You don’t get branded The Golf Capitol of the World without out have tons of great golf courses. Well maybe not tons of courses but at one time there was over 100 golf courses on the Grand Strand.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is known as the Golf Capital of the World. It is still home to over 80 award-winning golf courses designed by golf legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Greg Norman. The courses are set along more than 60 miles of Carolina coastline.
Myrtle Beach has long been celebrated as one of the premier golf destinations in the world, offering an array of layouts that cater to players of all skill levels. In recent years, the area’s commitment to delivering a first-class golf experience has been underscored by a wave of renovation projects aimed at modernizing courses while preserving their unique character. From restoring greens to revamping bunkers, Myrtle Beach’s courses are setting a new standard for excellence. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the most significant renovations shaping the Grand Strand’s golf landscape.
King’s North at Myrtle Beach National
An Arnold Palmer classic, King’s North at Myrtle Beach National, recently unveiled a reimagined front nine as part of a two-phase renovation. Brandon Johnson, a former Palmer Design associate, expanded the greens to their original specifications, adding pinnable locations and enhancing contours. Bunker renovations included the installation of Capillary Concrete liners and a renewed focus on the course’s rugged aesthetic.
Phase two of the project, focusing on the back nine, is scheduled for summer 2025, ensuring King’s North will continue to captivate golfers with its iconic design and strategic challenges.
Myrtlewood’s PineHills Course
Myrtlewood Golf Club’s PineHills Course underwent a comprehensive bunker renovation under architect Dan Schlegel. The reshaping of bunkers and installation of Capillary Concrete liners addressed drainage issues while raising the profile of the traps, improving both visual appeal and strategic play.
Notable changes include adjustments to the par-4 16th, where a second fairway was introduced, offering an alternative approach over water. Additionally, fairway bunkers on holes 1 and 2 were repositioned to better accommodate a range of skill levels. These updates enhance the course’s playability while preserving its charm.
Grande Dunes Resort Course
Grande Dunes Resort Course, a jewel of Myrtle Beach, recently completed a comprehensive renovation under the leadership of architect John A. Harvey. The project focused on greens, bunkers, and clubhouse upgrades, reclaiming nearly 40,000 square feet of putting surface by restoring the greens to their original dimensions. This 33% increase not only enhances playability but also respects the original vision of the course.
The bunkers also underwent significant improvements, with restored contours and the addition of Capillary Concrete liners to ensure consistent playability. The clubhouse received a complete overhaul, featuring a new restaurant, expanded outdoor seating, and a larger pro shop. These enhancements solidify Grande Dunes’ reputation as one of America’s top public courses.
Myrtle Beach, SC
9th Hole
Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club
Jack Nicklaus’ Pawleys Plantation has long been revered for its beauty and challenge. Recent renovations led by the Nicklaus Design Group modernized the layout while honoring the Golden Bear’s original vision. Central to the project was the expansion of the greens, adding nearly 40,000 square feet of putting surface, and the installation of TifEagle bermudagrass.
The redesign also addressed overgrown trees and sprawling bunkers that had encroached on fairways, replacing them with native areas and expanded fairway space. These changes improved playability for mid- to high-handicappers while maintaining the course’s challenge for skilled players. With its stunning back nine along a tidal marsh, Pawleys Plantation remains a must-play for visitors.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Pine Lakes Country Club
As Myrtle Beach’s oldest golf course, Pine Lakes Country Club holds a special place in the area’s history. Its recent greens and bunker restoration, led by Craig Schreiner, provided a modern touch to the venerable layout. The installation of Sunday bermudagrass greens and the restoration of their original size added more than 21,000 square feet of putting surface.
Bunker renovations included a new drainage system and the reduction of 25 greenside bunkers, complemented by native grasses that enhance the course’s natural aesthetics. Known as “The Granddaddy,” Pine Lakes continues to deliver a timeless experience for golfers.
River Hills Golf Club
Nestled in Little River, River Hills Golf Club underwent a transformative greens and bunker renovation, bringing new life to the course. Working with original architect Tom Jackson, Founders Group International (FGI) spearheaded the project, which restored the greens to their original size, expanding them by an impressive 40%. This restoration increased playability and introduced more pinnable areas, particularly on holes 5, 9, 10, and 18.
The installation of TifEagle ultradwarf bermudagrass, a premier putting surface, further elevated the experience for golfers. Jackson’s guidance ensured the design’s integrity remained intact, enhancing both the challenge and charm of the layout. Known for its rolling terrain and commitment to customer service, River Hills continues to be a favorite among players seeking a memorable round.
Sea Trail’s Byrd Course
Sea Trail’s Byrd Course has also benefited from a recent renovation, focusing on bunker upgrades and tree removal to improve playability and course conditions. The enhancements provide a more open and inviting layout, making it a favorite for golfers of all skill levels. These changes align with the area’s broader effort to modernize its courses while retaining their unique identities.
Rivers Edge Golf Club
Situated along the Shallotte River, Rivers Edge Golf Club has made significant strides in recent renovations. Greens restoration and drainage improvements have revitalized this Arnold Palmer design, ensuring it continues to deliver on its promise of a challenging yet rewarding round. The course’s spectacular views and strategic layout make it a standout among Myrtle Beach’s offerings.
Tidewater Golf Club
Tidewater Golf Club, one of the most visually striking courses in the area, is currently undergoing a bunker renovation project aimed at improving both aesthetics and playability. The work emphasizes maintaining the course’s natural beauty while addressing modern golfer expectations. Tidewater’s commitment to quality ensures it remains a top choice for visitors.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Myrtle Beach’s Commitment to Excellence
The extensive renovation work across Myrtle Beach’s golf courses underscores the destination’s commitment to providing an unparalleled experience for players. By embracing modern techniques and materials while respecting the original designs, these courses are poised to remain at the forefront of golf tourism for years to come. Whether it’s the restored greens at River Hills, the breathtaking views at Rivers Edge, or the innovative updates at Pawleys Plantation, Myrtle Beach continues to deliver the golf vacation players have come to love.
We are proud to tell everyone about our home, which has 60 miles of sandy beach and, oh, so much more. Beyond our famous boardwalk, The Beach has live music; theaters offering dinner and a show, from battles between medieval knights to murder mysteries to a Polynesian luau. We have, literally, thousands of restaurants serving a wide range of cuisines, plus amusement parks, a fabulous aquarium, more than 90 beautiful golf courses, fishing and a full spectrum of other watersports. Among our 14 unique communities we also have quiet towns that glow with coastal charm and are filled with South Carolina’s Lowcountry history and culture. Myrtle Beach has everything you want and we have everything you need to know. Come enjoy!
Reasons to visit Myrtle Beach
- 60 miles of Beaches
- Over 2,000 Restaurants to choose from. Bimini’s Oyster Bar is a long time favorite and as good as ever.
- Great Golf on and off the course. Over 90 mini putts and even Top Golf.
- Great Value
- Top Notch Shows and Entertainment
- 2 Miles of America’s Boardwalk
- Tons of Shopping
- Live Music, Day and Night
- Events and Festivals throughout the year.
- PGA Super Store, what golfer doesn’t want to go there!!!
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