May River Golf Club
Bluffton, South Carolina
Located in Bluffton, SC, a few miles from Hilton Head, May River Golf Club is only accessible by Palmetto Bluff resort guests or local members. The course is in line for some profound changes + upgrades in the near future (as of summer 2022) as it was recently acquired by South Street Partners, the same ownership group that manages the Kiawah Island Club (Cassique and River Course).
The Jack Nicklaus-designed course has all of the feels of Lowcountry golf. Set along the May River and lined with live oak trees, the course was carved within its natural landscape. Fairways are wider than they appear from most tee boxes — this resort course is not designed to punish. The greens play fast and include speedy run-off areas. Tight lies around the greens led to us pulling putter several times to combat what would be vicious chips. It’s not the easiest course to walk — some of the walks from green to tee can get quite long, but we still recommend walking the course to appreciate the scenic landscape. Caddie service is required making the hike much more enjoyable.
Grab a drink from the bar before your round — their insulated to-go cups will keep your drink cold (for a few holes) in the Lowcountry heat! Find a rocking chair and enjoy a snack or another cocktail post-round on the porch overlooking the 18th green.
Private: Course Website | Opened: 2004 | Designer: Jack Nicklaus
