The Inside Swing

Wild Dunes Resort - Links Course

Isle of Palms, South Carolina

Resort Course · 18 Holes · Par 72 · 6,722 yds · $100–$200 · 4.3

A Tom Fazio design on the Isle of Palms near Charleston, Wild Dunes Links features two dramatic oceanfront finishing holes along the Atlantic. The resort layout winds through maritime forest and salt marsh before reaching the beachfront crescendo of holes 17 and 18.

History & Heritage

Wild Dunes Links Course was designed by Tom Fazio and opened in 1980 on the Isle of Palms, a barrier island northeast of Charleston. One of two Fazio courses at the resort (the Harbor Course is the other). The layout moves through maritime forest, tidal marshes, and rolling dune ridges before the dramatic Atlantic Ocean finishing stretch.

Holes 17 and 18 play directly along the Atlantic with the beach as a lateral hazard — consistently cited as two of the most dramatic finishing holes in Lowcountry golf. The barrier island setting gives the course a genuine coastal links character rare on the East Coast.

Signature Holes

17
Hole 17 Par 4 · 400 yards

The first of the famous oceanfront finishing pair. Plays directly along the Atlantic Ocean with the beach as a lateral hazard. Wind off the ocean makes club selection a guessing game while the scenery is among the most photographed in South Carolina golf.

18
Hole 18 Par 4 · 420 yards

The oceanfront closer completing one of the most dramatic two-hole finishes in Lowcountry golf. Atlantic breezes, beach hazard, and the roar of waves create an unforgettable conclusion to the round.

What to Expect

The front nine plays through trees and lagoons. The back nine opens with marsh and ocean views, building to the stunning 17-18 oceanfront finish along the Atlantic. Homes line interior holes but the seaside finale erases any residential feel.

Atlantic breezes are constant, especially on the closing holes. Golf Digest has recognized Wild Dunes for exceptional conditions.

Resort access at $100-200. About 30 minutes from downtown Charleston.

Playing Tips

Play the wind on 17 and 18 — ocean gusts can add or subtract two clubs. Par is a great score when the wind is up.

Wide interior fairways reward aggressive tee shots, but the ocean holes demand conservative strategy.

Bring extra balls for the beach-side holes.

Highlights

  • Tom Fazio oceanfront finishing holes
  • Isle of Palms beachside setting
  • Maritime forest and salt marsh routing

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the finish special?
Holes 17 and 18 play directly along the Atlantic Ocean with the beach as a lateral hazard. Two of the most dramatic finishing holes in Lowcountry golf.
How far from Charleston?
About 30 minutes from downtown Charleston on the Isle of Palms barrier island.

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