Spanish Wells Golf Club is a unique and charming 9-hole course that offers a blend of strategic design, scenic beauty, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Originally designed by the renowned George Cobb in 1970, the course was later renovated in 2005 by local architect Clyde Johnston, enhancing its appeal while maintaining the integrity of Cobb's original vision. Spanish Wells is more than just a golf course; it's a community where members enjoy a laid-back approach to the game, often walking the course without the need for tee times.   The course was designed to be both challenging and enjoyable, with Cobb's original layout ingeniously utilizing the natural landscape to create a course that is both picturesque and demanding.  Although Spanish Wells is a 9-hole course, the use of two distinct sets of tees on each hole effectively transforms it into an 18-hole experience. These tees are not just simple distance adjustments; they offer entirely different angles, yardages, and challenges, making the second loop around the course feel like an entirely new round. This dual-tee system is a testament to Cobb’s design brilliance, providing golfers with a variety of shots and strategies as they navigate the course.  The course is laid out in a clockwise path, with several challenging right doglegs that demand precise and powerful tee shots. These doglegs often require players to carry or skirt around natural obstacles such as towering trees, shimmering lagoons, and strategically placed bunkers. The placement of these hazards ensures that golfers must think carefully about each shot, balancing risk and reward. The fairways are lined with beautiful live oaks draped in Spanish moss, adding to the course’s Southern charm.

Signature Holes:

• Hole 3 – Par 4: The 3rd hole is one of the standout holes at Spanish Wells, a par-4 that plays as a challenging right dogleg. The hole is framed by a lagoon that runs along the right side, demanding a long and accurate drive to clear the water and set up an approach shot to a well-guarded green. The green is protected by bunkers on both sides, requiring a precise approach to avoid the hazards and secure a par. The hole’s beauty lies in its simplicity and the challenge it presents, making it a favorite among members.

• Hole 6 – Par 3: The 6th hole is another signature hole, a par-3 that plays slightly uphill to a green surrounded by mature oak trees. The green is elevated and slopes from back to front, with a deep bunker guarding the front right. This hole demands precision off the tee, as any shot that misses the green is likely to find trouble in the bunker or the trees. The setting is serene, with the green framed by the natural beauty of the Lowcountry, making it a visually stunning and strategically challenging hole.

• Hole 8 – Par 4: The 8th hole is a classic risk-reward par-4 that offers players a chance to be aggressive off the tee. The fairway is wide but narrows as it approaches a lagoon that guards the front of the green. Long hitters can attempt to drive the green, but they must carry the water hazard to do so. For those who lay up, the approach shot requires careful consideration of the wind and the slope of the green, which is deceptively fast and undulating. This hole encapsulates the strategic nature of the course, offering multiple ways to play depending on the golfer’s confidence and skill.     

The comprehensive renovation in 2005 brought modern enhancements to the course while preserving its classic charm. Johnston’s updates included the addition of new tees, bunkers, greens, an updated irrigation system, and the construction of new cart paths. These improvements have elevated the playability and maintenance of the course, ensuring it remains in pristine condition year-round.   The new greens are larger, more undulating, and offer more challenging pin positions, adding complexity to the approach shots and putting.  Johnston’s redesign included the strategic placement of new bunkers that complement the existing layout, enhancing the course's difficulty and aesthetics. The bunkers have been shaped to reflect the natural contours of the land, blending seamlessly into the landscape while posing significant challenges.  Spanish Wells Golf Club is known for its casual and relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals who enjoy the game without the formalities often associated with private clubs. Walking the course is the preferred mode of play for many members, adding to the traditional feel of the club. The lack of tee time restrictions allows for spontaneous play, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among members. Spanish Wells has a rich tradition of welcoming golfers of all skill levels, from seasoned players to beginners. The club’s relaxed policies and emphasis on walking the course encourage a more personal connection to the game, reminiscent of golf’s roots. Men typically play the white tees on the front nine and the blue tees on the back nine, providing variety and ensuring that no two rounds are ever the same. The club also offers a variety of social and competitive events throughout the year, strengthening the sense of community among its members.