7 Can’t-Miss South Carolina Golf Courses for Your Ultimate Myrtle Beach & Hilton Head Trip
Picture this: pristine fairways stretching toward the Atlantic horizon, where championship golf meets Southern hospitality in the most spectacular coastal setting imaginable. South Carolina’s golf scene isn’t just impressiveโit’s legendary, offering some of the most breathtaking and challenging courses in the world. Whether you’re planning an unforgettable golf getaway or seeking the ultimate combination of relaxation and recreation, these 7 Can’t-Miss South Carolina Golf Courses for Your Ultimate Myrtle Beach & Hilton Head Trip will transform your vacation into a golfer’s paradise. ๐๏ธโโ๏ธ
From the windswept dunes of Kiawah Island to the moss-draped oaks of Hilton Head, South Carolina delivers world-class golf experiences that attract players from across the globe. This carefully curated selection represents the absolute best of what the Palmetto State has to offer, featuring courses designed by legendary architects and hosting major championships that have shaped golf history.
Key Takeaways
- Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course stands as the crown jewel, offering a Pete Dye masterpiece with ocean views on 10 holes and PGA Championship pedigree
- Harbour Town Golf Links provides the quintessential Hilton Head experience with its iconic lighthouse finish and annual RBC Heritage Tournament
- TPC Myrtle Beach delivers championship-level play in a stunning natural setting with signature holes that challenge every skill level
- Caledonia Golf & Fish Club combines Scottish-inspired design with Lowcountry charm for an unforgettable round
- Strategic planning between Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head locations maximizes your golf experience while minimizing travel time
The Premier Myrtle Beach Golf Experience: Courses That Define Excellence
The Grand Strand region surrounding Myrtle Beach has earned its reputation as “America’s Golf Capital” through decades of delivering exceptional golf experiences. With over 100 courses within a 60-mile radius, the area offers unparalleled variety and quality. These carefully selected courses represent the absolute pinnacle of what makes Myrtle Beach golf so extraordinary.
1. Ocean Course at Kiawah Island
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island stands as perhaps the most spectacular and challenging golf course on the East Coast. This Pete Dye masterpiece stretches along 2.5 miles of pristine Atlantic coastline, offering ocean views on an unprecedented 10 holes. The course gained international recognition as the host of the 1991 “War by the Shore” Ryder Cup and the 2012 PGA Championship, cementing its status among golf’s most revered venues [1].
Course Highlights:
- Length: 7,356 yards from the championship tees
- Designer: Pete Dye
- Signature Feature: Ocean views on 10 holes
- Notable Events: PGA Championship (2012, 2021), Ryder Cup (1991)
The course presents a formidable challenge with constant coastal winds, strategic bunkering, and elevation changes that demand precision and course management. The par-3 17th hole, played directly along the ocean, ranks among the most photographed holes in golf. Green fees typically range from $200-400 depending on season, making advance reservations essential.
“The Ocean Course is not just a golf course; it’s a test of character. Every shot demands respect for the elements and the architecture.” – Golf Digest
2. TPC Myrtle Beach
TPC Myrtle Beach represents the Tournament Players Club’s commitment to championship golf in the heart of the Grand Strand. This Tom Fazio design seamlessly integrates with the natural Lowcountry landscape, featuring dramatic elevation changes, strategic water hazards, and immaculate conditioning year-round [2].
Course Features:
- Par: 72
- Length: 6,950 yards
- Designer: Tom Fazio
- Opened: 1999
The course’s signature hole, the par-4 18th, requires a precise drive over wetlands followed by an approach to a green surrounded by water and bunkers. The layout rewards strategic thinking while punishing wayward shots, making it a favorite among serious golfers seeking a true test of their abilities.
3. Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club offers a unique Scottish-inspired experience in the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Designed by Mike Strantz, this course pays homage to the game’s origins while embracing the natural beauty of its rice plantation setting. The layout features wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and greens that reward precision putting [3].
Distinctive Elements:
- Yardage: 6,526 yards
- Par: 70
- Setting: Historic rice plantation
- Clubhouse: Antebellum mansion replica
The course’s most memorable feature is its authentic Scottish atmosphere, complete with a bagpiper who performs during peak season. Each hole tells a story, with names like “Auld Lang Syne” and “Highland Fling” adding character to an already exceptional golf experience.
Hilton Head’s Championship Golf Destinations: Where Tradition Meets Excellence
Hilton Head Island has cultivated a sophisticated golf culture that attracts discerning players from around the world. The island’s courses showcase masterful design, impeccable maintenance, and settings that capture the essence of Lowcountry elegance. These premier destinations within our 7 Can’t-Miss South Carolina Golf Courses for Your Ultimate Myrtle Beach & Hilton Head Trip represent the absolute best of what Hilton Head offers.
4. Harbour Town Golf Links
Harbour Town Golf Links stands as Hilton Head’s most iconic golf destination and one of America’s most recognizable courses. Designed by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus, this masterpiece hosts the annual RBC Heritage Tournament, bringing PGA Tour professionals to its challenging layout each spring. The course’s signature red-and-white striped lighthouse has become synonymous with championship golf [4].
Tournament Pedigree:
- Annual Host: RBC Heritage (PGA Tour)
- Designer Duo: Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus
- Opened: 1969
- Par: 71, 6,973 yards
The course demands precision over power, with narrow fairways, strategic water hazards, and small, undulating greens. The famous 18th hole, with its lighthouse backdrop and Calibogue Sound setting, provides one of golf’s most dramatic finishing holes. Players consistently rank this among their favorite tournament venues due to its fair but demanding design.
5. Ocean Course at Kiawah Island (Resort Course)
While technically located between Charleston and Hilton Head, Kiawah Island Resort’s other championship courses deserve recognition in any comprehensive South Carolina golf discussion. The Osprey Point Golf Course, designed by Tom Fazio, offers a more accessible yet equally stunning alternative to the famous Ocean Course.
Resort Golf Excellence:
- Multiple Championship Courses: 5 courses on property
- Designers: Tom Fazio, Gary Player, Clyde Johnston
- Setting: Pristine barrier island
- Accommodations: Luxury resort amenities
6. Palmetto Dunes Golf Course
Palmetto Dunes features three distinct championship courses that showcase different design philosophies while maintaining consistently high standards. The Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course provides spectacular Atlantic views, while the Arthur Hills and George Fazio courses offer unique inland challenges through maritime forests and lagoons [5].
Three-Course Variety:
- Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront: Ocean views and coastal winds
- Arthur Hills Course: Strategic design through natural terrain
- George Fazio Course: Classic layout with water features
Each course presents distinct challenges and scenery, allowing golfers to experience multiple design styles within a single resort setting. The oceanfront course’s 10th and 11th holes play directly along the beach, creating unforgettable moments regardless of score.
7. Sea Pines Country Club
Sea Pines Country Club completes our selection with its classic design and impeccable conditioning. This course has served as a cornerstone of Hilton Head golf since the island’s development, offering a traditional layout that emphasizes shot-making and course management over pure distance [6].
Classic Appeal:
- Established: 1962
- Style: Traditional parkland design
- Conditioning: Consistently ranked among the best
- Exclusivity: Semi-private with limited public access
The course features mature live oaks draped in Spanish moss, creating natural corridors that demand accurate driving. Small, elevated greens reward precise iron play, while strategic bunker placement punishes poor course management.
Planning Your Ultimate South Carolina Golf Adventure
Successfully experiencing these 7 Can’t-Miss South Carolina Golf Courses for Your Ultimate Myrtle Beach & Hilton Head Trip requires strategic planning to maximize your time and minimize travel between destinations. The approximately 90-minute drive between Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head makes it feasible to experience both regions during a single trip.
Optimal Itinerary Structure
Days 1-3: Myrtle Beach Region
- Base: Myrtle Beach or nearby accommodation
- Courses: Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, TPC Myrtle Beach, Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
- Travel time between courses: 30-60 minutes maximum
Days 4-6: Hilton Head Region
- Base: Hilton Head Island accommodation
- Courses: Harbour Town Golf Links, Palmetto Dunes, Sea Pines Country Club
- Travel time between courses: 15-30 minutes maximum
Booking and Pricing Strategy
| Course | Peak Season Rate | Off-Season Rate | Advance Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ocean Course Kiawah | $300-400 | $200-275 | 60+ days recommended |
| TPC Myrtle Beach | $150-225 | $100-150 | 30+ days recommended |
| Caledonia Golf | $125-175 | $85-120 | 14+ days recommended |
| Harbour Town | $200-300 | $150-200 | 45+ days recommended |
| Palmetto Dunes | $100-175 | $75-125 | 14+ days recommended |
| Sea Pines CC | $150-200 | $100-150 | 30+ days recommended |
Weather Considerations
South Carolina’s coastal climate provides excellent golf conditions year-round, with each season offering distinct advantages:
Spring (March-May): ๐ธ
- Mild temperatures (65-80ยฐF)
- Lower humidity
- Peak pricing and crowds
Summer (June-August): โ๏ธ
- Warm temperatures (75-90ยฐF)
- Afternoon thunderstorms possible
- Best rates available
Fall (September-November): ๐
- Ideal conditions (70-85ยฐF)
- Minimal precipitation
- Moderate pricing
Winter (December-February): โ๏ธ
- Cool but playable (50-70ยฐF)
- Lowest rates
- Fewer crowds
Maximizing Your Golf Experience: Pro Tips and Insider Knowledge
Equipment and Preparation
Club Selection Strategy:
- Bring extra balls for ocean courses (wind and water hazards)
- Pack rain gear for afternoon summer storms
- Include warm layers for early morning winter rounds
- Consider renting premium clubs to avoid travel hassles
Local Golf Culture and Etiquette
South Carolina golf maintains strong traditions of hospitality and respect. Understanding local customs enhances the experience:
- Pace of Play: Maintain ready golf principles, especially on busy courses
- Dress Codes: Most courses require collared shirts and golf shoes
- Tipping: Standard gratuity for caddies ranges from $50-100 per bag
- Local Knowledge: Engage with pro shop staff for course-specific advice
Dining and Entertainment
Each region offers exceptional dining options that complement the golf experience:
Myrtle Beach Area:
- Sea Captain’s House: Historic oceanfront dining
- The Cypress Room: Upscale Lowcountry cuisine
- Thoroughbreds: Steakhouse excellence
Hilton Head Area:
- The Ocean House: Fine dining with ocean views
- Skull Creek Boathouse: Casual waterfront atmosphere
- Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte: French cuisine excellence
Transportation and Logistics
Airport Access
Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR):
- Direct flights from major East Coast cities
- 15-minute drive to most courses
- Rental car availability from all major companies
Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV):
- Broader flight options
- 45-minute drive to Hilton Head
- Shuttle services available
Ground Transportation
Rental Cars: Most flexible option for multi-course trips
Golf Transportation Services: Specialized companies offer luxury transport
Resort Shuttles: Many accommodations provide course transportation
Accommodation Recommendations
Luxury Resort Options
The Ocean House at Kiawah Island:
- On-site access to championship courses
- Spa and dining facilities
- Premium oceanfront accommodations
The Inn & Club at Harbour Town:
- Located within Harbour Town Golf Links
- Exclusive access and privileges
- Intimate boutique atmosphere
Value-Oriented Choices
Myrtle Beach Resort Properties:
- Multiple course packages available
- Group accommodation options
- Convenient Grand Strand location
Hilton Head Vacation Rentals:
- Cost-effective for longer stays
- Kitchen facilities for meal preparation
- Often include resort amenities access
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
Understanding South Carolina’s climate patterns helps optimize your golf experience throughout the year. The coastal location moderates temperature extremes while creating unique playing conditions that vary by season.
Seasonal Golf Conditions
Peak Season Benefits (March-May, September-November):
- Optimal temperature ranges for extended play
- Courses in pristine condition
- Consistent weather patterns
- Enhanced social atmosphere
Off-Season Advantages (June-August, December-February):
- Significant cost savings (30-50% lower rates)
- Reduced crowds and faster pace of play
- Easier tee time availability
- Unique seasonal beauty
Conclusion
These 7 Can’t-Miss South Carolina Golf Courses for Your Ultimate Myrtle Beach & Hilton Head Trip represent the absolute pinnacle of American golf experiences. From the windswept challenges of Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course to the traditional elegance of Harbour Town Golf Links, each destination offers unique memories and exceptional value for passionate golfers.
The combination of world-class course design, impeccable maintenance, and Southern hospitality creates an unmatched golf vacation experience. Whether you’re seeking championship-level challenges or simply want to enjoy golf in spectacular settings, South Carolina delivers beyond expectations.
Your Next Steps:
- Book Early: Secure tee times 30-60 days in advance, especially for premium courses
- Plan Strategically: Group courses by region to minimize travel time
- Consider Packages: Many resorts offer multi-course deals that provide significant savings
- Prepare Properly: Research course-specific strategies and local weather patterns
- Embrace the Experience: Allow time to enjoy the local culture, dining, and hospitality that make South Carolina golf truly special
Start planning your ultimate South Carolina golf adventure todayโthese legendary courses await your discovery! ๐๏ธโโ๏ธโณ
References
[1] PGA Championship History, Professional Golfers’ Association of America, 2025
[2] TPC Network Course Information, Tournament Players Club, 2025
[3] Caledonia Golf & Fish Club Course Guide, 2025
[4] RBC Heritage Tournament Records, PGA Tour, 2025
[5] Palmetto Dunes Resort Golf Information, 2025
[6] Sea Pines Resort Historical Records, 2025
