Avid fans of the sport return time and time again to watch the high-stakes PGA Championship tournament at the ocean course and to play on the gently undulating green tucked within our gorgeous island community. Plus, with beautiful year-round weather, you never need to wait until spring to enjoy the picturesque seaside holes of your favorite sport. Dust off your clubs and get back into the swing at the best Kiawah Island Golf Resort courses.
Kiawah Island's recognition as a world-class golf destination came with the historic Ryder Cup matches played on the Pete Dye-designed Kiawah Island Ocean Course in 1991. Known in golf lore as the “War on the Shore,” the US Team staged a heroic victory, winning the final hole of the match to claim the cup on the ocean course at Kiawah.
Since that epic victory in the Ryder Cup, Kiawah Island Golf Resort has hosted several world-class golf events, including the inaugural Warburg Cup, the 2007 Senior PGA Championship, the 2012 PGA Championship, and the 2021 PGA Championship. Golfers worldwide rank Kiawah Island Golf Resort as a top destination for a bucket list golf pilgrimage, and it's no wonder why.
What are the Best Public Golf Courses at Kiawah Island Golf Resort?
1. The Ocean Course
Dubbed “America's Toughest Course” by Golf Digest, The Ocean Course is the crown jewel of Kiawah Island. It features more seaside holes than any other course in the Northern Hemisphere.
Designed by Pete Dye, it's a favorite among PGA professionals and amateur golfers alike. With challenging terrain, a natural sand area, and endless views of the Atlantic Ocean, you can expect a rewarding play every time.
The next major golf event at Kiawah Island will be the 2031 PGA Championship at The Ocean Course, so start planning to attend now.
2. Cougar Point Golf Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Cougar Point offers some of the most dramatic vistas on the island. In 2017, the course underwent a complete renovation, including a beautiful new clubhouse with a bar and restaurant.
Today, the 18-hole links course features amazing tidal creek and marsh views, fresh greens, tees, fairways, laser-level tee boxes, rebuilt bunkers, and an updated irrigation system.
Between the gorgeous backdrop and varied terrain, we predict Cougar Point will become a new favorite place to play.
3. Osprey Point Golf Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Like other Kiawah Island golf courses on this list, Osprey Point is praised for its stunning landscapes. You'll enjoy views of lush maritime forests, lagoons, and saltwater marshes as you play.
One accomplishment that sets Osprey Point apart from the competition is its title as one of America's “Top 50 Courses for Women.”
It's the perfect addition to a girlfriend's getaway in South Carolina. It also boasts an excellent clubhouse and a restaurant that serves award-winning mac and cheese.
4. Turtle Point Golf Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
If you're looking for a course endorsed by the pros, look no further than Turtle Point Golf Course. Designed by one of the greatest golfers of all time, Jack Nicklaus, Turtle Point is an excellent challenge for skilled players. This Kiawah Island golf course features three beautiful seaside holes, a natural dune area, vibrant fairways, lush forests, and calming lagoons.
It was one of Nicklaus's first designs and is an example of classic architecture at its finest. We have to warn you, though—it's not for beginners. You will have to determine wind speed when selecting your club. Even a half wedge can make a difference between par and the dreaded double bogey!
Turtle Point invites skilled golfers to navigate minuscule greens, narrow fairways, and smartly placed water hazards.
5. Oak Point Golf Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
If you visited Oak Point before 2015, you might be surprised at how different it looks today.
The new and improved slightly elevated green now offers the same championship level of play found elsewhere on the island. Located off the island in Kiawah River Estates, Oak Point Golf Course is an excellent option for locals. Residents of KRE have the option to join the Kiawah Island Governors Club.
With a rolling layout and picturesque scenery, this course is unlike any other in South Carolina. When you play at Oak Point, you can test your mental game and your swing.
Tee Up at These Kiawah Island Private Golf Courses
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Cassique Golf Course
Kiawah Island Club Membership Required
Enjoy stunning views of the Kiawah River and adjoining creeks and marshes as you play a round at Cassique Golf Course, designed by five-time British Open champion Tom Watson. Similar Irish and Scottish links-style courses inspired its creation, and ocean breezes make for an engaging, challenging game every time you visit.
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The River Course
Kiawah Island Club Membership Required
The River Course is both historic and highly renowned. In the 18th century, it was home to the first English settlement on the island.
The 18-hole fairway winds through the property, passing by the Kiawah River and Bass Pond, savannas, and maritime forests.
In 1999, it was certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
Golf Weekends on Kiawah Island & Seabrook Island
The Charleston area offers so many opportunities for golf and leisure year-round. Even the PGA of America loves Charleston Golf! Please read our blog on the Best Charleston, SC Country Clubs to find other great places to play near Kiawah and Seabrook Island.
From Kiawah Island to Seabrook Island to the historic peninsula, each Lowcountry community has its character and charm. Getting to know the Holy City can be overwhelming, so it's always a good idea to consult with an experienced real estate agent.
With over four decades of real estate experience, Pam Harrington Exclusives is known throughout the South Carolina Lowcountry as the No. 1 source for prime real estate and luxury homes.
Whether you are searching for a spacious family home, a waterfront property, or a condo with incredible golf course views, we can help you secure the Lowcountry home of your dreams!
