Title: Teeing Off at the Top 10 Myrtle Beach Golf Courses
Being a popular vacation destination, Myrtle Beach is renowned for its stunning coast, signature surf and sunsets, and expansive golden sands. But nestled within this pristine palmscape is a lovingly maintained paradise for golfers, housing over 80 world-class golf courses. Let’s explore the top 10 Myrtle Beach golf courses where you can sharpen your swings and relish a round or two amid scenic landscapes.
1. Myrtle Beach National – King’s North:
King’s North, an Arnold Palmer signature course, is one of the stars of Myrtle Beach golf. Opened in 1973 and later revamped in 1996, it features the famous ‘Gambler’ – the risk-reward par-5 that showcases Palmer’s bold design philosophy. Other standout holes include the 6th, nicknamed ‘The Bullseye,’ and the par-3 island green 12th.
2. True Blue Golf Club:
As one of Mike Strantz’s creations, True Blue offers an unconventional, unconstrained design that artists would admire. This low country course features natural, striking landscapes, presenting an enticing challenge to golfers. Notably, True Blue was named one of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses” by Golf Digest.
3. Caledonia Golf and Fish Club:
Caledonia is another Mike Strantz wonder that effortlessly marries beauty with challenge. Its layout takes full advantage of the natural terrain while captivating golfers with massive fairways lined with centuries-old oaks. The spooky par-4 18th is indeed a thrilling climax to a round in this piece de resistance golf course.
4. Dunes Golf and Beach Club:
The Dunes, a Robert Trent Jones Sr. masterpiece, boasts a classic aesthetic, belying a hidden layer of sophistication. Among its famous holes is the par-5 13th, known as ‘Waterloo,’ which warrants careful tactics against the severe dogleg right bordered by Lake Singleton.
5. TPC Myrtle Beach:
Offering a tour-caliber setting, TPC Myrtle Beach, a Tom Fazio design, showcases the beauty of the South Carolina Lowcountry while presenting a tough test for any golfer. This course offers a memorable finish, with the 17th and 18th holes featuring water hazards to ensure an exciting climax.
6. Grand Dunes – Resort Club:
The Resort Club at Grande Dunes is a layout that merges traditional architecture with modern sophistication. Designed by Roger Rulewich, this course is a beautiful and challenging test built along the Intracoastal Waterway, awarded the “National Golf Course of the Year” in 2009 by the National Golf Course Owners Association.
7. Barefoot Resort – Love Course:
Barefoot’s Love Course was designed by Davis Love III and is characterized by generous landing areas and deceptively approachable green complexes. The mock ruins of an old plantation home dominate Par-4 4th, making it a distinct and favorite hole among golfers.
8. Pine Lakes Country Club:
Known as the “Granddaddy,” Pine Lakes is Myrtle Beach’s oldest course, opened in 1927. Its elegant layout was redesigned in 2009, preserving much of the classic grandeur while incorporating modern touches.
9. Legends Golf Resort – Heathland Course:
The Heathland Course highlights a return to the grand Old Country tradition of golf, designed by Tom Doak. Its layout rewards thoughtful play through the varied landscape and layout burst with charm and challenge.
10. Pawleys Plantation:
Finally, Pawleys Plantation, a Jack Nicklaus design, offers a spectacle – especially at the par-3 13th, with spectacular views of the marshland. It’s a classic course that rewards precision and strategic thinking over brute force.
From the classic to the modern, tranquil to challenging, Myrtle Beach offers a golf course for every temperament and skill level. So, pack your clubs and set the GPS – these top 10 Myrtle Beach golf courses offer a stirring symphony of the game you won’t want to miss.
Great read! I’ve had the pleasure of playing at King’s North and really enjoyed the ‘Gambler’ – definitely a turning point in the game. Looking forward to checking out True Blue next!
True Blue is a delight. You’d love the unique design and the challenges it throws. Happy golfing!
Comprehensive coverage in your blog – makes me want to pack my bags and head to Myrtle Beach right away! Wondering if these courses have high fees due to their world-class standard? Also, are caddies readily available or should you bring your own clubs?
Fees can vary, but most of these courses are indeed considered premium. As for clubs, it’s always better to have your own set that you’re comfortable with. However, many of these clubs do offer rental services if needed.