ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Palmetto is reputed to have the oldest USGA membership certificate in existence, dating to 1896, and hosted a famous pro-am during Masters week for nearly a decade.
About
Palmetto Golf Club in Aiken, South Carolina, founded in 1892, is one of America’s oldest clubs. Laid out by Herbert Leeds with later input from Donald Ross and Alister MacKenzie, the course is prized for its classic design, fast greens, and walkable parkland layout blending history and southern charm in equal measure.
Caddie Tip
Take conservative lines off the tee; drives can easily run through fairways on firm ground. On approaches, favor landing below the hole—many greens have severe back-to-front slopes and can be extremely slick, especially in spring.
The Main Challenge
The prime test at Palmetto comes on and around the greens. Quick, firm putting surfaces with severe slopes place a premium on approach accuracy and touch, especially when conditions speed up. Recovery from the wrong side can easily lead to three-putts or worse.
The Good
Golfers rave about Palmetto’s old-fashioned, walkable charm and lightning-fast, beautifully contoured greens. The blend of Donald Ross and Alister MacKenzie influences combine with mature oaks and whisper quiet fairways to make every round feel special and steeped in golf’s rich traditions.
The Not So Good
While conditioning is generally strong, some visitors mention that the short length combined with tree-lined corridors and severe greens may frustrate high handicappers. Modern amenities are limited, and access is extremely restricted outside of Masters week.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th hole, a par 4, finishes near the historic clubhouse and is a classic risk-reward closer. A dogleg left with strategic bunkering, the approach is to a green sloping back to front, challenging even the steadiest of hands, especially when greens are running fast.
Clubhouse
The cozy, historic clubhouse includes a pro shop, grill, locker room, and trophy room, all filled with memorabilia. The atmosphere is intimate and steeped in tradition, prioritizing history and social warmth over luxury renovations.
Practice Facilities
Features a traditional driving range, short-game area, and putting green. Facilities retain a historic, understated feel, with members typically focusing on walking and playing rather than lengthy pre-round practice sessions.
Dress Code:
Strict
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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