The Birthplace of American Golf

The Lowcountry runs deep with golf history, particularly in Charleston & Isle of Palms.

By: Kyle Stucker, from 5757 Palm Magazine

Golf Digest says Wild Dunes, Charleston’s Island Resort, is among the best in state for golf in South Carolina. And we have to say, we completely agree. Both guests and locals can enjoy 36 holes of signature golf courses designed by Tom Fazio.

“Golf courses should reflect the natural beauty of the setting.”

– Tom Fazio, legendary golf course architect

Undulating fairways and greens, meant to mimic the dunes, are the trademark of Wild Dunes Resort’s Links and Harbor courses. With holes that run along the Atlantic and Intracoastal Waterway, both courses offer a breathtaking end to your round, no matter how you played.

The Harleston Green, founded in 1786, was the first golf club in the U.S. This pioneering downtown course was located just north of Colonial Lake, where the residential Harleston Green Village stands today.

Golf Fun Facts:

 1743: The first documented shipment of golf equipment to the U.S. Direct from Scotland, 432 golf balls and 96 clubs arrive in Charleston Harbor.

Hand-dug holes: Courses like Harleston Green didn’t have a set number of holes.

Tees: Instead of designated areas, players teed off two club-lengths away from the hole they just finished.

Finders: The game’s early caddies stood near holes during play because the holes weren’t flagged.

World Renowned Par 3s:

 #18 Links Course at Wild Dunes Resort: 185 yards; swirling winds and panoramic Atlantic vistas.

#11 Country Club of Charleston: 185 yards; one of the state’s most daunting with its steep bunkers and shelf green.

#17 The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort: 220 yards; massive water carry

Wild Dunes Resort also offers one of the top Charleston golf schools with a variety of clinics and lessons. If you’re looking to stay with us awhile, check out our golf packages or if you’d like to come by for an afternoon on the green.

BOOK A TEE TIME