Myrtle Beach is home to more than 80 golf courses, and plenty of them feature par fives that can trip up even the most seasoned players. But when it comes to a par five that demands every shot in the bag—and punishes anything less than solid execution—Prestwick Country Club’s 9th hole deserves a serious look.
A Demanding Finish to the Front Nine
Playing 537 yards from the back tees, the 9th at Prestwick doesn’t overwhelm with length alone. What makes it so difficult is the way it challenges your thinking and your execution from start to finish.
Off the tee, you’ve got a clear choice—but not much margin for error. Water runs the length of the left side, and OB looms right. It’s a tempting hole to be aggressive on, but one missed swing can put a big number on the scorecard quickly. The second shot doesn’t offer much relief. Whether you’re laying up or playing for position, the target is narrow, and the approach into the green can leave an uncomfortable angle.
Precision Required Around the Green
The approach into the 9th green is where the hole starts asking tougher questions. Bunkers guard the approach, and the slight elevation adds just enough complexity to force a precise shot. It calls for a high, soft landing—miss that, and you’re likely scrambling. Long is trouble, and the false edges can funnel even decent shots into brutal spots. Those greenside bunkers on the right? Not where you want to be.
Once you’re on the putting surface, the test continues. The green is quick and contoured, with enough movement to keep you guessing. Two putts are never a given.
A Classic Dye Test
Pete and P.B. Dye left their fingerprints all over this hole. It’s not about one big swing—it’s about making three (or more) smart, well-executed shots in a row. No bailout zones, no real let-up. Just a stretch of golf that asks questions the entire way.
Is It the Toughest Par Five in Myrtle Beach?
There are worthy challengers—The Dunes Club’s iconic 13th and TPC Myrtle Beach’s closing hole among them. But what sets Prestwick’s 9th apart is its blend of strategy, risk-reward, and design nuance. It doesn’t just play tough—it plays fair, and it tests your game.
For many who’ve played it, the 9th isn’t just hard—it’s unforgettable.
Photos for this feature from our Instagram Account @MyrtleBeachGolfTrips
