The Charleston Golf Guide: Your Definitive Resource for Tee Times & Tips

Welcome to Charleston Golf

Charleston, South Carolina, is a golfer's paradise. Steeped in history and blessed with a mild climate, the Lowcountry boasts a rich golfing heritage and a diverse range of courses – from classic parkland layouts to links-inspired designs. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend enthusiast, this guide provides everything you need to navigate the Charleston golf scene, offering insider tips, course rankings, and practical advice. Consider this your go-to resource, whether you're a local or a visitor looking to experience the best Charleston has to offer.

Course Rankings & Reviews

This section offers a curated list of Charleston's top courses, categorized by price point and playing style. Ratings are based on a combination of Golf Digest, Golfweek, and local golfer feedback as of late 2024.

Rating Key:
* Course Rating: A general assessment of the course's quality (Excellent, Very Good, Good, Solid)
* Difficulty (Slope/Rating): Indicates the challenge level. Lower slope/ratings are more beginner-friendly.
* Price Range: Estimated green fee range (subject to change).

Top 7 Public Courses: Charleston's Crown Jewels

1. Oak Point Golf Club (Championship Course):
2. Rating: Excellent
3. Slope/Rating: 132/70 (Challenging)
4. Price Range: $80-$150
5. Signature Hole: Hole 16, a demanding par-4 with a dramatic approach over a creek and into a well-guarded green. Requires precision and carries.
6. Notable Features: Beautifully maintained, undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and stunning views of the harbor. A classic championship layout.
7. Unique Factor: The course's history dates back to the early 20th century, and it has hosted numerous amateur and professional tournaments.

8. Golfer Profile: Intermediate to advanced players who enjoy a challenging test of skill.

9. Midwood Country Club:

10. Rating: Very Good
11. Slope/Rating: 125/68 (Moderate)
12. Price Range: $70-$120
13. Signature Hole: Hole 12, a picturesque par-3 with a challenging green complex.
14. Notable Features: A classic, tree-lined course with a focus on shot-making. Well-maintained and offers a traditional golfing experience.
15. Unique Factor: Midwood has a strong sense of community and a rich history. It's a favorite among local golfers.

16. Golfer Profile: All skill levels welcome. A good choice for a relaxed round.

17. Harbor Civil Golf Club:

18. Rating: Very Good
19. Slope/Rating: 128/71 (Challenging)
20. Price Range: $90-$140
21. Signature Hole: Hole 4, a par-5 that requires a bold drive and a well-executed second shot.
22. Notable Features: Coastal views, strategic water hazards, and challenging greens. A beautiful and demanding course.
23. Unique Factor: The course's design incorporates the natural landscape, creating a visually stunning experience.

24. Golfer Profile: Intermediate to advanced players who appreciate a challenging coastal layout.

25. Bel Air Plantation:

26. Rating: Good
27. Slope/Rating: 120/66 (Moderate)
28. Price Range: $60-$100
29. Signature Hole: Hole 18, a memorable par-4 with a long approach and a challenging green.
30. Notable Features: A well-groomed course with a variety of challenges. Offers a good value for the price.
31. Unique Factor: Bel Air is known for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming to all skill levels.

32. Golfer Profile: Beginner to intermediate players looking for a relaxed and enjoyable round.

33. Cypress Creek Country Club:

34. Rating: Good
35. Slope/Rating: 122/65 (Moderate)
36. Price Range: $50-$90
37. Signature Hole: Hole 14, a short par-4 with a strategically placed bunker guarding the green.
38. Notable Features: A classic layout with mature trees and well-defined fairways. Offers a good value.
39. Unique Factor: Cypress Creek has a strong tradition of hosting local tournaments.

40. Golfer Profile: All skill levels welcome. A solid choice for a casual round.

41. Seven Hills Country Club:

42. Rating: Solid
43. Slope/Rating: 124/67 (Moderate)
44. Price Range: $70-$110
45. Signature Hole: Hole 17, a challenging par-5 with a water hazard in front of the green.
46. Notable Features: A well-maintained course with a variety of challenges. Offers a good value.
47. Unique Factor: Seven Hills has a strong community and a welcoming atmosphere.

48. Golfer Profile: All skill levels welcome. A good choice for a relaxed round.

49. The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort:

50. Rating: Excellent
51. Slope/Rating: 143/74 (Championship)
52. Price Range: $250-$400+
53. Signature Hole: Hole 4, a legendary par-5 that's famous for its dramatic oceanfront setting and challenging layout.
54. Notable Features: World-class design, stunning ocean views, and a challenging layout that will test even the best golfers.
55. Unique Factor: One of the most iconic golf courses in the world. A must-play for serious golfers.
56. Golfer Profile: Advanced players seeking a challenging and unforgettable experience.

Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

1. Five Points Golf Club:
2. Price Range: $40-$60
3. Why it's a Gem: A charming, historic course with a relaxed atmosphere. Excellent value and a great place to escape the crowds. The layout is deceptively challenging.

4. Best For: Budget-conscious golfers looking for a peaceful round.

5. Qtr Deck Golf Club:

6. Price Range: $35-$50
7. Why it's a Gem: A well-maintained, affordable course with a friendly atmosphere. A hidden gem for locals and visitors alike.
8. Best For: Beginner to intermediate players looking for a casual and affordable round.

Premium Public Options: Worth the Splurge

• Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course): (See above) The ultimate golfing experience.
• Shelter Pines Country Club:
• Price Range: $150-$250
• Why it's Worth It: A beautifully designed course with challenging layout and excellent conditioning. A popular choice for tournaments.
• Best For: Serious golfers looking for a high-quality experience.

Budget-Friendly Champions: Best Bang for Your Buck (Under $50)

• Qtr Deck Golf Club: (See above)
• Five Points Golf Club: (See above)
• Cypress Creek Country Club: (See above)

Practical Golfer Information

Difficulty Breakdown: Beginner-Friendly vs. Championship-Level Courses

Seasonal Strategy: Month-by-Month Playing Conditions

• Spring (March-May): Excellent playing conditions. Courses are typically lush and green. Expect occasional rain showers. Peak season – book tee times well in advance.
• Summer (June-August): Hot and humid. Early morning or twilight tee times are recommended. Hydration is key. Courses may experience some drought conditions.
• Fall (September-November): Peak playing season. Beautiful foliage. Mild temperatures and sunny days. Book tee times in advance.
• Winter (December-February): Mild winters. Courses remain playable, but conditions can be variable. Indoor golf facilities are available.

Tee Time Tactics: Best Booking Platforms, Advance Reservations, Walk-On Possibilities

• Booking Platforms:
• GolfNow: https://www.golfnow.com/ - Widely used and offers a vast selection of tee times.
• Course Websites: Direct booking through the course website is often the best option, especially for premium courses.
• Local Golf Associations: Some associations offer discounted tee times.
• Advance Reservations: Highly recommended, especially during peak season (Spring & Fall). Book at least 2-4 weeks in advance.
• Walk-On Possibilities: Possible at some courses, particularly during weekdays or off-peak hours. Call the course directly to inquire.

Local Playing Conditions: Typical Weather Patterns, Wind Considerations, Course Maintenance

• Weather: Charleston experiences a humid subtropical climate. Expect warm, humid summers and mild winters. Rain is common throughout the year.
• Wind: Coastal location means wind is a constant factor. Be prepared for crosswinds, especially on courses near the ocean.
• Course Maintenance: Courses are generally well-maintained. Aeration typically occurs in the spring and fall. Stay updated on course closures due to maintenance.

Transportation & Logistics: Parking, Public Transit, Multi-Course Day Planning

• Parking: Most courses offer ample parking. Some courses may charge a small fee.
• Public Transit: Limited public transit options. Ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available.
• Multi-Course Day Planning: Consider a day trip to nearby courses in nearby towns like Mount Pleasant or Summerville. Plan your route carefully and book tee times in advance.

Insider Knowledge

Pro Shop Insights: Equipment, Lessons, Club Fitting

• Golf Galaxy (Mount Pleasant): https://www.golfgalaxy.com/ - Large selection of equipment, apparel, and accessories. Offers club fitting services.
• The Golf Shop at Oak Point: Offers a wide selection of apparel, equipment, and accessories. Provides lessons from experienced instructors.
• Local Club Fitters: Several independent club fitters operate in the Charleston area. Ask for recommendations from local golfers.

19th Hole Recommendations: Restaurants, Clubhouses, Post-Round Dining

• Oak Point Golf Club Clubhouse: Offers a full menu of dining options.
• Harbor Civil Golf Club Clubhouse: Enjoy a casual meal with stunning harbor views.
• The Shelter at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina: Excellent seafood restaurant with waterfront views.
• Husk: (Downtown Charleston) - Fine dining experience showcasing Southern cuisine. (Requires reservations)
• 167 Raw: (Downtown Charleston) - Excellent oyster bar and seafood.

Local Golf Culture: Etiquette, Pace of Play, Tournaments

• Etiquette: Dress code is generally collared shirts and golf pants or shorts. Be mindful of other players and avoid slow play.
• Pace of Play: Maintain a brisk pace of play. Be ready to hit when it's your turn.
• Community Tournaments: Numerous local golf tournaments are held throughout the year. Check with local golf associations for details.

Seasonal Deep Dive

Spring Golf: Course Reopening, Aeration, Early Season Conditions

• Course Reopening: Most courses reopen in March or April.
• Aeration: Aeration typically occurs in the spring to improve course drainage.
• Conditions: Early season conditions can be variable. Expect some muddy conditions after rain.

Summer Strategy: Heat Management, Prime Tee Times, Twilight Golf

• Heat Management: Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade.
• Prime Tee Times: Early morning or twilight tee times are the coolest.
• Twilight Golf: Enjoy a round of golf after sunset to avoid the heat.

Fall Excellence: Peak Playing Season, Foliage Golf, Weather Transitions

• Peak Playing Season: Fall is the most popular time to play golf in Charleston.
• Foliage Golf: Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage while playing.
• Weather Transitions: Be prepared for cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

Winter Options: Year-Round Facilities, Indoor Alternatives, Off-Season Practice

• Year-Round Facilities: Some courses remain open year-round.
• Indoor Alternatives: Indoor golf facilities are available for year-round practice.
• Off-Season Practice: Take advantage of the off-season to work on your game.

Regional Context

Architectural Styles: Course Designers & Local Influences

• Alister Singleton: Known for his classic, parkland-style designs. Influenced by Scottish links courses.
• Robert Trent Jones Sr.: Designed several iconic courses in the Charleston area. Known for his challenging layouts and strategic bunkering.
• Pete Dye: Known for his visually stunning and challenging designs. His courses often incorporate water hazards and undulating greens.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort: A World-Class Destination

• History: Kiawah Island has a rich history as a resort destination.
• Golf: Home to several world-class golf courses, including the Ocean Course.
• Amenities: Offers a wide range of amenities, including beaches, restaurants, and spas.

This information is intended for general guidance only. Please check with individual courses for the most up-to-date information.