Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, boasting over 100 golf courses with diverse layouts and challenges. The area’s unique coastal location provides golfers with an unforgettable experience as they play on beachfront golf courses that combine the beauty of the ocean with the thrill of the game. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of Myrtle Beach’s most exceptional beachfront golf courses, offering insights into their history, course design, and tips for making the most of your beachfront golf experience.
1. Tidewater Golf Club
Designed by renowned architect Ken Tomlinson, Tidewater Golf Club is often considered one of Myrtle Beach’s most scenic golf courses. Nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, this course offers stunning views of the Cherry Grove Inlet and the saltwater marshes that surround it. With its challenging layout and breathtaking natural beauty, Tidewater Golf Club is a must-play for any golf enthusiast visiting Myrtle Beach.
a. Course Design and Layout
Tidewater Golf Club is a par-72 course that stretches over 7,000 yards from the championship tees. The course features a mix of tight fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens, providing golfers with a challenging yet enjoyable round. Water hazards come into play on several holes, adding an element of risk and reward to the course.
One of the most memorable holes at Tidewater is the par-3 12th hole, which offers golfers an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean. The hole plays over a marshy inlet, demanding an accurate tee shot to land safely on the green. This hole, along with several others on the course, showcases the stunning natural beauty that makes Tidewater Golf Club a truly unique beachfront golf experience.
b. Tips for Playing Tidewater Golf Club
When playing Tidewater Golf Club, course management and accuracy are essential. With tight fairways and numerous water hazards, errant shots can quickly lead to high scores. Focus on hitting fairways and greens, and take advantage of the par-5s, which can provide scoring opportunities for golfers of all skill levels.
It’s also essential to be prepared for the wind, as coastal breezes can significantly impact your shots. Take the time to evaluate the wind direction and adjust your club selection and shot shape accordingly.
2. Dunes Golf and Beach Club
The Dunes Golf and Beach Club is a Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed masterpiece that has been a staple of Myrtle Beach golf since its opening in 1948. The course’s oceanfront location and exceptional layout have earned it numerous accolades, and it consistently ranks among the top golf courses in South Carolina.
a. Course Design and Layout
The Dunes Golf and Beach Club is a par-72 course that measures over 7,200 yards from the back tees. The course features a mix of long and short holes, providing a balanced challenge for golfers of all abilities. The layout is characterized by wide fairways, large greens, and an abundance of strategically placed bunkers, which require thoughtful shot placement and precise execution.
The course’s signature hole, the par-5 13th, aptly named “Waterloo,” is a true test of skill and strategy. With a dogleg right that wraps around Lake Singleton, this hole offers both a stunning view and a challenging approach. Golfers must decide whether to lay up short of the lake or attempt a daring shot over the water to reach the green in two. The risk-reward element of “Waterloo” exemplifies the captivating nature of Dunes Golf and Beach Club.
b. Tips for Playing Dunes Golf and Beach Club
When playing the Dunes Golf and Beach Club, course management is key. While some holes may tempt you to pull out the driver and go for distance, it’s often more beneficial to focus on accuracy and positioning. Be mindful of the numerous bunkers and water hazards that can quickly ruin a promising round.
Additionally, the greens at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club are known for their undulations and subtle breaks. Take time to study the greens and read putts carefully, as even short putts can be tricky.
3. Grande Dunes Resort Club
Grande Dunes Resort Club, designed by Roger Rulewich, is a stunning golf course that offers spectacular views of the Intracoastal Waterway and the surrounding natural beauty. Known for its well-maintained fairways and greens, Grande Dunes Resort Club provides golfers with a world-class beachfront golf experience.
a. Course Design and Layout
Grande Dunes Resort Club is a par-72 course that stretches over 7,600 yards from the championship tees, making it one of the longest courses in the Myrtle Beach area. The course features wide fairways, generous landing areas, and large greens, providing an enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. However, with numerous water hazards and strategically placed bunkers, the course still presents a formidable challenge.
One of the most memorable holes at Grande Dunes Resort Club is the par-4 14th hole, which plays along the Intracoastal Waterway. With a forced carry over water off the tee and a well-protected green, this hole requires both accuracy and distance control to score well.
b. Tips for Playing Grande Dunes Resort Club
When playing Grande Dunes Resort Club, it’s essential to choose the appropriate set of tees based on your skill level. With the course’s length and numerous water hazards, playing from the correct tees can significantly impact your enjoyment and scoring potential.
Additionally, be prepared to adjust your game for windy conditions. The coastal breezes can change the course’s playability, so be sure to monitor the wind direction and make club selections accordingly.
4. Caledonia Golf and Fish Club
Located in Pawleys Island, just south of Myrtle Beach, Caledonia Golf and Fish Club is a beautiful beachfront golf course designed by Mike Strantz. Set amidst the natural beauty of coastal marshes and centuries-old live oaks, Caledonia is known for its exceptional course conditions and stunning scenery.
a. Course Design and Layout
Caledonia Golf and Fish Club is a par-70 course that measures 6,526 yards from the back tees. The course features a mix of short and long holes, with several doglegs that require accurate tee shots and well-planned approaches. The greens at Caledonia are well-protected by bunkers and water hazards, demanding precision and a strong short game to score well.
The par-4 18th hole is one of Caledonia’s most picturesque and challenging holes. Playing alongside the marsh, this finishing hole demands an accurate tee shot to avoid the water on the right and a carefully placed approach shot to navigate the well-guarded green.
b. Tips for Playing Caledonia Golf and Fish Club
When playing Caledonia Golf and Fish Club, course management is crucial. Many of the holes require strategic placement off the tee to set up the best approach angles to the greens. Be mindful of the various hazards and focus on accuracy over distance.
Also, be prepared for the fast and undulating greens at Caledonia. It’s essential to carefully read putts and maintain a smooth, consistent stroke to avoid three-putts and keep your scores low.
5. Surf Golf and Beach Club
Established in 1960, the Surf Golf and Beach Club is one of the oldest golf courses in the Myrtle Beach area. Designed by George Cobb and later renovated by John LaFoy, the course’s exceptional layout, beachfront location, and superb course conditions have made it a favorite among local and visiting golfers alike.
a. Course Design and Layout
The Surf Golf and Beach Club is a par-72 course that stretches over 6,800 yards from the back tees. The course features tree-lined fairways, well-placed bunkers, and challenging greens that demand accurate shot-making and a strong short game. Water hazards come into play on several holes, adding an extra element of challenge to the course.
One of the most memorable holes at the Surf Golf and Beach Club is the par-5 9th hole. With a slight dogleg right and water guarding the entire right side of the hole, golfers must navigate strategically to reach the green in regulation and avoid disaster.
b. Tips for Playing Surf Golf and Beach Club
When playing the Surf Golf and Beach Club, it’s essential to focus on accuracy and placement off the tee. Many of the fairways are narrow and lined with trees, so keeping your tee shots in play is crucial for setting up successful approach shots to the well-guarded greens.
Additionally, be prepared for the often fast and firm greens at the Surf Golf and Beach Club. Proper club selection and a controlled approach are vital to ensure you’re left with manageable putts on the challenging greens.
6. Tips for Enjoying Your Beachfront Golf Experience
Playing beachfront golf courses in Myrtle Beach can be a truly unforgettable experience. To make the most of your time on the links, consider the following tips:
a. Book Tee Times in Advance
Beachfront golf courses in Myrtle Beach can be in high demand, especially during peak seasons. To secure your preferred tee times and avoid disappointment, be sure to book your rounds well in advance.
b. Prepare for Weather Conditions
Coastal weather can be unpredictable, with the potential for sudden changes in wind, temperature, and precipitation. Be prepared by dressing in layers and bringing appropriate rain gear and sunscreen to ensure your comfort on the course.
c. Enjoy the Scenery
One of the most significant aspects of playing beachfront golf courses is the stunning scenery. Take the time to appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings, from the ocean views to the unique flora and fauna that inhabit the coastal areas.
d. Warm-Up Properly
Before teeing off, ensure that you’ve warmed up your body and practiced your swing. Most beachfront golf courses have driving ranges, putting greens, and chipping areas for you to prepare for your round. A proper warm-up will help reduce the risk of injury and improve your performance on the course.
e. Be Respectful of Course Etiquette
When playing beachfront golf courses, remember to follow the general rules of golf etiquette. This includes maintaining a reasonable pace of play, repairing divots and ball marks, raking bunkers, and being respectful of fellow golfers. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure a positive experience for everyone on the course.
Conclusion
Myrtle Beach’s beachfront golf courses offer golfers a unique and unforgettable golfing experience. With a diverse range of courses that showcase the area’s natural beauty and present challenging layouts, there’s something for every golfer to enjoy. By following the tips and insights provided in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your beachfront golf adventure in Myrtle Beach.