Best Country Clubs in Pawleys Island

By The Taylor Keenan Team

Pawleys Island is home to some of the most respected golf clubs along the South Carolina coast, and knowing what each one offers can help you make a smarter decision—especially when lifestyle, location, and property value all come into play. From exclusive private golf experiences to semi-private courses with strong local followings, the area offers a range of club options to match your goals. We’re here to help you understand these differences so you can choose the right fit for their home and lifestyle.

• Pawleys Island clubs include both private and semi-private options.
• Each club offers a distinct golf experience and membership structure.
• Amenities vary—some clubs focus purely on golf, while others offer broader lifestyle appeal.
• Club proximity can enhance daily life and influence home resale value.

Pawleys Plantation is one of the area’s most well-known clubs, offering a semi-private golf experience with a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course. The layout blends natural marshland, tree-lined fairways, and challenging holes that appeal to year-round players and seasonal visitors alike.

• Designed by Jack Nicklaus with scenic coastal routing.
• Semi-private club offering memberships and public access.
• Convenient to neighborhoods along Highway 17 and central Pawleys Island.
• Practice areas and instructional programs available for members.

This is a strong option for buyers who want regular access to a highly regarded course with flexible membership options.

Litchfield Country Club is one of the oldest clubs in the region and continues to attract golfers looking for a traditional, walkable course and a relaxed, welcoming environment. It’s located near Litchfield Beach and many established residential communities.

• Classic Lowcountry course with mature landscaping.
• Semi-private access with member programs and tee time advantages.
• Community-oriented atmosphere with longtime local support.
• Close to dining, shopping, and coastal access points.

Litchfield offers value for buyers who appreciate an approachable course and a club that reflects Pawleys Island’s laid-back pace.

The Reserve is the only fully private club on this list and offers an elevated golf experience in a gated, residential setting. Designed by Greg Norman, the course is known for its natural beauty, thoughtful design, and excellent condition throughout the year.

• Private club with exclusive member access.
• Greg Norman design with strong shot value and strategic layout.
• Tied to The Reserve residential community and nearby marina.
• Offers a more intimate club environment without public play.

This club appeals to buyers who want the privacy and consistency of a member-only experience.

Founders Club offers a more open, social golf atmosphere with a links-style layout and semi-private access. The course is visually striking, with native grasses, sandy waste areas, and wide fairways that make it enjoyable for a range of players.

• Semi-private course with flexible membership options.
• Open, walkable layout with a focus on golf.
• Relaxed clubhouse setting with basic member services.
• Located near central Pawleys Island with easy highway access.

This club is ideal for those who want a friendly, casual golf experience without the exclusivity or formality of a private club.

Tradition Golf Club is located near Willbrook Boulevard and serves as a favorite for consistent play and scenic surroundings. While not a full-service country club, it offers a respected course with a loyal following and convenient location.

• Semi-private course with daily play options.
• Broad appeal for local and seasonal golfers alike.
• Well-maintained layout suitable for casual and serious play.
• Accessible from a number of Pawleys Island neighborhoods.

Tradition is a practical choice for buyers who value year-round golf without high membership fees.

River Club is known for its tight fairways, water features, and well-paced rounds. As part of the Founders Collection, it offers reciprocal access with other area courses and fits well into the lifestyle of local golf enthusiasts.

• Semi-private course with available memberships.
• Compact, scenic layout with a strong pace of play.
• Convenient location near residential communities.
• Part of a broader collection of courses with shared access.

River Club is a smart fit for buyers who want regular play and a club close to home.

Yes. The Reserve Golf Club is fully private. Most others in the area are semi-private, offering a mix of memberships and public tee times.

Some clubs offer limited social programming, but most focus primarily on golf. For full lifestyle clubs, buyers often look at broader resort areas nearby.

Yes. Homes near well-maintained golf courses often attract buyers who value access, and proximity to a respected club can support resale appeal.

When you’re looking at homes in Pawleys Island, understanding the local club landscape gives you an edge. At The Taylor Keenan Team, we know which clubs deliver strong value, what membership options are available, and how these choices connect with your lifestyle goals.

Reach out to us at The Taylor Keenan Team. We’ll help you evaluate clubs, neighborhoods, and properties side by side so you can make a confident decision about where to live and how to play in Pawleys Island.

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