The crown jewel of Long Cove Club is its 18-hole private golf course, masterfully designed by acclaimed architect Pete Dye. This renowned course has earned recognition as one of the top golf courses in America for its exceptional design and excellence, as acknowledged by Golf Digest. It has been ranked as South Carolina’s number-one course. The course's national and international acclaim becomes evident from the moment players step onto its fairways. Its beauty, reminiscent of Scotland with wetlands, marshes, oak trees draped in Spanish moss, stands of pine, love grass, and long rough, creates an unparalleled golfing experience. The course demands strategic tee shots on the par 4s and par 5s, making it a true shot maker’s course.
Long Cove initially had its routing designed by Frank Duane and Arnold Palmer in the early 1970s. Pete Dye was initially offered the opportunity but declined as he was focused on constructing TPC Sawgrass at the time. However, after completing Sawgrass, Dye was convinced to undertake the construction of Long Cove. With his prior experience working in nearby Harbour Town, Dye aimed to create something distinct. He incorporated unique features such as knobs, mounds, framing berms, and generously sized greens. Additionally, two holes were strategically placed along the Colleton River. Dye’s construction crew included several talented individuals who would later become renowned golf architects, including Bobby Weed, Tom Doak, David Savic, Ron Farris, Scott Pool, and Pete’s son, P.B.
In 2018, Bobby Weed, known for his work on Olde Farm, was selected to restore Dye’s original design, which had become overgrown. As a result, golfers can once again enjoy the opportunity to employ running shots on 16 of the 18 greens. As Hilton Head Island's most sought-after private golf course, Long Cove Golf Course caters to golfers of all levels. Cleverly designed tee boxes ensure that every player, regardless of skill, will have an unbelievable playing experience. Seamlessly fitting the natural terrain, this course is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship dedicated solely to the love of the game.
Long Cove Club accolades:
#17 Top 200 Residential Golf Courses in the U.S. (Golfweek, 2023)
#63 America’s Best Top 100 Modern Golf Courses (Golfweek, 2023)
#188 in America’s Second 100 Greatest Golf Courses (Golf Digest, 2023)
#4 in Best Private Courses in South Carolina (Golfweek state-by-state rankings, 2023)
If you were to poll 100 lifelong, golf-obsessed locals on what is “the best” course in the area, I’d imagine Long Cove would receive its fair share of #1 votes, falling just short of Harbour Town for the title. For my money, it’s not even a fair fight as Long Cove in my eyes, is the finest golf course in the area.