Bluffton, South Carolina, is more than a gateway to Hilton Head Island. It’s also a golf destination in its own right. Known for its Lowcountry charm, warm climate, and easy access to world-class greens, Bluffton provides the perfect mix of challenging layouts and scenic views. Whether you’re a seasoned player or picking up your clubs for the first time, this coastal town delivers a memorable experience.
This guide explores the best golf courses Bluffton, SC has to offer, as well as some of Hilton Head’s most iconic fairways just minutes away. Together, these courses showcase the Lowcountry’s rich golfing tradition and invite players to tee off in unforgettable surroundings.
Bluffton’s Local Favorites
When it comes to Bluffton public golf courses, you have several great options to choose from. Here are four of the area’s most popular courses:
Island West Golf Club
Designed by PGA Tour legend Fuzzy Zoeller, Island West features wide fairways and generous landing areas, making it accessible to golfers of all skill levels. Its forgiving design is balanced by strategically placed bunkers and water hazards that demand smart shot placement. Towering pines and lush wetlands give this course a distinct Lowcountry feel.
Eagles Pointe Golf Club
Designed by Davis Love III, this course weaves through mossy oak trees, towering pines, and calm lagoons. While it’s beautiful, it’s also challenging. You’ll find a signature risk-and-reward layout that will be fun for experienced players, but is also a good challenge for beginners. The course recently underwent renovation. People also love how friendly the staff here are. Eagle’s Pointe has memorable holes and friendly play.
Rose Hill Golf Club
Rose Hill Golf Club stands out for its relaxed atmosphere and budget-friendly pricing. The layout winds through oak-lined fairways and natural lagoons, and is therefore super pretty. The front nine provides a gentle start, while the back nine requires more precision. This makes it a balanced game for golfers of varying abilities. Its approachable design makes it a favorite among locals and visitors.
Crescent Pointe Golf Club
If you’re looking for a course with dramatic views, Crescent Pointe is the standout. Designed by Arnold Palmer, it features elevated tee boxes, rolling terrain, and holes that play along the Colleton River. The risk-reward opportunities here keep golfers coming back… especially those who enjoy testing their shot-making skills. The signature par 3s are especially memorable.
Hilton Head Icons
Just a short drive from Bluffton, Hilton Head is home to some of the country’s most famous courses. While Bluffton shines with accessible options, Hilton Head delivers big-name designs and PGA Tour history. If you’re exploring Hilton Head golf courses, here are some you can’t miss:
Harbor Town Golf Links
Home to the RBC Heritage on the PGA Tour, Harbor Town is a bucket-list destination for serious golfers. Known for its narrow fairways, small greens, and iconic lighthouse backdrop on the 18th hole, this course rewards accuracy over distance. The strategic layout makes every shot matter, giving players a true professional-level challenge.
Heron Point by Pete Dye
Heron Point embodies Pete Dye’s reputation for creativity and difficulty. Expect bright greens, water hazards, and sharp angles that make club selection critical. Though challenging, the course is designed to accommodate different skill levels with multiple tee boxes. The striking visuals and modern design make it a standout among Hilton Head’s options.
Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III
As Hilton Head’s first course, Atlantic Dunes was completely redesigned by Davis Love III to reflect a more modern and environmentally sensitive approach. It blends coastal dunes, native grasses, and ocean breezes into a scenic yet playable course. Wide fairways give golfers confidence off the tee, while well-placed hazards demand attention on approach shots.
Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course
This is Hilton Head’s most photographed course, thanks to its sweeping ocean views on the back nine. The Robert Trent Jones design emphasizes wide fairways and expansive greens, making it a fair yet exciting challenge. The signature 10th hole, which plays directly along the beach, is one of the most memorable in the Lowcountry.
Arthur Hills Golf Course
Set within Palmetto Dunes, the Arthur Hills Golf Course is known for its rolling fairways and natural lagoons. Precision is key here, as water comes into play on many holes. The layout requires creative shot-making, especially on approach shots into well-protected greens. It’s a course that rewards thoughtful play over raw power.
Shipyard Golf Club
Shipyard combines three nine-hole layouts, giving golfers the chance to mix and match for variety. Each nine presents a slightly different character, from tree-lined fairways to water-heavy challenges. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for groups looking to enjoy a customizable round.
Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club
Port Royal includes multiple courses, but the Barony Course is especially popular among visiting golfers. Known for its challenging greens and strategic bunkering, the course requires a steady short game. The natural setting, with mature trees and native wildlife, enhances the overall playing experience.
Final Thoughts
Bluffton is more than a pass-through town on the way to Hilton Head. It’s also a golf destination with its own unique flavor. From approachable layouts like Rose Hill and Island West to championship-caliber tracks like Crescent Pointe and Eagles Point, the Bluffton public golf courses deliver something for every type of player.
Meanwhile, Hilton Head’s legendary greens range from Harbor Town’s PGA Tour to the oceanfront drama of the Robert Trent Jones course. This adds another layer of world-class play just minutes away. Together, Bluffton and Hilton Head form a premier golf hub.
If you’re planning a golf getaway, playing one of the many public golf courses in Hilton Head alongside your Bluffton rounds ensures a well-rounded experience. Pack your clubs, plan your tee times, and prepare to discover why the Lowcountry has become one of the most sought-after golf destinations in the country.
Book Your Bluffton Vacation Rental with Bluffton Traveler
After a day on the fairways, there’s nothing better than relaxing in a comfortable rental that feels like home. Bluffton Traveler connects you with vacation rentals designed for golfers and families alike, providing convenience, comfort, and proximity to all the area’s top courses.
Book your Bluffton vacation rental today and experience the perfect balance of world-class golf and Lowcountry living.