
How Many Myrtle Beach Golf Courses Are There? Over 90!
There are over 90 golf courses in the Myrtle Beach, South Carolina area, making it one of the most densely concentrated golf destinations in the United States. Known as the "Golf Capital of the World," Myrtle Beach offers a wide variety of public, resort, and private courses designed by legendary architects such as Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, and Arnold Palmer.
Why Myrtle Beach Is a Premier Golf Destination
Myrtle Beach has earned its reputation as a top-tier golf destination due to its favorable climate, affordable green fees, and an exceptional concentration of high-quality courses. With more than 90 courses spread across a 60-mile stretch of coastline, players of all skill levels can find layouts that match their preferences.
Key Factors Driving Myrtle Beach's Golf Popularity
- Diverse course designs ranging from championship links to parkland-style layouts
- Mild weather allowing for year-round play
- Abundance of stay-and-play packages at resorts and hotels
- Proximity to major East Coast population centers
- Host to numerous amateur and professional tournaments
Types of Golf Courses in Myrtle Beach
The region features a broad mix of course types catering to different player needs:
Public Courses
These are open to all players and often offer competitive rates, especially during off-peak seasons. Examples include King's North at Myrtle Beach National and The Dunes Club.
Resort Courses
Attached to hotels and vacation complexes, these provide convenience for tourists. Notable examples: Barefoot Resort, Tidewater Resort, and Grande Dunes.
Private Clubs
Membership-based facilities like The Tradition Club offer exclusivity and premium amenities but may allow guest access through select programs.
Municipal & Semi-Private Facilities
Courses operated by local governments or semi-private entities provide budget-friendly options without sacrificing quality.
Detailed Breakdown of Myrtle Beach Area Golf Courses
The following table provides a comprehensive overview of key golf courses in the Myrtle Beach metropolitan area, including design details, par, length, and notable features.
| Course Name | Location | Designer | Year Opened | Par | Yardage (Max) | Type | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pete Dye Course at Barefoot Resort | North Myrtle Beach | Pete Dye | 2001 | 72 | 7,588 | Resort | Hosted PGA Tour Champions events |
| Tidewater Golf & Beach Club | North Myrtle Beach | Arthur Hills | 1997 | 72 | 7,102 | Resort | Oceanfront holes with Atlantic views |
| TPC Myrtle Beach | Myrtle Beach | Tom Fazio | 1998 | 72 | 7,228 | Public/Resort | Former home of the Senior PGA Championship |
| The Dunes Golf & Beach Club | Myrtle Beach | Robert Trent Jones Sr. | 1948 | 72 | 6,825 | Private (guest access available) | Historic course with ocean proximity |
| Caledonia Golf & Fish Club | Pawleys Island | Mike Stranz | 1994 | 72 | 6,526 | Public | Routinely ranked among America’s best |
| True Blue Golf Club | Litchfield Beach | Mike Stranz | 1998 | 72 | 7,628 | Public | Largest layout in the area by yardage |
| Grande Dunes Resort Course | Myrtle Beach | Pete Dye | 2000 | 72 | 7,516 | Resort | Known for dramatic waste bunkers |
| King's North at Myrtle Beach National | Myrtle Beach | Freddie Couples & Gene Hamm | 1977 | 71 | 6,798 | Public | Famous for "The Gambler" hole |
The data shows a strong representation of world-renowned designers like Pete Dye and Mike Stranz, highlighting the architectural significance of the region. Yardages range from 6,500 to over 7,600 yards, accommodating both recreational and advanced players. Most courses are resort or public, ensuring wide accessibility for visitors.
Top-Ranked Myrtle Beach Golf Courses
Several Myrtle Beach-area courses consistently appear on national rankings:
- Caledonia Golf & Fish Club – Ranked among the top 100 public courses in the U.S. by Golf Digest
- True Blue Golf Club – Sister course to Caledonia, praised for its natural Lowcountry setting
- TPC Myrtle Beach – Part of the PGA Tour’s TPC Network, known for tournament-level conditioning
- The Dunes Club – A historic favorite with multiple course renovations maintaining its elite status
- Barefoot Resort (Pete Dye) – Recognized for challenging design and strategic bunkering
Planning Your Golf Trip to Myrtle Beach
To maximize your experience, consider the following tips:
- Book tee times 2–3 months in advance during peak season (April–October)
- Look for stay-and-play packages combining lodging and golf
- Use local golf concierge services to coordinate multiple rounds
- Play weekday mornings to avoid crowds
- Take advantage of twilight and replay rates to save money
Frequently Asked Questions About Myrtle Beach Golf Courses
How many golf courses are there in Myrtle Beach?
There are over 90 golf courses within the greater Myrtle Beach area, including public, resort, and private facilities. This concentration makes it one of the top golf destinations in the United States.
What is the best time of year to play golf in Myrtle Beach?
The best time to play golf in Myrtle Beach is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when temperatures are mild and course conditions are optimal. Summer months can be hot and humid, while winter offers fewer crowds and lower prices.
Are there any PGA Tour-level courses in Myrtle Beach?
Yes, TPC Myrtle Beach is part of the PGA Tour’s Tournament Players Club network and has hosted professional events, including the Senior PGA Professional National Championship. It offers a true tournament-caliber experience.
Can beginners play Myrtle Beach golf courses?
Absolutely. While some courses are challenging, many offer forward tees, practice facilities, and beginner-friendly layouts. Courses like PineHills Golf Club and Inglewood Golf Club are particularly welcoming to less experienced players.
Do I need a reservation to play golf in Myrtle Beach?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Many popular courses book up weeks in advance. You can reserve online through course websites or third-party booking platforms specializing in Myrtle Beach golf packages.
Which Myrtle Beach golf course is ranked #1?
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club is frequently ranked as the #1 public course in Myrtle Beach and has appeared on Golf Digest’s list of America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses. Its scenic beauty, historic charm, and excellent conditioning contribute to its top ranking.






