Most Affordable Public Golf Courses in Hampton County, South Carolina: Budget-Friendly Options for Every Golfer

Hampton County, South Carolina has some legit public golf courses that won’t empty your wallet. Nestled in the Lowcountry, you’ll find well-kept fairways and greens at prices that are actually reasonable.

You can get out and play at Hampton County’s most affordable public courses. There’s a solid mix—some traditional layouts, some modern, and they all welcome every skill level.

These courses make it easy to play often, work on your swing, or just introduce friends to golf. You don’t have to pay crazy resort prices to have a good time.

1) Old South Golf Links

Old South Golf Links sits right over the bridge from Hilton Head Island in Bluffton. Designed by Clyde Johnston, this public course really captures that Lowcountry vibe.

It’s picked up a few awards—Golf Digest called it one of the “Top Ten New Public Courses” back in ‘92. Local golfers have voted it their favorite public course in Hilton Head more than once.

You’ll play beneath huge live oaks and across rolling hills. Some holes have island greens right up against the marshes of McKay’s Creek.

Keep your eyes peeled for wood storks, hawks, deer, and the occasional alligator. Old South puts a big focus on sustainability and has earned both GEO Certification and Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary status.

Rating: 4.5 (457 reviews)
Location: 50 Buckingham Plantation Dr, Bluffton, SC 29910
Contact: (843) 837-7155
Website: Visit Website

2) The Landing at Pleasant Point

The Landing at Pleasant Point gives you a challenging but affordable round in Beaufort. The course is mostly flat, with big, rolling greens that’ll test your putting.

It stretches to 6,602 yards from the back tees, but you can play it shorter at 4,705 yards up front. Par is 72, and you’ll hit four par threes—each with its own length and water hazards.

The 9th hole is the star here, a par 3 at 185 yards. You’ve got to hit your tee shot tight along the water and dodge bunkers on both sides.

Accuracy matters more than distance at Pleasant Point. The flat layout makes walking a breeze, and the water features keep things interesting.

Rating: 3.9 (27 reviews)
Location: 8 Barnwell Dr, Beaufort, SC 29907
Contact: (843) 986-9432
Website: Visit Website

3) Sweetwater Country Club

Sweetwater Country Club, tucked away in Barnwell, South Carolina, calls itself the best kept secret in the CSRA. You get 18 holes of green fairways and pretty solid views as you play.

This is a chill place for a relaxed round. The greens are plush, and it’s a pleasant golf experience overall.

The clubhouse isn’t just for golfers—folks book it for weddings, parties, and meetings too. It’s a nice bonus if you need event space.

They welcome anyone looking to play and unwind. You get both golf and a spot for gatherings here.

Rating: 4.5 (101 reviews)
Location: 571 Johnny George Ln, Barnwell, SC 29812
Contact: (803) 259-5004
Website: Visit Website

4) Traces Golf Club & Shankers Grille

Traces Golf Club gives you 27 holes in Florence, South Carolina. It’s just off I-20 and I-95, so you can get there pretty easily from just about anywhere.

They’ve been voted best in the Pee Dee region for several years running—2019 through 2023, actually. That says a lot about what you’ll find when you show up.

The club’s open every day from 7:00am to 6:00pm. You can grab a bite at Shankers Grille after your round.

There’s a driving range for practice, and if you need a spot for a tournament or group event, they’ve got you covered.

Rating: 4.5 (170 reviews)
Location: 4322 Southborough Rd, Florence, SC 29501
Contact: (843) 662-7775
Website: Visit Website

5) Cheraw State Park Golf Club

Cheraw State Park Golf Club gives you a solid round in a gorgeous park setting. Tom Jackson designed it, and it’s got that old-school 1900s golf feel.

The greens slope gently, and most holes have wide landing areas. Lake Juniper pops up on a few holes, and honestly, it’s a beautiful backdrop.

You won’t see condos or roads messing up the scenery—just forests, lakes, and the occasional wildlife sighting. The course is a Certified Audubon International Wildlife Sanctuary, which is pretty cool.

You can book a tee time online or just call the pro shop.

Rating: 4.8 (85 reviews)
Location: Cheraw, SC 29520
Contact: (843) 537-2215
Website: Visit Website

6) Shadowmoss Golf & Country Club

Shadowmoss Golf & Country Club brings you 18 holes in Charleston. It’s a public spot, and everyone from beginners to regulars can have a good time here.

There’s a laid-back vibe, plus an eatery and bar right on site. Grab something to eat or drink after your round—no need to go anywhere else.

The pro shop opens early, at 6:30 AM, and stays open till 7:30 PM. You’ve got options whether you’re an early bird or a late finisher.

They host fun stuff like music bingo, trivia, and Friday night scrambles. Sign up for their email club if you want updates on what’s coming up.

Rating: 4.1 (321 reviews)
Location: 21 Dunvegan Dr, Charleston, SC 29414
Contact: (843) 556-8251
Website: Visit Website

7) Links At Stono Ferry

The Links at Stono Ferry is a semi-private course tucked away in Charleston’s Lowcountry. You’ll play under ancient live oaks, and the breeze off the Intracoastal Waterway is always nice.

They put a lot of effort into making every round memorable, whether you’re a member or just dropping in for the day. After golf, you can hang out with a craft beer and catch up with friends.

The vibe is all about community—family, friends, and regulars hanging out together. You can play as a guest or look into membership if you’re planning to come back a lot.

Find it at 4812 Stono Links Dr in Hollywood, just about a half-hour from downtown Charleston. It’s classic Lowcountry links with some modern touches and a social scene.

Rating: 4.4 (487 reviews)
Location: 4812 Stono Links Dr, Hollywood, SC 29449
Contact: (843) 763-1817
Website: Visit Website

8) The Aiken Golf Club

The Aiken Golf Club lets you play a classic course in Aiken. It actually ranked as the 7th best classic course in the whole state, private or public.

You can pick an annual or monthly membership, whatever fits your wallet. Membership gets you regular access to the course and its perks.

If you’re working on your game, they offer chances to practice and improve. Tee times are only by phone, so call ahead—no online booking here.

Got a big group (12 or more)? Reach out directly to set it up and get the details.

Rating: 4.6 (217 reviews)
Location: 555 Highland Park Dr SW, Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: (803) 649-6029
Website: Visit Website

9) Brays Island Plantation Golf

Brays Island Plantation Golf is a private course over in Sheldon. It’s pretty exclusive—membership or an invite from a member is required.

The place is well-kept, and you’ll notice the high standards right away. Amenities are top-notch, and it’s got that classic plantation feel.

Being private, it’s a quieter, more intimate golf experience than the public tracks. The course is scenic, peaceful, and feels a little like a retreat.

You can expect a premium experience if you get the chance to play here.

Rating: 4.8 (48 reviews)
Location: 1 Bryans Ferry Pl, Sheldon, SC 29941
Contact: (843) 846-3100
Website: Visit Website)

10) Coosaw Creek Country

Coosaw Creek Country brings an upscale golf experience to North Charleston. Arthur Hills designed the 18-hole, Par 71 course, weaving it through wetlands and the low country’s wild scenery.

You’ll spot big oaks and pines lining the fairways. Golf Magazine called it a “must play” in Charleston, and Golf Digest gave it four stars.

The facility’s got a full practice area, including a natural grass driving range. Chipping and putting greens sit right by the clubhouse.

Inside the gated community, you’ll find a 10,000-square-foot clubhouse. Members also get access to swimming and tennis facilities.

Rating: 4.5 (220 reviews)
Location: 4110 Club Course Dr, North Charleston, SC 29420
Contact: (843) 767-9000
Website: Visit Website

Understanding Affordable Public Golf in Hampton County

Public golf in Hampton County isn’t going to break the bank. Green fees usually land between $25 and $65 per round.

Course prices swing based on things like upkeep, amenities, and what season it is. Some spots just keep it simple.

What Makes a Public Golf Course Affordable

Public courses cut costs by running with smaller teams and sticking to basic features. You’re not going to find fancy clubhouses or five-star dining at most of these places.

They’ll often use turf that’s tough and cheap to maintain. Cart rentals? Totally optional in a lot of cases, so you can walk and pocket the savings.

Key cost-saving features:

• Not much in the pro shop
• Simple restrooms
• Grab-and-go snack bars
• Fewer marshals on the course

A lot of these courses focus on keeping the fairways and greens playable, not perfect. You get solid conditions, just without the frills of a private club.

Typical Green Fees in South Carolina

Most public courses in South Carolina charge anywhere from $30 to $80 for 18 holes, especially during peak months. Hampton County usually sits at the lower end, thanks to its rural setting.

Average prices look like this:

• Weekdays: $25–45
• Weekends: $35–65
• Seniors: 10–20% off
• Twilight: $15–35

Summer’s the priciest, while winter can save you a bundle. Some courses sell annual memberships for frequent players, usually $800–$1,500 a year.

Cart fees tack on another $15–25. Sometimes carts come with your green fee, but not always.

Factors Influencing Course Pricing

Course condition really drives price. If the greens and fairways look great, expect to pay more than you would at a scruffier spot.

Location is a big one too. Hampton, South Carolina golf courses charge less than the fancy coastal resorts, mostly because land and operating costs are lower.

Main pricing factors:

• Maintenance budget – irrigation, equipment, that kind of thing
• Staff size – fewer people on payroll means less overhead
• Amenities – practice areas, driving ranges, etc.
• Course age – older layouts often have lower fees

Seasons matter a lot. Spring and fall are prime time, so rates jump. Summer’s hot and winter’s chilly, so you can snag deals.

Nearby competition keeps prices honest. If there are a bunch of public courses close together, you’ll usually get a better deal.

Planning a Budget-Friendly Golf Experience

Timing and a little research can seriously slash your golf costs. A lot of folks overpay just because they don’t know the tricks.

Best Times to Book for Lower Rates

Early morning and late afternoon tee times are your best bet for saving cash in Hampton County. You’ll often pay 20–40% less than if you tee off at noon.

Weekdays are way cheaper than weekends. If you can swing a Tuesday or Wednesday, go for it.

Off-season—think December through February—brings the biggest discounts. Courses will drop prices by $15–30 per round when it’s cooler out.

Last-minute bookings (within 48 hours) can score you a deal too. Courses would rather fill a slot than let it go empty.

Twilight rates usually start around 2 or 3 PM. You’ll save $20–40, and in summer, you’ve still got time for 18 holes.

Tools and Resources for Finding Discounts

Apps like GolfNow and TeeOff show you real-time prices and exclusive deals. Sometimes you’ll find “hot deals” that knock 50% off.

Check out course websites for member/guest rates and promos you won’t find anywhere else. Sign up for their emails if you want a heads-up on sales.

Golf discount cards—South Carolina has a few—give you year-round savings at several courses. Not a bad investment if you play a lot.

Group discounts kick in with 12 or more players. Call the course directly and see if they’ll work with you.

Local courses often post flash sales or last-minute specials on their social media. Following them on Facebook or Instagram can pay off.

Frequently Asked Questions

Golfers in Hampton County always have questions about costs, value, and what to expect at public courses. It makes sense—nobody wants to overpay or show up unprepared.

What are the green fees for the top-rated public golf courses in Hampton County?

Green fees at Hampton County’s best public courses usually fall between $25 and $65, depending on the day and season.

Old South Golf Links charges $45–55 for weekends, $35–45 on weekdays.

The Landing at Pleasant Point is in the same ballpark—weekends around $50–60, weekdays $40–50.

Sweetwater Country Club is about $35–45 for most rounds. Twilight rates start at $25 after 2 PM on weekdays.

Traces Golf Club usually charges $30–50. At most courses, cart fees add another $15–20.

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

Cheraw State Park Golf Club is a steal, with green fees under $30 most days. The course is well-kept and has nice views at budget-friendly prices.

Old South Golf Links is a good pick for intermediate players. You’ll pay a bit more, but the conditions are worth it.

Sweetwater Country Club’s twilight deals are tough to beat. Play after 2 PM and your wallet will thank you.

The Landing at Pleasant Point sometimes bundles cart rental into the price. That can save you a few bucks compared to paying separately.

Can you list the public golf courses in Hampton County with the most affordable membership options?

Most public courses in Hampton County don’t do full memberships—they’re daily-fee places. Sweetwater Country Club does have a basic public membership, starting around $800 a year.

Some courses sell discount cards or frequent player passes instead. Those usually cost $50–100 and knock a few bucks off each round.

Cheraw State Park offers South Carolina state park passes that include golf discounts. The annual pass runs about $50 and takes $5–10 off per round.

A lot of courses have senior discounts on certain days. If you’re over 65, you might save 10–20% on weekday rates.

Are there any public golf courses in Hampton County that are particularly recommended for retirees?

Cheraw State Park Golf Club is great for retirees. It’s affordable, relaxed, and doesn’t beat you up if your game’s a little rusty.

Sweetwater Country Club has senior-friendly features like shorter tees and easy cart access. Their weekday senior rates make it even more appealing.

The Landing at Pleasant Point is super welcoming for older players. Staff are happy to help, and the pace is nice and easy.

Honestly, most Hampton County courses are quieter during the week. Retirees can take their time and enjoy the round.

What amenities can one expect at the most affordable public golf courses in Hampton County?

Most courses have the basics: pro shops, cart rentals, and a spot to practice. Cheraw State Park Golf Club has a driving range and putting green.

Traces Golf Club features Shankers Grille for a bite and a drink after your round. It’s casual and won’t cost much.

You’ll usually find cart storage, club cleaning, and some basic locker rooms. Club rentals are available at some spots if you’re traveling light.

Practice areas vary. Most have putting greens, but not every course offers a driving range—so double-check if that matters to you.

How do the costs of playing at Hampton County’s affordable public golf courses compare to those in nearby Bluffton and Hilton Head?

Hampton County courses are way cheaper than Hilton Head’s premium golf destinations. You could easily save $50-100 per round compared to those resort spots.

Bluffton public courses usually run $60-90 for a weekend round. In contrast, Hampton County’s range is more like $25-65, which is a pretty big deal if you’re watching your wallet.

Honestly, the quality gap isn’t always as big as you’d expect for the price difference. Hampton County courses still keep things in decent shape while charging a lot less than those coastal resorts.

Keep in mind, if you’re coming from Bluffton or Hilton Head, you’ll need to tack on an extra 30-45 minutes of drive time. Still, plenty of golfers think the savings on green fees make the longer trip worth it.