As a Myrtle Beach local and an avid golf enthusiast, I have been fortunate enough to experience the unique craftsmanship of one of the area’s most iconic golf courses, Grande Dunes. From the combination of stunning landscapes, uniquely designed holes, to the thoughtful incorporation of natural beauty, there is an architectural elegance that distinguishes Grande Dunes from the rest.
Grande Dunes: More than Just a Golf Course
Designed by the well-respected golf course architect Roger Rulewich, Grande Dunes is a masterclass in what can happen when meticulous planning meets inspired creativity. The course stretches over 7600 yards, an impressive distance even from the most challenging tees, and it actively engages the area’s natural landscape.
Situated dramatically alongside the Intracoastal Waterway, Grande Dunes takes full advantage of the undulating terrain with fairways that gracefully wind along the waterway, offering golfers not only a challenge but an incomparable scenic backdrop.
An Environmentally-Conscious Design
What stands out about Grande Dunes is its integration into the existing environment. The design of the course ensures that the natural beauty of Myrtle Beach is not disrupted and in fact, it is showcased.
The course has made efforts to reduce its environmental footprint, implementing environmentally friendly grasses and taking extra precautions to avoid contaminating the adjacent Intracoastal Waterway.
The method of shaping the holes around the course’s natural properties, rather than altering the landscape to suit the design, resulted in a course that is as challenging as it is stunning.
A Signature Hole to Remember
No conversation about Grande Dunes is complete without highlighting the iconic 14th hole. Known as the “signature hole”, the 14th is an exemplary showcase of the deft architectural ability of Rulewich. The hole, framed by water and well-positioned bunkers, is a Par 3 that demands precision and strategy. The view from the tee encompasses the vast Intracoastal Waterway and the impressive Grande Dunes Marina, making it a memorable experience for every golfer.
Additions to The Golfing Experience
A golf course of Grande Dunes’ stature requires complementary facilities, and it doesn’t disappoint. The Mediterranean-style clubhouse, the largest in the region, offers splendid views of the course, the Waterway, and the Marina. It also houses an expansive golf shop and the ever-popular on-site restaurant, Ocean Club, readies a sumptuous meal to wind down a long day on the course.
There’s also the Grande Dunes Tennis club right next to the course, offering alternative outdoor activities to golf. The club has ten Har-Tru courts, including eight that are lit for night play, making it a suitable facility for both casual and serious tennis players.
Grande Dunes is more than just a golf course, it is a testament to the harmony where incredible design meets environmental consciousness. An architectural marvel that offers golfers an unforgettable experience, Grande Dunes is indeed the composite of elegance, challenge, and natural beauty in the backdrop of picturesque Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
The superb craftsmanship, elegant design, and commitment to environmental sustainability make Grande Dunes a paragon in the world of golf course architecture. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or fresh on the green, playing on the exquisitely versatile course of Grande Dunes is an absolute must-try on the bucket list of every golf enthusiast.