
May River Course
May River Golf Club


About this course
May River Golf Club, a core amenity of Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, South Carolina, is defined by its Lowcountry character and the inland waterway that lends it its name. A modern design sculpted by Jack Nicklaus, the course opened in 2004 with an emphasis on playability. The terrain, a tapestry of tidal marshes and maritime forest, dictates a strategic approach, rewarding accuracy over raw power, especially from the tee. Nicklaus routed May River to follow the natural contours of the land, creating a layout that favors shot shaping and intelligent club selection. Fairways are generous, though often guarded by strategically placed bunkers and the ever-present threat of the river. While a stern test for accomplished players, the course maintains a level of accessibility for higher handicaps, making it an enjoyable experience for all skill levels. Beyond the course, May River fosters a relaxed, congenial atmosphere among its members. While not steeped in championship history, the club emphasizes a deep connection to the surrounding natural environment and a commitment to Southern hospitality. Signature dining experiences, with fresh, local seafood, enhance the club’s appeal.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in SC
Quick facts
- Location
- Bluffton, SC, USA
- Access
- Public
- Year built
- 2004
- Holes
- 18
- Designer
- Jack Nicklaus
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 7,171 yards
- Difficulty
- 74.8/141
- Course Vaults score
- 7.9
Getting there
May River Golf Club sits nestled in the coastal lowcountry of Bluffton, South Carolina, most readily accessed via Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), roughly forty-five minutes to the south, or through the smaller Hilton Head Airport (HHH) just twenty minutes away. For those arriving by private aviation, Hilton Head Executive Airport (HXD) offers a discreet alternative mere minutes from the club's gates. The drive from any of these gateways traces a gentle descent through maritime forests and salt marsh, where Spanish moss drapes live oaks and the landscape opens into the tidal creeks that define this corner of the Lowcountry, before arriving at May River Golf Club's serene sanctuary overlooking the May River itself.

FAQ
Common questions about May River
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
May River has a Course Vaults score of 7.9 out of 10 based on 61 logged golfers.
May River was designed by Jack Nicklaus.
Yes. May River is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at May River is 72.
May River plays 7,171 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at May River is 141.




