A Historical Perspective: The Legacy of Golf in Myrtle Beach

Nestled along the stunning South Carolina coast, Myrtle Beach is home to some of the most intricately designed and nationally acclaimed golf courses in the United States. But its rich golfing heritage is more than just oceanfront greens and club-swinging vacationers; the story of golf in Myrtle Beach is a narrative punctuated by innovation, the love of sport, and a commitment to delivering a memorable golfing experience.

_h3_Myrtle Beach: More than Just a Shoreline

Back in 1927, Pine Lakes Country Club, also known as the “Granddaddy,” was the first golf course established in Myrtle Beach. Its creation marked the beginning of Myrtle Beach’s reputation, not only as a beach holiday paradise but also as a coffer of engaging golfing experiences. The ‘Granddaddy’ is recognized for its roaring twenties theme and the prestigious sports writers who would gather and help make the sport popular with the masses. As the decades rolled on, more golf courses were designed, each with their unique charm and appeal, carrying forward the legacy of golf in the region.

_h3_Land of Golf Architects

Myrtle Beach is something of a mecca for golf course architects. Gaining international acclaim, golfing legends such as Robert Trent Jones, Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus, and Arnold Palmer have each left their mark on the Myrtle Beach landscape, creating diverse courses that attract golfers from different continents.

The Dunes Club, which opened in 1948, was designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones and is still considered one of the very best golf courses in all of the United States, quite an achievement given the caliber of competition. More recently, the Love Course at Barefoot Resort, designed by Davis Love III, was named the 2017 Golf Course of the Year by the National Golf Course Owners Association.

_h3_The Golf Capital of the World

Due to the high concentration of world-class golf courses, Myrtle Beach has earned the nickname ‘Golf Capital of the World.’ With more than 80 golf courses in its vicinity, golfers of all handicaps and preferences can find something suited to their liking. From championship courses to family-friendly mini golf, it truly offers something for everyone.

Not only does Myrtle Beach have the highest concentration of golf courses per square mile globally, but its courses have also received prestigious accolades, earning recognition from the Professional Golf Association (PGA) and Golf Digest.

One of the most prominent golfing events in Myrtle Beach is the “World Amateur Handicap Championship.” Debuting in 1984, it is still held annually, hosting thousands of amateur golfers from across the world, reflecting the city’s commitment to make golf accessible for all, from apprentice to expert.

_h3_The Legacy Continues

The story of golf in Myrtle Beach is still very much in progress. On and off the golf course, the city is home to several golf schools, training and private coaching options, driving ranges, and gear shops, making the golf ecosystem comprehensive and vibrant. Myrtle Beach also believes that everyone should experience the joy of golf, so the city hosts several initiatives to introduce newcomers to the sport.

Myrtle Beach’s innovation drives the golf industry, with courses like Tupelo Bay offering ‘foot golf’, a hybrid of soccer and golf, while others, like Top Golf, merge technology, entertainment, and sport to re-invent the sport.

_nested_h3_The Final Putt

In conclusion, Myrtle Beach is more than just a top-ranked golf destination. It’s a place where the love of the sport, the creativity of the world’s pioneer golf architects, and the warm embrace of the coastal South Carolina sun meld into a consummate golfing experience. The dynamic evolution of golf in the region remains a testament to the passion for this beloved sport. The legacy of golf in Myrtle Beach is an ever-evolving spectacle, each chapter more intriguing than the previous one. Be it a seasoned golfer or a novice dabbler, the allure of Myrtle Beach’s greens is challenging to resist.

21 thoughts on “A Historical Perspective: The Legacy of Golf in Myrtle Beach”

  1. Interestingly, the course at Barefoot Resort is fab. I’m not surprised it bagged the ‘Course of the Year’ title.

  2. TrippleBogeyBobby

    Amazing how far Myrtle Beach has come from their ‘Granddaddy’ days. Thumbs up for the roaring twenties theme though…

  3. I’ve always enjoyed my visits to Myrtle Beach. The golf courses are world-class and each has its own unique charm.

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