Santee, South Carolina, is a paradise for golfers looking to experience both breathtaking landscapes and a fair test of their skills. Nestled along the shores of Lake Marion, Santee offers some of the most scenic golf courses in the Southeast, with lush fairways, picturesque water hazards, and towering pines creating an unforgettable backdrop.
For those who love golf year-round, homes on the golf course in Santee provide the ultimate lifestyle—offering direct access to world-class courses, serene lake views, and a welcoming golf community. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer seeking a challenge or a casual player looking for a scenic round, Santee has the perfect golf course for you. In this guide, we’ll explore the top golf courses in Santee that offer both scenic beauty and challenging play, as well as nearby real estate options for those who want to live on the fairway.
1. Santee Cooper Country Club
A Balance of Beauty and Strategy
Located along the shores of Lake Marion, Santee Cooper Country Club is a premier golf destination that combines stunning lake views with a challenging layout. Designed by George Cobb, this semi-private course features:
- Rolling fairways lined with pine trees
- Large, undulating greens that demand precision
- Water hazards on multiple holes
- Strategically placed bunkers to test every shot
The signature hole, the par-4 18th, is a highlight, requiring an accurate approach shot over water to a well-protected green. With its breathtaking views of Lake Marion, Santee Cooper Country Club is perfect for those who appreciate scenic beauty with a competitive edge.
Golf Course Homes in Santee Cooper Country Club
Living near Santee Cooper Country Club means waking up to pristine fairway views and having quick access to the course. Homes in this area range from spacious single-family homes with golf course frontage to custom lakefront estates that offer both water and golf course views. Many properties feature open floor plans, screened porches, and direct golf cart access to the club.
2. Lake Marion Golf Course
A Classic Carolina Golf Experience
As one of Santee’s most well-known courses, Lake Marion Golf Course is a must-play for visitors. This course is famous for its:
- Wide, tree-lined fairways
- Smooth, fast greens that test your short game
- Challenging doglegs and strategic bunkers
- Beautiful water features and serene landscapes
Opened in 1978, Lake Marion Golf Course has been a favorite for golfers of all skill levels. The course layout rewards precision off the tee and creativity on approach shots. Plus, with its proximity to Lake Marion, players can enjoy scenic views and glimpses of local wildlife throughout their round.
Golf Course Homes Near Lake Marion Golf Course
Many homebuyers are drawn to Lake Marion Golf Course homes due to the combination of golf and lake living. Properties here range from luxury lakefront homes with private docks to golf course villas ideal for a second home or investment property. The Santee area also offers gated golf communities where residents enjoy amenities such as private marinas, tennis courts, and clubhouses.
3. Santee National Golf Club
A Stunning and Demanding Course
Santee National Golf Club is one of the most picturesque courses in the area, offering a mix of gorgeous scenery and demanding shot-making. Designed with a low-country feel, this course is packed with:
- Rolling hills and elevation changes uncommon in the region
- Dense forests that frame the fairways
- Deep, strategically placed bunkers
- Large greens that require precise putting
This course is a great test of skill, with water hazards coming into play on multiple holes. The par-3 17th hole, featuring a challenging island green, is a favorite among players. If you’re looking for a visually stunning yet difficult course, Santee National is a must-play.
Golf Course Homes Near Santee National Golf Club
If you dream of living near a championship golf course, the area around Santee National offers modern golf course homes with views of the fairways and access to private community pools, clubhouses, and walking trails. Whether you’re looking for a primary residence or a vacation home, Santee’s golf communities provide the perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.
4. Orangeburg Country Club
A Hidden Gem Worth the Drive
Although it’s a short drive from Santee, Orangeburg Country Club is well worth the trip. This private club allows limited public play, giving golfers a chance to experience one of South Carolina’s finest courses. The highlights of this course include:
- Perfectly maintained Bermuda fairways and greens
- Dramatic elevation changes and deep bunkers
- Challenging par-3s that require pinpoint accuracy
- Expansive water features that add both beauty and difficulty
Ranked among South Carolina’s top golf courses, Orangeburg Country Club offers an exclusive feel with unmatched scenery and playability.
5. Wyboo Golf Club
A Tranquil Yet Challenging Course
Located a short distance from Santee, Wyboo Golf Club is a hidden treasure with a mix of scenic charm and challenging holes. Designed by Tom Jackson, this course features:
- Wide fairways that encourage aggressive play
- Water hazards on multiple holes
- Fast, undulating greens that test putting skills
- An abundance of wildlife, including herons and deer
Wyboo’s signature hole is the par-5 16th, which requires a strategic layup over water. With its peaceful surroundings and demanding layout, Wyboo Golf Club is a fantastic course for golfers who enjoy a serene yet competitive experience.
Conclusion: The Best of Scenic and Challenging Golf in Santee
Santee is a golfer’s paradise, offering breathtaking views, rolling fairways, and challenging play. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque round by the lake or a demanding test of skill, these golf courses provide the best of both worlds.
For those who want to live the golf course lifestyle, Santee offers beautiful golf course homes with direct access to championship courses. Whether you’re interested in a luxury lakefront home, a golf villa, or a primary residence on the fairway, Santee is the perfect place to call home.
Ready to find your dream home on the golf course? Contact Carolina Properties at Lake Marion today to explore available listings!