There's something about beaches and dunes that pairs so well with a freshly manicured fairway. Perhaps it's the sound of seagulls in the distance as you hit the perfect shot, or the ocean breeze that accompanies your putting stroke. Whatever draws them here, visitors return to Kiawah Island’s beautiful golf courses year after year.
The quaint Southern charm of Kiawah Island beckons every guest to return as a sense of peace washes over you when you escape to these magnificent greens! Follow along as we guide you through Kiawah’s golf courses and what makes each one unique.
Cost of 18 Holes: $200 - $600
1000 Ocean Course Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
With more oceanside holes than any other course in the country, the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a crowd favorite for good reason. This Pete Dye design features 10 holes directly along the Atlantic, giving players uninterrupted coastal views from tee to green. It's ranked among America's most challenging public courses, with wind conditions that shift throughout the day and force you to rethink your approach on nearly every hole.
Halfway through your round, make a pit stop at the Ocean Course Clubhouse and enjoy their fresh seafood menu at The Atlantic Room. Don't feel like carrying your clubs after a fine meal — the Ocean Course offers caddy services so you can focus on your game. Group and individual instruction is also available through the resort's golf academy, where PGA professionals break down your swing using video analysis and on-course coaching. The course's renowned beauty even earned it a spot as one of the filming locations for the TV show Outer Banks.
Cost of 18 Holes: $150 - $300
1 Turtle Point Ln, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Looking for a course that keeps you guessing? Turtle Point Golf Course was designed by Jack Nicklaus to coexist with its natural surroundings, incorporating lagoons, maritime forests, and unpredictable coastal winds as built-in obstacles. Three of the holes sit directly on the Atlantic Ocean, and true to its name, you might spot a sea turtle while playing.
This course sits perfectly positioned between the ocean and a row of charming Southern homes, delivering stunning views at every turn. Turtle Point also stands out for its instruction programs, including Women's Golf Instruction clinics and group Golf Clinics designed for all skill levels. Visit The Tommy Cuthbert Golf Learning Center to schedule a one-on-one lesson with a PGA pro and use their short game practice area, driving range, and putting greens.
Cost of 18 Holes: $200 - $400
700 Governors Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Further inland, Osprey Point Golf Course adds diverse landscapes to Kiawah's familiar oceanfront fairways. Designed by Tom Fazio, this layout weaves through blue lagoons, tall palmettos, and natural marshland, and yes, the occasional alligator makes an appearance. The course features four distinct environments across its 18 holes, including forests, lakes, and saltwater marshes, making each hole feel like a unique experience.
On the 19th hole, unwind at the beloved Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House and enjoy a craft beer while taking in views from the veranda. The Osprey Pro Shop carries a full selection of gear, from clubs and gloves to apparel from top golf brands, so you can grab anything you need at the last minute.
Cost of 18 Holes: $150 - $300
10 River Course Ln, Johns Island, SC 29455
Located along the winding Kiawah River, the River Course provides stunning marsh views and a challenging play. This Tom Fazio design winds through thick Southern trees and scenic tidal creeks, creating a golfer's paradise in the Lowcountry. The layout features wide, generous fairways that are more forgiving for mid-handicappers, while strategic bunkering and water hazards still test experienced players.
After your round, relax at the River Course Clubhouse, where you'll find refined dining at the River Room Restaurant. Enjoy gorgeous views of the river and marsh while trying their fresh coastal cuisine, or kick your feet back on the wrap-around porch with a craft cocktail. The clubhouse's pro shop features top-of-the-line equipment, apparel, and custom club fitting services.
Cost of 18 Holes: $150 - $300
100 Old Cedar Ln, Johns Island, SC 29455
Inspired by traditional Scottish links courses, Cassique is a distinctive golfing experience that sets it apart from every other course on Kiawah. Designed by Tom Watson, the layout features rolling fairways, deep bunkering, and fast greens that test every aspect of your game. The course plays differently depending on wind and weather, rewarding creative shot-making over raw power.
The architecture of the Cassique Clubhouse is a masterpiece in itself, offering members a refined dining experience at Voysey's, their signature restaurant. Take advantage of the state-of-the-art practice facilities, which include a full driving range, chipping area, and practice bunkers. Private and group lessons with experienced golf professionals are available for players looking to sharpen specific areas of their game.
Travelers from afar or those without their own equipment can visit several nearby rental shops. In Charleston, David Ayres Lowcountry Custom Golf offers a wide selection and knowledgeable staff at reasonable prices.
Closer to Kiawah Island, SeaCoast Sports and Outfitters provides golf gear alongside equipment for non-golfers from bike rentals to coolers, they've got you covered!
Find your dream accommodations at Akers Ellis Vacation Rentals. Their experienced staff will help you settle into one of their beautifully designed homes, where attention to detail is apparent through every feature!
This luxury estate in the exclusive Vanderhorst Plantation is the owner's primary residence, available for limited 10-week rentals and meticulously maintained. The property features direct beach access, ocean and golf course views from multiple decks, a private pool and spa, a gourmet kitchen, a media room with an 80" TV, and seven bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms — all within walking distance of The Sanctuary Hotel, Turtle Point Golf Course, and the Roy Barth Tennis Center.
This stunning property overlooks the Turtle Point Golf Course and lagoon, featuring five master suites, a private pool, and an open-concept layout designed for large group gatherings. The home includes a private elevator, two laundry rooms, a three-car garage, a screened porch with golf course views, and a sundeck all just one minute from the beach.
Located in the Egret Pintail community with direct views of the Osprey Point golf course and Egret Pond, this home features a private heated pool, a 900-square-foot sundeck, a screened porch, and a gourmet kitchen with a large island. Guests booking 3–21 nights receive a $300 credit toward beach gear rentals, including bikes, chairs, and umbrellas — all just a 12-minute bike ride from the beach.
Akers Ellis Vacation Rentals goes beyond offering beautiful vacation homes. They're committed to giving back to their community while ensuring every guest experiences authentic Island Time. As local experts, their friendly team provides insider recommendations to help you experience Kiawah golf in all its glory. They know the secret spots only locals know about and which tourist destinations are truly worth your time. What are you waiting for? Book your dream golf trip to Kiawah Island, South Carolina—a vacation you'll be planning to repeat before you even leave!
