Over four decades after the first condominiums were constructed on Kiawah, the island’s glorious 10-mile-long beach remains a nesting ground for thousands of endangered loggerhead turtles and its protected wilderness still provides a home for deer, bobcats, alligators, and more than 200 species of birds. But make no mistake about it: civilization has arrived in a big way. Two resort villages, five golf courses, an expansive racquet club—the former site of the U.S. Clay Court Championships and a Fed Cup tie—a 255-room hotel, and more than 500 resort-managed villas and homes trail through a landscape where once there was only woods and marsh.
Tennis Resorts Online has consistently ranked the Kiawah Island Golf Resort one of the top tennis facilities, if not the No. 1 resort. Kiawah has earned the top spot so many times that it has caused tennis directors at some competing resorts to question whether the rankings are rigged.
But make no mistake, they’ve won fair and square. The tennis program here benefits from a number of world-class features, including:
A first-rate teaching staff that is as engaging and knowledgeable as any team, with more than a dozen pros on island during peak times
A daily clinic and drill lineup that is fast-paced, fun and caters to everyone from beginners to college-level players
A strong kids’ program, including popular summer camps and a year-round residential tennis academy
A fast-growing pickleball community, with dozens of people participating in clinics and open-play sessions at any given time
But the tennis program is but a small part of Kiawah’s overall appeal. Part of the allure of this place is that it offers something for everyone. Beachgoers marvel at its 10 miles of pristine white sand coastline. Golfers rave about its five championship courses. Families rise before dawn—trust us, it’s worth it—to catch a glimpse of the island’s endangered loggerhead turtles, some of which weigh over 300 pounds. And people congregate at low tide every day to watch local dolphins strand feed, a spectacle Netflix captured in its popular nature series, Animal.
The resort occupies virtually all of the 10,000-acre island from which it takes its name. Charles Fraser, famous for his sensitive development of Sea Pines Resort, laid the original plans for Kiawah, which opened in 1976. Roughly half of the island is to remain in its original state, and the variety of vegetation—some native, some planted—is impressive. Much of the development clusters near East Beach, home to an elegant beachfront hotel—a Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star winner called the Sanctuary—and a Forbes 5-Star winning spa, all just steps from a tennis and pickleball complex named for the resort’s longtime emeritus tennis director Roy Barth. The island’s far eastern end, by contrast, embraces many private houses and the two most famous golf courses, Osprey Point and the Ocean Course. An on-property shuttle makes going from place to place easy, so does an extensive network of bike paths. The resort itself is close enough Charleston to make forays into the historic city easy—driving time is about 45 minutes—yet far enough removed that the island feels like its own destination.
As the name suggests, the resort puts great stock in its five golf courses. Each of the 18-hole layouts bears the name of a different architect. Gary Player designed and then redesigned Cougar Point, complete with a stately clubhouse near the resort entrance. Renovations to Tom Fazio’s Osprey Point and to Pete Dye’s incredible links-style Ocean Course—which has hosted a Ryder Cup and multiple PGA Championships—retained the structure of both courses, while adding elements that improve the experience for golfers. Jack Nicklaus reimagined his Turtle Point Course. The fifth course, Clyde Johnston’s Oak Point, is in Kiawah River Estates just outside the entrance to the island.
In spite of its absence from the resort’s name, tennis—and, to a growing extent, pickleball—are as enmeshed in this place as any activity. Until recently, there were two racquet clubs. Though only one remains, it has benefited from the more than $200 million that the resort has spent in recent years on facility upgrades and enhancements, with more on the way. As part of those expenditures, the Roy Barth Tennis Center built 10 additional Har-Tru tennis courts, bringing its total to 22 (three of them hard and lined for pickleball; the resort is also building six new dedicated pickleball courts in 2023).
This sprawling complex benefits from its location near The Sanctuary, a world-renowned hotel just a four-minute walk away. Until his retirement in early 2018, former touring pro Roy Barth had been the only tennis director the resort had ever known. Barth handed the reins reigns to his son Jonathan, who himself had been head pro at the resort since 1999. Together they’ve designed one of the country’s foremost tennis programs, one almost perennially ranked No. 1 in our annual reader poll. (Roy, meanwhile, has written a book, Point of Impact, and has a website with on-court tips and videos from his teaching career.
The Roy Barth Tennis Center sits amid a halo of tennis villas four minutes on foot from the beachfront Sanctuary hotel. It has an expansive pro shop and is further distinguished by having one of its hard courts dedicated to a self-feeding ball machine capable of spewing balls at a rate of 1,200 per hour. The courts—19 clay, 3 hard, including 8 pickleball courts—form a semicircle around the weathered wood pro shop, whose decks provide a comfortable place to watch the action. (The resort is considering a proposal to overhaul the pro shop with space for strength training, locker rooms, a snack bar, and more.) Winding paths through pine trees lead to courts variously bordered by palmettos, pampas grass, oleander and flowers. Each pair of courts has access to an awning-covered patio offering shade, benches, and an electric water fountain.
Tennis Staff: Until his retirement in early 2018, former touring pro Roy Barth, one of the founding members of the ATP Tour, had been the only tennis director the resort had ever known. Now his title is Emeritus Tennis Director, a role that allows him to continue to contribute and pass along his considerable teaching expertise. That leaves the management of the tennis operation and Director of Tennis title to his son Jonathan, who has been a integral part of establishing and running the tennis programs.
“Making major changes isn’t my goal,” Jonathan Barth told me, “but I’m very excited about the efficiencies that will come from having all the programs in one location.” That includes the summer Barth-Hawtin Tennis Academy that he helped found.
Tennis Programs: During the busy March-to-October season, the racquet club offers a weekly menu of programs including instructional clinics, two-hour Tournament Tough workouts, drill sessions, adult mixed doubles round robins, parent-child doubles round robins, and private lessons. In addition, the staff helps guests find opponents at the appropriate level, even guaranteeing a match given 48 hours notice. Barth credits the 150-200 resident club members for helping to arrange hits and for welcoming guests to join their standing morning matches.
Activity reaches its zenith in summer when the resort adds a weekly pro doubles exhibition, as well as three-day junior tennis camps, junior tournament tough workouts, and a Tiny Tots program. On selected weekends during every month except July and August, the resort adds a 3-day doubles mini-camp, which consists of 8 hours of instruction covering all aspects of the game, including basic strokes, strategy, angles, visualization, and supervised doubles play. Participants also receive a copy of Barth’s instructional manual, “Tips for Better Tennis.” Finally, private camps can be arranged to suit the specific needs of a group.
Barth-Hawtin Tennis Academy: This year-round academy focuses on helping prepare junior tennis players for competition in state, sectional, and national level tournaments with an eye to preparing them for college play or even the professional circuit using a combination of match-play drills, supervised play, conditioning, mental toughness/strategy sessions, and technique assessment with video analysis. The academy now offers a full-time residential program as well as day camps that run weekly from Monday through Saturday during the summer.
As part of its push to develop junior talent, Kiawah now hosts 10 to 12 junior tournaments every year, from lower-level to national-level events, including 18-and-under national tournaments over Labor Day weekend. It also plays host to “Racquet War” events for adults, which have attracted hundreds more players to the resort. Tennis director Barth is always looking for more ways to engage and entertain newcomers. “My goal is to fill the club every weekend where it’s not turning away my residents,” he told us.
Pickleball Programs: Like many resorts, Kiawah has seen explosive growth in pickleball, filling multiple courts at a time at all hours of the day with dozens of people. The loud thwock of the plastic balls can be heard throughout the grounds. And the inclusive, festive environment surrounding the game, pairing people of all ages and different skill levels, make it an appealing sport for the resort. Many families face off in fun-spirited battles, while other guests enjoy competing against—and socializing with—fellow travelers. So far, the pickleball and tennis people seem to get along fine. But Barth knows that, as pickleball has become more popular, and taken up more courts, it could run the risk of alienating tennis players. To serve both populations, the resort is adding more dedicated pickleball courts. The resort has 8 pickleball courts lined on three tennis courts, with plans for 6 new dedicated pickleball courts in 2023 (construction starts in March). So far, the resort has two dedicated pickleball professionals—one full-time and one part-time—but if the sport keeps growing as fast as it has, expect that to change.
Off Court
Beach: Ranked one of the great resort beaches in the country, this broad ribbon of hard-packed sand extends in a sinuous line for 10 miles along the entire length of Kiawah Island. Although there are hundreds of villas and homes, as well as the hotel, all of this environmentally sensitive development has been pushed back behind a beltway of low dunes blanketed with foliage. No building is taller than five stories and all have earthen tones that blend with the surroundings. More than four decades after the resort opened, the beach remains pristine enough for endangered loggerhead turtles to nest there.
Golf Courses: With five courses, each bearing the signature of a major golf architect, and a golf academy, Kiawah has obviously focused its attention on attracting golfers. That includes staging major golf events like the Ryder Cup in 1991 and the World Cup in 2003. The Senior PGA Championships were held in May 2007 and the PGA Championships were hosted at The Ocean Course in 2012 and 2021. Golf packages, which include the right to make advance reservations for tee times, can be booked by calling 800-654-2924. Greens fees vary seasonally..
The Ocean Course: Regarded as one of the finest golf courses in the world, The Ocean Course, designed by Alice and Pete Dye, excels in design quality, shot values, and sheer beauty. Having hosted the 1991 Ryder Cup, the 2012 PGA Championship, and the 2021 PGA Championship, it has been witness to many famous moments in golf history. The Atlantic Ocean can be seen from every hole on the course, and holes 14 through 18 run directly along the sea. A modern course based inspired by the classic designs of famous links courses in the British Isles, The Ocean Course is walking only. Par: 72. Length: 7,356 yards.
Cougar Point: Renovated in 2017 under the direction of architect Gary Player, Cougar Point is highlighted by a stretch of holes 4 through 6 that follow the Kiawah River, giving then sweeping marsh vistas regarded as some of the most serene on the island. Its natural beauty and exceptional playability make this course a favorite among resort guests. Player designed the course with creative placement of multiple tee boxes on each hole, creating an enjoyable and challenging round for golfers of every level, from beginners to the scratch golfer. Par: 72. Length: 6,875 yards.
Oak Point: Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2019, the Clyde Johnston-designed Oak Point offers strategic challenges. Undulating fairways, an open, exposed front 9 and winding, woodland back 9 led Johnston to describe the course as “Scottish-American.” Par: 72. Length: 6,701 yards.
Osprey Point: Tom Fazio’s popular Osprey Point makes full use of Kiawah Island’s maritime forests, lagoons, and saltwater marshes. Its many open and wide fairways and generous greens afford forgiveness even for errant shots. Par: 72. Length: 6,932 yards.
Turtle Point: Featuring three oceanfront holes, this characteristic Jack Nicklaus design comprises narrow fairways, approachable greens, and strategically placed lagoons that place a premium on accuracy and a carefully thought-out approach to each shot. Turtle point is a true shot-maker’s course, requiring golfers to use every club in the bag and favors a thoughtful approach over sheer power. Par: 72. Length: 7,062 yards.
Spa & Fitness Center: The third floor of the Sanctuary houses an elegant spa with lavish treatment rooms that perennially earns a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating. Guests looking to work out, meanwhile, have a small but well-equipped fitness center and indoor lap pool on the main level of the hotel.
Night Heron Park is a 21-acre playground containing a 25-meter swimming pool with lap lanes, a wading pool, a toddler splash zone with baby bouncers, two open-flume slides, a full length basketball court, a soccer field, playground equipment on a sandy base, a pavilion with a snack bar and new market/café, an excellent nature center, and one of two bike rental outlets (the other at the Cougar Point Golf Clubhouse). Use of the park is complimentary to guests who’ve booked through Kiawah Island Golf Resort. There are three additional swimming pools, two at the Sanctuary, the other adjacent to the Cougar Point Golf Pro Shop. Nature Program. To better introduce the Kiawah’s flora and fauna, local naturalists and historians conduct canoeing, kayaking, walking, and biking tours, including a few outings suitable for preteens.
Children's programs: During the summer and over major holidays, the resort operates its Kamp Kiawah program for children ages 3-7 as well as Camp Xtreme and Adventure Camp for kids ages 8-15. Located at Night Heron Park, these programs provide a half day or full day of supervised activity, dividing children into groups ages 3-4, 5-7, and 8-15. For teens, they offer a specialized set of activities including late-night movies, basketball and volleyball tournaments, dances, and pool parties. That is all supplemented by organized family activities that could include movies, cookouts or ice-cream socials.
Dining: The resort’s restaurants, cafés, and eateries afford a diverse range of culinary options even as they stay true to Coastal Carolina roots. The newest addition, The Players’ Pub at Cougar Point Clubhouse, serves comfort food in a classic American pub setting. Also noteworthy is Jasmine Porch, a Lowcountry bistro located in The Sanctuary, with walls of authentic Charleston brick, oak-plank floors, windows on the ocean, and an outdoor terrace. For a luxurious night out, don't miss the Ocean Room at The Sanctuary, which features an array of fresh catch options in addition to an impressive lineup of steaks, including a dry-aged Tomahawk ribeye. Cap it off with a visit to Beaches & Cream, a sweet shop featuring locally made ice cream.
Accommodations
Modeled on the Lowcountry’s grand seaside mansions, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort strives to feel more like a tasteful residence than a typical luxury hotel. Of course, most residences don’t have 255 guestrooms, everyone with a balcony or terrace and views of the mounded sand dunes and the Atlantic Ocean beyond, let alone a spa, fitness center, retail shops, several restaurants, and a couple of swimming pools, including one infinity pool for adults only. Yet for all those amenities, it exudes the individual character and soul-pleasing comfort of a boutique hotel. Moreover, it is only a five-minute walk from the Roy Barth Tennis Center.
The alternative is to book a villa. They range in size from one to four bedrooms. Prices vary according to size and location, with the most expensive fronting the ocean. All have fully equipped kitchens. Windswept, which has elevators and many rooms with sweeping views of the ocean, is one of the more appealing complexes if you want to be near the beach.
Getting there
Seasons: Although the resort operates year-round, winters can be cool and activity at the tennis center slows. Spring, summer, and fall are thus the busiest seasons. Average high temperatures range from the low 60s in December and January to the high 80s in July and August.
Travel Instructions: Kiawah Island Golf Resort is 35 miles from Charleston International Airport (CHS). Rental cars and limousine service are available from there to the resort.
The tennis staff was amazing! I loved how the instruction was consistent from pro to pro. The villa we stayed in was great and so close to the facility that we could walk there in just a couple of minutes. We are already planning our next trip. I am just sad that we cannot attend the charity tournament next week. It will be on our list next year!
RF
Great resort!!! Amazing courts set in an amazing atmosphere! The staff was very knowledgeable & friendly. Would highly recommend this place to tennis player at any level.
JD
The setting is magnificent, the weather ideal, except it’s humid in August, and the teaching pros are the best. Monday night exhibition matches with the pros are fun for all with prizes. Great hospitality, high quality merchandise in pro shop.
PR
Best tennis instruction I’ve ever experienced. Beautiful location to top that off!
MH
Kiawah was a great place to escape for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation. Our tennis instruction was a great experience. We’d like to give a shout-out to Brandon who worked with both my wife and I and our kids. We will be sure to come back soon!
SB
It is a great place away from civilization. The heavy forests make it seem so far away from downtown.
CP
So much fun!
EY
Kiawah Island Golf Resort is probably the best tennis/golf resort I have ever been to. Whenever I’m sitting at the office, the one spot that I consistently find myself daydreaming about is Kiawah. Beautiful setting, wonderful amenities and staff. Speaking of staff, I’d like to mention Brandon. He is truly an asset to the resort and a favorite of our family! Always a pleasure to see him and we look forward to seeing him soon!
JC
This is a great place for a family vacation. We had excellent tennis instruction for all ages within our entire family (8 to 82). The scenery was breathtaking, the dining and other activity options were phenomenal. We will definitely be returning as soon as possible!
SB
Great instruction and great instructors, well structured in a beautiful resort. You will leave playing better than when you arrived.
LM
Our vacation decision was made based on previous years of visiting Kiawah and having already had fun learning tennis basics. We are now into our third year of tennis and decided it was time to go back to Kiawah with tennis as number one priority for us the parents – and a great Kiawah Kamp as a camp priority for our kids. The experience far surpassed the expectations. The tennis was fantastic for one main reason with a host of supporting reasons. Number one – David Boyd. As Head Tennis Pro, he guided our clinics and drills every day using perfectly balanced coaching with an eye for how to push us, and when to push us. The “keep your eye focused on the point of impact” was well explained through out EVERY clinic and drill. The continuity of this particular training was so clearly visible with each time that we put the ball into the net that the light bulb moments were every hour….it makes sense finally. After the “impact” training hit home, then the nuances of details like “racquet face, not following through properly or hitting the ball too late, came into instruction. Finally I was ready for the Adult Tough Tournament. The option to play three or four hours of tennis seemed a little too much when we booked but in reality we wanted to play for five or six! The teaching was well paced, the water breaks gave time to ask questions and get to know the pro as well as the other players. The simple placement of the balls was perfectly timed for each player – David knew who to push and when to push them and why. The larger classes were immediately split to a perfect pro/attendant ratio and the skill level was quickly assessed also. Day Six of “Tennis Camp” was bitter sweet. We did not want to leave – but we wanted to go home and show off our new skills. Highlights of some of the things that I learned – eye on point of impact or your ball will go into the net (every time), loosely hold your racquet – tension is bad, pivot with your right foot for forehand cross court shots – one step with a pivot could mean you get to the ball, serve – head up, arm up – stay up, wrist down – and the ball will go in! Some of this I have heard before but not actually registered – this time it has STUCK. I truly believe that I am a better player from the 6 day experience with David and his team. I LOVED my time at the Roy Barth Tennis Center. Everyone was fun, patient, respectful and charming. It was the best vacation ever!
JF
Just got back today from a week at Kiawah. My wife and I attended clinics and drills at the Roy Barth tennis center. The instruction was fantastic; the instruction changed every stroke for the better and they taught a few new ones. Not only were the stroke mechanics improved but the teachers brought a fundamentals philosophy that can’t help but improve your game. Roy Barth was personally at many of the sessions and his staff was excellent. They made learning fun and sought to improve each individual, regardless how much needed fixing.
GL
Kiawah is the best beach locations I have ever found on the Eastern Coast of the USA. There is so much to do, for nearly everyone. The tennis clinics were very good, but the semi-private lessons I took with my wife were a better value. Charleston, SC is about 45 minutes away, and the nearest grocery store is about 30 minutes away. Nothing is cheep on the island.
CR
Best staff and atmosphere anyone could ask for!
MK
Outstanding resort with excellent tennis, golf, biking, beach and susnset. Spend the evening relaxing or take a short drive to Charleston for fine dining and sightseeing. Our tennis group visits Kiawah every year and we love it!
KC
Kiawah has an amazing tennis facility and the tennis pro’s there are very helpful!!!
JS
This was my eighth tennis camp at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. I attended the 3 day camp with ladies on my tennis team and we had a blast. David Boyd, our pro, was just that. He gave us several tips that we were able to use right away and left us with several things we each needed to work on. The accomodations were just perfect for us. A three bedroom cottage with a kitchen was convenient to all. We have already made our reservation for next year!
JC
Kiawah Island is the tennis mecca for vacationers. I spent an exceptional long weekend there, and have nothing but wonderful things to say about it. Everything on the island, from restaurants, to golf, to tennis, to lodgings is perfectly thought out for utmost convenient. It was easy to tell the tennis pros were experienced, both with their games and ability to teach players of all levels. Kiawah is a personal favorite and quickly became a family and friend favorite. Everyone who goes will go back again, guaranteed!
EG
Great instruction from Jonathon and David. Gorgeous setting. The hotel on site is fabulous although we stayed in a very nice 3 BR villa. Great golf, also. Have a drink at the Ocean Course as the sun goes for a stunning view.
MT
The drive to the Island of Kiawah sets the stage for a relaxing and magical vacation. The first day was spent courtside with the resident Pro as he demostrated the strokes of the week. The clinics were well taught and managed well. Ous chidren also were in the Jrs. Programs while we had our adult clinics. We fiished the morning with a family game of doubles. The afternoons were spent beachside and with late afternnon bike rides under the shaded bike paths. This is a destination that’s worth repeating.
RH
We just spent a beautiful weekend at Kiawah taking a three day clinic with the head pro, Jonathan. Even after my ten years of tennis clinics, Jonathan was able to teach me some new strategies that will definitely improve my game. He was fun, personable, and extremely knowledgeable, and the resort was superb. I will definitely be returning in the future for some more tennis instruction.
DM
Consistent message from all pros related to key messages. Beautiful setting.
RM
We searched for a really highly rated tennis experience and choose the special tennis package, (I was preparing for a very special upcoming pro-am). Unfortunately we visited during a week that very few other tennis players were visiting, (which I think was unusual as we visited right after the nearby Family Circle Cup in Charleston). Although daily clinics & drills were available the level of the majority of players was too low for them to be of any real value or benefit to me. Only one of the scheduled round robins took place and that included a person with a broken arm. The staff were pleasent and knowledgeable but I didn’t feel that anyone stepped up to make this a particularly good tennis experience given that I’d paid extra for the special package (I had to ask for my own free t-shirt). Otherwise it was a very beautiful beach resort & spa.
LR
Best tennis holidays ever. Great teaching staff, best we have ever had and we have gone to at least 6 other tennis resorts. Excellent courts, beautiful place. We will go back for sure!
RM
We had a great vacation and was able to play alot of matches. Great time and wonderful hotel!
WD
Kiawah Island Tennis Resort is a five star resort. From the incredible dinning to the beautiful beaches Kiawah has got it all. The insightful, knowledgeable and fun tennis professionals offer clinics, camps and lessons that are challenging, helpful, and very enjoyable. Players from all skill levels and ages can find an enjoyable, relaxing, and overall amazing experience at The Kiawah Island Tennis Resort.
BP
Great facilities. Great programs. Great people. Got lots of individual attention and useful instruction I can apply on my own.
RT
The tennis program at Kiawah was very helpful for a beginner like me.
TS
This was a wonderful resort. Besides the wonderful backdrop, and great food, there was a ton of tennis. The staff made this trip worth every penny.
DP
Kiawah is beautiful, the tennis instruction is great, and the facilities (on-court & off) are terrific. The pros (Dave, Brandon, Matt) are true professionals, able to pick up on “little” things that make a big difference. By practicing all the good things they taught, I’ve seen vast improvement in my game. And what a treat to have Roy Barth take a hands-on approach!
EK
No weakneses. Only strengths. 4 lady friends and myself go every year and have the best time of our lives. The pro’s are excellent, teaching is phenomenal. Strongly recommend.
CP
Although I am a new player to tennis, the pros at kiawah were able to help me develop the basic skill set so I can play with friends and family. My kids are dying to get back out on the courts and we are booking another trip for the summer!
FR
We had a great time at the Women’s Tennis Weekend. We can’t wait to come back next year. All pros are great but Jonathan and Brandon are the top ones.
NA
Participated in the Ladies Tennis Weekend at Kiawah for the fourth straight year. This is a must weekend for me every year and I can’t wait to come back again. The pros are spectactular and are real tennis teachers and not just feeding balls. Jonathan and Brandon are the top pros on the island.
JC
The daily clinics were a great learning tool in which I could make simple changes and then put these changes into action with the daily drill. Private lessons really allowed me to tweak my game to make noticeable differences, that others have commented on as well. I had a great time working with Brandon who gave me both personalized attention and drills perfectly suited to my areas of greatest need. He surveyed my entire game and gave me simple adjustments that have made an enormous difference. I cannot thank him, and the rest of the Kiawah tennis staff enough. Every time I go there it is the same story: an unbelievable tennis experience with professional, personal, and the most knowledgeable tennis staff I have ever worked with (and trust me I have worked with a lot!) I can’t wait to get back out on court there again!
SD
I was involved in a ladies tennis weekend and had a blast. They provided great instruction and mixed in just the right amount of play.
JP
LOVE Kiawah! The island (and Tennis) both immaculate. Jonathan and Ryan are both class act pros who are excellent teachers who communicate well with their students – very important. Not only are Kiawah’s pros good listeners/observers during clinics and drills but good guys. Made an enjoyable few days of tennis on great hartru courts
CS
Tennis instruction at Kiawah Island is the best anyone can get. The pros are easy-going, nice and accommodating. They explain and teach techniques simply and patiently. The facility is top notch – same for the rest of the resort. You’ll find the experience exceptional.
JF
Tennis instruction was phenomenal… Brandon was extremely knowledgeable, and taught us things that I think will help us become the next level of player. Awesome!
LC
This resort is a great tennis experience.
JD
We’ve been going to kiawah off and on for the last 13 years. The instruction has steadily improved to the point that I’d put this resort on par with anywhere else in the country. We worked primarily with David, my son was in the Tournament Tough program with Brandon, we had a great time and walked away better players. I saw David work with beginners and couldn’t believe the improvement in an hour. The one suggestion we have is that given the cost of the program, Kiawah should maintatin a 4-1 student to pro ration rather than the 5-1 we experienced once or twice.
CC
We have been going to Kiawah since 2003. We like the beach, the biking, hitting golf balls, and love the tennis. The tennis staff is the best I have ever encountered. Our kids have participated in all the junior programs, while my wife and I have joined in clinics and lessons. We will continue to visit Kiawah for years to come. The only drawback was dining options but that has been upgraded significantly with the addition of the Santuary.
LI
Superior instruction.
JC
Kiawah Island is a wonderful vacation spot. The tennis instructors are very helpful and easy to work with. The tennis courts are very nice and stay well-groomed. Everyone at the tennis center is very accomodating. The entire island is beautiful and is located a short drive away from Charleston.
AB
We go to Kiawah Island every year and love both the island and the tennis. The tennis facilities and instruction are wonderful, and it is a great destination for both the serious and recreational player. Additionally, the island is beautiful with excellent food and recreation.
CD
Kiawah is the most beautiful place to vacation and the tennis is awesome. The tennis pros are very knowledgable and make the clinics fun and worthwhile.
CL
Kiawah is the most enjoyable place to vacation. The tennis pros are so good and personable and make learning very simple. I’ve been going to Kiawah for the past 12 years and I love being able to work with the same pro everytime I go.
RK
This is the second year I’ve been to Kiawah and each time it has been better and better. Spectacular setting and the people are kind and accomodating..Can’t wait to go back next year!!!
WB
Great tennis instruction from the pros. Whether you are a seasoned player or a beginner, you’ll find Roy Barth’s instruction eye-opening. Focuses on the basics needed to really up your playing level. Beautiful resort too. Lots of activities for all ages.
GS
For the past 6 years we were coming for tennis clinics with David Boyd – Head Professional at Roy Barth Tennis Center. His teaching skills and instructions are exceptional. His personality is superb! We’ll keep coming back!
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380 Reviews on “Kiawah Island Golf Resort”
The tennis staff was amazing! I loved how the instruction was consistent from pro to pro. The villa we stayed in was great and so close to the facility that we could walk there in just a couple of minutes. We are already planning our next trip. I am just sad that we cannot attend the charity tournament next week. It will be on our list next year!
Great resort!!! Amazing courts set in an amazing atmosphere! The staff was very knowledgeable & friendly. Would highly recommend this place to tennis player at any level.
The setting is magnificent, the weather ideal, except it’s humid in August, and the teaching pros are the best. Monday night exhibition matches with the pros are fun for all with prizes. Great hospitality, high quality merchandise in pro shop.
Best tennis instruction I’ve ever experienced. Beautiful location to top that off!
Kiawah was a great place to escape for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation. Our tennis instruction was a great experience. We’d like to give a shout-out to Brandon who worked with both my wife and I and our kids. We will be sure to come back soon!
It is a great place away from civilization. The heavy forests make it seem so far away from downtown.
So much fun!
Kiawah Island Golf Resort is probably the best tennis/golf resort I have ever been to. Whenever I’m sitting at the office, the one spot that I consistently find myself daydreaming about is Kiawah. Beautiful setting, wonderful amenities and staff. Speaking of staff, I’d like to mention Brandon. He is truly an asset to the resort and a favorite of our family! Always a pleasure to see him and we look forward to seeing him soon!
This is a great place for a family vacation. We had excellent tennis instruction for all ages within our entire family (8 to 82). The scenery was breathtaking, the dining and other activity options were phenomenal. We will definitely be returning as soon as possible!
Great instruction and great instructors, well structured in a beautiful resort. You will leave playing better than when you arrived.
Our vacation decision was made based on previous years of visiting Kiawah and having already had fun learning tennis basics. We are now into our third year of tennis and decided it was time to go back to Kiawah with tennis as number one priority for us the parents – and a great Kiawah Kamp as a camp priority for our kids. The experience far surpassed the expectations.
The tennis was fantastic for one main reason with a host of supporting reasons. Number one – David Boyd. As Head Tennis Pro, he guided our clinics and drills every day using perfectly balanced coaching with an eye for how to push us, and when to push us. The “keep your eye focused on the point of impact” was well explained through out EVERY clinic and drill. The continuity of this particular training was so clearly visible with each time that we put the ball into the net that the light bulb moments were every hour….it makes sense finally. After the “impact” training hit home, then the nuances of details like “racquet face, not following through properly or hitting the ball too late, came into instruction.
Finally I was ready for the Adult Tough Tournament. The option to play three or four hours of tennis seemed a little too much when we booked but in reality we wanted to play for five or six! The teaching was well paced, the water breaks gave time to ask questions and get to know the pro as well as the other players. The simple placement of the balls was perfectly timed for each player – David knew who to push and when to push them and why.
The larger classes were immediately split to a perfect pro/attendant ratio and the skill level was quickly assessed also. Day Six of “Tennis Camp” was bitter sweet. We did not want to leave – but we wanted to go home and show off our new skills. Highlights of some of the things that I learned – eye on point of impact or your ball will go into the net (every time), loosely hold your racquet – tension is bad, pivot with your right foot for forehand cross court shots – one step with a pivot could mean you get to the ball, serve – head up, arm up – stay up, wrist down – and the ball will go in! Some of this I have heard before but not actually registered – this time it has STUCK.
I truly believe that I am a better player from the 6 day experience with David and his team. I LOVED my time at the Roy Barth Tennis Center. Everyone was fun, patient, respectful and charming. It was the best vacation ever!
Just got back today from a week at Kiawah. My wife and I attended clinics and drills at the Roy Barth tennis center. The instruction was fantastic; the instruction changed every stroke for the better and they taught a few new ones. Not only were the stroke mechanics improved but the teachers brought a fundamentals philosophy that can’t help but improve your game. Roy Barth was personally at many of the sessions and his staff was excellent. They made learning fun and sought to improve each individual, regardless how much needed fixing.
Kiawah is the best beach locations I have ever found on the Eastern Coast of the USA. There is so much to do, for nearly everyone. The tennis clinics were very good, but the semi-private lessons I took with my wife were a better value. Charleston, SC is about 45 minutes away, and the nearest grocery store is about 30 minutes away. Nothing is cheep on the island.
Best staff and atmosphere anyone could ask for!
Outstanding resort with excellent tennis, golf, biking, beach and susnset. Spend the evening relaxing or take a short drive to Charleston for fine dining and sightseeing. Our tennis group visits Kiawah every year and we love it!
Kiawah has an amazing tennis facility and the tennis pro’s there are very helpful!!!
This was my eighth tennis camp at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. I attended the 3 day camp with ladies on my tennis team and we had a blast. David Boyd, our pro, was just that. He gave us several tips that we were able to use right away and left us with several things we each needed to work on. The accomodations were just perfect for us. A three bedroom cottage with a kitchen was convenient to all. We have already made our reservation for next year!
Kiawah Island is the tennis mecca for vacationers. I spent an exceptional long weekend there, and have nothing but wonderful things to say about it. Everything on the island, from restaurants, to golf, to tennis, to lodgings is perfectly thought out for utmost convenient. It was easy to tell the tennis pros were experienced, both with their games and ability to teach players of all levels. Kiawah is a personal favorite and quickly became a family and friend favorite. Everyone who goes will go back again, guaranteed!
Great instruction from Jonathon and David. Gorgeous setting. The hotel on site is fabulous although we stayed in a very nice 3 BR villa. Great golf, also. Have a drink at the Ocean Course as the sun goes for a stunning view.
The drive to the Island of Kiawah sets the stage for a relaxing and magical vacation. The first day was spent courtside with the resident Pro as he demostrated the strokes of the week. The clinics were well taught and managed well. Ous chidren also were in the Jrs. Programs while we had our adult clinics. We fiished the morning with a family game of doubles. The afternoons were spent beachside and with late afternnon bike rides under the shaded bike paths. This is a destination that’s worth repeating.
We just spent a beautiful weekend at Kiawah taking a three day clinic with the head pro, Jonathan. Even after my ten years of tennis clinics, Jonathan was able to teach me some new strategies that will definitely improve my game. He was fun, personable, and extremely knowledgeable, and the resort was superb. I will definitely be returning in the future for some more tennis instruction.
Consistent message from all pros related to key messages. Beautiful setting.
We searched for a really highly rated tennis experience and choose the special tennis package, (I was preparing for a very special upcoming pro-am). Unfortunately we visited during a week that very few other tennis players were visiting, (which I think was unusual as we visited right after the nearby Family Circle Cup in Charleston).
Although daily clinics & drills were available the level of the majority of players was too low for them to be of any real value or benefit to me. Only one of the scheduled round robins took place and that included a person with a broken arm. The staff were pleasent and knowledgeable but I didn’t feel that anyone stepped up to make this a particularly good tennis experience given that I’d paid extra for the special package (I had to ask for my own free t-shirt). Otherwise it was a very beautiful beach resort & spa.
Best tennis holidays ever. Great teaching staff, best we have ever had and we have gone to at least 6 other tennis resorts. Excellent courts, beautiful place. We will go back for sure!
We had a great vacation and was able to play alot of matches. Great time and wonderful hotel!
Kiawah Island Tennis Resort is a five star resort. From the incredible dinning to the beautiful beaches Kiawah has got it all. The insightful, knowledgeable and fun tennis professionals offer clinics, camps and lessons that are challenging, helpful, and very enjoyable. Players from all skill levels and ages can find an enjoyable, relaxing, and overall amazing experience at The Kiawah Island Tennis Resort.
Great facilities. Great programs. Great people. Got lots of individual attention and useful instruction I can apply on my own.
The tennis program at Kiawah was very helpful for a beginner like me.
This was a wonderful resort. Besides the wonderful backdrop, and great food, there was a ton of tennis. The staff made this trip worth every penny.
Kiawah is beautiful, the tennis instruction is great, and the facilities (on-court & off) are terrific. The pros (Dave, Brandon, Matt) are true professionals, able to pick up on “little” things that make a big difference. By practicing all the good things they taught, I’ve seen vast improvement in my game. And what a treat to have Roy Barth take a hands-on approach!
No weakneses. Only strengths. 4 lady friends and myself go every year and have the best time of our lives. The pro’s are excellent, teaching is phenomenal. Strongly recommend.
Although I am a new player to tennis, the pros at kiawah were able to help me develop the basic skill set so I can play with friends and family. My kids are dying to get back out on the courts and we are booking another trip for the summer!
We had a great time at the Women’s Tennis Weekend. We can’t wait to come back next year. All pros are great but Jonathan and Brandon are the top ones.
Participated in the Ladies Tennis Weekend at Kiawah for the fourth straight year. This is a must weekend for me every year and I can’t wait to come back again. The pros are spectactular and are real tennis teachers and not just feeding balls. Jonathan and Brandon are the top pros on the island.
The daily clinics were a great learning tool in which I could make simple changes and then put these changes into action with the daily drill. Private lessons really allowed me to tweak my game to make noticeable differences, that others have commented on as well. I had a great time working with Brandon who gave me both personalized attention and drills perfectly suited to my areas of greatest need. He surveyed my entire game and gave me simple adjustments that have made an enormous difference. I cannot thank him, and the rest of the Kiawah tennis staff enough.
Every time I go there it is the same story: an unbelievable tennis experience with professional, personal, and the most knowledgeable tennis staff I have ever worked with (and trust me I have worked with a lot!) I can’t wait to get back out on court there again!
I was involved in a ladies tennis weekend and had a blast. They provided great instruction and mixed in just the right amount of play.
LOVE Kiawah! The island (and Tennis) both immaculate. Jonathan and Ryan are both class act pros who are excellent teachers who communicate well with their students – very important. Not only are Kiawah’s pros good listeners/observers during clinics and drills but good guys. Made an enjoyable few days of tennis on great hartru courts
Tennis instruction at Kiawah Island is the best anyone can get. The pros are easy-going, nice and accommodating. They explain and teach techniques simply and patiently. The facility is top notch – same for the rest of the resort. You’ll find the experience exceptional.
Tennis instruction was phenomenal… Brandon was extremely knowledgeable, and taught us things that I think will help us become the next level of player. Awesome!
This resort is a great tennis experience.
We’ve been going to kiawah off and on for the last 13 years. The instruction has steadily improved to the point that I’d put this resort on par with anywhere else in the country. We worked primarily with David, my son was in the Tournament Tough program with Brandon, we had a great time and walked away better players. I saw David work with beginners and couldn’t believe the improvement in an hour.
The one suggestion we have is that given the cost of the program, Kiawah should maintatin a 4-1 student to pro ration rather than the 5-1 we experienced once or twice.
We have been going to Kiawah since 2003. We like the beach, the biking, hitting golf balls, and love the tennis. The tennis staff is the best I have ever encountered. Our kids have participated in all the junior programs, while my wife and I have joined in clinics and lessons. We will continue to visit Kiawah for years to come.
The only drawback was dining options but that has been upgraded significantly with the addition of the Santuary.
Superior instruction.
Kiawah Island is a wonderful vacation spot. The tennis instructors are very helpful and easy to work with. The tennis courts are very nice and stay well-groomed. Everyone at the tennis center is very accomodating. The entire island is beautiful and is located a short drive away from Charleston.
We go to Kiawah Island every year and love both the island and the tennis. The tennis facilities and instruction are wonderful, and it is a great destination for both the serious and recreational player. Additionally, the island is beautiful with excellent food and recreation.
Kiawah is the most beautiful place to vacation and the tennis is awesome. The tennis pros are very knowledgable and make the clinics fun and worthwhile.
Kiawah is the most enjoyable place to vacation. The tennis pros are so good and personable and make learning very simple. I’ve been going to Kiawah for the past 12 years and I love being able to work with the same pro everytime I go.
This is the second year I’ve been to Kiawah and each time it has been better and better. Spectacular setting and the people are kind and accomodating..Can’t wait to go back next year!!!
Great tennis instruction from the pros. Whether you are a seasoned player or a beginner, you’ll find Roy Barth’s instruction eye-opening. Focuses on the basics needed to really up your playing level. Beautiful resort too. Lots of activities for all ages.
For the past 6 years we were coming for tennis clinics with David Boyd – Head Professional at Roy Barth Tennis Center. His teaching skills and instructions are exceptional. His personality is superb! We’ll keep coming back!