Cougar Point

The fourth at Cougar Point sets the tone for the most memorable part of the round. It is a long par 4 beside the river, regularly played into the wind, where finding the fairway still leaves a demanding approach. Gary Player’s par 72 course stretches to 6,875 yards from the back markers, although tees reaching down to 4,816 yards make it workable for groups with different handicaps. The design moves between compact and lengthy par 4s, with par 5s that ask players to decide early how much trouble they are prepared to take on. The sixth is another key hole, a par 3 whose rear tee lies out in the marsh. From there, the shot must clear natural ground, with a lateral hazard guarding the left side and continuing behind the green. Paspalum covers the course from tee to green, helping provide reliable ball positions and true putting surfaces.

A major programme of work with Gary Player Design brought the course back into play in October 2017, and Cougar Point now forms one part of Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s five championship courses. Between rounds, the clubhouse has a relaxed, useful rhythm. Its lobby seating faces large windows overlooking the course, while the porch looks towards the 18th hole, making it a natural place for a drink after finishing. The Players’ Pub serves casual American food, with room for 125 diners and a further 31 seats at the bar. There is also a full service pro shop and locker room on site.

Accommodation can be arranged alongside rounds at Cougar Point and the resort’s other courses. For parties of 12 or more, options include rooms at The Sanctuary, villas with kitchens and living areas, and holiday homes with up to eight bedrooms. Most of those homes include private pools, giving larger groups space to settle between tee times. Restaurant plans, catered gatherings and spa appointments can also be built around the golf, including the resort’s 60 minute Kiawah Golf Ball Massage.