From the northern edge of North Myrtle Beach to the southern shores of Pawleys Island, the Grand Strand area offers an unparalleled golfing experience. Showcasing over sixty pristine golf courses, ranging from architecturally superior designs intended for pro golfers to enjoyable rounds for novices, this stretch along the Atlantic is genuinely a golf paradise.
The Dunes Golf and Beach Club
Our journey begins at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club. Crafted by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course opened in 1948 and has since become an iconic symbol of Myrtle Beach’s golfing scene. It’s no secret why—18 holes of visually compelling landscapes are designed immaculately, catering to all skill levels. Upon stepping out, you’re greeted with stunning views of the ocean, calming the nerves and setting the tone for a peaceful game.
Barefoot Resort & Golf – Love Course
Next, we move to Davis Love III’s masterpiece within the Barefoot Resort & Golf – the Love Course. This meticulously designed course replicates traditional plantation-style architecture of the region, bringing calmness to your mind. Wide fairways and large landing areas lessen the bite for errant shots—allowing for a more relaxing round. Yet, the course maintains its integrity, especially with the challenging par-3s that require exact precision.
TPC Myrtle Beach
If you’re seeking the thrill of a championship-level course with serenity infused in every hole, TPC Myrtle Beach is the perfect answer. It’s the creation of the legendary Tom Fazio and Lanny Wadkins. This course elevates Myrtle Beach golf to newer heights with its exciting tournament-ready layout. Still, the quiet paths through pine forests offer a unique way to distress and disconnect, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful round.
Heritage Club
As we move south of Myrtle Beach, we land upon yet another jewel, the Heritage Club. This course sits on an old southern plantation surrounded by centuries-old oak trees offering an harmonious connection with nature. It’s a Dan Maples-designed course that couples tranquility with golfing challenge impeccably, providing a perfect retreat for those seeking calmness during their rounds.
Grande Dunes Resort Club
The Grande Dunes Resort Club, designed by Roger Rulewich, presents a different charm. The course, located on a high bluff, provides breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Grande Dunes Marina, and the stunning maritime forest. Whisking away players to a world of serenity within the hustle and bustle of the Grand Strand, the panoramas here are nothing less than therapeutic.
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Finally, we reach the immensely popular and equally tranquil Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, a dreamy landscape designed by Mike Strantz. Hinting at Old South aesthetics, massive oak trees, flowering shrubs, and freshwater creeks line the course. This golf sanctuary not only soothes your senses with its serene landscape but also offers a gentle challenge to keep the spirit of the game alive.
There’s nothing quite like the gentle rustle of leaves, the rhythmic lapping of water, or the feeling of a gentle sea breeze on your face as you line up for your next shot. The perfect blend of relaxation and the gentle challenge offered by these pristine golf courses is sure to leave any golfer asking for more.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for an escape from the routine, the golf courses in Myrtle Beach are waiting to welcome you into a world of serenity. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, there’s nothing quite like a calming round of golf on some of the most beautiful and challenging courses in the country. The only risk, as the locals will tell you, is that you might not want to leave.