South Carolina’s country club scene is a magnet for the ultra-wealthy, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, exclusivity, and world-class amenities. From historic institutions with storied pasts to modern enclaves catering to the elite, these clubs represent the pinnacle of opulence. Below, we dive into the top 25 most exclusive and expensive country clubs in the Palmetto State, each epitomizing the lavish lifestyle sought by the affluent.
25. Secession Golf Club
Located in Beaufort along the tidal marshes of the lowcountry, Secession Golf Club is a private, walking-only golf club known for its focus on pure golf without distractions. The course was designed by Bruce Devlin and features open fairways, marsh views, and a minimalist layout meant to echo the traditions of Scottish links-style play. There are no tennis courts, pools, or real estate developments—just a course, a clubhouse, and a tight-knit group of serious players.
Membership is invitation-only and limited in number, with a national draw of well-connected members who travel in specifically for the golf experience. There’s no tee time system, no cart play, and minimal signage or outside promotion. Its commitment to tradition and low-visibility approach, combined with high expectations for member involvement, places Secession quietly but firmly in the state’s top tier of expensive, private clubs.
24. The Tree Farm
The Tree Farm is a newer, private golf club located in Aiken, built around the concept of pure golf without distractions. Designed by Kyle Franz and backed by PGA Tour pro Zac Blair, the club centers on a minimalist ethos: no tee times, no real estate developments, just golf. The course was carved from rolling woodland and offers a walking-only layout with a heavy focus on architecture and playability.
Though it’s relatively low-profile in media, The Tree Farm is invitation-only and has drawn serious golfers and industry insiders with deep pockets. There’s no public fee structure, but between the exclusivity, lack of real estate distractions, and elite design pedigree, it’s already become one of the most sought-after private memberships in the state.
23. Musgrove Mill Golf Club
Musgrove Mill, located in Clinton, offers a quiet escape with a focus on championship-level golf. The course was designed by Arnold Palmer and is built into rolling upstate terrain that challenges low-handicap players. The club features a low-density membership model and minimal distractions—no tennis courts or pools, just golf and understated hospitality.
Membership is by invitation, and the club stays out of the spotlight by design. Despite its rural location, Musgrove Mill commands high respect in serious golf circles. The exclusivity, secluded setting, and minimalist approach keep the cost high and the member experience tightly controlled.
22. The Cliffs at Keowee
Set on Lake Keowee, this gated community offers a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course with sweeping lake views and dramatic elevation changes. It’s one of the seven Cliffs communities and includes a wellness center, tennis complex, private marina, and upscale dining at the clubhouse. The surroundings offer a mix of natural beauty and upscale development.
Only property owners can join, and full golf privileges require access across all Cliffs properties, increasing the financial barrier. Keowee Falls stands out for combining waterfront living with mountain golf in a tightly regulated luxury environment. High costs and a curated membership roster maintain its elite status.
21. The Reserve Club at Pawleys Island
The Reserve Club is a private golf and lifestyle club located in the heart of Pawleys Island, surrounded by natural wetlands and ancient oaks. The Greg Norman–designed golf course winds through marshes and maritime forest, offering a challenging layout with a coastal feel. The club also includes a private marina with access to the Intracoastal Waterway, upscale dining, and access to a members-only beach house on Litchfield Beach.
Membership is limited and typically tied to ownership within the gated Reserve community, although outside memberships have been offered selectively. The club operates quietly, with few public events and a focus on privacy, service, and understated luxury. Its location near the coast, premium real estate, and full-service amenities make it one of the more expensive and exclusive options in South Carolina’s Lowcountry.
20. Chechessee Creek Club
Chechessee Creek Club is located between Beaufort and Hilton Head, tucked into a quiet pocket of the lowcountry. It’s known for its understated style, a throwback to classic golf traditions. The course, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, is walking-only and emphasizes strategic play over spectacle. The club has a modest clubhouse, a few cottages for overnight stays, and a small staff that delivers highly personalized service.
Membership is intentionally kept small, and there’s no real estate component—just golf and camaraderie. The lack of public events, media coverage, or aggressive marketing reinforces its reputation as a true private enclave. Those who join are typically seasoned golf purists who appreciate the simplicity and exclusivity. It’s not flashy, but it quietly ranks among the most respected and expensive private clubs in the region.
19. Greenville Country Club
Greenville Country Club has deep roots in the Upstate region and operates two full 18-hole courses: Chanticleer and Riverside. Chanticleer, in particular, is known for its difficulty and prestige. The club includes tennis courts, a large aquatic center, fitness facilities, and multiple dining spaces, offering a well-rounded country club experience to match its reputation.
While it’s located in a growing metro area, the club has managed to maintain a very selective atmosphere. Many members are multi-generational, and gaining access often requires personal sponsorship and patience. Its private governance, rigorous standards, and wide range of amenities have earned it a consistent spot among South Carolina’s top-tier private clubs.
18. Riverton Pointe
Riverton Pointe sits in Hardeeville, not far from Hilton Head, and is part of a master-planned community centered on a private Nicklaus Design golf course. It features a modern clubhouse, resort-style pool, tennis and pickleball courts, and a full-service fitness center. The property also includes a large lake system and scenic views throughout the grounds.
Membership is closely tied to property ownership, but not everyone in the development gains club access automatically—there are levels of participation, with golf being the top tier. The club positions itself as a full lifestyle destination for second-home buyers and permanent residents alike. Though it’s less publicized than some others, the development scale and investment into facilities make this one of the more expensive memberships in the southern part of the state.
17. Bulls Bay Golf Club
Bulls Bay is perched just outside Charleston and features a Mike Strantz–designed course known for dramatic elevation and sweeping coastal views. The clubhouse, designed to resemble a Southern hunting lodge, sits atop the highest point in the county. Amenities include a full practice facility, caddie program, dining, and fitness offerings, all tailored to serious golfers.
The membership process is discreet and based largely on invitation. It’s not a place that promotes itself or seeks volume—membership is built on relationships and exclusivity. Its location, limited access, and strong architectural identity make it one of the most unique and difficult-to-join clubs in the state. Those who belong are typically very serious about the game and privacy.
16. Wachesaw Plantation
Set along the Waccamaw River in Murrells Inlet, Wachesaw Plantation Club blends traditional southern architecture with a private club experience that includes golf, tennis, pool, and riverside dining. The course was designed by Tom Fazio and runs through moss-draped oaks and natural wetlands, giving it a quiet, secluded feel despite being just south of the busy Myrtle Beach area.
While homes exist inside the gates, access to the club is not automatic for property owners, which helps maintain a sense of exclusivity. The setting is peaceful, but the club has invested heavily in keeping facilities up to high standards, especially on the golf and dining side. That investment, along with limited access, makes it one of the more costly private clubs along the Grand Strand.
15. Palmetto Golf Club
Palmetto Golf Club in Aiken is one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States, steeped in history and tradition. Its course, updated over the years by the likes of Donald Ross and Alister MacKenzie, offers a challenging layout without any overbuilt distractions. The clubhouse retains its original charm with understated architecture and interior design that speaks to the club’s heritage. There’s no tennis or pool—just golf, walking, and quiet.
What sets Palmetto apart is the emphasis on simplicity and legacy. Many members come from prominent families and value the private, no-frills environment. Media coverage is rare, and the membership base is highly curated. Though it doesn’t have flashy amenities, its history, prestige, and exclusivity place it among South Carolina’s most respected and costly private golf experiences.
14. Daniel Island Club
Located just outside Charleston, Daniel Island Club is built into a high-end residential island community. It features two private golf courses designed by Tom Fazio and Rees Jones, extensive tennis and swim facilities, a fitness center, and a large, upscale clubhouse. The grounds are impeccably maintained, and the club plays a major role in the lifestyle appeal of Daniel Island as a whole.
Membership is limited and often tied to real estate ownership, though even residents must apply and be approved. There’s a long waitlist for golf memberships, and social memberships are also competitive. The exclusivity is enforced not just by access but by culture—the club sets a high bar for presentation, programming, and service, attracting families and individuals who want privacy in a polished, modern setting.
13. Briars Creek Club
Briars Creek sits on Johns Island, surrounded by more than 900 acres of preserved marshland and natural forest. The golf course, designed by Rees Jones, is known for its quiet setting and low-density play. There’s no tee time system and very few outside events, which gives members near-total access to the course whenever they want. Off the course, there’s a refined clubhouse with dining and a small collection of club-owned cottages.
Membership is invitation-only and not connected to any residential development. That separation adds to its appeal for those who want a pure golf escape without a resort feel. The limited number of members and emphasis on peace and nature make it a high-cost, high-privacy club. It has become a magnet for serious golfers seeking solitude, and it rarely appears in mainstream coverage.
12. Country Club of Charleston
The Country Club of Charleston is located just minutes from downtown, offering an ideal mix of history, location, and traditional southern prestige. Its Seth Raynor–designed course has hosted national amateur events and is known for its challenging greens and views of the marsh. The club also includes a full-service tennis program, swimming pool, fitness center, and fine dining spaces in a historic clubhouse.
Membership spans multiple generations, and gaining access often requires connections within the Charleston community. It’s one of the most well-established clubs in the region, balancing competitive golf with social tradition. The downtown proximity, combined with its selective process and strong reputation, puts it firmly in the top tier of South Carolina’s most expensive and exclusive country clubs.
11. Haig Point Club
Haig Point is located on Daufuskie Island and is accessible only by boat or ferry, immediately setting it apart in terms of privacy and exclusivity. The Rees Jones–designed golf course features 20 holes, allowing for alternate routings and stunning ocean views. Additional amenities include tennis, an equestrian center, multiple dining options, and private beach access, all nestled within a car-free island environment.
The logistics of getting to and from Haig Point add a layer of exclusivity that no mainland club can replicate. Membership includes transportation services and access to club-owned residences for guests and members. The remoteness, combined with resort-level service and a small membership base, makes Haig Point one of the most unique—and quietly costly—clubs in the state.
10. Quixote Club
The Quixote Club is located in Sumter and has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, positioning itself as one of the state’s most exclusive golf-focused properties. The course was fully redesigned by Kris Spence to emphasize classic architecture and strategic play. The club also includes a modern clubhouse, short-game training areas, and on-site lodging for members and their guests, making it a complete destination despite its relatively quiet public profile.
Membership is invitation-only and capped to maintain exclusivity. The club markets itself not just on amenities but on its role as a philanthropic engine, tying golf access to education and health-related charitable giving. This dual mission, paired with high-end facilities and a small membership base, has earned it recognition as a serious private club with rising prestige and one of the more elevated entry points in the region.
9. Harbour Town Golf Links
Harbour Town is located on Hilton Head Island and is the most well-known course within the Sea Pines Resort, thanks to its role as host of a major PGA Tour event. The course was designed by Pete Dye and offers iconic coastal holes with narrow fairways and small greens. In addition to golf, members have access to multiple pools, tennis courts, marina services, dining, and beachfront amenities throughout Sea Pines.
While the resort attracts tourists, the private club membership operates on a different level. It includes access to exclusive lounges, member-only tee times, and private events. Members often own property within the resort and treat it as a full-time or seasonal residence. Despite the public exposure, the private side of Harbour Town is heavily curated and commands premium pricing for full privileges and year-round access.
8. Long Cove Club
Long Cove Club is a private, member-owned golf community located on Hilton Head Island. Its Pete Dye–designed course is consistently ranked among the best in the state and is known for its challenging layout and scenic beauty. The community also includes a marina, tennis and pickleball facilities, swimming, fitness, and elegant dining options—all located behind a secure gate.
Membership is tied to home ownership within the community, and the club does not allow unaccompanied guest play, keeping the experience intimate. The club has an active membership base, with regular events, leagues, and social gatherings, all maintained to a high standard. Its tight-knit environment, architectural consistency, and premium coastal real estate make it one of the most desirable—and expensive—clubs in South Carolina.
7. Colleton River Club
Colleton River Club is situated in Bluffton and features two top-ranked courses, one designed by Jack Nicklaus and the other by Pete Dye. The courses are set on expansive, marsh-lined terrain, offering views of the Colleton and Chechessee rivers. The clubhouse offers fine dining, lounges, locker rooms, and event space, while the broader campus includes tennis courts, a fitness center, and riverfront walking trails.
The club is private and member-owned, with access granted only to property owners inside the gated community. There’s a strong emphasis on golf, but lifestyle and wellness amenities are also robust. Members are drawn by the combination of architectural quality, secluded location, and tight community structure. It’s a polished, high-end club that sits near the top in terms of cost and exclusivity in the Hilton Head region.
6. Berkeley Hall Club
Berkeley Hall is a gated residential club community in Bluffton offering two Tom Fazio–designed courses that were built specifically for walkability and strategic design. The campus features a 35-acre golf learning center, a state-of-the-art spa and fitness complex, river access with kayaking and paddleboarding, and multiple dining venues inside a classic Lowcountry-style clubhouse.
Residents must purchase membership to access the club, and the community maintains a low-density master plan to avoid overcrowding. Berkeley Hall emphasizes both family-friendly and golf-focused lifestyles, with structured programs and concierge services to match. Its layered offerings, private waterfront setting, and polished design contribute to its standing as one of the most luxurious and high-cost clubs in South Carolina.
5. Kiawah Island Golf Club
Kiawah Island Club is one of the most elite private memberships in the Lowcountry, separate from the public resort and available only to property owners in select areas of the island. The club offers access to two top-tier golf courses—Cassique and the River Course—both architecturally distinct and maintained to impeccable standards. Beyond golf, the club features a private beach club, sports pavilion, fitness and wellness centers, world-class dining, and social spaces designed to serve high-net-worth families.
This is not a club you join casually. Membership is tightly controlled and often tied to multimillion-dollar real estate within specific neighborhoods. The sense of separation from the public resort, combined with a curated membership base and high-touch service, creates an atmosphere of quiet luxury. It’s a full-lifestyle membership wrapped in privacy, attracting those who expect a seamless blend of sport, service, and security.
4. Sage Valley Golf Club
Located just outside of Aiken, Sage Valley Golf Club is a remote, invitation-only golf haven built for serious players and high-profile members. The course is a pristine walking layout designed with Augusta-like conditions in mind, surrounded by pine forest and extensive landscaping. Onsite accommodations include private cabins, a lodge, and dining spaces that serve an ultra-select group of members and their guests.
There are no homes or neighborhoods—just golf and hospitality. The club avoids the spotlight, rarely appears in media, and has no need for promotional outreach. Everything about Sage Valley is designed to offer a pure, uninterrupted golf experience in an elite setting. Its isolation, design quality, and member list place it in the highest tier of private clubs not only in South Carolina but nationwide.
3. Yeamans Hall Club
Yeamans Hall Club is located in Hanahan, just north of Charleston, and has quietly remained one of the most exclusive private clubs in the Southeast for nearly a century. The golf course, designed by Seth Raynor in the 1920s, is a minimalist masterpiece—walkable, strategic, and timeless. The surrounding grounds include historic cottages, understated clubhouse facilities, and no modern resort trappings. It’s a place defined by tradition and discretion.
Membership is highly restricted, and there is very little turnover. Many members are from generational wealth and treat the club as a second or seasonal home. There are no social media promotions, no public tee times, and almost no visibility to outsiders. Its classic structure, elite member base, and tightly protected access make it one of the most private and expensive country clubs in the entire state.
2. Congaree Golf Club
Congaree Golf Club, located in Ridgeland, is a modern private golf club built on philanthropic ideals—but that doesn’t mean it’s any less exclusive. Founded by billionaire investors and designed by Tom Fazio, the club is carved into 2,000 acres of Lowcountry wilderness. It has a single course, luxurious lodge accommodations, a schoolhouse-style clubhouse, and limited memberships known as “ambassadorships” that tie golf access to charitable giving.
What makes Congaree so unique is its deliberate avoidance of traditional club structures. There are no real estate ties and very few members. The club hosts major tournaments but maintains a very low-profile culture for everyday operations. It’s designed for high-end individuals who want top-flight golf while contributing to youth development and education initiatives. That blend of purpose and privacy puts it in the very top tier of South Carolina clubs.
1. Cherokee Plantation
Cherokee Plantation, located near Yemassee in the ACE Basin, is more than a club—it’s a private sporting estate unlike anything else in the region. Spread across thousands of acres, it includes a Scottish-style golf course, equestrian trails, shooting grounds, river and lake fishing, a spa, and historic rice fields. The main house and support buildings are designed in the Southern Georgian style, with staff providing personalized service for a small group of member-shareholders.
Membership is not open to the public and is limited to a select few. It operates more like a private trust than a typical club, with members essentially owning shares in the property. The scale of land, level of service, and near-total privacy make Cherokee the most expensive and exclusive country club in South Carolina. It’s not just a place to play golf—it’s a place to disappear in total luxury.
These clubs represent the epitome of luxury and exclusivity in South Carolina’s country club scene. Each offers a unique blend of world-class golf, opulent amenities, and a commitment to privacy, catering to the elite who seek the finest in leisure and lifestyle.