Charleston, SC, is home to some of the most scenic and challenging golf courses, with The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, Links Course at Wild Dunes, RiverTowne Country Club, Charleston National Golf Club, and the Harbor Course at Wild Dunes standing out as the top five.
Each offers a unique blend of design, difficulty, and stunning Lowcountry landscapes—keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what makes them the best.
1. The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Few courses in the world offer the raw beauty and challenge of The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort.
Designed by Pete and Alice Dye, this legendary layout combines a true links-style experience with breathtaking coastal scenery and the kind of difficulty that tests even the best golfers.
Whether you're looking to walk in the footsteps of PGA champions or take on a course shaped by nature’s elements, this is a must-play destination.
What Makes It Special?
What sets The Ocean Course apart isn’t just its stunning location—it’s the combination of history, design, and the natural elements that make every round a different experience.
- World-Class Design – The Ocean Course was meticulously crafted by Pete and Alice Dye, with every hole designed to embrace the Atlantic coastline. It features a traditional links-style layout, making it one of the rare true links courses in the U.S.
- Championship Pedigree – This course has hosted major tournaments, including the 1991 Ryder Cup, the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships, and numerous other prestigious events. Golf history has been made here, and playing the course gives you a chance to relive those moments.
- Unparalleled Coastal Views – With ten holes running directly along the ocean and the remaining eight parallel to it, golfers are treated to unobstructed Atlantic views throughout the round. The scenery is unmatched, making the experience feel even more special.
- A Course That Evolves with the Elements – The exposure to coastal winds can completely change how the course plays from day to day. Wind direction and strength influence club selection, strategy, and difficulty, meaning no two rounds are ever the same.
Challenges & Standout Features
While the views are breathtaking, The Ocean Course is notoriously difficult, consistently ranking among the toughest in the U.S. Even seasoned golfers should expect a true test of skill and patience.
- One of the Most Difficult Course Ratings in the U.S. – With a course rating of 79.1 and a slope rating of 155 from the championship tees, The Ocean Course demands precision, strategy, and resilience.
- Wind: The Ultimate Hazard – Unlike tree-lined courses that provide shelter, this layout is fully exposed to the unpredictable ocean breeze, which can shift suddenly and create an eight-club difference in shot selection.
- Challenging Terrain and Design Features –
- Large elevation changes across the fairways and greens make approach shots tricky.
- Deep and punishing bunkers are strategically placed to catch wayward shots.
- Paspalum grass covers the fairways and greens, making for a unique putting surface that is slower than traditional bentgrass but offers consistency in coastal conditions.
This is not a course where you can overpower it with distance. Success here requires shot-making ability, smart course management, and the patience to handle the wind and terrain.
Signature Holes
Every hole at The Ocean Course is memorable, but two par-3s stand out for their beauty, difficulty, and historical significance.
Hole 14 – A Stunning Par-3 with Ocean Exposure
- One of the most picturesque holes on the course, this par-3 plays directly toward the Atlantic.
- The elevated green is fully exposed to the wind, making club selection difficult and requiring precise ball flight control.
- While the view is breathtaking, the real challenge is holding the green under windy conditions.
Hole 17 – The Infamous Par-3 Over Water
- Known for its dramatic role in the 1991 Ryder Cup, this long par-3 forces players to carry the ball over water to a diagonally angled green.
- There’s no easy bailout, meaning any mishit could find the hazard.
- In tournament play, this hole has made or broken championship runs—expect high pressure and a need for absolute precision.
These two holes alone embody the essence of The Ocean Course—breathtaking beauty paired with relentless challenge.
Amenities & Overall Experience
A course of this caliber doesn’t just stop at exceptional golf. The Ocean Course experience extends beyond the fairways, offering high-end amenities and a memorable resort atmosphere.
- The Clubhouse – A beautiful Lowcountry-style clubhouse featuring:
- Fine dining at The Atlantic Room, serving fresh seafood with oceanfront views.
- The Ryder Cup Bar, a perfect post-round spot for drinks and casual fare.
- A fully stocked pro shop, offering top-tier gear, apparel, and course memorabilia.
- Practice Facilities – Golfers can prepare for their round with:
- A top-tier driving range with ocean breezes affecting every shot.
- Well-maintained putting and chipping greens to adjust to the Paspalum surface before heading out.
Who Should Play Here?
- Serious Golfers & Competitive Players – The Ocean Course is designed for skilled golfers who want a true test of their game. If you love strategic golf, battling the elements, and playing on historical championship ground, this course is for you.
- Bucket-List Seekers – Even if your game isn’t at a pro level, this course is still worth experiencing. With multiple tee options, players of various skill levels can enjoy the course without feeling overwhelmed—though beginners should be prepared for a long day.
- Golf Enthusiasts Who Appreciate Scenery & History – Even if you’re not chasing a low score, walking this legendary course, soaking in the views, and standing on the same greens as golf’s greats is an unforgettable experience.
2. Links Course at Wild Dunes Resort
Located on the picturesque Isle of Palms, the Links Course at Wild Dunes Resort is a classic coastal challenge designed by legendary golf course architect Tom Fazio.
As his first-ever solo design, this course showcases the signature elements that would later define his work—strategic bunkering, narrow fairways, and a layout that rewards precision over power.
With its stunning ocean backdrop and thoughtfully designed holes that blend into the natural Lowcountry landscape, the Links Course offers a memorable round for those who love strategic shot-making.
What Makes It Special?
This course stands out for its tight fairways, rolling terrain, and fast greens, making it a true test of accuracy and control.
Unlike bomb-and-gouge courses where length is the biggest factor, the Links Course rewards smart shot placement and strategic play.
- Tom Fazio’s First Design – Before he became one of golf’s most celebrated architects, Tom Fazio introduced himself to the golf world with the Links Course at Wild Dunes. His signature style—strategically placed bunkers, contoured fairways, and greens that demand finesse—was on full display from the start.
- Narrow Fairways & Demanding Precision – Players who stray off the tee will find themselves in trouble quickly, as the course is lined with dunes, marshland, and natural hazards. Unlike the more open Ocean Course at Kiawah, this layout forces golfers to think their way around the course rather than overpower it.
- Coastal Beauty & Natural Integration – While not every hole is directly on the water, the course takes full advantage of the surrounding landscape, weaving through marshland, dunes, and lush Lowcountry vegetation. The ocean breeze often comes into play, adding an extra layer of challenge.
Golfers who enjoy strategy-driven golf, risk-reward decisions, and a layout that demands precision will find the Links Course to be one of Charleston’s best.
Course Evolution & Redesign
Like many oceanfront golf courses, the Links Course has undergone changes due to coastal erosion.
Originally, its closing hole was a spectacular par-5 along the Atlantic, but erosion forced a redesign, and the 18th hole is now a par-3 with an incredible ocean backdrop.
- The Original Layout – Before the redesign, the course finished with a par-5 running parallel to the beach, providing a dramatic close to the round.
- The Redesign & New 18th Hole – Due to the loss of land from erosion, the par-5 was replaced with a stunning par-3, where golfers hit directly toward the Atlantic. While some lament the loss of the original hole, the new closing hole provides one of the most scenic finishes in Charleston golf.
Though the 18th hole has changed, the essence of the Links Course remains intact—a shot-maker’s paradise where precision is the key to success.
Signature Holes
While the course as a whole provides a challenging and scenic experience, two holes stand out for their beauty and strategic complexity.
Hole 16 – A Tricky Par-3 Along the Marsh
This hole is a perfect example of Fazio’s architectural brilliance, as it deceives the eye and challenges shot-making ability.
- The green is angled in a way that visually narrows the target, making it appear smaller than it actually is.
- Misses to the right can be swallowed by the marsh, while the left side offers more room than it seems.
- The wind coming off the ocean often affects shots, forcing players to carefully judge trajectory and club selection.
A well-placed tee shot is rewarded with a manageable birdie putt, but anything less than precise can lead to a big number.
Hole 17 – A Scenic Par-4 with an Ocean View
One of the most picturesque holes on the course, the 17th provides a preview of the ocean before heading to the closing hole.
- The tee shot presents a stunning view of the Atlantic, but the narrow fairway leaves little room for error.
- Accuracy is key off the tee, as errant drives can find trouble in the dunes or rough.
- The approach shot is equally demanding, with a green that slopes subtly and is well-guarded by bunkers.
These two holes encapsulate what makes the Links Course special—breathtaking scenery, demanding precision, and strategic shot-making.
Amenities & Overall Experience
As part of Wild Dunes Resort, the Links Course offers more than just an excellent round of golf—it provides a full luxury resort experience with top-tier amenities and activities.
- Resort Accommodations – Guests can stay in beachfront condos, villas, or luxury hotel rooms, all within walking distance of the course.
- Dining Options – The resort features multiple on-site restaurants, from casual dining to upscale cuisine. After a round, golfers can unwind with coastal-inspired dishes and drinks overlooking the ocean.
- Practice Facilities – The course offers a well-maintained driving range, short game area, and putting greens, allowing players to warm up before their round.
- Additional Activities – Beyond golf, Wild Dunes Resort provides access to tennis courts, biking trails, spa services, and beachfront relaxation, making it a great destination for both golfers and non-golfers alike.
Who Should Play Here?
The Links Course is not for the faint of heart, but for golfers who love strategy-driven play and the challenge of tight fairways and fast greens, it’s one of Charleston’s best.
- Best Suited For:
- Intermediate to Advanced Golfers – Precision is required, and higher handicappers may struggle with the narrow fairways and demanding approach shots.
- Shot-Makers & Strategic Players – Golfers who prefer finesse over power will appreciate the course’s design.
- Golfers Looking for a Scenic Experience – Even with its difficulty, the course is incredibly enjoyable due to its beautiful setting and stunning finishing stretch along the ocean.
Beginners can still enjoy the course, but they should be prepared for a challenging round.
Those looking for a more forgiving layout might consider the resort’s Harbor Course, which is slightly shorter and more manageable.
3. RiverTowne Country Club
Located in Mount Pleasant, just minutes from downtown Charleston, RiverTowne Country Club offers a picturesque and well-balanced golf experience.
As the only Arnold Palmer-designed course in the Charleston area, it seamlessly blends classic Lowcountry scenery with a layout that caters to both casual and serious golfers.
With water hazards, generous fairways, and beautifully maintained greens, RiverTowne provides a fun yet strategic challenge for players of all skill levels.
What Makes It Special?
RiverTowne stands out because of its Palmer design influence, scenic setting, and overall playability.
Unlike some of Charleston’s more punishing layouts, this course offers a balance of challenge and enjoyment, making it appealing to a wide range of golfers.
- The Only Arnold Palmer-Designed Course in Charleston – Designed to be both playable and challenging, the course combines risk-reward opportunities with Palmer’s signature approach to golf course architecture. Expect wide landing areas off the tee, well-placed bunkers, and strategic use of water hazards.
- A Classic Lowcountry Golf Experience – The course winds through marshlands, towering live oaks, and scenic lagoons, creating a visually stunning yet natural playing environment. Wildlife sightings—like egrets, ospreys, and even the occasional alligator—add to the authentic Charleston golf experience.
- A Perfect Blend of Challenge and Playability – Some Charleston-area courses are extremely difficult, requiring near-professional precision to score well. RiverTowne, however, offers a fair test of golf that rewards good shots without overly punishing mistakes. This makes it a great choice for golfers who want a course that challenges them but remains enjoyable throughout the round.
Whether you’re a low-handicap player looking for a competitive round or a weekend golfer wanting a relaxing but scenic game, RiverTowne is one of the best-balanced courses in Charleston.
Course Layout & Playability
The layout of RiverTowne Country Club is designed to be accessible for all skill levels while still offering plenty of strategic elements.
Five sets of tees allow golfers to adjust the difficulty to match their ability, ensuring that everyone—from beginners to scratch players—can enjoy the course.
- Multiple Tees for All Skill Levels –
- Championship tees stretch over 7,200 yards, providing a stern test for skilled players.
- Forward tees make the course more manageable, offering a shorter and more forgiving route for high-handicap golfers.
- Strategic Water Hazards – Water comes into play on several holes, requiring precise tee shots and thoughtful approach play. Some greens are protected by lakes, forcing players to weigh risk vs. reward when deciding whether to attack pins or play safely.
- Generous Fairways & Playable Rough – Unlike some of Charleston’s more punishing courses, RiverTowne provides room to recover from errant shots. The fairways are wide enough to encourage aggressive drives, but wayward shots can still be penalized by strategically placed bunkers and water features.
This course is not about overpowering with distance—it’s about smart golf, course management, and knowing when to take risks versus when to play conservatively.
What Golfers Love
RiverTowne’s reputation among both local golfers and visitors is overwhelmingly positive, with consistent praise for its maintenance, scenic beauty, and fun-but-challenging layout.
- Impeccable Course Conditions – The greens and fairways are consistently well-maintained, ensuring a high-quality playing experience year-round. The smooth, true-rolling greens make putting enjoyable, while the lush fairways provide great lies for approach shots.
- A Balanced Challenge for All Players – While some Charleston courses can frustrate high-handicap golfers, RiverTowne strikes a perfect balance. It’s challenging enough for experienced players but remains accessible and enjoyable for mid-to-high handicappers.
- A Scenic, Relaxing Atmosphere – The combination of marsh views, live oaks, and serene lagoons makes playing here a peaceful escape from the busier, more high-pressure golf settings. The lack of a heavily residential feel also helps maintain a pure golf experience.
RiverTowne is one of the most well-rounded courses in Charleston, offering high-level playability without sacrificing fun or aesthetics.
Amenities & Overall Experience
RiverTowne isn’t just about the golf—it’s about providing a complete experience that makes a round here feel like a getaway.
- Full Practice Facilities – Golfers can fine-tune their game before teeing off with:
- A large driving range, ideal for warming up or working on longer shots.
- A short-game area, allowing players to practice delicate chips, bunker shots, and approach shots.
- A well-maintained putting green to get a feel for the course’s green speeds before heading out.
- Pro Shop & Clubhouse – The on-site pro shop is well-stocked with top-brand apparel, clubs, and accessories. The clubhouse offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for grabbing a post-round meal or drink.
- Dining Options – RiverTowne provides casual dining with great food and scenic views, making it a great spot to unwind after a round. The menu includes classic golf course favorites like burgers and sandwiches, along with Southern-inspired dishes.
Whether you're looking for a full day of golf, a quick range session, or just a scenic round followed by a great meal, RiverTowne delivers a well-rounded experience.
Who Should Play Here?
RiverTowne is a fantastic choice for a wide range of golfers, but it’s especially ideal for those looking for a fair but challenging course with a great atmosphere.
- Perfect for:
- Mid-to-Low Handicap Players – The course provides enough challenge to stay interesting, but doesn’t feel unfairly difficult.
- Casual & Recreational Golfers – Those looking for a beautiful, relaxing round without excessive frustration will enjoy RiverTowne’s wide fairways and reasonable difficulty.
- Golfers Who Appreciate Scenic, Natural Settings – If you love playing among marshes, oak trees, and coastal landscapes, this course delivers.
- Visitors Looking for an Arnold Palmer Design – If you’ve never played a Palmer course, this is a great introduction to his architectural style—playable yet strategic, scenic yet challenging.
4. Charleston National Golf Club
For golfers looking for a top-tier public course in Charleston without the high price tag of a resort course, Charleston National Golf Club is an excellent choice.
Designed by renowned architect Rees Jones, this course is praised for its stunning Lowcountry scenery, challenging layout, and well-maintained conditions.
Unlike many of Charleston’s other premier courses, which are often private or part of upscale resorts, Charleston National offers a high-quality golf experience that’s open to the public.
What Makes It Special?
Charleston National is considered by many the best non-resort public golf course in the Charleston area—a reputation backed by its Golf Digest rating as one of the top public courses in the region.
- Designed by Rees Jones – Known as the “U.S. Open Doctor” for his work on major championship courses, Jones crafted Charleston National to be both visually stunning and strategically challenging. His design blends seamlessly with the natural environment, making each hole feel like an extension of the surrounding landscape.
- Natural Beauty & Integration with the Lowcountry – Unlike courses that feel manufactured, Charleston National fully embraces its natural setting. It features wetlands, lagoons, and towering pine and oak forests, creating a tranquil but challenging golf experience.
- A True Public Gem – Many of Charleston’s best courses are either private clubs or expensive resort layouts. Charleston National delivers championship-caliber golf without requiring a hefty price tag or exclusive membership, making it one of the best value-for-money courses in the region.
This course is perfect for golfers who want a high-quality, scenic, and well-designed layout without the restrictions of a private club.
Challenging Aspects & Standout Features
Charleston National isn't overwhelmingly long or brutally difficult, but it does demand precision and smart course management.
The varied hole layouts, well-placed hazards, and diverse fairway widths make it engaging for all skill levels while still providing enough challenge for experienced players.
- A Mix of Open & Tight Fairways – The course features a balance of wide, inviting fairways and narrow, tree-lined holes. This keeps rounds dynamic and interesting, forcing golfers to adapt their strategy throughout the round.
- Strategic Shot Placement is Key – Unlike courses where power off the tee is the biggest advantage, Charleston National rewards accuracy and intelligent shot selection. Players who navigate the wetlands and hazards effectively will score well, while those who get aggressive in the wrong spots may struggle.
- Varied & Well-Maintained Conditions –
- Smooth, fast greens provide a true roll, making putting both a pleasure and a challenge.
- Fairways and rough are kept in excellent shape, ensuring consistent lies and playability year-round.
- Each hole feels distinct, preventing the repetitive feel that some public courses suffer from.
The course doesn’t beat you up with excessive difficulty but instead challenges you to play smart, strategic golf.
Amenities & Overall Experience
While Charleston National is not a high-end resort course, it still provides great amenities to enhance the golfing experience.
- Practice Facilities –
- A well-maintained driving range allows players to warm up before their round.
- A large putting green gives golfers a chance to get a feel for the course’s green speeds.
- A short-game area helps players fine-tune their chipping and pitching.
- Clubhouse & Dining –
- The clubhouse features a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind after a round.
- A casual dining area and bar serve food and drinks, offering a comfortable spot to recap the round with friends.
Unlike many public courses, Charleston National goes the extra mile to provide an enjoyable atmosphere both on and off the course.
Who Should Play Here?
Charleston National is an excellent choice for a wide range of golfers but is especially well-suited for those looking for a high-quality public course with scenic views and strategic challenges.
- Perfect for:
- Mid-Handicap to Low-Handicap Players – The course offers enough challenge to keep experienced golfers engaged while still being playable for those improving their game.
- Golfers Who Appreciate Scenic, Natural Courses – With marshlands, lagoons, and towering trees, this course provides a peaceful, nature-filled round.
- Public Golf Enthusiasts – For those looking for a top-tier public course in Charleston, this is arguably the best option available.
5. Harbor Course at Wild Dunes Resort
Nestled within the Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms, the Harbor Course offers a distinctively different experience from its sibling, the Links Course.
Designed by Tom Fazio, this course is tighter, shorter, and more technical, making it a shot-maker’s dream.
Winding through lagoons, salt marshes, and waterways, this layout emphasizes precision over power, rewarding careful shot placement and smart course management over sheer distance.
What Makes It Special?
While the Links Course at Wild Dunes gets much of the spotlight, the Harbor Course has its own unique charm.
This shorter, tighter design offers a completely different challenge, with narrow landing areas, strategic water hazards, and holes that run alongside the Intracoastal Waterway.
- A Tom Fazio Masterpiece with a Different Feel – Unlike the Links Course, which is more open and plays longer, the Harbor Course demands accuracy off the tee, precise iron play, and strategic course management. This makes it a great companion course—ideal for golfers who enjoy technical layouts that reward skill over brute force.
- Water Comes Into Play on Nearly Every Hole – This is a true Lowcountry golf experience, with lagoons, salt marshes, and water hazards creating both beauty and challenge. With water on almost every hole, golfers must carefully select clubs and focus on control rather than distance.
- A Scenic, Coastal Setting Along the Intracoastal Waterway – Several holes offer stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway, providing a peaceful and scenic backdrop while adding a layer of difficulty with unpredictable coastal breezes.
This course is perfect for golfers who love a strategic challenge and enjoy working the ball around hazards rather than simply bombing drives.
Course Characteristics & Playability
The Harbor Course at Wild Dunes isn’t long, but it’s demanding.
Unlike courses where distance is a major advantage, this layout forces players to think through every shot and prioritize accuracy over power.
- Shorter Yardage, but Not Easier – While the Harbor Course is shorter than the Links Course, that doesn’t mean it’s forgiving. The narrow fairways and abundance of water hazards create a different kind of difficulty—one that punishes wayward shots severely.
- A True Shot-Maker’s Course – Golfers who thrive on hitting fairways, shaping shots, and navigating hazards will enjoy the challenge. The course demands precise approach shots and forces players to carefully consider each tee shot placement.
- Water Hazards Influence Nearly Every Hole –
- Some holes require forced carries over lagoons, adding pressure to every swing.
- Other holes hug the marsh, meaning errant shots are unlikely to be found.
- Wind from the Intracoastal Waterway can be unpredictable, making club selection crucial.
Many golfers find the Harbor Course mentally challenging because there’s little room for error—but for those who enjoy strategic play, it’s an incredibly rewarding test of skill.
Amenities & Overall Experience
As part of Wild Dunes Resort, the Harbor Course benefits from the same luxury amenities as the Links Course, offering a full-service golf experience with top-tier facilities, dining, and accommodations.
- Shared Practice Facilities –
- A large driving range allows golfers to warm up before their round.
- Multiple putting and chipping greens provide space to get a feel for the course’s challenges.
- Resort Accommodations & Dining –
- Guests have access to luxury beachfront condos, villas, and resort hotel rooms, making it easy to stay and play.
- The on-site restaurants range from casual beachside cafés to upscale dining, perfect for unwinding after a round.
- Who Should Play the Harbor Course? –
- Skilled golfers looking for a technical challenge—those who enjoy strategy-driven golf will love the Harbor Course.
- Players who prefer accuracy over distance—long hitters won’t have much of an advantage here, but precise players will thrive.
- Resort guests looking for a well-rounded golf experience—playing both the Links and Harbor Courses provides a perfect contrast of styles, making for a well-rounded golf trip.
Comparing the 5 Best Golf Courses in Charleston
Which Course Is Right for You?
| Course | Best For | Difficulty Level | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Ocean Course | Experienced golfers, tournament enthusiasts | Very High | Coastal winds, iconic par-3 holes |
| Links Course | Strategic shot-makers | High | Fazio’s first design, ocean views |
| RiverTowne | All skill levels | Moderate | Palmer design, fair yet challenging layout |
| Charleston National | Scenic golf lovers | Moderate to High | Natural wetlands, best public course |
| Harbor Course | Precision players | High | Tight fairways, water hazards on most holes |
Conclusion
Charleston offers a diverse range of top-tier golf experiences, from the demanding coastal winds of The Ocean Course to the strategic shot-making required at the Harbor Course at Wild Dunes.
Whether you’re looking for a championship-level test, a scenic Lowcountry layout, or a balanced mix of challenge and playability, these five courses provide something for every golfer.
No matter which you choose, each course delivers a memorable round in one of the most beautiful golf destinations in the country.
