Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a well-known destination for golf enthusiasts. With its beautiful coastal setting and lush green fairways, it’s no wonder that the area has become synonymous with the sport. In this article, we will explore the history of golf in Myrtle Beach, the origin of the Grand Strand, and how this region has evolved into a golfer’s paradise.
The Birth of Golf in Myrtle Beach
Golf’s history in Myrtle Beach can be traced back to the early 20th century. The first golf course in the area was Pine Lakes Country Club, which was established in 1927. Designed by architect Robert White, the course offered stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike.
In the 1930s, as the Great Depression took its toll on the United States, Myrtle Beach saw an influx of travelers seeking an affordable vacation spot. Golf courses such as the Dunes Golf and Beach Club, which opened in 1948, and the Surf Golf and Beach Club, established in 1959, helped to solidify the region as a popular destination for golf enthusiasts.
The Origin of the Grand Strand
The term “Grand Strand” refers to the 60-mile stretch of coastline that extends from Little River to Georgetown in South Carolina. This stretch of coastline was named by journalist Claude Dunnagan in the 1940s. Dunnagan was looking for a term that would encompass the beauty and appeal of the region and settled on “Grand Strand,” drawing inspiration from the Strand in London.
The Development of Golf Courses Along the Grand Strand
The 1960s and 70s saw a boom in golf course development along the Grand Strand, as more and more vacationers were drawn to the area for its beautiful beaches and world-class golf courses. Renowned course designers such as Robert Trent Jones, Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye began to create masterpieces in Myrtle Beach, further solidifying its reputation as a premier golf destination.
Some of the most notable courses from this era include the following:
- Myrtle Beach National Golf Club: Opened in 1966 and designed by Arnold Palmer, the King’s North Course is considered one of the best in the area.
- Tidewater Golf Club: This Ken Tomlinson-designed course, which opened in 1990, is known for its challenging layout and stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Caledonia Golf and Fish Club: Designed by the late Mike Strantz, Caledonia opened in 1994 and quickly gained a reputation as one of the most picturesque and challenging courses on the Grand Strand.
The Growth of Golf Tourism in Myrtle Beach
As golf courses continued to proliferate in Myrtle Beach, the area began to develop a robust golf tourism industry. Golf packages became increasingly popular, allowing visitors to experience multiple courses during their stay. This led to the development of numerous golf communities, resorts, and vacation rentals catering specifically to golf enthusiasts.
Organizations such as Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday, founded in 1967, were instrumental in promoting the region as a golf destination. By the 1990s, Myrtle Beach was home to over 100 golf courses and attracted millions of golfers from around the world each year.
The Modern Era of Golf in Myrtle Beach
Today, Myrtle Beach continues to be a haven for golf enthusiasts, boasting more than 80 golf courses that cater to players of all skill levels. The area has also diversified its offerings, with a wide range of attractions, dining options, and accommodations, making it an ideal destination for golfers and non-golfers alike.
Notable Modern Golf Courses in Myrtle Beach
In recent years, several new golf courses have opened in Myrtle Beach, further expanding the region’s impressive golf offerings. Some of the most notable modern courses include:
- The Barefoot Resort & Golf: This 2,300-acre resort features four distinct golf courses designed by renowned architects Greg Norman, Davis Love III, Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye. Each course offers a unique playing experience that showcases the natural beauty of the coastal landscape.
- Grande Dunes Resort Club: Opened in 2001, the Grande Dunes Resort Club is a Roger Rulewich-designed course that offers stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway and the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes.
- TPC Myrtle Beach: A Tom Fazio-designed course, TPC Myrtle Beach opened in 1999 and has since hosted several professional tournaments, including the Senior PGA Tour Championship. The course is known for its challenging layout and pristine playing conditions.
The Impact of Golf on Myrtle Beach’s Economy
The golf industry has had a significant impact on Myrtle Beach’s economy. Golf tourism contributes an estimated $2.6 billion to the local economy annually, supporting thousands of jobs and attracting millions of visitors each year.
In addition to the direct revenue generated by golf courses and related businesses, golf tourism also has a ripple effect on other industries in the area, such as hospitality, dining, and retail. As a result, golf has played a crucial role in the overall economic development of the Grand Strand region.
The Future of Golf in Myrtle Beach
The future of golf in Myrtle Beach looks bright, with ongoing investments in course improvements and new developments. Efforts are being made to ensure the sustainability of the golf industry in the area, including initiatives focused on water conservation, wildlife preservation, and environmentally-friendly course maintenance practices.
Moreover, Myrtle Beach continues to host prestigious golf events, such as the World Amateur Handicap Championship and the Myrtle Beach World Junior Golf Championship, further cementing its status as a premier golf destination.
Conclusion
The history of golf in Myrtle Beach and the origin of the Grand Strand are deeply intertwined, with the region’s natural beauty and coastal charm providing the perfect backdrop for the sport’s growth and development. From its humble beginnings with the establishment of Pine Lakes Country Club to its current status as a world-renowned golf destination, Myrtle Beach has become synonymous with exceptional golf experiences.
As the area continues to invest in its golf courses and related infrastructure, it is clear that the rich history of golf in Myrtle Beach is far from over. With its stunning courses, first-class facilities, and commitment to sustainability, the Grand Strand will undoubtedly remain a golfer’s paradise for generations to come.