Named a “Best US Golf Destination” by USA Today, North Myrtle Beach has developed a national reputation for housing some of the most beautiful, challenging, and enjoyable courses in the country. Tourists and locals alike flock to these courses on sunny days and the sport itself has boomed in popularity during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Providing much needed time outdoors, all while providing seemingly unlimited open space, it’s no wonder that golf has become a new go-to hobby for many people looking to get outside safely. Thinking about picking up a putter and taking a swing at golf? Whether you’re a novice or an old pro, here are ten of the best courses, in no order, in North Myrtle Beach for Spring Golf.
The Dye Course
Located at Barefoot Resort and Golf, the Dye Course is known locally as one of the most beautiful and challenging courses around the Grand Strand. Voted ‘Top 100 Courses You Can Play’ by Golf Magazine, this course designed by Pete Dye is a favorite all around. Sandy waste bunkers and steep mounds frame the highlights that are the four par-5’s that require careful thought.
The Fazio Course
Another course at Barefoot Resort & Golf is the Fazio Course. This course is best beloved for its many lakes, elevation changes, and extensive trees. The Fazio Course’s 18th hole is considered one of the greatest finishing holes in the Grand Strand area.
The Norman Course
Nestled along the Intercoastal Waterway, Barefoot boasts yet another beautiful course with the popular Norman Course. Designed by Greg Norman, the course is framed by the natural vegetation growing there originally and encourages Norman’s desire to bring into play the “bump and run” shots.
The Love Course
The final of Barefoot’s Four popular courses is the aptly named Love Course. Designer Davis Love III embraced his love for the tradition of the Lowcountry for his course. Generous landing areas as well as wide, beautiful fairways await players that are sure to feel the southern charm from this course. The Love Course is the perfect match for beginners and experienced golfers alike.
Beachwood
Beachwood Golf Club is in the heart of North Myrtle Beach and is perfectly located for locals and tourists alike, not to mention that this course is consistently ranked as the best Tier 1 course in North Myrtle Beach. A favorite all around, this course is best known for its excellent playing conditions and extraordinary staff experience. Home to the Carolinas Open and the Carolinas PGA Seniors Championship, this local gem is a must for all gold lovers.
Azalea Sands
Though the Grand Strand hosts over 100 golf courses, Azalea Sands is one of the only courses in the area with no homes adjacent to the greens. Having recently undergone new management, Azalea Sands is quickly becoming a favorite for golf fans around the beach. Their guarantee that players will use every club in their bag regardless of which tee they choose provides diversity and excitement to their experience.
Tidewater
When designing the Tidewater Course, Ken Tomlinson wanted to avoid all artificial elements. This desire resulted in Tomlinson’s first profession design being unbeatably stunning. Nestled in-between the Cherry Grove Inlet marshes and the Intercoastal Waterway, this is the perfect course for a player that enjoys a grand view while golfing.
Surf Golf and Beach Club
A favorite, specifically for locals, is the Surf Club golf course. Originally built in 1959, this club and course have become a staple for avid golfers in the area. Known for a good pace of play, and excellent staff, this course is also a favorite of Golf Channel analyst Kelly Tilghman.
Glen Dornach Waterway Golf Links
Best known for its Scottish aesthetic, the Glen Dornach course is lush and sprawling. The course a expertly uses the Intercoastal Waterway as a feature to the beauty of the course, thanks to the expertise of designer Clyde Johnston. The real highlight of the course are the last three holes, flanked by both the waterway and the outlying marshes. Additionally, the Glen Dornach Waterway Golf Links are another one of the few courses without housing adjacent.
Tiger’s Eye
A little farther north, there is one of the four “Big Cat” courses known as Tiger’s Eye. Designed by Tim Cate and carved from a pine forest, this course is said to have a “big ballpark” type of feel, with its expansive greens that highlight Cate’s large and bunkering sense of design. Waterfalls, wildflowers, and sprawling pine trees surround the course to create a natural, wild feel. If you’re looking for a precision filled, thought-provoking course, this is the one for you.