Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, often referred to as the “Golf Capital of the World,” is home to more than 100 top-tier golf courses. Among these, few can claim the prestige and reverence that comes with being a Hall of Fame course. These must-play golf layouts in Myrtle Beach, designed by greats like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones, and Pete Dye, are the epitome of quality, offering golfers challenging yet fair play and breathtaking views in abundance.
The Dunes Golf and Beach Club
The crown jewel of Myrtle Beach’s golf mecca is unquestionably The Dunes Golf and Beach Club. Designed by legendary architect Robert Trent Jones and opened in 1948, it remains a paragon of world-class golf. The course measures 7,450 yards from the championship tees and is known for its iconic 13th hole, dubbed ‘Waterloo,’ a challenging dogleg-right par 5 that requires a courageous tee shot over Lake Singleton.
While every hole offers distinct challenges and aesthetic intrigue, the true allure lies in its integration with natural coastal landscapes. It is this finesse that makes The Dunes Club a much-celebrated layout amongst the golfing community.
Tidewater Golf Club
As the name signifies, Tidewater Golf Club perfectly marries the sport with the stunning maritime landscape. Nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and Cherry Grove, this Ken Tomlinson designed beauty features glistening water views and saltwater marshes throughout the layout.
Arguably the most scenic golf course in Myrtle Beach, Tidewater provides the ideal combination of natural beauty and golfing challenge. Best known for the third and 12th holes, both offer unforgettable views of the Atlantic Ocean and the South Carolina marshland.
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
The Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, located just south of Myrtle Beach, is an impressive mix of history, nature, and superb golfing experiences. Built on a former rice plantation, the layout meanders through live oak trees draped with Spanish moss, providing a sense of mystery and allure.
The iconic 18th hole, a par-4 that stretches across 383 yards, is a true test of a golfer’s mettle. Requiring a skillful approach shot to an island green, this hole is a heart-stopper. The beautiful antebellum clubhouse overlooking the 18th green adds to the drama, with patrons routinely applauding or groaning as putts drop or miss the mark.
The King’s North at Myrtle Beach National
The Arnold Palmer-designed King’s North at Myrtle Beach National has been turning heads since its inception in 1973. A course that demands strategy and technique, it makes an unforgettable lasting impression on golfers.
Perhaps most memorably, the course’s sixth hole, aptly named ‘The Gambler,’ epitomizes risk versus reward. A long dogleg-left par 5, it offers golfers a daring choice: take the safe route around the lake or risk all for potential glory by attempting to carry the water and shorten the hole dramatically.
The Love Course at Barefoot Resort & Golf
Last but not least is the renowned Love Course at the Barefoot Resort & Golf. Designed by former PGA Tour player Davis Love III, this course is known for its wide fairways and generous landing areas that can accommodate players of all skill levels.
The Love Course’s iconic design element is a recreated ruins of an old plantation house between holes 3 through 7, contributing to an enchanting and historical round of golf.. The course is also known for its impeccable greens, firm and fast, providing an excellent roll.
Each of these Hall of Fame courses in Myrtle Beach offers not just a round of golf, but an unforgettable experience. The scenic views, diverse flora and fauna, intricately designed holes, and enchanting history associated with these magnificent courses make them a must-play when you’re in town. Always remember, in Myrtle Beach, golf isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life.