Designed by Davis Love III, the Love Course at Barefoot Resort is a fantastic championship course situated in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Regarded as one of the best in the region, the course’s extensive and striking layout presents an unforgettable golfing experience for players of all skill levels. Combining a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary design elements, the Love Course is a prime example of modern golf architecture at its best.
Unveiled in 2000, this par 72, 7,047-yard course quickly gained recognition for its exciting design, quality turf, and beautiful landscapes. The Love Course expertly combines Carolina’s natural bounty into its design, making it a scenic beauty unlike any other.
Course Design and Layout
The Love Course’s layout closely imitates the natural terrain of the location, featuring gently rolling fairways, generous landing areas, and strategically placed green complexes that are both challenging and rewarding. Davis Love III made the most of the native vegetation and preserved much of the beautiful landscape that surrounds the area. The course brilliantly incorporates natural barriers like tidal marshes and dense forests, demanding golfers to be accurate with their shots.
The front nine are reminiscent of classic, low country-style courses, characterized by wide fairways and open green spaces. Yet, the big surprise lies in the back nine where the architecture takes a direct influence from the old ruins left from the antebellum-era Dunn plantation that once stood on the property. Here, you will see waste areas, ruins, and live oaks that give a vintage appeal to the modern-day course.
Playability and Difficulty
While the Love Course is a visual treat, it is no pushover when it comes to the level of play. The characteristic challenges include tricky pot bunkers, undulating greens, and numerous water hazards that require both strategic play and confident shot-making. Despite its challenges, Love Course is very player-friendly. The five sets of tees cater to all skill levels, making it an enjoyable round for both the seasoned golfer and the amateur player.
Course Maintenance and Facilities
Barefoot Resort – Love Course boasts excellent maintenance year-round, ensuring high quality, manicured fairways and smooth, lightning-fast greens. The course provides state-of-the-art GPS on all golf carts, providing precise yardage, virtual flyovers, and professional tips.
Additionally, the resort offers an impressive 30-acre lighted practice facility, complete with a driving range, chipping and putting greens, and a sand bunker. A well-equipped pro shop is on site, offering a wide array of golf apparel and equipment.
Beyond the greens, golfers can enjoy dining at The Grill, which provides delicious, chef-prepared meals and refreshing drinks in a relaxed setting.
Recognition and Accolades
The Love Course at Barefoot Resort has received considerable praise in the golf community since its inception. Golf Digest ranked it as the Best New Course in America in 2001 and in 2005, and it was listed among America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses.
In Conclusion
The Barefoot Resort – Love Course truly captures the essence of golf in Myrtle Beach. It is a spectacular outlay with an enchanting environment that provides an unforgettable golfing experience regardless of skill level. Designed by one of golf’s best, it promises a fantastic mix of traditional and modern elements that combine to create a blend of challenge and pleasure on every hole.
Whether you are a seasoned veteran or a novice to the game, if you are looking for a high-quality golf venue for your next round, the Love Course at Barefoot Resort should not be overlooked. Its unique features and excellent facilities make it a must-visit course for any golf enthusiast.