The Ocean Course
1000 Ocean Course Dr, Kiawah Island, South Carolina, 29455
The Ocean Course Scorecard
| Front 9 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | OUT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 36 |
| Ocean | 375 | 528 | 367 | 432 | 185 | 377 | 505 | 170 | 415 | 3,354 |
| Dye | 365 | 501 | 319 | 401 | 177 | 345 | 493 | 166 | 406 | 3,173 |
| Dye | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| kiawah | 357 | 495 | 310 | 396 | 171 | 331 | 484 | 151 | 399 | 3,094 |
| Handicap | 15 | 3 | 9 | 1 | 11 | 13 | 7 | 17 | 5 | — |
| Back 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | IN | TOT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 36 | 72 |
| Ocean | 378 | 521 | 420 | 371 | 171 | 391 | 555 | 197 | 421 | 3,425 | 6,779 |
| Dye | 360 | 506 | 412 | 364 | 161 | 381 | 540 | 182 | 396 | 3,302 | 6,475 |
| Dye | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| kiawah | 347 | 476 | 398 | 333 | 151 | 358 | 491 | 168 | 386 | 3,108 | 6,202 |
| Handicap | 18 | 10 | 8 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 4 | 6 | 2 | — | — |
Tees, Slope & Course Rating
| Tee | Slope | Course Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ocean | 139 | 73.4 |
| Dye | 136 | 72.5 |
| Dye | 134 | 72 |
| kiawah | 132 | 70.9 |
The Ocean Course by the Numbers
The Ocean Course plays to a par of 72 and measures 6,779 yards from the ocean tees (6,202 yards from the kiawah tees). The layout features 4 par-3s, 10 par-4s and 4 par-5s. The number-one handicap hole is the par-4 4th — statistically the toughest hole on the course, while the 10th rates as the most forgiving. The longest test is the 16th, stretching 555 yards from the tips, and the shortest is the 8th at 170 yards.
About The Ocean Course
The Ocean Course is a layout that will test your skills while rewarding your sense of adventure. Stretching from 6,202 to 6,779 yards with a par of 72, it features four distinct tee options—Ocean, Dye, Dye, and Kiawah—catering to golfers of varying abilities. The course is famous for its challenging winds off the Atlantic, manicured bermudagrass fairways, and undulating greens that demand precision with both drives and putts. Expect a mix of strategic design and natural beauty, as you navigate each hole that unfolds amidst coastal landscapes and salt marshes.
What to Expect
You'll want to bring your best game; the course has a slope rating of 152 from the back tees, making it suitable for low to mid-handicap players. Keep an eye on the wind, as it can dramatically alter your club selections, especially on the par 3s and long par 4s. Course management is key here, so think about safe landing areas and club up when necessary. Be prepared for tricky undulations on the greens, which can test even the best putters.
Fun Fact
Did you know The Ocean Course hosted the 1991 Ryder Cup, marking the first time the tournament was held on a course designed by Pete Dye? It's known for its tough conditions, especially when the wind kicks up off the ocean!
About Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island is a serene slice of paradise off the coast of South Carolina, known for its unspoiled beaches and lush maritime forests. The island exudes a relaxed charm, while also catering to visitors with high-end dining and luxurious resorts. Whether you’re biking along scenic trails or spotting wildlife at the Kiawah Island Nature Center, every corner of this island feels like a getaway from the everyday hustle.
Nearby Attractions
When you're done on the course, consider grabbing a meal at The Ocean Room, where ocean views complement their locally sourced seafood offerings. If you’re looking for a bit of history, take a short drive to Charleston, known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culinary scene. For a cozy stay, check into the Sanctuary Hotel, which offers a luxurious retreat just a swing away from the fairways.