
Turtle Point Golf Course Kiawah Island
A premier Jack Nicklaus-designed course on Kiawah Island, offering pristine fairways, strategic play, and beautiful ocean views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Ideal weather for golf

Turtle Point Golf Course Kiawah Island
Best Time
Ideal weather for golf

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier Jack Nicklaus-designed course on Kiawah Island, offering pristine fairways, strategic play, and beautiful ocean views.
"This course delivered on every level. I shot my lowest score of the season here!"

🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
🐊 Watch for Alligators
Be aware of your surroundings; alligators are common and add a unique element to the course.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine Fairways
Throughout the course
Experience carpet-like fairways that make every shot feel luxurious. A true testament to meticulous course maintenance.

Jack Nicklaus Design
Entire course
Enjoy a strategic yet playable layout that challenges your game while offering rewarding opportunities.

Ocean Views
Select holes
Savor breathtaking ocean vistas that add an unforgettable backdrop to your golfing adventure.

Alligator Encounters
Various holes
Keep an eye out for the island's famous residents; these majestic creatures are a unique part of the Kiawah experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tee Off with Confidence
Kiawah Island Golf Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
🐊 Watch for Alligators
Be aware of your surroundings; alligators are common and add a unique element to the course.
👍 Friendly & Helpful Staff
Expect a warm welcome and excellent service from the hospitable team.
🍗 Snack Shop Delight
Don't miss the chicken salad sandwich – a perfect mid-round treat!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
🐊 Watch for Alligators
Be aware of your surroundings; alligators are common and add a unique element to the course.
👍 Friendly & Helpful Staff
Expect a warm welcome and excellent service from the hospitable team.
🍗 Snack Shop Delight
Don't miss the chicken salad sandwich – a perfect mid-round treat!
⛳ Play from Blue Tees
Consider the Blue Tees for a chance at your lowest score on this rewarding course.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Turtle Point Golf Course is widely praised for its immaculate conditions, strategic Jack Nicklaus design, and friendly staff, offering a rewarding golfing experience. While some find the greens a bit slower than expected, the overall consensus is that it's a beautiful and playable course that delivers excellent value and memorable ocean views.
"Had an absolute blast playing Turtle Point. This course delivered on every level. I shot my lowest score of the season here (81 from the Blue Tees), and I can see why. The layout is wide open, giving you the chance to be aggressive off the tee without constantly punishing you for it.
The conditions were top tier. Greens rolled true, fairways were pristine, and the overall course maintenance was impressive. You can tell the staff takes pride in this place, and it shows. Everyone was incredibly hospitable from start to finish—friendly, helpful, and made the whole experience even better.
Also, pro tip: try the chicken salad in the snack shop with some chips. A perfect mid-round pick-me-up.
If you’re heading to Kiawah, Turtle Point needs to be on your list. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a rewarding round in a beautiful setting."
Genesis S (Gigi)
"This is a very well manicured golf course. The clubhouse is pristine. Staff are very friendly and helpful.
The starter informed us that this is a very narrow course laid out by Jack Nicklaus. Still reasonable places to lay up and not get into trouble. Trouble may be in the form of alligators."
Sanz Clew
"Did not play golf, but it looks absolutely beautiful and pristine. Watch out for the big alligator too. The restaurant has fantastic views on the back porch, service was excellent and so was the food."
Amy Vaughn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Turtle Point Golf Course is located on Kiawah Island, about a 45-minute to an hour's drive from downtown Charleston, depending on traffic. You can drive your own vehicle or arrange for a taxi or rideshare service. The drive itself is scenic, offering glimpses of the Lowcountry landscape.
Yes, ample parking is available at the Turtle Point Golf Course clubhouse for all visitors. You'll find it conveniently located near the entrance.
If you are staying on Kiawah Island, depending on your accommodation's location, it might be possible to walk or bike to the course. However, for most visitors arriving from off-island, driving is the most practical option.
Kiawah Island offers various transportation options for guests, including shuttle services within resort areas. Check with your accommodation or the resort concierge for the most up-to-date information on available shuttles that might serve the golf courses.
The most common route from Charleston involves taking US-17 South towards Savannah, then turning onto SC-700 E (Maybank Highway) towards Johns Island and Kiawah Island. Follow signs for Kiawah Island and then for Turtle Point Golf Course.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Green fees at Turtle Point Golf Course can vary depending on the season, time of day, and whether you are a resort guest or public player. It's best to check their official website or call directly for the most current pricing. Expect rates to be competitive with other premier Kiawah Island courses.
Absolutely. Booking a tee time in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak golf seasons (spring and fall). Popular tee times can fill up quickly, so securing your reservation early is key to a smooth golfing experience.
Typically, the green fee includes your round of golf. Cart fees are often separate but sometimes bundled. It's advisable to confirm what's included when booking your tee time. Range balls may also be an additional cost.
Discounts may be available for Kiawah Island resort guests, twilight play, or during the off-season. Keep an eye on the course's website or inquire when booking about any special offers or packages.
The course typically opens at sunrise and closes around sunset. The clubhouse and pro shop hours usually align with these times. It's best to check the official website for specific operating hours on the day of your visit.
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
Turtle Point is a Jack Nicklaus design, known for its strategic yet playable layout. It features wide-open fairways offering opportunities for aggressive play, but also presents challenges that require thoughtful shot-making.
The course is consistently praised for its top-tier conditions. Fairways are often described as pristine or like carpets, and greens roll true. The staff takes great pride in maintaining the course to a high standard.
Besides typical golf course hazards like bunkers and water, a notable feature at Turtle Point is the presence of alligators. Golfers are advised to be aware of their surroundings and maintain a safe distance from these animals.
Many visitors report a perfect pace of play, with rounds never feeling rushed or excessively delayed. The staff and course management aim to ensure a relaxed and enjoyable golfing experience for everyone.
While challenging enough for experienced golfers, the course's open layout and strategic design make it accessible and enjoyable for beginners as well. Playing from appropriate tees will enhance the experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Turtle Point Golf Course has a restaurant and snack shop. The back porch offers fantastic views, and the food and service have been highly praised by visitors.
The chicken salad sandwich at the snack shop is a highly recommended mid-round pick-me-up that golfers rave about. It's a simple yet delicious option to refuel.
Yes, visitors can enjoy the restaurant and its scenic views without playing golf. The restaurant is open to the public and offers a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal with a beautiful backdrop.
The restaurant typically serves American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, fitting for a coastal golf destination. Expect options suitable for breakfast, lunch, and possibly early dinner.
While not always mandatory, especially if you're not playing golf, making a reservation for the restaurant is a good idea, particularly during peak dining hours or seasons, to ensure you get a table with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
The holes with ocean views offer stunning photographic opportunities. The well-manicured fairways and greens, along with the clubhouse architecture, also make for great shots. Don't forget to capture any alligator sightings from a safe distance!
Yes, photography is generally allowed on the course. However, always be mindful of other golfers and the pace of play. Avoid delaying the game for extended photo sessions.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful natural light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the lush green of the course still provides a vibrant backdrop.
Drone usage is typically restricted at golf courses and private resorts due to privacy concerns and safety regulations. It's best to check with the course management directly before attempting to fly a drone.
The signature holes that offer glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean are prime spots for iconic photos. The pristine condition of the course itself, with its manicured greens and fairways, also provides a classic golf photography backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
🏌️ Golf Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Jack Nicklaus Design Philosophy
This approach ensures that Turtle Point is not only a test of skill for seasoned players but also an enjoyable and rewarding experience for those with less experience. The course design aims to provide a memorable round by offering a variety of hole types, from challenging par-3s to risk-reward par-5s, all while maintaining a sense of flow and rhythm. The strategic bunkering and subtle green complexes are hallmarks of Nicklaus's work, prompting golfers to consider their approach shots carefully. The result is a course that is both visually appealing and strategically engaging, living up to the reputation of its legendary designer.
Kiawah Island's Natural Beauty and Wildlife
The experience of playing golf amidst such natural splendor is truly unique. The sounds of the ocean, the rustling of palmetto fronds, and the calls of coastal birds create a serene atmosphere that enhances the golfing experience. The course designers have masterfully incorporated these natural elements, ensuring that the game unfolds against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery. From the ocean breezes that can influence your shots to the tranquil marshlands that frame certain holes, Turtle Point provides a sensory experience that goes beyond the game itself. It's a chance to connect with nature while enjoying a world-class golf challenge.
The Turtle Point Clubhouse and Dining Experience
Beyond the pro shop and locker rooms, the dining facilities at Turtle Point are a significant draw. The restaurant, particularly its back porch, offers fantastic views that make for a memorable meal. Reviewers highlight the excellent service and delicious food, with the chicken salad sandwich at the snack shop being a particular standout for a convenient and tasty mid-round refuel. Whether you're celebrating a great round or simply enjoying the island ambiance, the dining experience at Turtle Point provides a perfect complement to the golfing adventure.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit