Kiawah Island, located in the Lowcountry south of Charleston, is a renowned golf resort with five distinct courses, each showcasing the unique environment of the area. The Ocean Course, ranked No. 24 on America’s 100 Greatest Courses, stands out as the marquee attraction and has hosted prestigious events like the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup. Playing The Ocean Course is a must for any visitor to Kiawah Island, offering a rare and unforgettable experience.
While some golf resorts like Bandon Dunes and Streamsong offer multiple top-tier courses, many others have a main attraction that draws golfers in. Private clubs such as Baltusrol and Winged Foot boast multiple top-ranked courses, while others like Medinah, Los Angeles Country Club, and Olympic Club have historically overshadowed their secondary courses with their main architectural expressions. However, the secondary courses at these properties still offer exceptional quality and intrigue.
Not all golf clubs and resorts suffer from having one standout course overshadowing the others. Some lesser-known courses at multicourse properties offer comparable quality and architectural interest, even if they don’t receive the same level of publicity or rankings. These underrated “little brother” courses are worth exploring for their unique challenges and design features, providing a different but equally rewarding golfing experience.
Among the top 10 favorite “second courses” at public and resort properties are hidden gems that deserve more recognition for their design and playability. Additionally, two underrated private clubs with exceptional secondary options are highlighted for their architectural excellence. By exploring these lesser-known courses, golfers can discover new favorites and appreciate the variety of offerings available at different properties.
Golf Digest’s new Course Reviews section allows players to submit star ratings and evaluations for all the courses they have played, providing a comprehensive resource for golf enthusiasts to share their experiences and recommendations. With thousands of reviews from course-ranking panelists, the platform offers valuable insights, expert opinions, bonus photography, videos, and more to help golfers make informed decisions about where to play next.
By exploring the diverse range of courses available at various clubs and resorts, golfers can broaden their horizons and discover hidden gems that may not receive as much attention as the main attractions. Each course offers a unique playing experience, from challenging layouts to stunning landscapes, showcasing the creativity and skill of the architects behind them. Whether visiting a well-known destination like Kiawah Island or exploring lesser-known courses, golfers can find enjoyment and satisfaction in discovering new places to play.
In conclusion, the world of golf offers a multitude of options for players of all levels, from renowned resorts with top-ranked courses to hidden gems waiting to be explored. By seeking out and playing these lesser-known courses, golfers can broaden their horizons, improve their skills, and appreciate the artistry of golf course architecture. Whether playing at a public, resort, or private club, each round offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and challenge of the game in different settings.
