The Carolinas are home to some of the most dramatic and challenging oceanfront golf in the United States. From championship venues to hidden coastal gems, golfers searching for the best public ocean golf courses in North and South Carolina have no shortage of options.

While many ocean courses are private, several world-class layouts are open to public play — including major championship venues and iconic coastal designs.

Here are the best public ocean golf courses in the Carolinas.

1️⃣ The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island (South Carolina)

When discussing public ocean golf in the Carolinas, the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island stands alone.

Host of the Ryder Cup and multiple PGA Championships, the Ocean Course offers Atlantic Ocean views and wind exposure on nearly every hole.

Why It’s the Premier Public Ocean Course in the Carolinas

Designed by Pete Dye
Major championship pedigree
Ocean views on every hole
Open to resort guests and public play

For pure ocean exposure and championship difficulty, Kiawah’s Ocean Course sets the standard.

2️⃣ Harbour Town Golf Links (Hilton Head, South Carolina)

Home of the RBC Heritage, Harbour Town Golf Links is one of the most recognizable courses in the country.

While not fully oceanfront like Kiawah, Harbour Town sits along the Calibogue Sound and offers coastal views with a strategic, precision-based design.

Why Harbour Town Belongs on This List

Host of a PGA Tour event
Iconic lighthouse finishing hole
Public access through Sea Pines Resort

Harbour Town is a must-play for anyone planning a coastal Carolina golf trip.

3️⃣ Pawleys Plantation (South Carolina)

Located along the South Carolina coast, Pawleys Plantation blends marshland, coastal winds, and traditional Lowcountry golf.

The back nine runs along salt marshes with sweeping water views.

Why Pawleys Plantation Is a Hidden Ocean Gem

Jack Nicklaus design
Marsh and ocean influence
More affordable than resort-heavy options

It’s one of the better value coastal plays in South Carolina.

4️⃣ Nags Head Golf Links (North Carolina)

If you’re looking for true public ocean golf in North Carolina, Nags Head Golf Links is one of the most scenic options along the Outer Banks.

Located on the Albemarle Sound, it offers strong coastal winds and water views throughout the round.

Why Nags Head Stands Out

Outer Banks location
Authentic coastal conditions
Public access

It’s one of the best public coastal courses in North Carolina.

5️⃣ Rivers Edge Golf Club (North Carolina)

Often underrated, Rivers Edge Golf Club offers dramatic marshland and water carries along the North Carolina coast.

The course sits near the Shallotte River and provides a strong coastal experience without resort pricing.

Why It Deserves Attention

Arnold Palmer design
Challenging water features
Strong coastal visuals

Rivers Edge is one of North Carolina’s most overlooked public ocean-style courses.

6️⃣ Tidewater Golf Club (South Carolina)

Located in North Myrtle Beach, Tidewater Golf Club is known for its dramatic elevation changes and marshland views along the Intracoastal Waterway.

While technically along the waterway rather than open ocean, it delivers a true coastal Carolina golf experience.

Why Tidewater Makes the List

Elevated tee shots over marsh
Strong public access
Coastal scenery

It’s one of the top public coastal courses near Myrtle Beach.

Planning a Coastal Carolina Golf Trip

If you’re planning to play the best public ocean golf courses in the Carolinas:

Book early during peak season (spring & fall)
Expect wind — especially at Kiawah and the Outer Banks
Consider mixing championship rounds with value coastal plays
Stay near resort properties for easier access

Final Thoughts

The best public ocean golf courses in the Carolinas offer everything from major championship pedigree to underrated coastal gems.

From the Ocean Course at Kiawah to Harbour Town, Pawleys Plantation, Nags Head, Rivers Edge, and Tidewater, golfers can experience world-class coastal golf without private membership access.

If you’re searching for public ocean golf in North or South Carolina, this lineup represents the best the region has to offer.

Best Public Ocean Golf Courses in the Carolinas