Grande Dunes Resort Course

The par-five 13th begins a memorable water-bound stretch at Grande Dunes Resort Club, followed by the par-three 14th beside the Intracoastal Waterway. Five holes run alongside the Waterway, and these closing stages ask for clear thinking around the hazards as much as committed striking. Roger Rulewich’s 18-hole design occupies raised, wooded terrain, bringing changes in level and long views across the marina, maritime forest and passing boats. Broad Bermuda-grass fairways give plenty of visual room from the tee, but the oversized greens make the angle of approach important, particularly when trying to leave an uphill putt. Lakes cover 34 acres of the property, so water remains part of the decision making well beyond the riverside holes. The greens were replaced and every bunker rebuilt during the 2022 works, and the course has practice facilities for a useful warm-up before play.

The remodelled clubhouse is set up for groups settling in before a round or gathering afterwards, with food and drinks available in its lounge. Terrazza 19 adds a waterside option after golf, serving as the club’s restaurant and bar with the Intracoastal Waterway in view. The nearby Marina Inn at Grande Dunes provides accommodation close to the first tee, along with access to the area’s beaches and facilities. Grande Dunes also works well within a longer Myrtle Beach itinerary, as its wider course group covers 20 layouts from Little River in the north to Pawleys Island further south. Golf Digest has listed the course among America’s 100 greatest public courses, recognition that reflects a layout with enough width to keep higher-handicap players involved while still rewarding a well-placed tee shot and disciplined approach.