-Pro Shop has nice selection of discs, apparel and accessories. (Innova and Discraft) They also have maps, scorecards, and pencils available.
-This is not a beginner's course.
-multiple tee's (Red & Blue)
-Cement Tee's
-Tee Signs w/ Maps
-Navigates nicely around the lake, and back to the Pro shop.
-The disc golf course is separated and by itself. (No parks, bike trails, or playground) The only people you should see on the course are other Disc Golfers.
-Trophy Lakes is what water holes are all about. If you have any floater discs, now is the time to break them out. Or throw discs you don't mind parting with. These can be long water shots as well!
-If you aren't throwing over water, you'll be working a line around trees. Not overly tight, but spread out just enough that you'll have to find that "right" line.
-Unique and challenging pin placement. (See hole #15! They should put a mando sign up, just for fun)
-Whether you choose the red tee or choose the blue tee, you will still be challenged. The red tee's offer their own challenges. They just offer less risk on the water holes. That doesn't mean you won't lose a disc, it just means that your odds of leaving with all of your discs are better
- The holes at Trophy Lakes will make you really consider your approach strategy. Some holes will require you to make a short drive, in order to play your second shot from the waters edge.
-The blue tees offer some healthy distance challenges, with 6 holes that are 500ft+ and two that are over 600ft. The blue tee water holes are very challenging. Whereas most of the red tee's tee off from the waters edge, blue tees can be at least 100ft further back.
-The red tee's have their own challenges and still have good distance. One red tee is 546ft. The Red tees will still require you to contend with the water holes. Do not underestimate the red tees!
-Big fun factor for me, even though I still lost 2 discs that day!
-FWIW: Watching the skiers in the background can enhance the experience. I really enjoyed watching them.

*I do not believe these detract from the course score in any way, I just felt they were worth the mention.
-The terrain is flat, but this IS Low-country South Carolina. Good luck finding a hill!
-Maps on the tees were a bit faded, but the Map and Scorecard from the pro shop make up for that.
-Some of the holes on the back 9 can cause you to cross paths with other Golfers. I walked right into the middle of a group playing, and was not aware of it! I felt horrible! They were nice about my disruption! I was playing on hole 11, so when you walk around the inlet of water. Be mindful that you have to cross the fairway of Hole 12 to do it.
-Once you start hole 6, you are committed to playing the rest of the course. I didn't see any Porto's back there, so be mindful of that before you start. If you have to make an emergency run to the B'room, you'll have to run around the lake. Just a heads up!

Trophy Lakes had a big "Fun Factor" for me. I drove from over an hour away to play here, and I felt like it was well worth the drive! I had no problem paying 5$ to play this course, for me, it was money well spent. I don't know how everyone one will feel about the "in ground" basket, but I was amused by it. . This course doesn't require hiking shoes; tennis shoes will be fine here. You will want to bring discs that you don't mind parting with. Also, you may want to eat first or bring something to snack on. I didn't pass many restaurants on the way in, though there were a few gas stations along the way to the course.
This course is the top course for the Charleston area, but Trophy Lakes is not for everyone. Trophy Lakes could become very frustrating to beginners or those that would have a hard time with the course. When you play Trophy Lakes you will need to stop and think about how you will throw each hole! No two holes play the same. I started off playing the blue tees, simply because I like to throw for the distance. I changed my mind, once I got to the water holes and opted for the easier, less risky routes. I still ended up losing 2 discs to the water anyway. I had a great time, and I can't wait to come back here and do it again! (Playing the course, not losing 2 discs! )

Very challenging, well designed and fun to play. Great scenery, good service at the pro shop and you may even get back your lost discs... eventually. Dont let lost discs discourage you. Its a nice place to play and learn what you're lacking in your personal game. Well worth the drive and the 5 bucks.

Only con I have is the long throws over water. Not everyone has a canon for an arm, including myself and it took almost year before my game was good enough to make it across the lake on a couple of holes. Have lost a couple of discs out there but then again, so have the pros. This problem can be remedied with practice somewhere else. Did not lose any discs my last time out though.

Have played a couple of times and will play again. As my game improves, I'll frequent the course more often. By the way, write your name and number on your discs and they may call you when they dive for discs on occasion. 3 dollar fee is peanuts next to getting your favorite disc back.

I like the fact that there are red and blue tees for every hole. It is a good mix of water and wooded holes. Makes you use every shot type in your bag.

There are multiple water holes so there is a very good chance that you will lose a disc or two even if your not playing off the red tees. The signs for the holes are a little confusing when it came to moving about the course, but if you get a map at the office this problem will be fixed. Also not all the tee boxes are concrete and I think with a little upgrade it could help a bunch!

A really well designed and fun course to play. The staff at the office are friendly and will to help with anything. I have played with many people and some have conplained about the 5 dollar fee to play. My stance on the fee is that it helps keep the course up! If your in Charleston for the weekend or live near by I would def check out the course and by the end of the 18th hole you will know where you need to work on your game!

This course can definitely take you to your limit in terms of strategy. Trophy Lakes offers you two different sets of tee boxes to play from on all but one hole, and the difference in difficulty between the two sets can be quite a lot. From the pro tees, you'll find yourself at times quite a ways further from the pin and sometimes with a substantial water hazard between you and safety. You'll definitely need a full set of tricks up your sleeve, or in your bag as it would seem.

Lovely environment. The lakes offer a lot of beauty and even some cool wildlife nearby... not to mention the unique pleasure of getting to see some water skiers doing tricks while you play. It's private and isolated nature also let you play without the interference from the general public that you can often find in public parks.

As much as the water is a pro, it can be a con if you make poor throws or decisions. Make sure you plan out your attack and disc selection before you throw, as it could be your last with that particular disc. Even if you're the type that will go in the water after your discs, you won't be able to here as there are tons of "Absolutely NO Swimming" signs due to the boats and skiers.

The summer sun and heat can also be a downer due to the overall length of the course, but that'll be the case wherever you play in the south. Just make sure you bring sunscreen and bug spray.

Also, make sure you get a map at the clubhouse, as it will save you time finding the baskets and/or tee pads.

The $5 fee to play isn't really that bad, considering it's a great course and it will probably keep out those who aren't serious about the sport. They also sell discs and equipment at the clubhouse, which can be good if you need to replace any lost plastic.

All in all, a great course with lots to offer. It is definitely different than your "run of the mill" course. If you're around Charleston and in the mood for a challenge, this course is a must!

This is a very challenging course with tons of natural beauty. The course is quite long from the Blue tees with many challenging carries over the two lakes used for water skiing and wakeboarding.

While the $5 fee is pretty insignificant, the value of the discs you could easily lose would add up very quickly.

If you are a disc golfer, beginner or advanced, this is a course you should check out as it will challenge you and make you a better player.

Creativity- Every hole brings something new to the table. Some involve risky water carrys, inventive mandos, unique pin locations (I adore the half buried chains on 13), and many paths to the hole.

Natural Beauty- It's built around a famous water ski site, so water is the predominant feature here. While West Ashley may give you a better feel for the Lowcountry marshes, this course makes far better use of it. A water carry hole around an inaccessable tree-filled island is picturesque.

Difficulty- With the exception of elevation changes, every aspect of your game will be tested. Length and accuracy are needed to stay dry. Also, be very cautious of the wind. Trees are more strategic than enclosing, so you will need to use every shot at your disposal. The back 9 is a monster. In particular, watch out for holes 6, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, and 18.

People-Friendliness- Expect a warm welcome here. With a map, it's impossible to get lost (and even if you somehow do, someone will be happy tell you where to go), and its never crowded. 2 sets of new updated tee pads are indescribably helpful.

Be careful how often you play out here. $5 may not seem like much for unlimited rounds, but the number of discs you lose adds up.

Nearly all of these reviews and photos are out of date and don't give this course enough credit. This is a championship-caliber experience. The wetness and debris issues have been almost completely solved,. On a nice day, you may not have a better round of disc golf anywhere. My favorite course in South Carolina.

The lakes, of course. A couple of waterski lakes---this property is a competition waterski facility---come into play on 13 of the 18 holes.

The designers use the lakes more creatively than the standard, water-along-one-side-of-fairway, or tee-over-water-to-basket-on-other-side, that you frequently see. On a couple of holes water runs from 200' to 350' from the tee, so you must decide whether to wimp out and lay up, or risk your disc in attempt to carry the water---and they're not wide open, so you've got trees to factor into your decision. One is relatively short over water, except there's an island with dense, tall trees right in the line-of-play, so you must get around it and pray you don't hit it. Others approach water at interesting angles or have trees on the far side, meaning you must do more than clear the water, you must land in a favorable spot on the other side. A couple of holes have baskets very close to O.B. water, forcing a gut-check before driving or approaching or putting.

Beyond the water---it's a long and challenging course from the blue tees. Completely level, with tall trees and limited underbrush, and lots of difficult angles to hit. You don't spend much time searching for discs, either; they're either in the lake and lost, or easily found.

Even with the length (7500' from the blues), a duffer like me (900 rated, 280' arm) can have a terrific time.

As a private course, your $5 buys you a day of uncrowded fairways and no hassles sharing the course with the general public.

Most of the teepads are dirt, and subject to holding water, or at least mud, after a rain. A couple of fairways too tight for my taste---otherwise this is 4 1/2 stars.

Anyone driving less than about 260' should avoid a couple of the blue tees, due to mandatory water carries.

This course is constantly evolving, and improving, such that some of the earlier reviews are out of date. The track-hoe and tall mound are gone, as is the below-grade tee on hole 8.

One basket is buried to its rim. Definitely unique, I find it a "pro" but some may think it a "con". You wouldn't want to see a lot of this kind of thing, but as a one-time challenge, it's fun.

good variety of shots (including a basket on a hill and another buried to the rim), challenging at any level of skill, great lay-out, super fun. red tees offer a challenge to beginners without being overly difficult while the blue tees will give any player a test.

LOTS of water makes it tough for beginners (bring a dragon/hydra and prepare to swim), 5 bucks to play can be a serious bummer when things are tight. can be pretty swampy after a heavy rain, making a few run-ups unusable.

A definite pleasure to play, Trophy lakes offers a great course with a nice pro-shop with a friendly staff. Be prepared to maybe lose a disc or two or at least have to swim after one, The pro shop periodically calls about found discs, so keep your cell # updated on the back of all your plastic.

Awesome course with tons of different shots involved. Easily the best course in the Charleston area. Well worth the $5 for unlimited rounds. Better bring your A game, some pretty long shots over water.

Just the tee boxes. Some have nice Innova rubber mats, some are torn, and some are just throwing from the dirt.

Great course! What makes it unique is the difference from the long tees to the short ones. You have to have some distance to get over the water on some holes from the back tees, and playing from the front tees can make some holes very good ace runs. Gotta love the buried basket on #13, makes for a great slider ace. Pretty cool to play disc golf and watch the guys wakeboard and water ski off the rails and jumps. Great pro shop with a lot of stuff for sale and friendly staff.

Great course. Good variety of holes with distance, hizer and ani-hizer. Nice shop with discs for sale and helpful staff. A LOT of great shots over the water, through tight tree lines and a few open throws to test your distance.

Signs could be done a little better. Some confusion with navigation and distances. A few of the tee pads could use some work.. some have great rubber pads some with nothing at all.

Over all a great course and have been recommending it to every disc golfer I see in the area. A little work on the signs would go a long way and would bring the rating up a little. Bring your whole bag of discs for this course... and a few extras for the many water holes.

Challenging course with some beastly holes. Fun and worth the $5 for the day. Very cool layout with water in play on several holes. Some great par 4's mixed with birdieable holes. Course designed in and around a waterski park. Pro shop with friendly staff.

For the $15 dollars me and my buddies paid, they could buysome stickers for listing the hole number on a few of the tee signs. Not difficult to navigate but a few holes were questionable. #17 is listed much longer than it is. Not too sure about the buried basket on 13. Few rough teepads. A lot of water. Takes a bomb over the water to clear the channel on 11. Lost a few discs there but couldn't bring myself to lay-up.

Front 9 plays much easier, back 9 brings some serious challenge. I will defintiley be revisiting this course. Wind adds to challenge. Overall, a good, fun course.

Very good layout alot of difficult obstacles, awesome course highly recommend. Easily best course in Charleston!

Pay to play, wind and water hazards, lost alot of disc but had alot of fun also.

Just as the other reviews stated

The best course in the Charleston area, and it's not even close. It's a fun &, challenging course.
-The course has a good mix of difficult holes and easier holes. Plenty of birdie chances, but all risk for higher scores, or worse - lost discs.
- Front nine is easier. Most holes are shorter, there's less water in play, and more birdie chances. Back nine is really going to challenge you.
- I love the variety of ways the water comes into play. On some holes (#6, #10 short, #11 short, etc) you're teeing off from the edge, so the water shouldn't come into play too much here. Other holes, the basket is near water, so you can control how close you want to get. And others involve longer distances to clear the water (#11 & 12 long.)
- Great risk/reward factor. You can be aggressive throwing over/near water. Or you can play it safe, lay-up, throw around water.
- Dual tee pads. Every holes except #13 (the hole w/ the basket in the ground) has a long & short tee. Many of the dual tee pads present different looks.
- Course is easy to navigate, especially w/ maps. Just about every hole has a next tee sign. Each hole has colored tee signs w/ hole numbers. Tee pads are long, plenty of room for a run-up.
- Great pro shop. Guys in there are disc golfers, so they can give good advice about the course. Great selection of discs, both new and used.

Wind & water make a dangerous combination. Being on water, and close to the beach, wind is always a factor. On several holes, you're throwing from behind trees where it's calm, or wind is blowing one direction, only to wind blowing stronger or a different direction once the disc is out in the open.
- Be prepared for the chance to lose a disc. As stated above, even a good shot can easily be blown off course.
- On several water holes (#10 & 11), you have to be able to throw tee shot 350+ to clear water from long pins. If you can't throw that far, you have to lay up with a 200 ft shot, which basically leaves you by the short tee pad. My thought is to just throw from the short tee pad. Why take the chance of throwing your lay-up too long into the water when you're just trying to get near the shorter tee?
- No elevation factor here. Umm, it's the coast, so you know that going in.

The course has improved a lot over the past several years. All of the changes are for the better. I really like the added difficulty to the longer layout. 8 holes are more than 500 feet, including #14 at 1000+ feet.
- One of the best touches about the course is their lost & found policy. They post a list of all the discs they retrieve from the water on their website, so anyone can see if their lost disc is found. If the disc isn't claimed after a month they'll sell it. Seems like a lot of work, but it's a great way to please the DGers.
- #13 is a love-it or hate-it hole. The basket is buried in the ground, which allows you to roll or skim the disc into the hole. It's a unique layout, but some people are going to use the "gimmick" tag. Personally, I think it's a fun change of pace, and I like it more than hanging baskets.
- Baskets on several holes are near water. On those holes, not a bad idea to have someone playing defense between the basket and water in case your disc flies or rolls past the hole.
- Two holes stand out to me above the rest - #6 & #16. On #6, you're either throwing over the water, or from the edge of the water, depending on which tee you're playing. After the tee shot, the water should be out of play, as you throw to a hole surrounded by trees. #16 is a solid longer hole (450/660), which doesn't involve water at all. It'd fit in at any course, anywhere. #15 is also a fun hole from both layouts.
- It's worth the $5 a day to play here. You might as well plan for a couple rounds, and really get your money's worth.
- This is a must-play for everyone in the region. They do a great job taking care of the course.

Well laid out! Different strokes for different folks, from the basket on the hill to the buried basket.

Better ground keepers is a must. I have gone out there and played in chest high grass.

Water, I hope you are comfortable losing a couple of discs.

Unique challenges, water, length

Trophy Lakes is definitely one of the most fun and interesting courses I've ever played. Thanks to its length and prevalent water, this course would be challenging enough. But the designers here have really spiced things up with holes requiring driving through the arched arm of a large backhoe, a half-buried basket, depressed tee areas, and pins on the top of large, steep piles of dirt and rubble. It all adds up to a unique and truly entertaining disc golf experience.

Even with all those interesting challenges, the dominating feature at Trophy Lakes is water. And unlike my other favorite water course, Cliff Stephens in Florida, Trophy Lakes is exceptionally long - so you really have to consider your layup possibilities on some of the holes, when it's 600 feet and the water takes up 180 feet 240 feet into the hole. Even the shorter water hole was 281 feet, but with an inaccessible island right in the middle of the drive, requiring a 240-foot hook shot to clear the water and island from the tee. And that hole with the drive that must shoot the arch of the backhoe and then be putted to the top of a steep rubble and dirt pile that is maybe 15 feet high, well you just have to play it to believe it.

And as I've written, Trophy Lakes is long. Maybe not the longest course I've played (playing the pro tees to the far placements at Patapsco and Loriella would be comparable if not longer), but one of the longest. And with the length and many diverse challenges, I'd say if 54 is the usual par on courses, then 72 is comparable for this course - I can't imagine even the best pro could break 60 from the blue tees out here. So bring $5.00, your walking shoes, and a few spare drivers to sacrifice to the lakes, and try out Trophy Lakes, because it's well worth the effort.

Favorite Hole - #14 - Makeable but tough shot over water and around an inaccessible island in the middle.