Golf Tourism: A Guide to Myrtle Beach’s Golf Resorts
Renowned globally as the ‘Golf Capital of the World’, Myrtle Beach is unmistakably a paradise for golf enthusiasts. Nestled along the sun-kissed coast of South Carolina, the city bursts with an incredible selection of premium golf courses, pro shops, tournaments, and events, bringing the perfect blend of sport and leisure for thousands of golf tourists every year. This article will delve into the treasures of Myrtle Beach’s golf scene, providing a guide to its finest golf resorts.
A haven for seasoned and novice golfers alike, Myrtle Beach hosts over 80 top-tier golf courses, adorning the city’s scenic geography with emerald turf and fairways. These include magnificent golfing masterpieces designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Robert Trent Jones.
The Dunes Golf & Beach Club, one of the oldest golf courses in the city with its inauguration in 1948, is an exemplar of historic charm and world-class design. Recognized by Golf Digest as one of America’s top 100 courses, the resort’s enchanting view of the Atlantic Ocean in juxtaposition to the challenging fairways, make for a memorable golf adventure.
Another must-visit gem is the TPC Myrtle Beach. This tour-caliber course, designed by Tom Fazio, boasts of a par 72 course layout stretching through lush pine forests and pristine wetlands. Host to the Senior PGA Tour Championship, the TPC short for “Tour Players Course”, serves a quintessential play for serious golfers.
True Blue Plantation Resort is another standout, famous for its dramatic and creative bunkering. A Mike Strantz creation, its impressive undulations, and native vegetation offers a remarkable fusion of aesthetics and challenge for golf tourists.
For golfers seeking luxurious accommodation and amenities alongside their golf experience, resorts such as the Barefoot Golf Resort and Grande Dunes Resort Club are a premium choice. Barefoot Resort, home to multi-designer courses, has a swing bridge connecting its clubhouse to the glittering Intracoastal Waterway course. On the other hand, Grande Dunes terraces uphill, with the 9th and 18th holes offering breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Myrtle Beach’s golf experience goes beyond teeing off; it combines the love of sport with shopping, leisure, and festivities. There are plenty of pro shops in the vicinity of these golf resorts, which sell equipment, gear, and designer merchandise. PGA Tour Superstore and Martin’s Golf are some noteworthy mentions.
In terms of events, the city hosts annual tournaments including the Myrtle Beach World Amateur Handicap Championship, the Veterans Golf Classic, and the Palmetto High School Golf Championships. These tournaments attract golfers of varying skill sets from around the globe, fostering community and sportsmanship.
Apart from the lush green courses, Myrtle Beach ensures plenty of leisure activities for non-golfers too. The city’s bustling beachside boardwalk, a variety of restaurants offering local cuisine, shopping arcades, and a vibrant nightlife add to the city’s charm.
Furthermore, with a favorable climate year-round, a golf vacation in Myrtle Beach is always a good idea. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are most popular for golf tourism, with pleasantly warm temperatures and relatively lower accommodation rates.
In essence, Myrtle Beach is not just a city; it’s a thriving golf ecosystem. Its unique confluence of top-notch golf courses, stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and a rich platter of amenities and entertainment, sets it in a league of its own in golf tourism. So, whether you’re a seasoned player, a golf enthusiast, or a curious beginner, Myrtle Beach is your ultimate destination for a fulfilling golfing getaway.+