The Hackler Course at Coastal Carolina University is a golfing gem nestled in the heart of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This par-72, championship layout proves to be a formidable track for golfing enthusiasts of all skill levels seeking a memorable round immersed in Southern charm.
Course Design and Layout
Formerly named Quail Creek Golf Club, the Hackler Course was taken over by Coastal Carolina University in 1999 and got its current name in 2011, honoring the late General James Hackler Jr. The course was redesigned by notable architect Willard Byrd, who breathed new life into the layout while retaining the original appeal.
Stretching over 6,812 yards from the back tees, the course has five sets of tees ensuring an engaging round for golfers of varying handicaps. The layout undulates through a picturesque landscape laden with pine trees and dotted with freshwater lakes. Golfers can expect various challenging yet fair holes, each meticulously crafted to blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural beauty.
Teeing Off and Fairways
Impressive Bermuda grass tee boxes pave the way for manicured fairways, fostering a perfect start to every hole. Wavy fairways keep the golfing experience diverse and challenging. The tree-lined borders call for precision right from the tee, turning each drive into a thrilling shot-making experience.
Course Highlights and Signature Holes
The closing stretch from holes 14 to 18, also known as the “Gauntlet,” is an unforgettable experience, presenting a series of challenging holes featuring water hazards that demand strategic shot placement.
No golfer can miss the 18th hole, a par-4 dogleg right, known as a true risk-reward hole. This hole tempts the ambitious golfer to cut the corner over a lake, but be warned, the risk is as real as the reward.
The 9th and 16th holes are both picturesque par-3s, each featuring lake carries and distinctive greens surrounded by bunkers, challenging golfers’ short game prowess.
Greens and Bunkering
At the Hackler Course, the large, bentgrass greens are often touted as some of the best surfaces in Myrtle Beach. They roll true, providing golfers with a fair putting surface that rewards good putts and punishes misreads.
The course’s bunkering style enhances its character: the well-placed sand traps introduce a level of strategic planning without intimidating the high handicappers.
Practice Facilities
The Hackler Course houses unrivaled practice facilities, including a large driving range, a chipping green, and a practice bunker, providing golfers a perfect venue to warm up their swings before teeing off or brushing up on the basics.
Clubhouse and Amenities
In addition to the course, the Hackler Course’s club amenities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. The friendly staff can help golfers with all their needs, from tee times to golf instruction. The pro shop stocks a variety of golf apparel and equipment, making it an ideal stop before or after your round.
In conclusion, the Hackler Course at Coastal Carolina University is not just a golf course, but a golfing experience. Balanced in design, variety, and challenge, this course stands as an embodiment of classic Southern golf. Its natural beauty, strategic layout, and renowned greens will undoubtedly delight all those who step onto its hallowed fairways. Whether you’re a high handicapper looking to improve your game or a seasoned pro looking for a new challenge, you can find what you’re looking for at the Hackler Course.
Been a pro for 15 years and visited countless golf courses during that time. Hackler Course stands out in my memory – it encapsulates authentic Southern golf at its best. Willard Byrd’s redesign has made this course an exceptional place to play. High handicap or low, this course is a pleasure for all. Highly recommended!
As a relatively new golfer, I recently visited the Hackler Course and it was absolutely accommodating to my game with its varying tee boxes. The fairways were kept immaculate and the staff was incredibly friendly. The practice facilities are top-notch – definitely worth taking some time to practice before you tee off. Looking forward to going back when I’ve developed my game a bit more.
Great write up on Hackler! I’ve played this course many times and can vouch for everything said here. The ‘Gauntlet’ is a real test but provides a gratifying finish. One piece of advice: practice your bunker shots before you go. The sand traps can be a real game-changer!