6 Best Golf Courses Near North Myrtle Beach

Golf courses near North Myrtle Beach form a scenic golfing paradise. From Beachwood’s charm to Barefoot’s designs, each round is unforgettable. Discover why North Myrtle Beach is the ultimate golf destination.

Ideal Tee Times for Golf Courses Near North Myrtle Beach

Before diving into specific courses, it’s worth understanding why golfers flock to this part of the Grand Strand:

1. Mild Weather Year-Round
   North Myrtle Beach benefits from a subtropical climate, meaning winters are generally mild and summers are long and warm. This year-round playability draws golfers from colder regions seeking an escape from harsh winters.
2. Variety of Landscapes
   The North Myrtle Beach area showcases coastal dunes, maritime forests, and marshlands, providing diverse backdrops for golf. One day you might be teeing off near the Intracoastal Waterway, and the next you could be navigating fairways lined with towering pines.
3. Accessibility
   Myrtle Beach International Airport is just a short drive away, making it easy for visitors to fly in. Major highways also provide convenient access for those traveling by car.
4. Accommodation Options
   From oceanfront resorts to budget-friendly motels, the area boasts a wide range of lodging options. Many places even partner with golf courses to offer stay-and-play packages, creating an all-in-one golf vacation experience.
5. Southern Hospitality
   Golfers in North Myrtle Beach often comment on the welcoming atmosphere. Staff at local clubs go the extra mile to ensure visitors have a memorable experience, from helpful tips at the pro shop to friendly service at on-site dining facilities.

1. Beachwood Golf Club

When discussing golf courses near North Myrtle Beach, one name that frequently comes up is Beachwood Golf Club. Established in 1968, it’s one of the area’s most enduring public golf venues.

Key Highlights

• Gene Hamm Design
  The course layout was crafted by Gene Hamm, a renowned architect known for blending natural landscapes with playability. Beachwood features wide fairways and minimal forced carries, making it accessible for beginners while still offering a challenge for low-handicap players.
• Meticulous Course Maintenance
  The groundskeeping team takes pride in keeping fairways lush and greens smooth. You’ll often hear praise from regulars about the consistent playing conditions throughout the year.
• Classic Myrtle Beach Ambiance
  Beachwood Golf Club epitomizes the relaxed yet engaging style of golf that Myrtle Beach is famous for. Expect Southern hospitality, friendly competition, and a course layout that rewards strategic play.
• Amenities
  – A fully stocked pro shop
  – Practice facilities (driving range, putting green, and chipping area)
  – On-site dining options with casual fare

Beachwood’s approachable rates and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite for families, casual golfers, and seasoned veterans looking for a round that’s both fun and fair.

2. Tidewater Golf Club

Often referred to as the “Pebble Beach of the East,” Tidewater Golf Club is a must-play for golfers seeking a scenic, challenging round. Nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Cherry Grove inlet, this course boasts breathtaking water views and holes that meander through marshlands, saltwater estuaries, and forests of live oaks.

Why You’ll Love It

1. Striking Scenery
   The views from several tee boxes are among the most photographed in Myrtle Beach. Golfers can see the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, immersing them in the region’s coastal charm.
2. Diverse Holes
   Tidewater seamlessly blends elements of parkland, links, and even mountain-style courses. Elevation changes, water carries, and well-placed bunkers force players to think strategically with every swing.
3. Notable Holes
   – Hole 12 (Par 3): Often described as one of the most beautiful par 3s in the area, with marshland and water framing the green.
   – Hole 13 (Par 4): Continues the scenic challenge, demanding accuracy both off the tee and with your approach.
4. Course Management Tips
   Because of the mix of water hazards and protected marsh areas, you’ll benefit from using hybrids or long irons off some tees for better placement.
5. Clubhouse and Practice Facilities
   Tidewater’s clubhouse offers a pro shop, dining area, and views that rival the course itself. A full driving range and putting green help you warm up before tackling its demanding layout.

3. Barefoot Resort & Golf

Barefoot Resort & Golf features four courses designed by some of the biggest names in golf course architecture: Greg Norman, Davis Love III, Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye. Located within an easy drive of North Myrtle Beach, these courses offer a high-end, championship-caliber golf experience and are consistently considered a top option for golf courses near North Myrtle Beach.

Course Highlights

The Norman Course

• Fairway Challenges: Features waste areas and large bunkers, typical of Norman’s “risk-reward” design style.
• Scenic Views: Multiple holes along the Intracoastal Waterway merge challenge with beauty.

The Love Course

• Signature Hole: The reconstructed ruins of an old plantation home serve as a unique obstacle on one of the par 4s.
• Playable Layout: Wide fairways and approachable greens make it a good fit for many skill levels.

The Fazio Course

• Strategic Design: Tom Fazio is known for incorporating natural elements, making each hole flow with the environment.
• Memorable Par 5s: Carefully placed bunkers and water hazards demand thoughtful club selection.

The Dye Course

• Tournament Venue: Has hosted several professional and amateur events.
• Challenging Greens: Pete Dye’s trademark contoured greens and penal bunkers keep even scratch golfers on their toes.

Why Choose Barefoot Resort & Golf
– On-Site Amenities: A massive clubhouse, multiple dining options, and a well-stocked pro shop cater to golfers looking for a full-service experience.
– Resort Experience: Ideal for travelers who want to combine golf with luxury lodging, spa treatments, and other leisure activities.

4. Grande Dunes Resort Club

Another top contender among the golf courses near North Myrtle Beach is Grande Dunes Resort Club. Known for its dramatic elevation changes (rare in coastal South Carolina), this course offers panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway alongside generous fairways and large greens.

What Sets Grande Dunes Apart

1. Sweeping Vistas
   Many holes are perched high above the water, giving you a sense of grandeur rarely found in other Myrtle Beach courses.
2. Playable Layout
   Despite its resort status, Grande Dunes is relatively forgiving from the forward tees. Intermediate and beginner players won’t feel overly punished by wayward shots.
3. Impeccable Conditions
   Grande Dunes is renowned for its meticulous maintenance, ensuring that tee boxes, fairways, and greens are in top form year-round.
4. Practice Facilities
   A full driving range, short-game area, and large putting green let you hone every aspect of your game before teeing off.
5. Additional Perks
   – On-site restaurant serving upscale and casual fare
   – A welcoming staff dedicated to delivering a memorable resort-style golf experience

5. King’s North at Myrtle Beach National

Designed by Arnold Palmer, King’s North is lauded for its creative layout and memorable holes. Located approximately 20–25 minutes from North Myrtle Beach, it’s worth the short drive for those seeking an iconic Palmer experience.

Course Highlights

• Signature Hole: The Gambler
  Hole 6 (Par 5): An island fairway offers a risky shortcut to those willing to gamble on carrying the water. Successfully landing your tee shot on this small fairway sets up a potential eagle.
• Challenging Bunkers
  Both fairway and greenside bunkers are plentiful and strategically placed, testing your ability to recover from the sand.
• Lush Landscape
  Pine forests frame many holes, while water hazards come into play on several others.
• Well-Equipped Clubhouse
  A pro shop featuring Palmer-branded gear, a bar and grill, and spacious locker rooms enhance your experience off the course.

Tidewater vs. King’s North vs. Beachwood: Which Is Right for You?

The North Myrtle Beach area can feel like an embarrassment of riches, leaving many golfers wondering which course to play first. While every course has its own charm, here’s a quick comparison of the best golf courses near North Myrtle Beach:

• Tidewater Golf Club
  – Ideal for those who prioritize scenic coastal views and don’t mind a tougher layout.
  – The perfect spot for a challenging round with memorable photo opportunities.
• King’s North
  – Great if you value an Arnold Palmer design that mixes risk-reward opportunities.
  – The famed “Gambler” hole adds an element of fun, especially for group outings and bragging rights.
• Beachwood Golf Club
  – More of a traditional setup that’s beginner-friendly yet still entertaining for experienced players.
  – An all-around crowd-pleaser with reasonable green fees and a laid-back atmosphere.

6. Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club

Located south of Myrtle Beach but still within an easy drive and condered among golf courses near North Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Plantation is a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course that offers a different flavor of coastal golf. While this might be a bit farther from North Myrtle Beach proper, many visitors find the trip well worth the extra drive time.

Why It’s Worth the Drive

• Jack Nicklaus Philosophy
  Expect strategically placed hazards and greens that demand precision. Pawleys Plantation rewards smart golf rather than raw power.
• Marshland Holes
  A number of holes play along a scenic marsh, creating both a serene environment and tricky wind conditions.
• Challenging Greens
  Nicklaus is famous for contoured greens, so be prepared to bring your A-game with the putter.
• Accommodations
  The property offers villas and stay-and-play packages for those looking to linger in the Pawleys Island area.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Golf Trip

Best Time of Year to Visit

• Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures and generally dry conditions make spring a peak season. Tee times and accommodations can be pricier.
• Fall (September–November): Warm days, cool evenings, and fewer crowds than spring.
• Summer (June–August): High tourist season, hot and humid; early morning or late afternoon tee times recommended.
• Winter (December–February): Cooler but still moderate, offering off-peak discounts.

Booking Tee Times and Deals

• Online Reservations: Many courses have dynamic pricing, and booking early can secure better rates.
• Golf Packages: Bundling multiple rounds and lodging can be cost-effective.
• Twilight Rates: Afternoon tee times can be significantly cheaper and offer a scenic sunset backdrop.

What to Pack

• Golf Attire: Collared shirts, proper golf shorts or pants, and golf shoes.
• Weather Gear: A lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker just in case.
• Golf Essentials: Extra balls, tees, gloves—especially if you plan multiple rounds.
• Sunscreen and Hydration: Protect yourself from the Southern sun.

Getting Around

• Car Rentals: Most convenient for visiting multiple courses.
• Shuttles and Taxis: Some resorts offer shuttles; taxis and rideshares are available but can be pricier.

Beyond Golf: Exploring North Myrtle Beach

While golf may be the main attraction, North Myrtle Beach offers a range of activities to round out your vacation:

• Beach Time: Cherry Grove Beach and Ocean Drive Beach are local favorites for sunbathing and swimming.
• Dining Scene: Fresh seafood, Lowcountry favorites like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup, and upscale dining options.
• Entertainment and Nightlife: Live music venues, theaters, and beach bars along Main Street.
• Fishing and Water Sports: Charter fishing, jet skiing, or kayaking along the Intracoastal Waterway.
• Shopping: Visit Barefoot Landing or Tanger Outlets for a mix of brand-name stores and unique boutiques.

Making the Most of Your Golf Vacation

Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a beginner, North Myrtle Beach has a course tailored to your skill level and preferences. Here are a few parting tips to ensure you have a memorable trip:

• Mix and Match Courses: Combine a resort course like Barefoot, a classic layout like Beachwood, and a scenic wonder like Tidewater.
• Embrace Off-the-Course Activities: Explore local restaurants, music venues, and beaches for a balanced schedule.
• Stay Flexible: Coastal weather can be unpredictable. Have backup plans for rain or high winds.
• Consider Golf Lessons: PGA-certified instructors often provide private lessons or group clinics.
• Time for Practice: Arrive early to make use of driving ranges, putting greens, and short-game areas.

Conclusion

With its scenic beauty, diverse range of layouts, and welcoming atmosphere, the North Myrtle Beach area is an exceptional destination for golfers. Whether you’re drawn by the classic charm of Beachwood Golf Club, the breathtaking vistas of Tidewater, or the prestigious designs at Barefoot Resort & Golf, you’ll find countless golf courses near North Myrtle Beach that cater to every taste and skill level.

From the challenging “Gambler” hole at King’s North to the upscale experience at Grande Dunes, each course contributes to the Grand Strand’s reputation as one of America’s premier golf hubs. Add in the abundant accommodations, dining options, and off-course activities, and it’s clear why golfers from around the world return to North Myrtle Beach year after year.

So pack your clubs, book your tee times, and prepare to discover the charm and challenge of coastal South Carolina golf. With such a wide range of courses to explore, you’ll likely leave already planning your next trip back to this golfer’s paradise. Safe travels, and may your drives be long and your putts be true!