Best Affordable Public Golf Courses in Williamsburg County, South Carolina

Best Affordable Public Golf Courses in Williamsburg County, South Carolina: Top Budget-Friendly Options for Every Golfer

Williamsburg County has a surprisingly solid lineup of public golf courses that won’t empty your wallet. There’s a mix here—championship layouts for serious players and more relaxed spots for casual rounds.

You can find excellent value at a bunch of public golf facilities around Williamsburg County. Some have scenic waterfront holes, others are more about the challenge, and a few are beginner-friendly.

These courses usually have the basics covered: pro shops, practice areas, and somewhere to grab a bite. Green fees stay pretty reasonable, so it’s not just a once-in-a-while treat.

1) Caledonia Golf & Fish Club

Caledonia Golf & Fish Club has racked up awards since it opened back in 1994. It’s a par-70, 6,526-yard course that keeps showing up in Golf Magazine, Golf Digest, and Golfweek’s top 100 lists.

The whole place feels special, with “18 signature holes” winding through ancient live oaks and along lazy streams. The 18th hole is a real test—gotta hit a precise shot over water to reach the green right by the clubhouse.

You’ll start your day driving through a tunnel of old live oaks and blooming azaleas. The clubhouse overlooks the marshes and waterways of the Hammock Coast, so the views are pretty great the whole way through.

There’s an award-winning pro shop and a restaurant where you can watch the marsh while you eat. The staff is friendly, and they really keep the fairways and greens in top shape all year.

Rating: 4.6 (883 reviews)
Location: 369 Caledonia Dr, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
Contact: (843) 237-3675
Website: Visit Website

2) Wedgefield Country Club

Wedgefield Country Club brings a classic 18-hole championship course, stretching 7,057 yards with a par of 72. It’s been around since 1972, designed by Porter Gibson and Bob Toski, and it’s packed with rolling fairways and 17 water hazards.

The course sits between Charleston and Myrtle Beach, right in the low country. You’ll see ponds, live oaks, and plenty of pretty views while you play.

They’ve got a driving range and putting greens open all week for practice. If you want to sharpen your game, you can book lessons with experienced instructors or sign the kids up for golf camp.

They also host club-fitting events with brands like TaylorMade, Ping, and Callaway. That’s handy if you’re ready for an upgrade.

After your round, the Brick House Pub is the spot for food and drinks. If you want to make a weekend of it, Wedgefield Plantation Bed and Breakfast is right there for an overnight stay.

Rating: 4.3 (225 reviews)
Location: 129 Club House Ln, Georgetown, SC 29440
Contact: (843) 546-8587
Website: Visit Website

3) Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club

Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club features a Jack Nicklaus Signature Design that stands out in the Myrtle Beach area. It opened in 1989 and keeps popping up on lists of South Carolina’s best public courses.

The front nine takes you through a maritime forest filled with mossy oaks. Shot-making skills really matter here.

On the back nine, you’ll hit six holes along a tidal marsh—these are the ones people talk about. The course rewards gutsy play, and the scenery is just awesome.

You’ll play around oaks that are literally 200 years old, right in the heart of South Carolina’s coastal history. The course layout keeps getting love from golf magazines.

The place also has a full-service clubhouse and meeting spaces. Villas are available if you want to stay a few days, and you can book tee times online for the best rates.

Rating: 4.4 (725 reviews)
Location: 70 Tanglewood Dr, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
Contact: (843) 237-6000
Website: Visit Website

4) Carolina Lakes Golf Course

Carolina Lakes Golf Course sits on Shaw Air Force Base and offers 18 holes with lush bermuda greens. The gently rolling terrain makes for a fun round, whether you’re new to golf or a bit more seasoned.

The pro shop is fully stocked, and there’s a driving range for warming up. If you’re looking to improve, certified instructors are available for private lessons.

The restaurant overlooks the 18th hole and has pretty sweet views of the course. You can eat inside or hang out on the big deck, especially if you’re there for breakfast or lunch during the week.

It’s a solid spot for social events, too. After your round, it’s easy to kick back and relax with friends.

Rating: 4.3 (141 reviews)
Location: 400 Stuart St, Shaw AFB, SC 29152
Contact: (803) 895-1399
Website: Visit Website

5) River Club

River Club has been a favorite for Myrtle Beach golfers since 1985. It’s just outside Williamsburg County, in Pawleys Island, and sits on prime lowcountry land.

Tom Jackson designed this course with water on 15 out of 18 holes. The water keeps things interesting, but it’s not too punishing for most players.

There’s an island green and plenty of risk-reward shots that’ll test your nerves. The par-5 18th is the big finish—people talk about this hole for a reason.

You can book tee times online and score package deals with lodging if you want to make a trip of it.

Rating: 4.4 (375 reviews)
Location: 1 Club Cir, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
Contact: (843) 237-8755
Website: Visit Website

6) Wellman Golf Club

Wellman Golf Club is tucked away in Johnsonville and offers a solid challenge for golfers at all levels. The greens and fairways stay in great shape, rolling over gentle hills that make things both tricky and enjoyable.

Locals call it a “hidden gem.” The 18-hole championship layout has some fantastic views and works well for regulars or anyone looking for a new course to try.

Florence County bought the property in 2020 after it closed for a bit. The City of Johnsonville now runs the show under a long-term lease that started in 2021.

Rees Jones and Bryce Swanson teamed up with the city to restore and upgrade the original course. Now, it draws in locals, golf tourists, and even hosts amateur and professional tournaments.

Rating: 4.4 (57 reviews)
Location: 438 S Georgetown Hwy, Johnsonville, SC 29555
Contact: (843) 970-2724
Website: Visit Website

7) Founders Club at Pawleys Island

Founders Club at Pawleys Island sits in what’s known as America’s oldest seaside resort. Thomas Walker designed the 18-hole, par-72 course on the bones of the old Sea Gull Golf Club from 1966.

There are five tee options, so everyone can play. The “ocean-style” layout skips most cart paths and fills waste areas with natural beach sand.

Native grasses like love and bluestem grow on the mounds, giving the course a wild, coastal vibe. The place got named Myrtle Beach Golf Course of the Year in 2011 and twice made the list of the 30 Best Courses You Can Play in South Carolina.

Wetlands, live oaks, and pines dot the landscape. You can practice at a pretty impressive putting and chipping facility—the putting green alone is 11,000 square feet.

The 5,000-square-foot clubhouse has a grill room and pro shop, plus a wraparound porch with views of two holes.

Rating: 4.0 (317 reviews)
Location: 7829 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
Contact: (843) 237-2299
Website: Visit Website

8) Heritage Golf Club

Heritage Golf Club sits on 600 acres of what used to be rice plantations in Pawleys Island. Dan Maples designed the course, which opened in 1986.

You’ll play among 300-year-old oaks, freshwater lakes, and marshes. This par-71 course brings water into play on 11 holes, so you’ll want to keep your ball dry.

The greens are big and have plenty of slopes, so putting gets interesting. There are dual fairways and peninsula greens, which means you’ll face a few risk-reward decisions.

The course winds through classic Lowcountry scenery, testing your shot-making skills. Golf Digest ranked it among the Top 100 Public Courses in America.

Rating: 4.5 (515 reviews)
Location: 478 Heritage Dr, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
Contact: (855) 883-3770
Website: Visit Website)

9) True Blue Golf Club

True Blue Golf Club is one of the best-known courses in the Myrtle Beach area. It’s located in Pawleys Island, just a bit south of central Myrtle Beach on The Waccamaw Golf Trail.

Mike Strantz designed this course with wide fairways, rolling greens, and some pretty wild elevation changes. The natural terrain and native plants give it a look that’s earned national attention from major golf magazines.

You’ll see huge greens and long par 5s that really test every golfer, no matter your skill level. The course stays in great shape year-round, and the staff here are always friendly and on top of things.

True Blue’s facility includes an 18-acre practice area, a solid pro shop, and a grill room that’s actually worth a stop. The clubhouse serves favorites like New England clam chowder, and their Sunday brunch is popular with both golfers and locals.

Rating: 4.4 (602 reviews)
Location: 900 Blue Stem Dr, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
Contact: (843) 235-0900
Website: Visit Website

10) Whispering Pines

Whispering Pines sits just minutes from Myrtle Beach’s oceanfront, but it feels like a world away. This 6,771-yard course covers 200 acres filled with tall pines and mature hardwoods.

The designers, Finger, Dye, and Spahn, kept the native landscape mostly untouched, so the course feels peaceful and unique. You won’t see backyards or random distractions—just golf and nature.

Whispering Pines is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, which is pretty cool if you care about wildlife. The layout has more hills than most courses around here.

Expect creative holes and some really nice views as you play. Even though it’s close to the airport, the course feels remote and quiet.

Staff here have a reputation for being friendly and helpful. The greens are well-kept, and most golfers leave happy with the overall condition.

Rating: 4.2 (292 reviews)
Location: 2112 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Contact: (843) 918-2305
Website: Visit Website

What Makes Williamsburg County Ideal for Affordable Public Golf

Williamsburg County has this mix of natural beauty and a welcoming vibe that really makes affordable public golf appealing. The weather stays pretty mild, and the landscapes are so varied that you can play year-round without breaking the bank.

Scenic Landscapes and Climate

Williamsburg County gives you all kinds of settings for a round of golf. You’ll find courses winding through coastal plains, pine forests, and even some wetlands.

The county sits in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, so you get those classic mature oak trees, spanish moss, and natural water features. It all just makes the experience a little more memorable.

Climate Benefits:

• Average temps run from 45°F in winter up to 85°F in summer
• Over 220 sunny days a year—can’t complain about that
• Winters are mild, so you can play comfortably even in January
• Spring and fall are probably the best for golf weather

The coast keeps humidity in check during cooler months. You can play all year without sweating buckets like in some other southern states.

Summers bring afternoon showers, but if you tee off early, you’ll usually miss the rain. That’s a little tip most locals know.

Community Golf Culture

Williamsburg County really values public golf, and it shows. Courses here focus more on good experiences at fair prices than on fancy extras.

Most public courses have friendly staff and a laid-back atmosphere. You’ll see layouts that work for beginners and tougher holes for the more experienced crowd.

Community Features:

• Regular tournaments and leagues for all levels
• Junior programs that don’t cost a fortune
• Senior discounts and special local rates
• Group packages for organizations and clubs

Pro shops usually stock the basics and offer lessons at prices that aren’t outrageous. You won’t find luxury spas or anything, but you’ll get solid instruction and gear.

The golf scene here is all about inclusivity. Public courses act as social hubs where you can meet other golfers and just enjoy the game together.

Golf Course Amenities and Facilities

Most public courses in Williamsburg County offer driving ranges with covered bays and putting greens. Clubhouses usually have pro shops and dining options—sometimes just a snack bar, other times a full restaurant.

Practice Areas and Driving Ranges

Driving ranges here usually have 20-30 covered hitting bays. Most stay open until sunset, especially during busy months.

You can work on your short game at chipping areas and putting greens. Some spots even have practice bunkers, which is great if you’re trying to escape the sand more often.

Common Practice Facilities:

• Covered driving range bays
• Big putting greens
• Chipping areas with different pin setups
• Practice bunkers

Range balls run about $5-8 per basket. Some courses throw in unlimited range balls with your green fee if you play at certain times.

Practice putting greens are free. They’re good for getting a feel for the speed before you tee off.

Clubhouses and On-Site Dining

Most courses have a clubhouse with a pro shop and some kind of food option. You’ll find golf equipment, some apparel, and a bit of local merchandise.

Dining ranges from simple snack bars to a decent sit-down restaurant. The usual menu: burgers, sandwiches, and cold drinks.

Typical Clubhouse Features:

• Pro shop with gear and basics
• Snack bar or restaurant
• Restrooms and maybe a locker room
• Outdoor seating, usually covered

Covered patios are common, so you can hang out after your round. A few places serve breakfast as early as 7 AM during the busy season.

Pro shops stock golf essentials like balls, tees, and gloves. If you forgot your clubs, you can rent or buy a set.

Golf Instruction and Clinics

Several public courses offer lessons with PGA-certified instructors. Private lessons usually cost $50-75 an hour.

Group clinics focus on specific skills, like putting or driving. These run about 60-90 minutes and cost $25-40 per person.

Common Instruction Options:

• One-on-one lessons
• Group clinics
• Junior programs
• Beginner packages

Beginner packages often include a lesson, equipment rental, and some practice time. It’s a good way to get started without feeling lost.

Junior programs run in the summer, usually for kids ages 8-16. They meet once or twice a week for a few weeks.

You can book lessons by calling the pro shop. During peak season, it’s smart to book ahead.

Tips for Getting the Most Value at Williamsburg County Courses

You can save a lot if you play during slower months and book your tee times early. These tricks help you get on the same great courses for less cash.

Seasonal Discounts and Specials

Winter is when you’ll find the biggest discounts at Williamsburg County courses. Between December and February, you can save 30-50% on green fees.

A lot of places have twilight specials that start around 2 PM in peak season. Those rates are usually 40-60% cheaper than morning prices.

Weekday vs. Weekend Pricing:

• Monday-Thursday: $35-55 on average
• Friday-Sunday: $55-85 on average
• Holiday weekends: $75-100, sometimes more

Spring and fall offer the best mix of weather and price. You’ll pay summer rates, but you won’t have to deal with the heat or afternoon storms.

Some courses let you try out a membership trial during slow months. These last 30-60 days, cost $150-300, and include unlimited play (plus cart fees).

Booking Tee Times in Advance

Book your tee times 7-14 days ahead for the best rates and time slots. If you wait till the last minute, you’ll probably pay more.

Online booking sites often offer early bird discounts of 10-15% if you book more than a week out. A lot of courses will even waive booking fees if you reserve early.

Best Times to Book:

• 6-8 AM: Cheapest rates, nice and cool
• 11 AM-1 PM: Middle-of-the-road pricing, good weather
• After 3 PM: Twilight rates, but you might have to rush

If you’ve got a group of 12 or more, ask the pro shop about tournament rates—you could save $10-20 per person. It’s usually better to call than to book online for groups.

Apps like GolfNow and TeeOff have hot deals for same-day bookings, but those fill up fast during busy months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Golfers usually want to know about green fees, course conditions, and how to book a round in Williamsburg County. Here are some quick answers to the most common questions about playing affordable public golf here.

What is considered an affordable green fee for a public golf course in Williamsburg County?

An affordable green fee here is usually between $30 and $65 during the busy season. Off-peak, you might pay just $20 to $45 for a weekday round.

Carolina Lakes Golf Course has some of the lowest rates in the area. River Club is also a good deal, especially for twilight rounds.

Weekend rates are $15 to $25 higher than weekdays. Summer is when you’ll see the highest prices.

Which public golf courses in Williamsburg County offer the best value for money?

Wedgefield Country Club is a great value with solid fairways and reasonable prices. The layout is challenging, but you won’t pay premium rates.

Carolina Lakes Golf Course keeps things budget-friendly and the course is in decent shape. You get a fair round for the money.

River Club is a smart pick for weekday rounds. It’s well-maintained and priced right for locals.

Are there any notable public golf courses in Williamsburg County for beginners?

Carolina Lakes Golf Course is beginner-friendly, with wide fairways and a forgiving layout. There aren’t as many water hazards as some other places.

River Club is also less intimidating for new golfers. The design lets you recover from mistakes and build confidence.

Wedgefield Country Club works for learning too, thanks to a variety of hole designs. You can practice different shots without getting overwhelmed.

Can you list public golf courses in Williamsburg County with the best facilities?

Caledonia Golf & Fish Club stands out for its facilities, including a well-stocked pro shop and practice areas. The clubhouse has good dining options.

Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club is another with top-notch amenities. You’ll find modern practice facilities and solid cart service.

Wedgefield Country Club offers decent facilities, with a pro shop and snack bar. The range is a good spot to warm up.

What are the peak and off-peak times for the most affordable golf courses in Williamsburg County?

Peak season runs from March through May and again from September through November. Weekend mornings (7 AM to 11 AM) are the busiest and most expensive.

Off-peak times are December through February and June through August. Weekday afternoons after 2 PM are when you’ll find the lowest rates.

Twilight pricing usually starts around 3 PM in summer, so you can save $10 to $20 by playing late.

Do any Williamsburg County public golf courses offer discounts for residents or students?

Most golf courses around Williamsburg County throw in senior discounts for folks over 65. You’ll usually get between 10% and 20% off the regular price.

A handful of spots, like River Club, give military discounts. If you’re active duty or a veteran, you can expect lower green fees.

Student deals are a bit harder to find. Still, some courses will cut you a break if you show a valid student ID.

Honestly, your best bet is to call the course you’re eyeing and just ask about current student pricing. Sometimes they’ll surprise you.