Osprey Point

The 175-yard third sets the tone at Osprey Point, a par three played across Lowcountry salt marsh, with a bunker and more marsh waiting short of the green. It is a hole that asks for a committed carry and sound distance control, rather than a cautious bail out. Tom Fazio’s par 72 runs through maritime forest, lagoons and palmettos, and its broad fairways give the round an inviting start without removing the need to think from the tee. The 410-yard opening par four has water tracking the left side and trees closing in from the right, while the greens are generous targets with enough movement to make a precise approach worthwhile.

There are six sets of tees, stretching from 4,746 to 6,902 yards, so the course can suit a mixed group without losing its challenge. Four par fives offer opportunities to recover ground, although the 558-yard eighth, the longest hole on the card, turns left around two mature oaks and needs careful positioning before any thoughts of reaching in two. The ten par fours range from 340 to 461 yards, keeping club selection varied throughout the round. Paspalum grass is used from tee to green, helping create clean lies and a consistent putting surface. The closing par four leaves no room for a loose finish, with water and bunkers guarding the green on the approach.

Osprey Point is one of five championship courses at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, making it straightforward to build a stay around different daily tests. Accommodation includes resort villas with one to four bedrooms, while larger parties can use vacation homes with up to eight bedrooms, many with private pools. Groups of 12 or more can also arrange stays at the Sanctuary Hotel, alongside restaurant reservations and spa treatments, including the 60-minute Kiawah Golf Ball Massage. After a day on the course, the elegant clubhouse provides an easy place to settle in before the next round.