As summer descends and families begin planning their annual trip to Myrtle Beach, golf clubs have started to join sunscreen, beach towels and sand toys on the must-pack list. That’s not a typo. The popularity of family golf in Myrtle Beach has surged in recent years as moms and dads, looking for a morning away from the sand and surf, are increasingly taking advantage of the area’s robust Kids Play Free program. While more than 50 Myrtle Beach area courses allow kids to play for free, when accompanied by a paying adult, a select group takes things a step further, offering junior tees. Junior tees are often setup approximately 150 yards from the hole (with the exception of par 3s), enhancing the appeal of a family outing. If you are looking for junior tees, here are six Myrtle Beach golf courses you need to play this summer:
— At Aberdeen Country Club, the junior tees take many of the bunkers and water hazards out of playing, allowing the entire family to enjoy the immaculately conditioned layout.
— Litchfield Country Club is one of Myrtle Beach’s classic designs. The course was the first to open in Pawleys Island and, not surprisingly, Litchfield is helping lead the charge to bring the entire family to the game.
— There is no better course to introduce kids (or even a spouse) to the game than the West Course at Myrtle Beach National. It’s the area’s easiest track, according to the USGA’s slope rating, giving you the chance to play without the constant fear of hitting the ball into a hazard.
— The PineHills Course at Myrtlewood features generous fairways and a prime location, right in the heart of Myrtle Beach. Seriously, you could putt out on the 18th green and have your toes in the sand in less than 15 minutes. What’s not to like?
— River Club is one of the South Strand’s hidden gems and the Tom Jackson design installed junior tees that mitigate the challenges having water on 14 of 18 holes creates for new golfers. With that being said, the entire family will enjoy the opportunity to cross the water on River Club’s stunning 18th hole.
— Willbrook’s junior tees provide the opportunity to enjoy the area’s natural, Lowcountry beauty. Playing through soaring live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, the layout is a treat for everyone, making a Willbrook a family golf favorite.