Charleston, SC, is home to some of the finest public golf courses in the Southeast, offering a mix of challenging layouts and stunning natural scenery.
If you're looking for the top five, head to The Links at Stono Ferry, Charleston National Golf Club, Dunes West Golf & River Club, Patriot’s Point Links, and Wild Dunes Resort – Links Course.
Keep reading for a detailed look at what makes each of these courses stand out.
The Links at Stono Ferry
The Links at Stono Ferry is a premier golf course located in Hollywood, SC, just outside of Charleston.
This course combines rich historical significance with breathtaking scenery, offering a unique and memorable golfing experience that appeals to both history enthusiasts and golf lovers alike.
Course Overview
The Links at Stono Ferry is steeped in history, as it sits on the grounds of a Revolutionary War battle site.
This historical backdrop adds a layer of depth to the golfing experience, allowing players to immerse themselves in the storied past of the region while enjoying a round of golf.
The course itself is beautifully laid out along the Intracoastal Waterway, offering stunning views that enhance the overall ambiance.
The back nine, in particular, showcases the scenic beauty of the area, with several holes running along the water, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting that is hard to match.
Key Features
One of the standout aspects of The Links at Stono Ferry is its diverse layout, which seamlessly blends wooded areas with open waterfront holes.
This variety keeps the course interesting and challenging, requiring players to adapt their strategies as they move through the different sections of the course.
The par-3 13th hole is a highlight for many golfers, featuring a challenging tee shot over a creek to reach the green.
This hole, along with others on the course, demands precision and skill, making it a favorite among more experienced golfers.
In addition to the 13th, other holes on the course offer their own unique challenges and scenic rewards, with many players citing the back nine as particularly memorable due to the stunning water views and the strategic play required.
Golfing Experience
The conditioning and upkeep of The Links at Stono Ferry are top-notch, with the course consistently maintained to a high standard.
This attention to detail ensures that players can enjoy smooth greens and well-kept fairways, adding to the overall quality of the golfing experience.
The course is moderately difficult, making it accessible to a wide range of golfers, from intermediate players looking for a challenge to more seasoned golfers who appreciate the strategic elements of the design.
While the course is designed to be challenging, it is also forgiving enough to allow for an enjoyable round, even for those who may not be as experienced.
The combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and a well-thought-out design makes The Links at Stono Ferry an excellent choice for anyone visiting the Charleston area.
Tips for Playing
When playing The Links at Stono Ferry, it’s important to pay attention to the layout of each hole and to strategize accordingly.
For the par-3 13th, consider using a club that allows for accurate distance control, as the shot over the creek can be intimidating.
A conservative approach might be the best strategy here, focusing on landing safely on the green rather than going for an aggressive shot.
The best times of year to play are during the spring and fall, when the weather in Charleston is mild, and the course is in peak condition.
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal times to play, as these times offer the most comfortable temperatures and the best light for appreciating the course’s scenic views.
Additionally, booking a tee time in advance is recommended, especially during the peak seasons, to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
Charleston National Golf Club
Charleston National Golf Club, designed by the renowned architect Rees Jones, is a premier golfing destination that seamlessly blends the natural beauty of the Lowcountry with a challenging and well-thought-out course design.
Located in Mount Pleasant, SC, this course is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its unique layout and stunning scenery.
Course Overview
The Charleston National Golf Club is a testament to Rees Jones' architectural brilliance.
Known for his ability to craft courses that challenge golfers while respecting the natural environment, Jones has created a layout that integrates the surrounding wetlands, lagoons, and ancient forests of pine and oak into the course’s design.
This careful integration not only preserves the natural beauty of the area but also adds a level of complexity and diversity to the golfing experience.
The course stretches over 7,100 yards from the back tees, making it a formidable test for even the most skilled golfers.
Each hole is thoughtfully designed to utilize the natural landscape, requiring players to navigate various water hazards, tree-lined fairways, and strategically placed bunkers.
Key Features
Charleston National is known for its challenging layout, particularly the emphasis on long distances and precise shot placement.
The course requires players to bring their A-game, with several holes demanding both power and accuracy.
One of the most challenging aspects of the course is the variety of natural obstacles that players must contend with, including wetlands and lagoons that come into play on many holes.
Among the most notable holes are the long par-5s, where distance control and strategic shot selection are crucial.
These holes require careful planning to avoid hazards and position the ball for a successful approach to the green.
The par-3s, while shorter, are no less challenging, often requiring precise shots over water or through narrow gaps in the trees.
Golfing Experience
Playing at Charleston National offers a true Lowcountry golfing experience.
The course's setting amidst natural wetlands and forests provides not only a challenging game but also an opportunity to enjoy the region's unique ecosystem.
The presence of wildlife and the serene, unspoiled environment make each round at Charleston National a memorable experience.
The course is known for its difficulty, particularly for players who are not accustomed to long courses or those who struggle with accuracy.
However, for golfers who enjoy a challenge and appreciate strategic play, Charleston National is a must-visit.
The target audience for Charleston National includes intermediate to advanced golfers who are looking for a course that tests their skills while offering a rewarding and scenic golfing experience.
The course’s design ensures that each round is different, with varying wind conditions and natural factors influencing play, keeping even seasoned golfers on their toes.
Tips for Playing
When playing Charleston National, it’s crucial to have a strategy for navigating the natural obstacles that are prevalent throughout the course.
For instance, on the longer par-5s, focus on positioning rather than distance on your first and second shots.
This approach allows for a better angle to the green and reduces the risk of ending up in a hazard.
For the par-3s, accuracy is key; ensure you take enough club to carry any water hazards but be mindful of the wind, which can significantly impact your shot.
For golfers who are less experienced or who struggle with long distances, it may be beneficial to play from the forward tees, which still offer a challenging yet more manageable experience.
Additionally, considering the course’s length and the potential for fatigue, it’s advisable to pace yourself and stay hydrated, particularly during the warmer months.
Dunes West Golf & River Club
Dunes West Golf & River Club, located in Mount Pleasant, SC, is a masterfully designed course by Arthur Hills that offers a quintessential Lowcountry golfing experience.
This course is celebrated for its integration of natural landscapes, challenging design elements, and the overall beauty of its surroundings, making it a favorite among both local golfers and visitors to the Charleston area.
Course Overview
Arthur Hills, a renowned golf course architect, designed Dunes West with a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.
The course winds its way through tidal creeks, marshes, and ancient forests, creating a layout that feels as though it was naturally carved from the landscape.
Hills’ design emphasizes the preservation of these natural features, ensuring that each hole offers a unique challenge while showcasing the serene environment.
The course is both visually stunning and strategically demanding, with rolling fairways and carefully placed hazards that require thoughtful play.
This combination of natural beauty and strategic design makes Dunes West not just a round of golf, but a journey through the distinctive landscapes of South Carolina's coast.
Key Features
One of the defining characteristics of Dunes West is its strategic bunkering and rolling fairways, which demand precision from tee to green.
The bunkers are not just obstacles but integral parts of the course’s strategy, often placed in areas that challenge a golfer’s decision-making skills.
The fairways, with their gentle undulations, require careful consideration of ball placement to set up the best approach shots.
The course also features several standout holes that define the experience at Dunes West.
For example, the par-4 7th hole is a true test of skill, with a narrow fairway flanked by water hazards that force players to balance risk and reward.
The 18th hole, a par-5, is another highlight, requiring a strategic approach to avoid the numerous bunkers and water hazards that protect the green.
These holes, along with others, embody the course’s blend of challenge and beauty, making each round at Dunes West both difficult and rewarding.
Golfing Experience
The golfing experience at Dunes West is defined by the course’s ability to challenge players while immersing them in the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.
The course’s design forces players to think critically about each shot, considering not just distance but also the placement of hazards, the slope of the fairways, and the conditions of the day.
This thoughtful design makes Dunes West appealing to golfers who enjoy a course that tests their skills while offering an aesthetically pleasing environment.
The balance between beauty and difficulty is what sets Dunes West apart.
While the course is certainly challenging, with many holes requiring precise shot-making and strategic thinking, it is also forgiving enough to be enjoyable for a wide range of players.
The serene setting, with views of marshes, creeks, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife, adds to the overall experience, making it a peaceful yet demanding place to play.
Tips for Playing
When playing Dunes West, it’s essential to approach each hole with a strategy in mind.
The course’s strategic bunkering and rolling fairways mean that ball placement is crucial.
For example, on the par-4 7th hole, it’s advisable to use a club off the tee that provides accuracy over distance, as the narrow fairway and surrounding hazards can quickly turn a poor shot into a high score.
On the par-5 18th, consider laying up on your second shot to avoid the bunkers and water hazards that guard the green, setting up a safer approach shot for your third.
Given the course’s complexity, it’s also important to adjust your club selection based on the day’s conditions.
Wind, in particular, can play a significant role at Dunes West, affecting the flight of your ball and making certain holes more challenging.
Players should be prepared to adjust their game plan as needed, focusing on accuracy and course management over sheer power.
Patriot’s Point Links on Charleston Harbor
Patriot’s Point Links on Charleston Harbor is a unique golfing destination located on Hog Island, just minutes from downtown Charleston.
This course offers a traditional links-style experience with spectacular views of Charleston, Fort Sumter, and the surrounding harbor, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking a scenic and challenging round of golf.
Course Overview
Patriot’s Point Links boasts a prime location on Hog Island, providing easy access from downtown Charleston.
The course is set against the stunning backdrop of Charleston Harbor, offering golfers panoramic views that include iconic landmarks such as Fort Sumter and the city skyline.
The proximity to downtown makes it an incredibly convenient option for those looking to combine a round of golf with other Charleston attractions.
The course’s location on the water not only enhances the visual appeal but also plays a significant role in the overall golfing experience, as the open layout and proximity to the harbor bring unique challenges.
Key Features
Patriot’s Point is characterized by its traditional links-style design, which is relatively uncommon in the Charleston area.
This layout emphasizes natural terrain, with minimal tree cover and an abundance of water hazards that come into play on many holes.
The open nature of the course allows for expansive views but also exposes players to the elements, particularly the wind, which can significantly impact gameplay.
One of the standout features of Patriot’s Point is the signature 17th hole, a par-3 with an island green.
This hole is not only visually striking but also presents a formidable challenge, requiring a precise shot to land on the small, water-surrounded green.
The 17th is often considered the highlight of the course, offering a combination of beauty and difficulty that makes it a memorable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Golfing Experience
The golfing experience at Patriot’s Point is heavily influenced by the course’s coastal location.
The open design means that wind is a constant factor, often dictating shot selection and strategy.
On a windy day, even experienced golfers will find themselves challenged by the need to adjust their approach based on the direction and strength of the wind.
The course’s emphasis on water hazards also adds to the complexity, as many holes require accurate shots to avoid penalties.
Despite these challenges, Patriot’s Point is considered a must-play for visitors to Charleston.
The combination of a traditional links-style course, historical views, and the ever-present influence of the harbor creates a golfing experience that is both challenging and uniquely Charlestonian.
It’s a course that rewards strategic play and offers an immersive connection to the coastal environment, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a blend of natural beauty and golfing difficulty.
Tips for Playing
To succeed at Patriot’s Point, mastering wind management is essential.
Players should be prepared to adjust their club selection based on the wind’s intensity, often needing to club up or down to compensate.
For example, on a windy day, a normally straightforward par-3 might require an extra club to ensure the ball reaches the green.
When approaching the 17th hole’s island green, precision is key.
The green is small and surrounded by water, so it’s important to focus on accuracy rather than distance.
It’s advisable to use a club that you are comfortable with and that allows you to make a controlled, confident shot.
Aiming for the center of the green, rather than trying to stick the pin, can help reduce the risk of ending up in the water.
Wild Dunes Resort – Links Course
Wild Dunes Resort’s Links Course, located on the picturesque Isle of Palms, is a celebrated Tom Fazio design that offers one of the most authentic seaside golfing experiences in the Charleston area.
Known for its stunning coastal views and challenging layout, the Links Course is a must-play for golfers who appreciate both the beauty and difficulty of seaside courses.
Course Overview
The Links Course at Wild Dunes Resort is a masterpiece by renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio, who is known for his ability to create visually stunning and strategically challenging courses.
This particular course is highly acclaimed not only for its design but also for its exceptional location on the Isle of Palms, which offers golfers an immersive coastal experience.
The course takes full advantage of its seaside setting, with several holes running directly along the Atlantic Ocean, providing breathtaking views and a true links-style challenge that is rare in this region.
Key Features
One of the most distinctive aspects of the Links Course is its dramatic conclusion, with the final three holes running along the Atlantic Ocean.
These holes are as beautiful as they are challenging, with the ocean winds and stunning vistas adding to the complexity of the game.
The course’s narrow fairways require precision and careful shot placement, especially in the closing stretch where the stakes are highest.
Large waste areas and strategically placed bunkers further complicate play, demanding that golfers not only hit accurate shots but also think strategically about their approach to each hole.
These hazards are particularly impactful on the oceanfront holes, where the combination of wind, sand, and narrow landing areas can make or break a round.
Golfing Experience
The appeal of the Links Course lies in its seamless blend of natural beauty and golfing challenge.
The seaside setting provides a unique atmosphere that is both relaxing and invigorating, with the sound of the waves and the ocean breeze creating a serene backdrop for a round of golf.
However, this setting also contributes to the course’s difficulty, as the coastal winds can be unpredictable and often require significant adjustments in club selection and shot strategy.
The course’s unique difficulty will appeal most to golfers who enjoy a challenge and have a solid grasp of course management.
While the Links Course is not overly long, its narrow fairways, strategic bunkering, and the ever-present wind make it a test of skill and patience.
Golfers who relish the challenge of playing in tough conditions, while also appreciating the beauty of a seaside course, will find the Links Course to be an unforgettable experience.
Tips for Playing
Successfully navigating the Links Course requires a good understanding of how to play in coastal conditions.
The wind is the most significant factor to consider, particularly on the final three holes along the ocean.
Golfers should be prepared to adjust their club selection based on the wind’s direction and strength, often needing to club up or down to compensate.
Strategic bunkering and large waste areas also demand careful planning.
On the narrow fairways, it’s advisable to play conservatively, focusing on accuracy over distance to avoid the hazards that lurk on either side.
When approaching greens, aim for the safest part of the green rather than going directly for the pin, as the wind and bunkers can easily turn an aggressive shot into a difficult recovery.
The best times to play the Links Course are during the late spring and early fall, when the weather is typically mild and the winds are less severe.
Early morning rounds can also offer calmer conditions and a more peaceful experience on the course.
It’s also recommended to check the weather forecast before your round, as coastal conditions can change rapidly.
Conclusion
Charleston’s top public golf courses each offer a unique blend of challenge, beauty, and local character, making them must-visit destinations for any golfer.
Whether you seek historical significance, coastal views, or a strategic layout, these courses provide something for everyone.
Explore each to fully experience the diverse golfing opportunities that Charleston has to offer.
