Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course)
- Par
- 72
- Yardage
- 7,876yds
- Holes
- 18
- Opened
- 1991
- Access
- Resort
- Design
- Modern
History
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, Pete Dye's spectacular creation along South Carolina's coast, was purpose-built for the 1991 Ryder Cup — the War on the Shore — just months after construction. Its 10 oceanside or oceanview holes, buffeted by Atlantic breezes, make it one of the most scenic and brutally wind-exposed courses in America. Phil Mickelson's 2021 PGA Championship victory here — becoming the oldest major winner in history at 50 — was one of the most emotional moments in major championship history.
Signature Hole
17th hole, par 3, 197 yards — an oceanfront par-3 where wind can turn a wedge into a long iron
Notable Tournaments
- 1991 Ryder Cup
- 1997 World Cup of Golf
- 2012 PGA Championship
- 2021 PGA Championship
In the context of the top 100
Where this course sits against every ranked course on the list.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course) public or private?
Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course) is a resort course, open to resort guests and the public; tee times are usually booked through the resort.
Who designed Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course)?
Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course) was designed by Pete Dye and opened in 1991.
Where does Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course) rank among the top golf courses in America?
Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course) ranks #31 on our consensus ranking of America's 100 greatest golf courses, synthesized from Golf Digest, Golfweek, and GOLF Magazine.
What is the signature hole at Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course)?
The signature hole at Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course) is the 17th hole, par 3, 197 yards — an oceanfront par-3 where wind can turn a wedge into a long iron.