Title: The Acclaimed Masterpiece: Sea Trail – Jones Course
The golf course designs by Rees Jones, famously known as “The Open Doctor,” have fondly been intricately woven into the fabric of professional and luxury golf for decades. As a Myrtle Beach local, I’ve had the privilege to explore his architectural excellence in our locale, The Sea Trail Jones Course. This course is hailed as one of the finest among Rees Jones’ illustrious portfolio. This write-up will lead you through its intricate design and breathtaking beauty that the Sea Trail Jones Course offers to the passionate golfer.
Located in Sunset Beach, North Carolina, just a short drive from Myrtle Beach, the Sea Trail Jones Course is one of the trio of golf layouts within the Sea Trail Plantation. Opened in 1990, the Jones Course resonates with a distinct charm and grandeur that is markedly different from its sister courses – Byrd and Maples.
Spanning a sprawling 6,761 yards from the blue tees, the Jones Course is par 72, pushing the discerning golfers to deploy their skills and strategies to the maximum for an optimal play. The course cleverly works around distinct natural elements, weaving a game that is as thrilling as it is challenging. Makeup of sand, water, bridges, and wind further make the aesthetic appeal of the Sea Trail Jones Course a sight to behold.
One of the standout aspects of the Sea Trail Jones Course is its thoughtful compatibility with players at every level. Rees Jones has weaved in distinct sets of tees which are geared towards various skill levels. Thus, whether you’re a pro golfer or a beginner stepping onto the green for the first time, the course manages to accommodate and engage you, presenting challenges appropriate to your abilities.
The fairways, configured as gently undulating, are framed by the perennially Carolina pine trees, adding to the ambience. The landscapes are speckled with large and perilous fairway waste bunkers. The greens are notably large and undulating, guarded by strategic bunkering. The course has a fairly open layout, featuring water hazards on 11 out of 18 holes. One of the course’s signature holes is the par-5 9th, where golfers will be keen to avoid a massive man-made lake flanking the fairway.
The 17th and 18th holes bring a grand closure to the game, making players aim their shots across man-made lakes to the beautifully guarded, undulating greens. Jones’s intended focus on risk and reward strategy elucidates in holes such as the 430-yard 4th and 406-yard 8th holes, where players are compelled to make careful decisions, making the golfing experience on this course both cerebral and breath-taking.
Indeed, the course is harmonious with the raw Carolina landscapes, where it is nestled. The Jones Course employs a sustainable, environment-centric approach, being Audubon-Certified, recognising it as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary. This acknowledgment underlines the respect Rees Jones has shown towards integrating his golf course design with the surrounding natural ecosystem.
Accompanying the course, the plantation presents a practice area, clubhouse, restaurant, and golf shop selling professional equipment and accessories. The staff and services are five-star, carefully curating an exhilarating golfing experience for each player who steps onto this grand course.
To soak in the nature’s vistas, engage in a round of challenging golf, and bask in brilliant architectural acumen, the Sea Trail Jones course is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts. Its distinctive blend of aesthetics, athleticism, and ambiance make it a jewel in the crown of Carolinas’ offerings to the world of golf.
As a Myrtle Beach local, and an ardent fan of golf, it’s sheer joy exploring the glorious fairways and daunting hazards of the Jones Course, a testament to the craft of one of the greatest golf course architects of our times.
Whether you’re a seasoned golifer seeking new challenges or an enthusiast looking to revel in the beautiful ambiance intertwined with a demanding game, you would certainly find the Sea Trail – Jones Course a rewarding golfing experience.
Ah, the Jones Course at Sea Trail. Played a round of golf there last spring. The natural elements make it really special, particularly when the wind gets up – adds that extra layer of challenge. And that par-5 9th hole – a menacing beauty! Shout out to the staff too, top-notch service they offer. Your post dives into the heart of the allure the course holds, great job!
Great write-up! I haven’t had the chance to play on this course yet, but you’ve certainly piqued my interest. The balance between aesthetics and challenge it offers seems right up my alley. This might just be my next golf destination. Any tips for a first-timer on the Sea Trail Jones Course?