There’s a certain reverence golfers speak with when they talk about Kiawah Island—like it’s a pilgrimage. And, after spending a long weekend walking its fairways and experiencing the salt-tinged breeze that drifts in from the Atlantic, it’s easy to understand why players come from every corner of the globe to chase birdies here. Nestled just 30 miles outside Charleston, Kiawah Island SC is more than a golf destination; it’s a coastal sanctuary where the game is elevated by the unmatched beauty of the Lowcountry and the legacy of world-class golf course design.
A Nod to the Links
The experience begins, naturally, with The Ocean Course—the crown jewel. Designed by Pete and Alice Dye, this 7,876-yard, par-72 behemoth hugs the eastern edge of the island with winds that will humble even the most confident driver. Caddie service is available at all the Kiawah Island courses. While not required, at The Ocean Course it is highly recommended. You can walk all the courses, and The Ocean Course is walking-only from September through May. Step onto the first tee, the Atlantic stretching endlessly to your left, the steady ocean breeze offering a hint of what kind of round lies ahead.
It’s no surprise the Ryder Cup and the PGA Championship have both been played here—every hole tells a story, and every green dares you to be better. The PGA Championship is set to return to the Ocean Course in 2031.
Playing this iconic links-style course isn’t just about your score; it’s about the challenge, rounds impacted by both wind and sand, and the way your heart races with each approach shot.
More than Just One Iconic Course
As a golf destination, Kiawah Island isn’t just about one iconic course—it’s a symphony of five, each with its own distinct tempo. On day two, we played Turtle Point, a Jack Nicklaus design with a deceptively tranquil personality. At 6,911 yards, par 72, Turtle Point snakes through maritime forest and lagoons before giving you a dramatic glimpse of the ocean across a few signature holes. It’s tight off the tee and demands careful shot selection. This isn’t a course to overpower—it’s one to outthink.
That afternoon, we wandered into the elegant fairways of Osprey Point, Tom Fazio’s gift to the East Beach area. Clocking in at approx. 6,800 yards, it was one of the most aesthetically pleasing rounds of the weekend. It’s generous from the tee but protects itself with water on fifteen of eighteen holes. The greens are large and receptive, and if you’re swinging confidently, you will be rewarded in scoring. It’s the course I’d play every week if I lived here—inviting, memorable, and flat-out fun.
On Saturday we started early at Cougar Point, redesigned by Gary Player in 2017 and tucked into the West Beach area. The course (6,814 yards, par 72) flows through tidal marshes and moss-draped oaks. It was one of the more strategic layouts we encountered, demanding smart positioning rather than brute strength. What really stood out were the views—there were moments I just paused, club in hand, soaking in the stillness and the wildlife. There’s a serenity at Cougar Point that sneaks up on you.
We wrapped the weekend at Oak Point, a Clyde Johnston design perched on the island’s western edge. It’s slightly shorter at 6,701 yards but no less enjoyable. Set on former plantation land, Oak Point has a Scottish-inspired flair with rolling fairways and open sightlines. It felt like a soft landing after four rounds of intense play, though the water hazards ensured we didn’t get too relaxed. It was a fitting end to the trip—a round full of laughter, solid swings, and that bittersweet awareness that our golf weekend was coming to a close.
Essential Clubs to Pack
Packing for Kiawah requires more than just enthusiasm—it requires thought about how you’ll plan to approach the various courses. Given the variety of course lengths and designs, consider including the following in your bag:
Men:
For men, I’d recommend bringing your driver and 3-wood for those longer holes, a hybrid or two for approach shots into wind, and plenty of wedges—especially a lob wedge for those elevated, firm greens.
Driver: For longer par-4s and par-5s.
3-wood or hybrid: Useful for tight fairways and long approach shots.
Mid to short irons: Essential for approach shots and accuracy.
Wedges: A 56° sand wedge and a 60° lob wedge for versatility around the greens.
Women:
Women should consider packing multiple fairway woods (3, 5, and 7), a few hybrids in place of long irons, and at least two wedges to handle the variety around the greens.
Driver: For distance off the tee.
Fairway woods (3, 5, 7): Helpful for longer shots and versatility.
Hybrids: Easier to hit than long irons, useful for various lies.
Wedges: A pitching wedge and sand wedge for short game precision.
Dress for Rounds of Success
And then there’s the wardrobe. Kiawah Island is coastal South Carolina, so it can run the weather gamut. Spring and fall are mild, calling for layers—think lightweight pullovers or a vest over a breathable polo. Winters are generally cool but rarely cold, so a light windbreaker or quarter-zip will serve you well. But summer? It’s hot, humid, and intense. You’ll want moisture-wicking fabrics, a wide-brim hat or performance cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen you actually reapply. Sleeves might even be your friend on the sunniest days. For women, sleeveless collared tops and lightweight skorts or dresses are ideal. For men, stick with vented polos and breathable shorts, and note that proper golf attire is required on all courses. Denim, athletic shorts, and sleeveless shirts are not permitted.
Don’t worry if you forget something—the Kiawah Island Golf Resort Pro Shops are top-tier. Whether you need a fresh glove, a sleeve of Pro V1s, or want to splurge on a new Peter Millar polo, you’ll find premium gear and plenty of resort-inspired apparel to commemorate your trip. From the basics for tee-to-green play, to something special to remember your stellar round at The Ocean Course, you’ll find just what you need at any one of the resort pro shops.
The memories of a weekend spent golfing on Kiawah is something you soon won’t forget—the sound of a well-struck 6-iron, the distant crash of waves on The Ocean Course, the laughter from the clubhouse patios, as you reminisce about birdies and bogies. It’s the kind of place that gets under your skin in the best possible way. And if you’re lucky enough to make your way there, be ready. Kiawah doesn’t just welcome golfers. It converts them.
Stay in Luxury
If you want to experience true Lowcountry luxe, plan to stay in luxurious comfort within the Kiawah Island resort where your golf getaway can include days filled with adventure. From stunning oceanfront homes, to golf course views and charming villas, our collection of vacation rentals on Kiawah Island features incredible amenities and superb locations. Let our Concierge team plan a Kiawah Island experience that is unlike any you’ve ever imagined. From handling tee times for your group to arranging for a private chef to cook for you after a long day on the greens, these are just some of the ways you can customize your stay for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind vacation – and we have a team of people ready to help you plan it all.
