There is a reason players flock to the "Golf Capital of the World." The sheer volume of pristine fairways along the Grand Strand is staggering. However, having over 80 options can be more stressful than exciting when finalizing your itinerary. Nothing ruins a relaxing Myrtle Beach golf vacation faster than stepping onto a tee box that demands a precision drive over water when you are just looking to shake off the rust.
The secret to a memorable trip isn't just booking the most famous layout; it's matching the architecture to your specific game. Whether you want to explore Myrtle Beach golf retreats that offer a championship-level test or need forgiving terrain for a laid-back afternoon, the variety here is unmatched. We have categorized the top Myrtle Beach golf courses by difficulty, ensuring you spend less time hunting for lost balls and more time enjoying Southern hospitality.
Top Picks for Beginners & High Handicappers (Forgiving & Fun)
For many golfers, the ideal round isn't about grinding over a four-foot par putt; it's about enjoying the sunshine and keeping stress levels low. If your group includes high handicappers, look for layouts with "forgiving fairways" and minimal forced carries.
Myrtle Beach National (West Course) One of the best places to start is the West Course at Myrtle Beach National. Unlike modern layouts lined with condos, this course cuts through a pine forest with virtually no housing along the fairways. If your drive sprays right or left, you aren't listening for breaking glass; you're likely just punching out from the pine straw. It is wide open and incredibly playable.
Pine Lakes Country Club ("The Granddaddy") As the oldest course on the Grand Strand, Pine Lakes oozes history. While the clubhouse feels premium, the course itself is welcoming. The fairways are generous, and the greens are accessible, allowing you to run the ball up rather than having to fly it over bunkers. It offers an upscale feel without scorecard-wrecking difficulty.
Beachwood Golf Club. For a walkable, classic experience, Beachwood in North Myrtle Beach is a local favorite. It is straightforward, well-maintained, and devoid of gimmick holes. It’s an excellent "warm-up" course where you can focus on rhythm rather than avoiding water hazards.
Pro Tip: Don't be afraid to use the "Tee It Forward" initiative at these courses to make forced carries manageable.
Best Courses for Mid-Handicappers (The Risk-Reward Balance)
For the intermediate player (8–18 handicap), the goal is finding a layout that tests decision-making without crushing your spirit. You want "risk-reward shots" where a good swing pays off, but a miss isn't catastrophic.
King’s North at Myrtle Beach National. When you explore Myrtle Beach golf retreats, King’s North inevitably rises to the top. This Arnold Palmer signature design is famous for the par-5 6th hole, "The Gambler." It offers a tempting island fairway shortcut that can set up an eagle putt. It’s the quintessential risk-reward shot that defines a great golf trip.
Grande Dunes Resort Club is set high on bluffs overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. Grande Dunes offers spectacular visuals. While the course plays long (7,600 yards from the tips), it features massive fairways and large greens. The design is perfect for the mid-handicapper: you have room to drive the ball, but the challenge lies in navigating undulations and wind.
Arcadian Shores Golf Club: A "hidden gem" for value, this Rees Jones design is a classic shot-maker's course. You don't need overpowering length, but you must place your ball on the correct side of the fairway to attack pins. Recent renovations have restored it to pristine condition, making it a favorite for multi-round packages.
Championship Tests for Low Handicappers & Experts
If your group consists of scratch golfers, you aren’t looking for wide fairways—you’re looking for a fight. You want "bucket list golf" that demands precision and nerves of steel.
The Dunes Golf & Beach Club consistently ranks the #1 course in the area. This Robert Trent Jones Sr. masterpiece is a true "championship layout." Having hosted the PGA Senior Tour Championship, it defends itself with length and lightning-fast greens. The signature 13th hole, "Waterloo," is a par-5 that doglegs around Lake Singleton and ruins many good rounds.
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club. For a different challenge, look to Caledonia. It doesn’t rely on brute length but is incredibly tight, weaving through centuries-old live oaks. Designed by Mike Strantz, it requires laser-like precision. Blindly bombing a driver here will lead to a long day. It rewards artistry over power.
TPC Myrtle Beach Designed by Tom Fazio, this course is "tour-caliber." The hazards are penal—elevated greens reject poor approaches, and deep bunkers are difficult to escape. When you play here, you are facing one of the most demanding Myrtle Beach golf courses, where par is a score to be celebrated.
Planning Your Trip: Packages & Tips
Planning a successful Myrtle Beach golf vacation requires logistical strategy, especially for mixed groups.
Handling Mixed Skill Levels. The smartest solution is booking "multi-round deals" at large facilities like Barefoot Resort or Legends. These properties offer multiple courses with varying difficulties on one site. This allows the experts to play a tough track while beginners enjoy a forgiving layout nearby, all before meeting for dinner.
Stay & Play Packages. To maximize value, explore Myrtle Beach golf retreats that bundle accommodations with green fees. "Stay and play" packages are the lifeblood of the Grand Strand economy, often unlocking discounts and preferred Myrtle Beach golf tee times unavailable to the public.
Best Time to Visit Spring (April) and Fall (Octobe, whichr) offer perfect weather but higher rates. For the best value, consider a winter trip (November–February). The courses are in great shape, crowds are thin, and you can play premium layouts for a fraction of the cost.
FAQs
What is the hardest course in Myrtle Beach?
The Dunes Golf & Beach Club and Pawleys Plantation are widely considered the toughest due to length, marsh hazards, and fast greens.
Can beginners play championship courses?
Yes, provided they play from the forward tees and maintain a good pace of play. However, they may find forgiving courses like Pine Lakes more enjoyable.
Do I need to book tee times in advance?
Yes. For top-tier courses like Caledonia or during the peak spring season, booking months in advance is recommended.
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