Golf rightfully values its rich history, and the same holds true for Myrtle Beach, the game’s most popular destination. The Grand Strand is home to more than a few “Golden Oldies” that, decades after opening, still deliver a memorable experience.
As group leaders plan their next Myrtle Beach golf trip, here’s a look—counting down from 10 to 1—at the area’s oldest and most storied layouts.
10. Eagle Nest Golf Club (1972)
Yet another Gene Hamm design, Eagle Nest has long touted itself as home to Myrtle Beach’s three toughest finishing holes. It’s also South Carolina’s longest course, stretching to 8,168 yards from “The Nest” tees—though only Tour pros should attempt those!
9. Azalea Sands Golf Club (1972)
Another Hamm creation, Azalea Sands offers one of the area’s most relaxed rounds, with no housing anywhere on the course. It’s pure golf, surrounded by Carolina pines and coastal breezes.
8. The Hackler Course at Coastal Carolina University (1968)
Originally known as Quail Creek, this Gene Hamm layout now serves as the university course for CCU. Conveniently located on Highway 501, “The Hack” is a great stop on your way into town, offering a welcoming introduction to Myrtle Beach golf.
7. Beachwood Golf Club (1968)
A North Myrtle Beach institution, Beachwood is beloved for its playability and friendliness. With tree-lined fairways and generous landing areas, it’s a course that golfers of all skill levels can enjoy.
6. Litchfield Country Club (1966)
The first course in Pawleys Island, this Willard Byrd design opened the floodgates for the area’s rise as one of South Carolina’s premier golf destinations. Litchfield still charms players with its classic Southern character and shot-maker’s layout.
5. PineHills at Myrtlewood (1966)
The first of Myrtlewood’s two courses, PineHills has been delighting golfers since the mid-’60s. Arthur Hills modernized the design in the early 1990s, and a recent bunker renovation ensures it remains one of the area’s most popular tracks.
4. Whispering Pines Golf Course (1962)
Myrtle Beach’s only municipal course has stood the test of time. Designed by Finger, Dye & Spahn, Whispering Pines offers a value-priced round minutes from the airport and recently refreshed its greens and bunkers to enhance playability.
3. Surf Club (1960)
A private George Cobb design located less than 700 yards from the Atlantic Ocean, Surf Club is old-school golf at its best. Its greens complexes and coastal setting make it one of the Grand Strand’s most coveted tee times.
2. Dunes Golf & Beach Club (1949)
A masterpiece by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the Dunes Club is often regarded as Myrtle Beach’s finest layout. Home to the area’s first PGA Tour event and the legendary “Waterloo” par-5, the course is a perennial Top 100 in national rankings.
1. Pine Lakes Country Club (1927)
Known affectionately as “The Granddaddy,” Pine Lakes is the oldest course on the Grand Strand—approaching its 99th birthday. Designed by Robert White, the first president of the PGA of America, its rolling terrain and historic clubhouse make it a must-play for every Myrtle Beach golfer.
Photos for this feature from MyrtleBeachGolfTrips Instagram Account. Pictured courses from top to bottom Pine Lakes Country Club, Litchfield Country Club, and the PineHills Course
