The Greenest Greens: Golf Courses Preserving South Carolina's Wild Side

When it comes to South Carolina, one word rises to the top: beautiful. From sun-drenched coastlines in the Lowcountry and Grand Strand to the leafy peaks of the Upstate and the winding rivers and lakes of the Midlands, the Palmetto State is rich in natural splendor.

For golfers, beauty isn’t just a bonus—it’s essential. Luckily, South Carolina delivers, with more than 350 courses that blend challenging play with unforgettable scenery. From iconic PGA TOUR stops in Hilton Head Island, Myrtle Beach and Greer to hidden gems off the beaten path, there’s a course here for every swing.

But there’s something else that sets South Carolina golf apart: a deep respect for nature.

Across the state, many courses are part of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program, a partnership with the Audubon Society and United States Golf Association that champions eco-friendly land management and wildlife conservation. Playing here means teeing off on fairways that not only challenge your game but also protect the plants and animals that make each course uniquely South Carolinian.

Whether you’re chasing birdies (and spotting birds) on bucket-list courses or soaking in the serenity of state parks, South Carolina’s greens are "greener" in every sense of the word.

Must-Play Courses

Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Kiawah Island

Five distinct courses, five unforgettable challenges—each crafted by a legendary designer.

• The Ocean Course: Pete Dye’s masterpiece is home to the famous 1991 Ryder Cup and multiple PGA Championships. It’s windswept, wild and stunning.
• Cougar Point: This Gary Player design touts sweeping marsh views and player-friendly fairways.
• Turtle Point: A thinking golfer’s course by Jack Nicklaus, expect oceanfront holes and strategic shot demands.
• Oak Point: Nestled by the Kiawah River, this Clyde Johnston course charms with forested beauty and fresh design.
• Osprey Point: A Tom Fazio gem, it offers a true test from tee to green amidst barrier island landscapes.

The Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head Island

A world-class trio that’s as scenic as it is legendary.

• Harbour Town Golf Links: A beloved PGA TOUR stop with tight fairways and tiny greens, it recently underwent a full re-grassing.
• Heron Point by Pete Dye: Bold and playful, it’s packed with classic Dye challenges.
• Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III: This redesign marries Lowcountry charm with modern playability.

Cheraw State Park Golf Course, Cheraw

Set along the shores of Lake Juniper, this Tom Jackson-designed course is framed by towering pines. A renovation is planned for March through September 2026, so get your rounds in early or prepare your game for the fall.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort: Hilton Head Island

On the Robert Trent Jones Course, water comes into play on more than half the holes, capped by the showstopping ocean view at the par-5 10th.

Special Mention: Old South Golf Links, Bluffton

GEO Certified for sustainability, this course is as committed to eco-friendly practices as it is to great golf, offering stunning Lowcountry views to boot.