Golf enthusiasts rejoice! If you’re planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, you’re in for a treat. Known as the “Golf Capital of the World,” Myrtle Beach boasts an impressive 90+ golf courses in its vicinity. From championship-caliber courses to more casual, family-friendly options, there’s something for every golfer to enjoy. But with so many choices, it can be hard to decide which courses to prioritize during your visit. Fear not, dear reader! This comprehensive guide will delve into the abundance of golf courses near Myrtle Beach, highlighting some of the most notable and highly-regarded courses in the area. Get ready to plan the golf vacation of a lifetime!
An Overview of Golf Courses in Myrtle Beach
The Significance of Golf Courses in Myrtle Beach
Golf courses have played a significant role in the growth and development of Myrtle Beach as a popular tourist destination. The abundance of golf courses in the area has contributed to the popularity of the city and has had a significant impact on the local economy.
- Popularity of Golf in Myrtle Beach
- Myrtle Beach is often referred to as the “Golf Capital of the World” due to the sheer number of golf courses in the area.
- The popularity of golf in Myrtle Beach can be attributed to the mild climate, which allows for year-round golfing.
- The city’s reputation as a top golf destination has attracted numerous golf tournaments and events, further boosting the popularity of golf in the area.
- Economic Impact of Golf Courses on the Local Community
- Golf courses in Myrtle Beach provide employment opportunities for local residents, including golf course maintenance workers, golf instructors, and staff at golf resorts and restaurants.
- Golf courses also generate revenue through green fees, golf cart rentals, and merchandise sales, which contributes to the local economy.
- The popularity of golf in Myrtle Beach has also led to the development of golf-related businesses, such as golf equipment stores and golf tour operators, further boosting the local economy.
Overall, the abundance of golf courses in Myrtle Beach has had a significant impact on the city’s popularity and economy, making golf an integral part of the region’s identity and growth.
The Types of Golf Courses in Myrtle Beach
Golf enthusiasts visiting Myrtle Beach are spoilt for choice with a variety of golf courses to choose from. The golf courses in Myrtle Beach can be broadly classified into three categories: public golf courses, private golf courses, and resort golf courses.
- Public Golf Courses
Public golf courses are open to the general public and offer affordable green fees. These courses are typically owned and operated by local governments or private companies. They are a great option for those who want to enjoy a round of golf without breaking the bank. Some popular public golf courses in Myrtle Beach include Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, True Blue Golf Club, and Tidewater Golf Club. - Private Golf Courses
Private golf courses are exclusive to members and their guests. These courses offer a more intimate and personalized experience, with better access to tee times and lower green fees for members. Some of the private golf courses in Myrtle Beach include the Myrtle Beach Country Club, the Dunes Golf & Beach Club, and the Pine Lakes Country Club. - Resort Golf Courses
Resort golf courses are owned and operated by hotels and resorts. These courses offer a unique experience, with many of them located along the beautiful coastline of Myrtle Beach. Some of the best resort golf courses in Myrtle Beach include the Grande Dunes Resort Course, the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, and the Hilton Head National Golf Club.
In conclusion, the variety of golf courses in Myrtle Beach caters to different budgets and preferences. Whether you prefer public, private, or resort golf courses, Myrtle Beach has something to offer for every golfer.
Golf Courses in Myrtle Beach: A List of Must-Visits
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Overview of the Course
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club is a premier golf course located in the heart of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It was established in 1994 and has since become one of the most popular golf courses in the area, attracting golfers from all over the world. The course is designed to be challenging for golfers of all skill levels, with its unique layout and well-placed hazards.
Design and Architecture
The course was designed by renowned golf course architect, Tom Fazio, who is known for his innovative and challenging designs. The layout of the course is a true testament to his skills, with its strategically placed bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens. The course is built on a former rice plantation, which adds to its natural beauty and charm.
Notable Features and Challenges
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club is known for its unique and challenging features, including its signature hole, the par-3 17th, which is played over a beautiful lagoon. The course also boasts a variety of other hazards, such as bunkers, water features, and tight fairways, which require golfers to use all of their skills to navigate successfully. The course’s challenging layout is complemented by its beautiful scenery, with its towering pines, ancient oaks, and flowering azaleas.
True Blue Golf Club
Overview of the Course
True Blue Golf Club, located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is an 18-hole championship golf course that spans 220 acres of lush, verdant landscapes. Designed by renowned golf course architect Mike Strantz, the course first opened its doors to the public in 1998 and has since become a popular destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide. True Blue Golf Club is known for its challenging layout, diverse terrain, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a must-visit for any avid golfer.
Design and Architecture
True Blue Golf Club is a masterpiece of golf course design, blending the natural beauty of the landscape with the challenging demands of the game. Mike Strantz’s vision for the course was to create a layout that would seamlessly integrate into the existing environment, taking advantage of the unique topography and native vegetation. The result is a course that is both visually stunning and incredibly challenging, with undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and abundant water hazards.
Notable Features and Challenges
True Blue Golf Club boasts several notable features that make it a standout among Myrtle Beach’s many golf courses. The course’s signature hole is the par-5 16th, which requires a tee shot over a large lake and a carry of over 200 yards to reach the fairway. The hole then doglegs left around a dense thicket of trees, with a strategically placed bunker guarding the front of the green. Other challenging holes include the par-4 6th, with its narrow fairway and deep bunker protecting the green, and the par-3 12th, which plays over a water hazard to a small, well-guarded green.
In addition to its impressive design and challenging layout, True Blue Golf Club is also known for its excellent course conditions and top-notch amenities. The club features a well-stocked pro shop, a full-service restaurant and bar, and a practice facility with a driving range, putting green, and chipping area. With its stunning natural beauty, challenging holes, and world-class amenities, True Blue Golf Club is a must-visit for any golfer looking to experience the best that Myrtle Beach has to offer.
Tidewater Golf Club
Tidewater Golf Club, situated in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is an 18-hole golf course that spans across 220 acres of lush, natural beauty. Designed by renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio, the course was opened in 1991 and has since become a popular destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide. The course is known for its pristine condition, challenging play, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Tom Fazio’s design philosophy can be seen throughout the course, emphasizing the natural beauty of the land while creating a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The course is characterized by its generous fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and large, undulating greens. The layout takes advantage of the natural topography, incorporating native vegetation, wetlands, and salt marshes to create a unique and visually stunning golfing experience.
Tidewater Golf Club boasts several notable features that set it apart from other courses in the area. The course’s signature hole is the par-3 16th, which plays over a massive salt marsh to a small, island green. This hole offers a picturesque view of the Atlantic Ocean and is a true test of a golfer’s skills. Additionally, the course features several other challenging holes, including the par-4 7th, with its heavily bunkered fairway and small green, and the par-5 18th, which requires a precise approach shot to a narrow, elevated green protected by a deep bunker.
Tidewater Golf Club is also known for its excellent course conditioning, with its meticulously maintained greens, fairways, and roughs. The course’s attention to detail extends to its numerous amenities, such as its well-appointed clubhouse, fully stocked pro shop, and on-site dining options.
Other Notable Golf Courses in Myrtle Beach
Grande Dunes Resort Club
Grande Dunes Resort Club, located in the heart of Myrtle Beach, is a stunning golf course that boasts 36 holes of championship golf. Designed by famous golf course architect, Tom Fazio, the course offers a unique and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels. With its lush fairways, immaculate greens, and strategically placed bunkers, Grande Dunes Resort Club is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
Myrtle Beach National Golf Club
Myrtle Beach National Golf Club is a popular golf destination that features three distinct courses, each with its own unique character and challenges. The SouthCreek course, designed by Tom Fazio, is known for its picturesque layout and challenging holes, while the West course, designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, offers a more traditional parkland-style golf experience. The North course, also designed by Fazio, is a links-style course that winds its way through wetlands and natural areas. With its variety of courses and challenging play, Myrtle Beach National Golf Club is a must-visit for any golfer looking to experience the best that Myrtle Beach has to offer.
The Palms Golf Club
The Palms Golf Club, located in the center of Myrtle Beach, is a challenging and beautifully designed course that is sure to test even the most skilled golfers. The course features six sets of tees, making it suitable for players of all skill levels, and its strategic layout and well-placed hazards make it a true test of golf. With its rolling fairways, challenging greens, and stunning views, The Palms Golf Club is a must-visit for any golfer looking to experience the best that Myrtle Beach has to offer.
Golfing Experiences Beyond the Greens
Golf Packages and Deals
Myrtle Beach is a haven for golf enthusiasts, offering an extensive range of golf courses to choose from. But, what if you could make your golfing experience even more memorable and budget-friendly? The answer is simple – take advantage of the many golf packages and deals available in the area. Here are some of the best options to consider:
- All-inclusive golf packages: These packages offer a complete golfing experience, including green fees, accommodation, meals, and even transportation. You can choose from a variety of packages to suit your needs and budget, whether you’re looking for a luxurious golf vacation or a more affordable option.
- Discounts and promotions: Many golf courses in Myrtle Beach offer discounts and promotions throughout the year, making it possible to enjoy a round of golf at a reduced price. These deals can be found online or by contacting the golf course directly, so be sure to keep an eye out for them when planning your trip.
By taking advantage of these golf packages and deals, you can enhance your golfing experience in Myrtle Beach while also saving money. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, there’s no denying that the abundance of golf courses in the area offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Golf Tournaments and Events
Golf tournaments and events in Myrtle Beach offer a unique and exciting experience for golf enthusiasts of all levels. These events range from annual tournaments to charity events and even PGA events, providing a diverse range of experiences for golfers.
Annual Golf Tournaments
Myrtle Beach hosts several annual golf tournaments that attract golfers from all over the country. These tournaments are held at various golf courses throughout the area and offer a chance for golfers to compete against one another in a friendly and competitive environment. Some of the most popular annual golf tournaments in Myrtle Beach include:
- The Myrtle Beach World Amateur Golf Tournament: This tournament is one of the largest amateur golf tournaments in the world, attracting over 3,000 golfers each year. It is held at several different golf courses in the Myrtle Beach area and offers a variety of skill levels and divisions for golfers to compete in.
- The Myrtle Beach Area Junior Golf Tournament: This tournament is designed for junior golfers and offers a chance for them to compete against one another in a fun and supportive environment. It is held at several different golf courses in the Myrtle Beach area and offers a variety of age groups and skill levels for golfers to compete in.
Charity Golf Events
Myrtle Beach also hosts several charity golf events throughout the year, offering golfers a chance to play golf while supporting a good cause. These events are held at various golf courses in the area and often feature celebrity guests and other special events. Some of the most popular charity golf events in Myrtle Beach include:
- The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic: This event is held annually and benefits the Chamber’s educational initiatives. It is held at the Tidewater Golf Club and features a variety of activities and events in addition to the golf tournament.
- The Horry County Golf Tournament: This tournament is held annually and benefits the Horry County Schools Foundation. It is held at the Caledonia Golf & Fish Club and features a variety of activities and events in addition to the golf tournament.
PGA Events in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is also home to several PGA events throughout the year, offering golfers a chance to watch some of the best golfers in the world compete in a professional setting. These events are held at various golf courses in the area and often feature special events and activities in addition to the golf tournament. Some of the most popular PGA events in Myrtle Beach include:
- The Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday: This event is held annually and features several PGA tournaments throughout the week, including the Beach Golf Classic and the Myrtle Beach Classic. It is held at several different golf courses in the Myrtle Beach area and attracts some of the top golfers in the world.
- The Myrtle Beach Open: This tournament is held annually and features several PGA tournaments throughout the week, including the Beach Golf Classic and the Myrtle Beach Classic. It is held at several different golf courses in the Myrtle Beach area and attracts some of the top golfers in the world.
Golf Accessories and Equipment
Golfing is not just about hitting the ball onto the green. It is also about having the right equipment and accessories to enhance your game. Here are some of the golf accessories and equipment that you can find near Myrtle Beach:
Golf Clubs and Balls
Golf clubs and balls are the most essential equipment for any golfer. You can find a wide variety of golf clubs and balls in Myrtle Beach, from top brands such as Titleist, Callaway, and TaylorMade. There are also golf clubs designed for left-handed golfers and senior golfers.
Golf Apparel and Accessories
Golf apparel and accessories are not just for fashion, but they also provide comfort and functionality on the golf course. You can find golf hats, gloves, shoes, and bags in Myrtle Beach. There are also golf accessories such as rangefinders, golf GPS watches, and ball markers.
Golf Cart Rentals
Playing golf can be tiring, especially if you have to walk around the course for 18 holes. Golf cart rentals are available in Myrtle Beach, which can help you navigate the course more easily. Some golf courses also offer golf cart upgrades, such as personal coolers and Bluetooth speakers.
In conclusion, having the right golf accessories and equipment can enhance your golfing experience and improve your game. You can find a wide variety of golf accessories and equipment near Myrtle Beach, from golf clubs and balls to golf apparel and accessories, and golf cart rentals.
FAQs
1. How many golf courses are near Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach is home to over 90 golf courses, making it one of the most popular golf destinations in the United States. With such a large number of courses, golfers of all skill levels and preferences can find a course that suits their needs.
2. Are there any golf courses specifically designed for beginners?
Yes, there are several golf courses near Myrtle Beach that are designed specifically for beginners. These courses typically have wider fairways, shorter holes, and smaller greens, making it easier for novice golfers to navigate. Additionally, many of these courses offer beginner-friendly rates and lessons.
3. What type of golf courses are available near Myrtle Beach?
Near Myrtle Beach, you will find a variety of golf courses, including public, private, and resort courses. Some courses are designed by famous golf course architects, while others offer unique features such as water hazards, sand traps, and tree-lined fairways. Additionally, there are several courses that offer ocean views, making for a truly picturesque golfing experience.
4. Are there any golf courses near Myrtle Beach that offer discounts for players?
Yes, there are several golf courses near Myrtle Beach that offer discounts for players. Many courses offer early bird rates for players who book tee times in advance, while others offer group rates for larger parties. Additionally, there are several courses that offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, and students.
5. How far are the golf courses from the beach?
The distance between the golf courses and the beach varies, but most courses are within a few miles of the coast. Some courses are even located directly on the beach, providing stunning views of the ocean while you play.
