Designed with shotmakers in mind, Tidewater can be a thrilling experience, if you are willing to take a few risks with course management. Always presented in excellent condition, the fairways are flawless and the greens as true as can be, while the halfway hut and a well-stocked bar allow golfers to refresh themselves during and after rounds. It's not cheap, but Tidewater always feels worth the outlay.
As the name suggests, the TPC is an elite Myrtle Beach track, and it packs a visual punch, with elegantly sculpted holes, cunningly placed bunkers, and pine forests which frame the course beautifully. A favorite of Dustin Johnson, it suits longer hitters, but the various tees provide a suitable challenge for all levels. And the end-of-round Grille Restaurant will suit all tastes as well. A sheer golfing delight.
As grand as its title indicates, this course on Golf Village Lane occupies a striking location above the Intercostal Waterway, and the layout complements the setting. Classic links in shape and feel, Grande Dunes is a neat counterpoint to parkland courses in the area. Its greens provide large landing areas, but their devilish undulations make course management essential, with large drop-offs awaiting errant approach shots. A real challenge.
Located on Blue Stem Drive, True Blue goes all out to make players feel welcome, focusing on accessibility and fun over difficulty. Its looks are definitely up to scratch, making great use of the land's natural contours, in what was once a rice plantation. But the key here is enjoyment. Wide fairways are intended to suit intermediate golfers, not professionals-and that's great news for casual vacationers.
Part of the sprawling Legends Resort, Moorlands is often at the top of Myrtle Beach golf course listings, and the reasons are self-evident. The challenging Pete Dye layout is a huge draw, making clever use of waste bunkers and drop-offs, with dramatic elevation changes that catch the eye, but don't result in unfair shots. A genuine "target golf" tester where caddies make a huge difference.