Myrtle Beach, renowned for its beautiful coastline and vibrant atmosphere, stands tall as one of the premier golf destinations in the world. In this article, we'll explore the Top 10 golf courses that promise an unforgettable golfing experience when visiting The Grand Strand.
The sixth book in my Myrtle Beach Mystery Series, Death on the Back Nine, is set at the fictional Swaying Palms golf course in Myrtle Beach. When Clark Thomas's brother comes to town for a rare visit, they play the course, only to be plunged into Cl ark's twistiest case yet. The book is due out this spring, right around the time The Grand Strand welcomes the PGA Tour to this part of the South Carolina Coast with the Myrtle Beach Classic on May 9-12. Swaying Palms took a great deal of inspiration from several of the courses on the list (it sits next door to the Grande Dunes Resort Club).
Here's a rundown of some of my favorite courses I have played and others I know from research, by their sterling reputations, and from speaking with golfers.
1. Dunes Golf and Beach Club
Topping the list is the apex of golfing luxury in the Grand Strand, Dunes Golf and Beach Club. Offering an unmatched combination of pristine course conditions, oceanfront holes, and a rich history, this Robert Trent Jones masterpiece remains the crown jewel of Myrtle Beach golf. This course consistently ranks in the Top 100 courses in nearly all major golf outlets. It has hosted top end tournaments, including the season-ending Charles Schwab Cup Championship on PGA TOUR Champions from 1994 to 1999 and the USGA Women's Open. This year, the club plays host to the Myrtle Beach Classic on the PGA Tour. The inaugural tournament takes place from May 9-12, 2024. It will be the first PGA Tour event in Myrtle Beach history, solidifying it's claim as "The Golf Capital of the World."
2. King's North at Myrtle Beach National
Coming in at 2nd place is the regal King's North at Myrtle Beach National. Boasting a visually stunning layout and the iconic "SC" bunker, this Arnold Palmer-designed course provides a golfing experience that's both challenging and breathtaking. This course also features "The Gambler" that pays homage to Kenny Rogers. A unique par-5 6th hole with an alternate island fairway. This is one of those "bucket list" courses that players say every hole would be a signature hole on a normal course.
3. World Tour Golf Links
Ever dream of playing on some of the most famous golf courses in the world? World Tour Golf Links does just that by paying homage to some of the world's most iconic courses. Offering a unique golfing journey across the globe, this course is a testament to Myrtle Beach's diverse golfing landscape. The "Open 9" includes holes from some of North America's top-ranked courses while the "Championship 9" features holes inspired by the four majors: the U.S. Open, The Open Championship, PGA Championship, and The Masters.
4. True Blue Golf Club
Claiming the 4th spot is another Pawleys Island iconic course in the True Blue Golf Club, where wild beauty meets golfing excellence. This Mike Strantz masterpiece takes golfers through expansive fairways surrounded by native vegetation, providing a challenging yet visually captivating round. This course is annually ranked in publications like Golf Magazine, Golfweek, and other “Top 100 Lists.”
5. Grand Dunes Resort Club
The Grande Dunes Resort Club offers golfers a taste of grandeur. With panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway and expertly designed holes, this course promises an indulgent golfing experience against the stunning backdrop of Myrtle Beach. I spoke at the Women's Club of Myrtle Beach at their Terazza 19 restaurant overlooking the 18th green recently. It struck me how much the hole resembled the 11th and fateful hole on the fictional Swaying Palms Golf Club in Death on the Back Nine. I didn't mean it that way, but it was fun to see.
6. Pine Lakes Country Club
Pine Lakes Country Club stands out as a true classic in the Grand Strand. Known as the Granddaddy, this course exudes history and tradition, providing golfers with a nostalgic journey through beautifully manicured fairways and challenging greens. Photographers love this course. Fun fact: it was at Pine Lakes where Henry Luce founded "Sports Illustrated" in 1954.
7. Caledonia Golf and Fish Club
Ranked 7th, Caledonia Golf & Fish Club on the Hammock Coast in Pawley's Island captures the essence of southern charm. Majestic oak trees, blooming azaleas, and strategically placed hazards make every round a picturesque journey. A must-visit for those seeking a touch of elegance on the greens. This course has ranked in the Top 100 Best Golf Courses in Golf, Golf Digest and Golfweek Magazines since opening in 1994.
8. Barefoot Resort
Barefoot Resort earns the 8th spot on the list, providing golfers with a choice of four championship courses. They offer Myrtle Beach's most popular "Stay & Play" packages. I haven't played here, but with the courses being designed by legends like Norman, Love, Fazio, and Dye, the experience has to be incredible. It is a golfing experience that seamlessly blends tradition with modern amenities.
9. Tidewater Golf Club
Bringing together a perfect blend of challenging holes and breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Cherry Grove Inlet, Tidewater Golf Club gets the 9th spot. Their motto is "Where Championship Golf Meets Coastal Charm", and players couldn't agree more. Its unique layout, meandering through saltwater marshes and maritime forests, offers an unforgettable golfing experience. I haven't played this one (yet), but I hear it's superb.
10. South Creek Course at Myrtle Beach National Golf Club
Nestled among the pristine woodlands,the South Creek Course at Myrtle Beach National Golf Club is my #10. Composed of three Arnold Palmer Signature courses, Myrtle Beach National offers a serene escape and challenges golf enthusiasts with its strategically placed hazards. Perfect for players seeking both tranquility and excitement in their golf rounds. I played the South Creek Course once. My brother and I had a tee time one morning after a night of heavy rain. Although soggy, the course was in pristine condition, and we had an enjoyable time. Another member of the Myrtle Beach National Golf Club appears later in this list.
The Honorable Mentions
Prestwick Golf Club - Another masterpiece designed by Pete and P.B. Dye. This course has the look and feel of a private club, but it is open to the public.
Tupelo Bay - When you visit Myrtle Beach and don't have time to spend on a full 18-hole course, the hybrid Par 3/4 Executive Course at Tupelo Bay offers golfers a quicker (about 3 hours), but still challenging round that's good for experienced golfers and beginners. Like with many courses, rental clubs are available. This is the course I play the most.
No matter what you're looking for in a round of golf, these courses (and more!) in the Myrtle Beach area presents players with an enjoyable time with verdant greens and breathtaking scenery.
