Women's Golf
While countless courses throughout the Palmetto State are wonderfully women-friendly, Golf for Women magazine has recognized three as outstanding in this category; Willbrook Plantation in the Myrtle Beach area and Kiawah's Ospry Point near Charleston. The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort was in 2002 and 2003 editions of Golf for Women. Criteria used in the selection process included playability, multiple tee offerings, layout, aesthetics, amenities, and overall quality.
Rest assured, “women-friendly” does not equate to “easy.” The Ocean Course at Kiawah, ranked among the Top 100 Courses in the world, has hosted a variety of international events including two World Cups and the Ryder Cup.
Whether you are new to the game or a reigning club champion, South Carolina is an excellent place to improve your game, with a variety of golf schools throughout the state featuring programs tailored to women. In addition, many clubs, have female professionals on staff who are sensitive to women concerned not only with playing skills, but golf etiquette as well. Cindy Evans, head teaching professional at The Dunes Golf & Beach Club in Myrtle Beach, acknowledges that many women golfers, and particularly beginners, feel more comfortable learning the game from a woman instructor, and notes that South Carolina has a wealth of top-quality female teachers.
There are active Executive Women’s Golf chapters in the state that welcome visiting members from across the country to their scheduled outings, and members are always eager to share their favorite layouts around the state.
As the popularity of golf has risen over the past few decades, so has the participation and level of play of women. South Carolina is the perfect “girls-only” getaway golf destination, yet is also ideal for family golf vacations. Along with a variety of accommodations options and great golf values, a number of areas throughout the state offer special family events. Among those is the Myrtle Beach area, whose programs include free golf for juniors and couples tournaments.
Women do not live by greens alone, and one of the key ingredients to a great golf vacation is access to a variety of off-course activities. In this regard, South Carolina is truly world-class. From the foothills and lakes of the Upstate to the beaches of the sun-drenched coast, South Carolina has not only spectacular scenic beauty but outstanding shopping, historical attractions, spas, dining, entertainment, and cultural activities guaranteed to enhance any golf trip.