TheVirginia Explorer
MIX AND MATCH IN
Myrtle Beach
It’s but a short flight or a reasonable day’s
drive away from a variety of locations in the
south. The weather is close to perfect. And
its first-class roster of layouts makes it a
veritable golfer’s paradise for unforgettable
buddy trips.
While some areas of the region cater
to those craving luxury, the southernmost
stretch of Myrtle Beach features a number
of new, more casual, resort-style courses.
These destinations serve as ideal getaway
spots not only for low-handicappers, but
also for families looking to unwind, relax
and still play golf.
Here is a look at some of the fabulous
courses and resorts along the South Strand
and Plantation sections of Myrtle Beach.
SOUTH STRAND
The Tradition Club
Pawleys Island, S.C.
traditiongolfclub.com; 877-599-0888
This club has earned a four and a half
star rating from Golf Digest among the
publication’s listing of its “Best Places to Play,”
making it a worthy spot for golfers. Situated
on South Carolina’s Lowcountry coast, The
Tradition Club plays to a very manageable
length (under 6,900 yards from the back
tees). Though there are some forced carries,
tree-lined fairways help define the track’s
boundaries on this visually appealing layout.
Local tip: Make this course part of a
weekend that also includes golf and a
stay at Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort
(litchfieldbeach.com; 843-237-3000), located
just a mile down the road.
At Litchfield Beach, resort-goers will find
outstanding golf as well as entertainment
options for the entire family. Visitors can
rent kayaks and bicycles, or enjoy its Pool
and Play Plaza for those interested in
frolicking in the water with the kids. There
is also an indoor heated pool with hot tub,
a full cardio gym with weights, and a day
spa to soothe the senses when it’s time
to unwind. Accommodations at the resort
include suites, villas, condos and houses to
suit many different sizes of groups.
The area also boasts of “the best
beaches…because they’re quieter and less
commercial,” says Tim Gavrich of National
Golf Management, which oversees both
Litchfield and The Tradition Club.
Golf, of course, is also a big part of the
allure. Those staying at the resort can build
a package that includes a round at The
Tradition Club, Litchfield Country Club
and other courses.
The International Club
Murrells Inlet, S.C.
internationalclubgolf.com; 843-651-9995
The International Club has a layout that
is adaptable to everyone from novices to
scratch players. The course opened in 2000
and has five sets of tees, playing to less than
5,000 yards from the forward markers and
just under 7,000 yards all the way back. With
plenty of aesthetic appeal, it earned a four-star
rating from Golf Digest for its combination of
challenges, including fast greens and hazards.
The course also has a golf school on its
property, which includes a separate class for
junior golfers as well as parents, according to
Doug Donner, the club’s general manager
and head golf professional.
“The International Club truly caters to all
golfers. We are one of the few golf courses
that have junior tees as well as senior ladies
tees,” Donner says. “We also encourage the
entire family to play by offering free golf to
all juniors ages 16 and under.”
Indigo Creek Golf Club
Murrells Inlet, S.C.
indigocreekgolfclub.com; 843-650-1809
Situated across the road from The
International Club, Indigo Creek, like its
neighbor, is set in the low country of Myrtle
Beach, providing a different landscape than
many other nearby destinations. Stately oak
trees and meandering creeks dominate one’s
experience on the inward half. Players have
plenty of options from which to choose
when teeing it up, as Indigo Creek plays
from 5,000 to nearly 6,800 yards.
Want to get the whole family prepped
for some time on the course? Lessons are
available through the Glen Davis School.
For $159, students receive three hours of
instruction, including video analysis, as well
as a round of golf.
Shot placement is paramount at Blackmoor Golf Club,
where the course follows the land’s natural terrain.
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TOP: PAWLEYS PLANTATION RESORT; CALEDONIA GOLF AND FISH CLUB
A
As a destination,
Myrtle Beach, S.C.,
checks all the boxes.
The region features some of the best
beaches anywhere.
TOP RIGHT: iSTOCKPHOTO.COM; BLACKMOOR GOLF CLUB
Long a popular destination for die-hard golfers, Myrtle
Beach also offers plenty of luxurious accommodations
and exciting, off-course activities | by MICHAEL RAND