If you’re planning a round near Aiken, SC, the five best golf courses to consider are Aiken Golf Club, Cedar Creek, Houndslake, The Reserve Club at Woodside, and Palmetto Golf Club. Each offers a distinct experience—from public gems with historic charm to private layouts ranked among the nation’s best—so keep reading to find out which one fits your game and schedule.
Aiken Golf Club – A Walk Through Time With Pinehurst Vibes
If you appreciate golf courses with character, history, and a design that rewards finesse over force, Aiken Golf Club will stand out.
It’s a local favorite not just for its vintage charm, but also for the way it balances affordability with a genuinely engaging playing experience.
This public course dates back to 1912 and still carries the kind of heritage that’s hard to replicate.
Designed by John Inglis and shaped by Donald Ross principles, it was one of the first in the U.S. to introduce ladies' tees—thanks in part to May Dunn’s suggestion.
That early emphasis on inclusive play is still reflected today in its layout: it’s not long, but it demands accuracy and thoughtful shot placement.
At just under 5,800 yards (par 70), the course doesn’t favor power hitters.
Instead, players are met with rolling fairways, sharply contoured greens, and sandy roughs that require careful navigation.
If you’ve played Pinehurst or Augusta’s shorter layouts, the style will feel familiar.
It’s a course that challenges decision-making and rewards precision, not just length.
While there's no traditional driving range open to the public, two large practice greens offer space to dial in your short game.
On designated First Tee program days, players can also access the Chalkmine short course, a helpful warm-up option if you're looking to get loose before your round.
If you plan to walk—and many do here—it’s worth bringing your own warm-up gear or stretching ahead of time since range access is limited.
Tee times can be competitive, especially on weekends when green fees climb to around $48.
On less busy days, you might only pay $25, making it one of the most affordable quality courses in the area.
Add a $20 cart fee if you're not walking, but many opt to walk to take in the atmosphere and layout at a slower pace.
After your round, don’t rush out. Take 10 to 15 minutes to wander the clubhouse.
Lined with historical golf memorabilia and preserved with care, it’s often described as “a walk back in time.”
For golfers who love the game's roots as much as the round itself, this small detail adds to the club’s appeal.
All in all, Aiken Golf Club is best suited for:
- Players who enjoy strategic, shorter courses.
- Golfers interested in historic layouts and traditional architecture.
- Anyone looking for strong value without sacrificing course quality.
Booking ahead—especially for weekend mornings—is highly recommended.
And if you’re visiting Aiken for a golf weekend or looking for a round that won’t break the bank, this course should be near the top of your list.
Cedar Creek Golf Club – Championship Distance Without the Price Tag
If you're looking for a public course near Aiken that offers length, challenge, and flexibility without a steep price, Cedar Creek Golf Club delivers.
With a layout that stretches from just over 5,300 yards to a full 7,200, it’s a course where both casual and competitive players can find the right level of test.
Designed by Arthur Hills and opened in 1991, Cedar Creek has evolved significantly over the years.
Renovations starting in 2015 addressed many of the rougher edges—upgrading cart paths, reshaping bunkers, and improving the Bermuda grass surfaces.
These updates helped modernize the playing experience while keeping the natural terrain intact.
The course weaves through classic pine-lined fairways, and though it's long from the tips, the multiple tee boxes make it manageable for most skill levels.
From the back tees, the course carries a slope rating close to 142 with a course rating around 73.6.
That means experienced golfers will find a real challenge here, but the design is also smart enough to give recreational players a chance to score well from the forward tees.
Choosing your tee box wisely is key—many players find a better overall experience when they scale back the yardage slightly to focus on strategy and pace.
Cedar Creek is one of the few public-access courses in the area with a full driving range.
If you're someone who needs to hit balls before teeing off, this will be a welcome feature.
A well-stocked pro shop and a clean, tasteful clubhouse round out the on-site offerings, making it a convenient place for both locals and visitors.
The staff are often mentioned in reviews for being welcoming and helpful—mentioning your playing goals or asking for course tips usually leads to good advice and extra attention.
Green fees are typically available through platforms like GolfNow, where you'll often find weekday rates and twilight specials.
These discounts can make an already well-priced round even more affordable.
If you're playing during peak hours, it's still a solid value given the course's length and layout quality.
While the conditions have improved in recent years, be aware that occasional uneven spots can still show up, especially during wetter months.
That said, most regulars and returning players agree that the course is on an upward trend and now holds its own compared to other regional options—including the more historic Aiken Golf Club.
Overall, Cedar Creek suits:
- Golfers who want a full-length course with a championship feel.
- Players looking for flexibility in difficulty based on tee choice.
- Anyone who values a driving range and traditional clubhouse experience.
- Budget-conscious players who still want strong course architecture.
If you prefer strategic play over brute force, you’ll find plenty of reward here.
And if you want to stretch it out and test your long game, the back tees will do just that—without the private-club price.
Houndslake – Quick, Scenic Nine With Country Club Perks
For golfers looking to squeeze in a relaxed round without committing half a day, the Laurel Course at Houndslake Country Club is a solid option.
This semi-private nine-hole layout offers a blend of scenic play, accessible amenities, and a casual atmosphere that works well for both practice rounds and social outings.
Opened in 1974 and designed by Joseph L. Lee, the Laurel Course covers roughly 3,350 yards and plays as a par 36.
While not overly complex, it delivers enough variety to keep things interesting—especially with water features and mature tree lines shaping many of the holes.
The course is surrounded by wooded areas and ponds, creating a tranquil setting that’s enjoyable whether you’re playing solo or with a group.
One of the main draws here is convenience.
A full nine-hole round typically costs around $38, including a cart.
That price point, combined with a relatively quick pace of play, makes it a good choice if you're short on time or looking for a warm-up before a longer 18-hole day elsewhere.
It’s also a great course for newcomers or casual players who prefer a more forgiving experience.
That said, the course conditions can be hit or miss.
The greens are usually smooth, but occasionally spongy depending on weather and maintenance.
Tee boxes tend to be firm—bringing your own tees is a smart move, as inserting them can be tricky on some holes.
Bunkers and cart paths get mixed feedback from players, so it’s best to set expectations accordingly if pristine conditions are a top priority.
What sets Houndslake apart from other quick-play options in the region are the added perks of a country club setting.
Onsite facilities include a driving range with several bays, plus access to a pool, tennis courts, and pickleball if you’re visiting with family or looking to turn your golf outing into a broader recreational day.
The clubhouse and inn offer a comfortable place to relax or stay overnight, especially for weekend getaways.
Keep an eye on the calendar when booking—weekday rates can be more favorable, and availability tends to open up in the afternoons.
For locals, this can become a go-to spot for quick midweek practice. For visitors, it's a laid-back way to enjoy a round in a pleasant setting without the structure of a full championship course.
Houndslake is best for:
- Golfers needing a fast but scenic nine-hole round.
- Players looking to mix casual golf with country club amenities.
- Families or social groups planning an all-around leisure day.
- Anyone easing into the game or sharpening fundamentals before tackling 18 holes elsewhere.
While it may not rival Aiken’s historic fairways or Cedar Creek’s championship distance, the Laurel Course at Houndslake fills an important niche: convenient, comfortable golf with just enough challenge to keep it interesting.
The Reserve Club at Woodside – Private Luxury With Tournament Flair
If you're aiming for an upscale golf experience near Aiken, The Reserve Club at Woodside offers one of the region’s premier private layouts.
Designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened in 2002, this course blends refined course architecture with tournament-caliber conditions, earning it a spot among Golf Digest’s Top 10 Best New Private Courses shortly after launch.
The Reserve Course delivers a dynamic round anchored by noticeable elevation changes that make each hole feel distinct.
For example, the downhill third hole tempts you to go bold off the tee, while the blind tee shot on the fourth demands confidence in your club selection and target line.
The fast, consistent greens only heighten the challenge—expect subtle breaks and slick surfaces that reward careful approach shots and punish overly aggressive putting.
Despite its appeal, regular access is limited to members and their guests.
However, there’s one key exception: Masters Week.
During this time, non-members can secure tee times through special guest packages typically priced between $325 and $500 per player.
These packages often include a full round of golf, a cart, range balls, and lunch at the club—though it’s wise to confirm what's included when booking.
Given the spike in demand around that week, contacting the club well in advance is essential.
The Reserve is designed for golfers who appreciate strategy as much as scenery.
Elevation changes come into play frequently, and course management becomes critical.
You’ll need to think through club selection from the tee and adjust your approach depending on wind, lie, and target visibility.
The course rewards smart play rather than just distance, making it especially enjoyable for experienced players who like to be mentally engaged throughout the round.
Even outside of Masters Week, golfers visiting the area may want to explore potential access through resort partners, golf travel coordinators, or by reaching out to local contacts with club ties.
Occasionally, limited guest opportunities arise through these channels—though they’re not widely advertised.
The Reserve Club stands out for:
- Elite course conditions and thoughtful design by a legendary architect.
- A private-club environment with quiet fairways and first-class service.
- Memorable elevation changes that keep the round engaging and visually impressive.
- Seasonal public access that, while rare, is structured for a complete high-end golf day.
For serious players seeking the best combination of challenge and polish near Aiken, The Reserve Club is the top-tier option—just be prepared to plan ahead and book early if you hope to get a tee time during its brief window of availability.
Palmetto Golf Club – Prestige, Precision, and a Taste of History
For those who value tradition, strategy, and understated elegance in a golf experience, Palmetto Golf Club offers a rare opportunity to play a course deeply rooted in the history of American golf.
Located in Aiken and founded in 1892, it’s one of the oldest clubs in the United States—and its character has been carefully preserved across generations.
Originally designed by Herbert Leeds and later reimagined by Alister MacKenzie in 1932, Palmetto carries an architectural pedigree shared by only a handful of clubs.
More recently, Rees Jones contributed to updates in the late 1980s, with advisory work from Tom Doak in 2003, maintaining the course’s heritage while fine-tuning its playability for modern standards.
The layout reflects this layered design history—subtle in its challenge but relentless in demanding focus and finesse.
At roughly 6,695 yards, the par-71 course isn’t long by today’s standards, but distance is beside the point here.
Precision is everything. The greens are small and protected by sharp roll-offs and false fronts, which make simple up-and-downs anything but automatic.
The course terrain rolls gently but consistently, asking players to adjust for lies and elevation changes from tee to green.
A strong short game is essential—there’s no “muscling” your way to a low score at Palmetto.
Access is highly restricted. The club is private, and for most of the year, guest play is invitation-only.
However, during Masters Week in April, Palmetto opens a limited number of tee times to non-members.
Reservations for these slots begin in early January and typically sell out quickly.
The fee ranges from $300 to $400 and generally includes lunch and a cart, though walking is encouraged—and arguably the best way to experience the course’s contours and subtleties.
The clubhouse itself is part of the appeal.
Quiet, intimate, and lined with memorabilia that tells the story of both Palmetto and the broader game, it offers a window into the ambiance of early Augusta National.
This isn’t a place that needs to advertise its prestige—it simply exists in it.
If you're planning a visit:
- Mark your calendar for early January to secure a Masters Week tee time.
- Confirm what’s included in the package—lunch and cart are standard, but always double-check.
- Bring your best wedge play and putting touch; this course doesn’t forgive sloppy short games.
- Plan to walk, if possible. The full character of the course unfolds best on foot.
Palmetto Golf Club is a strong match for players who:
- Appreciate the artistry and strategy of classic course design.
- Enjoy intimate, low-profile club settings over high-traffic destinations.
- Want to experience one of South Carolina’s top 10 courses during a limited access window.
Playing Palmetto isn’t just a round of golf—it’s a lesson in restraint, tradition, and the quiet depth of a well-preserved classic.
If you can snag a tee time, the experience is well worth the preparation.
How to Choose the Right Course for Your Golf Trip to Aiken
With such a wide range of courses around Aiken, narrowing down your options depends largely on what kind of golf experience you’re after.
From historic layouts to private club luxury, Aiken has something for nearly every type of golfer—but picking the right course means matching your time, playing style, and budget to the course that fits best.
If you favor short-game challenges over sheer yardage, Aiken Golf Club or Palmetto Golf Club should be at the top of your list.
Both offer layouts that reward precision over power and are best enjoyed by players who appreciate traditional, strategic course design.
Aiken GC is public and wallet-friendly, while Palmetto is private, with limited access during Masters Week.
On the other hand, if you’re a long hitter looking for a test of distance, Cedar Creek is your best bet.
With tee boxes that stretch to over 7,200 yards, it gives skilled players the room to go big—while still offering more forgiving setups for those who prefer a more moderate challenge.
It also offers solid amenities like a full driving range and is one of the few full-length public courses in the area.
When time is limited or you’re just looking to warm up, Houndslake’s Laurel Course provides a quick and enjoyable nine-hole loop.
It’s a great option for a casual afternoon round or a short session if you’re trying to fit in golf around a packed schedule.
You also get the added bonus of access to pool and tennis amenities, making it ideal if you’re traveling with non-golfers.
For those planning something more elevated—like a celebration round or a premium golf outing—The Reserve Club at Woodside delivers private club quality in a picturesque, tournament-style setting.
You’ll need to arrange access in advance, particularly during Masters Week, but the overall experience is polished and memorable.
Expect fast greens, elevation changes, and a full-service atmosphere.
Access is another key factor to consider. Aiken GC and Cedar Creek are the only two fully public options.
Houndslake is semi-private, so tee times are typically available with fewer restrictions.
Palmetto and The Reserve Club are private, with guest access typically limited to Masters Week or through member invitation or special packages.
If you're planning your trip around Masters Week, you’ll find more flexibility in playing some of Aiken’s most exclusive courses.
But it’s crucial to plan early.
Reservations for that week begin as early as January 1, and packages often include more than just the round—meals, carts, and range access are often bundled in, though it’s wise to double-check the specifics when booking.
Budget also plays a role. For excellent course conditions at an affordable price, Aiken Golf Club offers arguably the best value in the area.
Even its peak rates are well below what you’d pay for similar quality at other clubs.
In short, here's how to think about it:
- For history and finesse: Aiken GC or Palmetto
- For distance and full facilities: Cedar Creek
- For quick, scenic rounds: Houndslake
- For upscale, private play: The Reserve Club
- For the best value: Aiken GC
- For access during major events: Plan ahead for Masters Week opportunities
Aiken’s golf scene is as diverse as it is rewarding.
Whether you’re mapping out a solo round or planning a multi-course golf getaway, knowing what each course offers—and what it requires in return—will help you get the most out of your trip.
Conclusion
Aiken offers a mix of historic charm, championship layouts, and private-club experiences—all within a short drive.
Whether you're chasing value, challenge, or exclusivity, there's a course that fits your style and schedule.
Plan ahead, especially around Masters Week, to make the most of everything this underrated golf destination has to offer.
