Originally crafted by the visionary Willard C. Byrd in 1983, and masterfully redesigned by Arnold Palmer in 2011, Wexford Golf Club is a testament to the seamless blend of natural beauty and architectural ingenuity.
The story of Wexford Golf Club begins with the inspiration drawn from a National Geographic article detailing the inland canals of Ireland. This article sparked Byrd’s imaginative vision of a lock-controlled harbor as the centerpiece of Wexford Plantation. Surrounding this unique harbor, Byrd envisioned a championship golf course where each hole would harmoniously integrate with the natural environment, and where homes would gracefully front either the harbor or the golf course. The 2011 renovation by Arnold Palmer elevated the course to new heights, introducing a series of risk-reward challenges that demand not only skill but also strategic thinking. Palmer’s redesign preserved the timeless look of Byrd’s original layout while enhancing the course’s playability, ensuring that every round at Wexford is as challenging as it is enjoyable. Each hole has retained its distinctive character, yet now offers a modern twist that tests a golfer’s imagination and short game. Wexford Golf Club is known for its varied hole designs, which include doglegs, water carries, and strategically positioned greens. These elements combine to create a diverse playing experience that keeps even the most seasoned golfers on their toes. The course is impeccably maintained, with lush fairways and pristine greens that reflect the club’s commitment to excellence.
Signature Holes:
Hole 13 – The Redan Green: The 13th hole is a standout, featuring a classic Redan green—a design inspired by the famous par-3 15th hole at North Berwick in Scotland. This hole requires precision off the tee, with the green sloping away from the player and bunkers lying in wait to catch any misjudged shots. The challenge lies in landing the ball in the right spot to take advantage of the green’s contours, making it a true test of a golfer’s approach shot.
Hole 16 – The Biarritz Hole: Another notable hole is the 16th, a Biarritz hole that challenges golfers with its distinctive green, which features a deep swale running through the middle. The green’s design demands precise placement, as shots landing in the swale face a difficult uphill putt, while shots on the wrong side of the green may leave a lengthy and treacherous putt. The water hazard and out-of-bounds areas add to the complexity, making this hole a thrilling challenge.
Hole 17 – The Par-Three Gem: The 17th hole, a picturesque par-three, offers one of the most stunning views on the entire island. The hole plays over water to a green that is both visually striking and challenging to hit. Club selection is critical here, as the wind and the surrounding water can make this short hole play longer or shorter than it appears. The tranquil setting, with the backdrop of the Lowcountry’s natural beauty, makes this hole a favorite among members
Hole 18 – The Grand Finale: The final hole at Wexford is a par-5 that takes golfers on a leisurely stroll down the fairway, offering magnificent vistas overlooking the breathtaking Broad Creek River. This hole is a fitting end to a round at Wexford, combining beauty with a challenging finish that requires thoughtful shot-making and strategy to navigate successfully. Wexford Golf Club is a highly regarded private club that offers an exclusive experience for its members. With fewer than 60 rounds played daily, the sense of privacy and tranquility on the course is unmatched. The limited membership ensures that members enjoy the course without the crowds, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience. The club’s elegant clubhouse offers upscale dining options where members can relax and enjoy gourmet meals after a round of golf. The ambiance is refined yet welcoming, providing the perfect setting for socializing with fellow members. Wexford Golf Club hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the popular Nine and Dine, the Spring Invitational, and the Men’s and Ladies’ Member-Guest tournaments. These events foster a strong sense of community among members and provide opportunities for friendly competition and social interaction.
Wexford Golf Club’s excellence has not gone unnoticed. The club has been rated as one of the Top 100 Residential Golf Courses in the U.S. by Golfweek’s Ultimate Guide to Golf Course Living & Great Escapes. Additionally, it was voted “Best Golf Course” in the Island Packet Readers’ Choice Awards, further cementing its reputation as one of the premier golf clubs on Hilton Head Island.
