This spring is an exciting time for the Charleston golf community, to say the least. As golf aficionados around the world already know, the 2021 PGA Championship will be hosted this May on our neighboring island, Kiawah Island. With the best players in the world traveling from far and wide, all eyes are turned toward our unique golf scene. This world-class event is definitely one you won’t want to miss out on. So, if you are ready to hit the links on the best golf courses near Charleston in celebration of the PGA, make sure to book your tee time at Seabrook Island!
Best Golf Courses Near the 2021 PGA Championship
The PGA has a long and storied legacy in the Lowcountry. Charleston first played host to the 1991 Ryder Cup, resulting in one of the most famous clashes in golf history. Dubbed the “War on the Shore,” the American team battled back to win the event on the very last hole, claiming victory over their European rivals for the first time in almost a decade.
In 2012, the PGA returned to Charleston, this time for the 94th PGA Championship. Rory McIlroy won the event by a historic eight strokes, surpassing Jack Nicklaus’s record to secure his second major title victory. This year, from May 20-23, a crowded field of contestants will aim to add to that legacy when the PGA Championship comes to town again.
Crooked Oaks Golf Course
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Crooked Oaks is a classic course with curvy, rolling fairways and wide, tempting greens. Jones called this course one of his favorite layouts, coining the term “hard par, easy bogey” to describe the gambler’s nature of the design. Tight fairways and fast greens penalize bad decisions, while twists and traps on the approach reward clever play.
At Crooked Oaks, Seabrook Island’s natural beauty is on full display. Sprawled out among the beautiful sawgrasses and marshes of Seabrook Island, the Lowcountry’s signature Spanish moss hangs from the century-old oak trees above, while lagoons and tidal creeks inspire creativity and precision. These challenging conditions ensure an exciting game for everyone on the course, no matter how many rounds you choose to play!
Ocean Winds Golf Course
Stretching out toward the Atlantic Ocean, our Ocean Winds golf course is another exciting option for those looking to enjoy a challenging game. Recently renovated by Rees Jones, a world-famed golf course architect also known as “The Open Doctor”, this varied course can test even the most avid golfers.
At first glance, Ocean Winds seems to be a classic course with straightforward playing conditions. However, bunkers strategically placed throughout the course in conjunction with frequent ocean breezes known to carry the ball provide players with an unexpected challenge. The back nine holes take advantage of a very different side of Seabrook’s natural topography. Winding through the maritime forests and marshland, players can enjoy another refreshing change in playing conditions.
The Golfer’s Lifestyle at the Seabrook Island Club
Our recently renovated state-of-the-art practice facility includes a 40,000 sq. ft. practice tee, an adjacent fairway bunker, 5 target greens, 2 large putting greens totaling over 18,000 sq. ft., and a separate short game area with 3 bunkers, a short fairway, and a 3,000 sq. ft. green. But the Seabrook Island Club offers more than just access to the best golf courses in Charleston, SC. Players are able to enjoy uniquely uncrowded playing conditions, yet all the social benefits of a “club,” too.
Our brand new golf veranda at the Island House provides the perfect post-game lounge spot. With fire pits overlooking the driving range, players can enjoy cocktails and light refreshments from the full-service bar inside the adjacent Locker Room. This amenity, also located in the Island House, offers shoe care, shower, and towel services, accompanied by comfortable and relaxed lounges for both ladies and gentlemen.
Book Your Tee Time
With mossy, oak-lined courses cooled by a salty ocean breeze, the Lowcountry region is a true golfer’s paradise. If you are ready to get your start in the Charleston golf scene, come take a tour of the Seabrook Island Club today and see our award-winning courses for yourself.
Whether you are a novice to the sport or could be playing with the pros, everyone can enjoy a game of golf on our uniquely different courses. Led by PGA Head Golf Professional Brian Thelan, the Seabrook Island Club offers group classes and individual instruction for players of all ages and skill levels so you can improve your golf game on some of the most beautiful courses in the southeast. And, of course, our Golf Pro Shop is always on standby, offering everything from custom club measurements to spare balls before you hit the links.