The Golden Bear Golf Club at Indigo Run is a public gem, known for its exceptional layout and strategic design. Crafted by Jack Nicklaus, the course is challenging yet playable, emphasizing precision and strategy over raw power.  The Golden Bear is tucked into the beautiful community of Indigo Run, weaving through Lowcountry forests filled with majestic live oaks, cypress, and pine woodlands. 

The course is recognized as one of America’s Top 100 Courses priced under $100, a testament to its quality and value. Despite its challenging design, the Golden Bear Golf Club is eminently playable, particularly for women, as the layout minimizes forced carries and provides multiple tee options. The fairways are tight, and numerous doglegs require careful shot placement, especially with overhanging oak limbs complicating approach shots. As a local resident aptly put it, “It isn’t overly hard like some of those on the island, but if you get in the wrong place, it can be hard.” Indeed, straying off the fairway often leads to a series of recovery shots just to get back on track.

The course’s flexibility is one of its strengths, with multiple tee options ranging from 4,974 yards to 7,014 yards. For those seeking a more relaxed round or a quick replay, a shorter course option at 2,949 yards is also available, accommodating players of varying skill level. 

Signature Holes:

• Hole 3: This dogleg right presents a rapidly narrowing fairway with concealed water hazards lurking on the right side. Accuracy off the tee is crucial, as the fairway's tightness demands precision to avoid trouble and set up a manageable approach shot.

• Hole 6: Considered the most challenging hole on the front nine, this par 4 features a lagoon running down the right side and a narrow fairway that requires a straight, well-placed drive. The green is protected by water on the right and bunkers on the left. 

• Hole 11: A memorable dogleg-left par 4 with water guarding the left side of the green. The approach shot requires careful consideration, as the water hazard demands accuracy and control. This hole is as visually stunning as it is challenging.

• Hole 13: A sharp dogleg left where the tee shot can make or break your round. The fairway is tight, and the green is protected by bunkers and trees, making the approach shot particularly tricky. This hole is a prime example of the course's emphasis on strategy over distance.

• Hole 15: This par 5 is a standout, with a lagoon running along the left side of the fairway, posing a hidden challenge. Long hitters may attempt to reach the green in two shots, but the risk is high, especially with the water hazard in play. The green is well-guarded, making this a true risk-reward hole that can often make or break the round.