Imagine emerald greens, wide fairways plus the chance to enjoy beautiful beaches, this is South Carolina. An impressive number of America's most popular and beautiful golf courses are found in South Carolina. A visit to some of these courses allows you to enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean as well as the state's many unspoilt sea marshes, creeks, lagoons and forests. With more than 350 courses, many designed by the same greats who've earned numerous golf titles here, such as Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, to name a few - there are lots to choose from.
In the centre of the 60-mile stretch of uninterrupted coastline referred to as the Grand Strand lies Myrtle Beach, a beach town with more than 100 championship courses and resorts, many with attention grabbing names such as Legends Golf Resort. The Robert Trent Jones design at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club, has been host to six Senior PGA Tour Championships, is a must-play. The Barefoot Resort's, a Pete Dye design is ranked among America's top public courses.
Split your time between the greens and the water. The only thing more common than golf courses in South Carolina is seashells, so a trip to the beach is a natural extension to any golf break. Fishing, boating and a bevy of water sports are also tops here. Swim in the surf, take to the skies on a parasail or join a dolphine-watching tour in any of the coastal communities that line the eastern edge of the state. Fabulous outlet shopping, and host to the largest outdoor sculpture garden in North America, and an iconic oceanfront boardwalk next to a 200-foot SkyWheel, are some of the top reasons to visit Myrtle Beach.
Drive two hours south of Myrtle Beach, and you'll be in historic Charleston, a delight for the senses. The rustle of palm fronds and the beauty of the city's ornate architecture are just a couple of the sensations the will stay with you long after you visit Golfers flock to the 20 championship courses, including the well-known Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort (try not to let beach views distract you). If you love water, you'll want to head to the more than 90 miles of coastline to explore. In Charleston, fishing guides are as common as golf pros.
Charleston, a charming, seaside city with a semi-tropical climate has 20 golf courses of exceptional and challenging variety as well as an array of breath-taking coastal terrains, from true links style to Lowcountry forest. Quite simply, there's a perfect course for every level of player in Charleston. The city is also known as a culinary wonderland. Savour the cuisine of internationally recognized chefs who create feast with fresh fish from the Gulf Stream waters, shelfish from the region's tidal creeks, and local produce. Whether by land or sea, Charleston offers plenty of special-interest tours for those who want to learn about the local history and exquisite architecture, and experience the magnificent scenery of the Lowcountry.
Many of your dining choices will feature the state's well-known Lowcountry cuisine, which includes rich seafood dishes, such as shrimp and grits and she-crab soup.
In the south-eastern corner of the state lies Hilton Head Island, where many of golf's top tournaments are played, including the RBC Heritage, the Players Amateur and the Hilton Head Island Celebrity Golf Tournament. Surrounded by water and with a charming collection of cafés and shops, it's a picturesque place to practice your swing. Tee off on the courses near hotels such as the Sea Pines Resort and enjoy views of Palmettos and marsh, or take a lesson from a pro at one of the many golf schools. The slow pace here keeps the focus on relaxation, which usually means playing a few rounds, then scheduling a massage at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa.