How Much Does a Golf Trip to South Carolina Cost?
Many weekend golfers underestimate the planning needed to budget their golf trip cost in South Carolina, especially during the popular winter months when the region offers pleasant temperatures and less crowded courses. South Carolina's Grand Strand area, including Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head, is a prime destination for those seeking a family-friendly golf vacation with a variety of course options and lodging choices.
This guide breaks down key cost factors, practical logistics, and suggested courses to help you plan a golf trip in South Carolina with realistic expectations for expenses and timing.
Understanding these elements early can help you maximize your budget while enjoying quality rounds on some of the region's leading golf courses.
Where to stay
The choice of lodging greatly influences your overall golf trip cost in South Carolina. Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach offer numerous resort-style accommodations that cater to golfers looking for convenience and comfort close to the courses.
Other Myrtle Beach resorts such as Bayview Resort, Breakers Myrtle Beach Resort, and Caribbean Resort & Villas offer varied pricing and amenities, suitable for different budget levels and family needs. Many of these resorts provide oceanfront views and condo-style units, which can help reduce meal costs by allowing self-catering options.
On Hilton Head Island, the Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa offers access to golf as well as beachfront dining and amenities, catering to travelers who want a balance between golf and relaxation.
Courses to prioritize
South Carolina’s golf offerings range from championship layouts to approachable courses. Prioritizing where to play based on your skill level and budget can impact green fee expenses significantly.
- Aberdeen Country Club
A short drive west of North Myrtle Beach, Aberdeen Country Club presents two nines — Highlands and Meadows — offering varied challenges in a scenic setting. It’s a great mid-range option for golfers seeking quality without premium pricing.
- Arcadian Shores Golf Club
Recognized by Golf Digest as one of America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses during the 1970s and 1980s, Arcadian Shores in Horry County has a reputation for quality golf at a reasonable price point, making it a solid value for winter rounds.
- Arrowhead Country Club
Featuring three distinct nines designed by Raymond Floyd and Tom Jackson, Arrowhead Country Club in Myrtle Beach offers variety and competitive challenge. The course has a well-earned reputation and is suitable for golfers looking for a premium golf experience that remains accessible.
- Barefoot Resort (Dye Club)
Located in North Myrtle Beach, this Dye Course is known for its challenging layout and is the site of Darius Rucker’s Monday After the Masters tournament. While rates may be on the higher side, the course is an excellent choice for golfers seeking a memorable round during their trip.
These courses represent a range of green fee costs and difficulty levels, allowing budget-conscious golfers to tailor their itinerary accordingly. Booking tee times in advance during winter can yield better rates.
Budget & trip cost
Estimating the overall cost for a golf trip to South Carolina involves multiple components: lodging, green fees, transportation, and daily expenses such as food and entertainment.
Lodging: Resorts like Barefoot Resort typically offer nightly rates that vary seasonally, with winter months often providing competitive pricing. Condo-style units at resorts can range from moderate to higher prices depending on size and amenities, but the ability to self-cater can reduce meal expenditures.
Green fees: Courses in the Myrtle Beach area generally charge between $40 and $100 per round during the winter, with premier courses like the Dye Club or Caledonia Golf & Fish Club on the higher end. Booking early or playing during weekdays can sometimes offer discounts.
Transportation: Renting a car is advisable for ease of access to courses spread along the Grand Strand and Hilton Head. Rental costs vary but can be budgeted as part of the overall trip cost. Local airports serving the region include Myrtle Beach International Airport and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport for Hilton Head travelers.
Food and incidentals: Dining costs can be controlled by choosing accommodations with kitchen facilities or selecting mid-range restaurants. Expect to budget accordingly for meals and small entertainment expenses.
Overall, a typical winter golf trip for a family or group planning 3–4 rounds over 4–5 days in South Carolina may range from moderate to premium budgets depending on accommodation choices and course selections. Planning ahead and taking advantage of package deals or multi-round discounts can help control costs.
Season & best time to plan
South Carolina’s mild winter climate makes it a preferred destination for golf travel when northern regions face colder weather. Winter months typically have fewer crowds, allowing for more flexible tee times and potential savings on lodging and green fees.
While the peak golf seasons in South Carolina are spring and fall, many golfers choose winter for the quieter courses and comfortable temperatures, usually ranging from the high 40s to mid-60s (°F). This cooler weather is ideal for those who prefer to avoid the heat and humidity of summer.
Planning your trip during the winter also means you may find better package options and promotions, particularly in the Myrtle Beach area. Booking early is recommended to secure your preferred accommodations and tee times.
Getting there & logistics
The primary gateways for golf travelers to South Carolina’s Grand Strand are Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) and, for those heading to Hilton Head Island, Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) in nearby Georgia.
Once you arrive, renting a car is the most practical way to navigate the region’s spread-out courses and accommodations. Distances between Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head exceed 100 miles, so plan transportation accordingly if you intend to visit both areas.
The Grand Strand area features well-maintained highways and signage directing travelers to key courses and resorts. GPS and mobile mapping apps are reliable for driving directions to golf venues such as Aberdeen Country Club, Arcadian Shores Golf Club, and the Barefoot Resort courses.
Suggested itinerary
A typical 4 to 5-day golf trip in South Carolina for weekend golfers might include 3 to 4 rounds, allowing time to enjoy the local culture and relax between rounds. For families, selecting resorts with amenities beyond golf can add value to the trip.
Day 1: Arrival and settling into your chosen resort, such as Barefoot Resort or Bayview Resort. Consider a light evening meal nearby.
Day 2: Tee off at a mid-range course like Arcadian Shores Golf Club to warm up. Afternoon free for family activities or resort amenities.
Day 3: Play a premier course such as the Dye Club at Barefoot Resort, known for its challenge and reputation. Evening dining at local eateries or resort facilities.
Day 4: Play a course like Aberdeen Country Club or Arrowhead Country Club, offering different styles of play and scenery. Optional evening social or rest.
Day 5: Departure or optional additional rounds depending on schedule and budget.
Practical tips
Book tee times well in advance, especially for premier courses during winter season when demand spikes for the milder weather. Many courses offer online booking, making it easier to secure preferred tee times.
Consider accommodations that provide kitchen facilities to reduce dining expenses for families. Resorts like Barefoot and Bayview have condo-style lodging that supports this.
Pack appropriately for winter golf, including layering options, as temperatures can vary widely from morning to afternoon. Waterproof shoes and gear are useful given occasional rain during winter months.
Maintain a reasonable pace of play by arriving early and following local course rules. Winter seasons often have less crowded courses, but it’s still best to respect tee time schedules.
Who this trip fits
This golf trip to South Carolina is well suited to weekend golfers seeking a family-friendly vacation with access to diverse courses and resort amenities. Winter timing offers fewer crowds and a comfortable climate for players of all levels.
Families will appreciate resorts with condo-style lodging and nearby activities beyond golf, while solo travelers and groups can customize their itinerary with a mix of challenging and accessible courses.
Golfers looking for a balance of cost control and quality experience will find South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head areas offer a flexible range of options matching various budgets.
Ready to plan your South Carolina golf trip? Explore courses & packages in South Carolina to find the best deals and tee times for your winter golf vacation.
What is the average green fee cost for courses in South Carolina during winter?
When is the best time to plan a golf trip to South Carolina?
Is renting a car necessary for a golf trip in South Carolina?
Are there family-friendly accommodations available for golf trips in Myrtle Beach?
How many rounds of golf should I plan for a weekend trip?
Are stay-and-play packages available in South Carolina?
Stay-and-Play & Package Options
While South Carolina offers a wide range of golf courses and accommodations, combining lodging and golf into a package can simplify planning and often reduce overall costs. Many resorts in the Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head areas feature stay-and-play deals that bundle rounds of golf with overnight stays.
Barefoot Resort, for example, frequently offers packages that include accommodations plus rounds on the Love, Fazio, Dye, and Norman courses. These packages can be especially advantageous for families or groups looking to play multiple courses without the hassle of separate bookings.
Other resorts, such as Bayview Resort and Caribbean Resort & Villas, also promote seasonal golf packages, often adding perks like discounted cart fees or early tee times. Checking the individual resort or course websites directly can provide the most up-to-date package information.
Additionally, booking through dedicated golf travel planners or InteGolf's platform can help uncover exclusive stay-and-play offers tailored to winter travelers seeking value and convenience.
Family-Friendly Activities Beyond Golf
South Carolina’s Grand Strand region is well known for its variety of attractions that appeal to family members of all ages, making it an ideal destination for a family-friendly golf vacation.
- Beaches and Waterfronts: Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head both feature miles of accessible beaches where families can relax, swim, or enjoy water sports. Many resorts are located within walking distance or a short drive to the coast.
- Local Attractions: Nearby amusement parks, aquariums, and mini-golf courses provide entertainment for children and non-golfing family members. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk offers shops, dining, and seasonal events.
- Resort Amenities: Many golf resorts, such as Barefoot Resort and Bayview Resort, include pools, fitness centers, and kids’ programs that allow parents to balance golf time with family activities.
- Nature and Wildlife: For families interested in outdoor exploration, places like the Intracoastal Waterway, nature preserves, and parks provide opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
Planning some non-golf activities into your itinerary can enhance the trip experience for all family members, ensuring that everyone has options beyond the fairways.
Additional Courses Worth Considering
Beyond the more prominently featured courses, South Carolina’s golf scene includes several other venues that provide good value and diverse playing conditions for winter visitors.
- Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Located in Pawleys Island, Caledonia is set on a former rice plantation and offers a unique Lowcountry golf experience. The course is known for its natural marshlands and oak-lined fairways, delivering a different style of play compared to Grand Strand courses.
- Founders Club at Pawleys Island
This course, also near Pawleys Island, provides a more secluded atmosphere with challenging holes and a reputation for good conditioning. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to explore golf options outside the main Myrtle Beach area.
- Colonial Charters Golf Club
Situated in Longs, Colonial Charters offers fairways and greens that test accuracy and strategy. Its affordable rates make it popular among budget-conscious golfers looking for quality rounds.
Transportation Tips for Families
When traveling with family, selecting the right transportation mode and vehicle can influence convenience and budget.
- Car Rental: Renting a spacious vehicle, such as an SUV or minivan, can accommodate golf bags and family luggage comfortably. It also provides flexibility to explore multiple courses and attractions.
- Airport Transfers: Myrtle Beach International Airport is the closest major airport for most Grand Strand golf destinations, while Hilton Head travelers often use Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. Scheduling airport shuttles or arranging car rentals in advance can reduce stress upon arrival.
- Local Driving: South Carolina’s highways are generally well maintained, but checking traffic conditions during holiday periods or weekends can help avoid delays.
Additional Resources & Planning Help
To assist with detailed trip planning, consider using resources such as the South Carolina golf destination page on InteGolf, which provides comprehensive listings of courses and accommodations. This can help you compare options and find current deals.
Booking tee times early through InteGolf or directly with courses ensures access to preferred times, especially in the busy winter season. For families, confirming resort amenities in advance helps tailor the stay to everyone’s needs.
Looking to customize your golf trip cost in South Carolina? Browse South Carolina golf courses and accommodations to create a trip that fits your family's budget and preferences this winter.