Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Beachfront paradise - Myrtle Beach Golf








If you have never visited Myrtle Beach before, you may be shocked at just how many golf courses there are in this beachfront paradise. The area is home to more than 120 courses and, while many have gained world-wide fame over the years, others prefer to remain quiet, unassuming golfing getaways. What follows is just a short description of some of the courses you'll find off the beaten path.

In North Strand, Lockwood Folly Country Club is home to what may be one of the area's best holes: the 18th, a 453-yard par 5 that extends up to the Intracoastal Waterway. Designed by Willard Byrd, the course is located where the Lockwood Folly River and the Intracoastal Waterway meet. The course is well-conditioned, and the service represents some of the best the Mid-Atlantic has to offer. Another North Strand jewel is the Brunswick Plantation, perhaps one of the most underrated courses in all of Myrtle Beach. The Magnolia Nine sports a Scottish flavor, with the Azalea and Dogwood Nines offering a tree-lined Carolina touch. The course's Plantation House is also one of the region's best-respected clubhouses.

On the South Strand, you might want to sample the Tradition Club in Pawleys Island. The Golf Course Owners Association named it South Carolina Golf Course of the year in 2000, saving it from complete anonymity. The work of Ron Garl, the Tradition Club is still the underdog when compared to well-known South Strand clubs such as True Blue, Caledonia, Pawleys Plantation, and the TPC of Myrtle Beach. The course is definitely inland, but includes some water hazards in the form of ponds.

For one of the better courses under $50, test out the International Club in Murrells Inlet. Designed by Willard Byrd, the course is now managed by the Classics Group. The holes offer a great deal of variety, but the course itself is considered no-frills.

You might want to also explore Central and West Strand for more golfing options. For an invigorating warm-up, try South Creek at Myrtle Beach National. Inspired by golfing legend Arnold Palmer, the layout is short and forgiving, making it the perfect place to flex your muscles before heading to the Strand's longer courses.

While they may not earn a great deal of publicity, these lesser-known courses can provide just as much enjoyment as their better-known competitors.

Consider them the hidden treasures of the Myrtle Beach golf scene, and well worth the time to check out.

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