 18th hole.
Holes 12 and 13 emerge as particularly scenic, providing breathtaking views across the river. Among these, the par-3 13th is celebrated as Stono’s signature hole.
Players face the challenge of a 150-yard tee shot across the creek, originating from the jetty of a former river crossing.
The Links at Stono Ferry promises a visually stunning and demanding golfing experience in a historically rich environment.
6. Dunes West
Dunes West maximizes its picturesque Lowcountry setting, providing an exceptional golfing experience amidst natural wetlands. Crafted by Arthur Hills, the par-72 layout boasts four teeing options, spanning 6971 yards from the tips.
The initial holes warmly welcome players, featuring expansive landing areas.
However, as you progress through the course, the challenge escalates, offering a more demanding experience.
Strategic bunker placement necessitates thoughtful decision-making, while the undulating fairways present a test of skills on various uneven lies. Recognized by Golf Magazine and Golf Digest as a ‘Top 10 Resort Course,’ Dunes West not only promises a fantastic day of golf but also offers breathtaking views of Wagner Creek and the surrounding marshlands.
Golf courses in Charleston, combined with a rich tapestry of culture, dining, nightlife, and recreational options, create an unforgettable golf vacation.
Whether exploring Waterfront Park or taking a boat trip to Fort Sumter, this American city stands out as an unbeatable destination for your next golfing getaway.
Experience More Than Just Golf
Beyond these premier golf courses in Charleston lies a vibrant city filled with culture and activities perfect for unwinding after an exciting day on the greens!
Explore Waterfront Park or take a boat trip to Fort Sumter; indulge yourself in exquisite dining options ranging from Southern cuisine to fresh seafood delights available throughout historic downtown Charleston.
With diverse attractions beyond just golf—including nightlife entertainment—you’ll find everything needed for an unforgettable getaway awaits you here!
