North Myrtle Beach, a beautiful coastal city in South Carolina, offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse range of activities, it is a premier destination for tourists. However, one of the biggest draws for visitors, especially avid golfers, is its world-class golf courses. This article will guide you through the best things to do in North Myrtle Beach, with a particular focus on its exceptional golf courses.
Introduction to North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach was formed in 1968 when four existing municipalities – Cherry Grove Beach, Ocean Drive Beach, Crescent Beach, and Windy Hill Beach – merged to create the city. This beautiful destination boasts an expansive coastline, serene natural parks, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a magnet for tourists.
Beaches and Water Activities
1. Cherry Grove Beach
Cherry Grove Beach is famous for its pristine sands and calm waters, perfect for families and beachgoers seeking a peaceful retreat. The Cherry Grove Fishing Pier is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Windy Hill Beach
Windy Hill Beach is another beautiful stretch of sand, known for its tranquil atmosphere and excellent shelling opportunities. It’s an ideal location for a relaxing day by the ocean.
3. Water Sports
North Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of water activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. For a more leisurely experience, try kayaking or taking a dolphin-watching tour.
Exploring Nature
1. Heritage Shores Nature Preserve
Located on a series of islands in the Cherry Grove Marsh, Heritage Shores Nature Preserve offers visitors a chance to explore diverse ecosystems via a network of elevated boardwalks. It’s a fantastic spot for bird-watching, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
2. McLean Park
Located on a series of islands in the Cherry Grove Marsh, Heritage Shores Nature Preserve offers visitors a chance to explore diverse ecosystems via a network of elevated boardwalks. It’s a fantastic spot for bird-watching, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Dining and Nightlife
1. Barefoot Landing
Barefoot Landing is a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex that offers a unique experience with its picturesque setting along the Intracoastal Waterway. With a variety of restaurants, shops, and live entertainment options, it’s a must-visit for anyone in North Myrtle Beach.
2. Local Cuisine
For seafood lovers, North Myrtle Beach is a paradise. Restaurants like SeaBlue Restaurant & Wine Bar and Flying Fish Public Market & Grill offer delicious, fresh seafood dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Golfing in North Myrtle Beach
Now, let’s dive into what makes North Myrtle Beach a true paradise for golfers. With a plethora of top-rated golf courses, it’s a destination that attracts golfers from all over the world.
1. Beachwood Golf Club
Overview
Beachwood Golf Club, located in the heart of North Myrtle Beach, offers a well-maintained and enjoyable course designed by Gene Hamm. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent customer service.
Highlights
- Centrally Located: Conveniently located on Highway 17, Beachwood is easily accessible from anywhere in North Myrtle Beach.
- Well-Maintained: The course is known for its excellent maintenance, providing a top-quality playing experience.
- Friendly Staff: The staff at Beachwood are known for their friendliness and dedication to ensuring a great golfing experience.
Why Play Here?
Beachwood Golf Club is a great choice for golfers looking for a centrally located and well-maintained course with friendly service.
2. Tidewater Golf Club
Overview
Often referred to as the “Pebble Beach of the East,” Tidewater Golf Club is renowned for its stunning views and challenging layout. Designed by Ken Tomlinson, the course is set amidst marshlands and offers spectacular views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Highlights
- Scenic Beauty: The course’s natural beauty, with views of the Atlantic Ocean, salt marshes, and maritime forests, makes it one of the most picturesque courses in the region.
- Challenging Layout: With its undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers, Tidewater Golf Club provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
- Top-Notch Facilities: The clubhouse offers excellent amenities, including a pro shop, dining facilities, and a driving range.
Why Play Here?
Tidewater Golf Club combines challenging play with breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit for any golfer visiting North Myrtle Beach.
3. Barefoot Resort & Golf
Overview
Barefoot Resort & Golf is home to four championship golf courses designed by some of the biggest names in golf: Greg Norman, Davis Love III, Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye. Each course offers a unique experience, catering to golfers of all levels.
Highlights
- The Norman Course: Known for its natural beauty and challenging layout, this course features seven holes along the Intracoastal Waterway.
- The Love Course: Famous for its recreated ruins of an old plantation house on the 4th through 6th holes, this course offers a blend of historical charm and modern playability.
- The Fazio Course: This course emphasizes shot-making and strategy, with a layout that incorporates natural hazards and stunning landscaping.
- The Dye Course: Known for its difficult design, this course is a true test for experienced golfers, with its use of native grasses, waste bunkers, and strategic water hazards.
Why Play Here?
Barefoot Resort & Golf offers four distinct and beautifully designed courses, making it a premier destination for golfers seeking variety and challenge.
4. Glen Dornoch Waterway Golf Links
Overview
Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, Glen Dornoch Waterway Golf Links is known for its stunning views and challenging play. Designed by Clyde Johnston, this course offers a traditional Scottish links experience with a Southern twist.
Highlights
- Intracoastal Waterway Views: The course’s layout provides spectacular views of the waterway, particularly on the finishing holes.
- Strategic Play: Glen Dornoch requires strategic shot placement and careful navigation of its rolling terrain and natural hazards.
- Historic Charm: The course’s design pays homage to classic Scottish links, offering a unique golfing experience in the heart of South Carolina.
Why Play Here?
Glen Dornoch Waterway Golf Links is perfect for golfers who appreciate a scenic and challenging course with a touch of historical charm.
5. The Surf Golf and Beach Club
Overview
The Surf Golf and Beach Club is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in North Myrtle Beach. Established in 1960, this semi-private club offers a classic golf experience with a beautiful coastal setting.
Highlights
- Classic Design: The course was designed by George Cobb and features a traditional layout with tree-lined fairways and strategically placed bunkers.
- Beautiful Setting: Located just a few blocks from the ocean, the course provides a serene and picturesque environment.
- Exclusive Feel: As a semi-private club, it offers an exclusive feel while still being accessible to visitors.
Why Play Here?
The Surf Golf and Beach Club is perfect for golfers looking to experience a classic and prestigious course with a beautiful coastal backdrop.
6. Eagle Nest Golf Club
Overview
Eagle Nest Golf Club, located in Little River just a short drive from North Myrtle Beach, offers a challenging layout designed by Gene Hamm. The course is known for its beautiful scenery and welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights
- Scenic Views: The course is set amidst natural beauty, with several holes featuring water hazards and scenic vistas.
- Challenging Play: Eagle Nest offers a challenging layout with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards.
- Affordable Rates: The club offers competitive rates, making it an attractive option for golfers on a budget.
Why Play Here?
Eagle Nest Golf Club is perfect for golfers looking for a scenic and challenging course at an affordable price.
7. Azalea Sands Golf Club
Overview
Azalea Sands Golf Club is a popular choice for both locals and visitors, known for its straightforward layout and relaxed atmosphere. Designed by Gene Hamm, the course provides a fun and enjoyable golfing experience.
Highlights
- Playable for All Levels: The course’s design makes it accessible and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.
- Convenient Location: Located on Highway 17, it’s easily accessible from anywhere in North Myrtle Beach.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Known for its laid-back vibe, Azalea Sands is a great place for a casual round of golf.
Why Play Here?
Azalea Sands Golf Club is ideal for golfers looking for a fun, relaxed round of golf on a course that’s playable for all skill levels.
8. River Hills Golf & Country Club
Overview
River Hills Golf & Country Club in Little River offers a unique layout designed by Tom Jackson, blending the beauty of the Lowcountry with a challenging design. The course is known for its rolling hills and beautiful scenery.
Highlights
- Challenging Layout: The course features rolling hills, water hazards, and strategic bunkering, providing a challenging yet enjoyable experience.
- Beautiful Scenery: Set amidst natural beauty, the course offers stunning views and a peaceful environment.
- Top-Notch Facilities: River Hills offers excellent amenities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, and practice facilities.
Why Play Here?
River Hills Golf & Country Club is perfect for golfers looking for a challenging and scenic course with excellent facilities.
Other Activities in North Myrtle Beach
1. Fishing
North Myrtle Beach offers a variety of fishing opportunities, from deep-sea fishing charters to pier fishing. The Cherry Grove Fishing Pier is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
2. Shopping
In addition to Barefoot Landing, North Myrtle Beach offers several other shopping destinations, including the Tanger Outlets and the Myrtle Beach Mall, where you can find a wide range of stores and boutiques.
3. Live Entertainment
North Myrtle Beach is home to several live entertainment venues, including the Alabama Theatre and the House of Blues. These venues host a variety of shows, from musical performances to comedy acts, providing plenty of entertainment options for visitors.
4. Family-Friendly Attractions
For families, North Myrtle Beach offers a range of attractions, including mini-golf courses, amusement parks, and the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex, which features a variety of recreational activities and events.
5. Nightlife
North Myrtle Beach has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to enjoy a drink or a lively club to dance the night away, there’s something for everyone.
Conclusion
North Myrtle Beach is a golfer’s paradise, offering a wide range of top-quality golf courses that cater to all skill levels. Beachwood Golf Club stands out as a premier destination, combining an excellent location, well-maintained course, friendly service, and competitive rates. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Beachwood provides an enjoyable and memorable golfing experience.
Beyond golf, North Myrtle Beach offers stunning beaches, vibrant dining and nightlife, and a wide range of family-friendly activities. From exploring natural preserves to enjoying live entertainment, there’s something for everyone. So, whether you’re an avid golfer or just looking for a relaxing beach getaway, North Myrtle Beach and Beachwood Golf Club are the perfect places to visit.
