Located in southeastern South Carolina right off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, the city of Charleston welcomes golfers from all over the country who want to enjoy a round of golf while taking in ocean views, a diverse landscape and the rich history in the area. The tradition of golf in Charleston started in the 1786 when America's first golf course was developed in the city under Scottish influence. Charleston provides a golfing experience for players of all skill levels and budgets.
Identification
Founded in the 1600s, the English colony of Charleston was the first of the original colonies to represent the South. Golfing in Charleston celebrates not only the historical significance of the area, but also the natural landscape, which provides a backdrop for the professionally designed courses. Oceanside islands such as Sullivan's Island, Kiawah Island, Isle of Palms and Seabrook Island feature some of Charleston's scenic golf courses, while marshlands and plantations frame many fairways and greens.
Courses
Many of Charleston's golf courses are open to the public. From standard community courses like the Charleston Municipal Golf Course, Shadowmoss Golf Club and Charleston National Country Club, to world-renowned and celebrity-golfer-designed courses such as Rivertowne Golf Course, Turtle Point and the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, golfers do not have to worry about memberships in order to fully experience the Charleston golf scene. Other public courses in the area include Patriots Point Links, three other courses at Kiawah Island, Wild Dunes Resort, Seabrook Island Resort, the Links at Stono Ferry, the Golf Club at Wescott Plantation and Dunes West Golf Club.
Amenities
Golf clubs are not complete without certain amenities such as pro shops, where you can purchase golf-related merchandise or sign up for lessons from resident golf pros. Other features frequently include restaurants and practice areas like the one at RiverTowne Country Club where you can practice driving, putting and chipping before hitting the links.
Green Fees
The popularity and design of Charleston's golf courses can lead to high green fees at certain resort courses. For example, golfing at one of the five courses at the Kiawah Island Resort can cost over $300. Golfers on a strict budget can find fees under $50 at community golf courses such as the Charleston Municipal Golf Course and Shadowmoss Golf Club. Courses with fees under $100 include Links at Stono Ferry, Charleston National Golf Course, Dunes West Golf Club and Patriot's Point Links. (All prices current as of November 2010.)
Recognition
Some of Charleston's public courses have received worldwide recognition. The movie "The Legend of Bagger Vance" featured the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island. This course also hosted the 1991 Ryder Cup and 2007 Senior PGA Championship. The Links at Wild Dunes Resort is often listed as one of Golf Magazine's Top 100 Courses in the World.
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