Nestled gracefully between the tranquil Intracoastal Waterway and the picturesque Cherry Grove Inlet, Tidewater Golf Club stands as a beacon of golfing excellence, consistently ranked among the nation’s top 100 public courses. Frequently lauded as “The Pebble Beach of the East,” this North Myrtle Beach gem offers a rare fusion of breathtaking natural beauty, strategic challenge, and unparalleled Southern hospitality, cementing its status as a must-play destination for golfers worldwide. Many compare it to the revered Dunes Golf and Beach Club.
The Visionary Design of Ken Tomlinson
Opened in 1990, Tidewater Golf Club was the brainchild of renowned architect Ken Tomlinson, who masterfully sculpted a layout that flows seamlessly with the unspoiled Lowcountry landscape. His vision was immediately recognized as groundbreaking, earning the rare distinction of being named “Best New Course in America” by both Golf Digest and Golf Magazine—an achievement that few courses have ever matched. This initial acclaim marked the beginning of a legacy, with Tidewater accumulating over 40 additional awards in the decades that followed, solidifying its reputation as the most awarded golf course in South Carolina and North Myrtle Beach. It’s a testament to a design that prioritizes harmony with nature while delivering a rigorous, yet rewarding, golfing test.
A Journey Through Iconic Holes Where Beauty Meets Challenge
Tidewater is celebrated for its collection of truly unforgettable holes, many of which play directly alongside or offer panoramic views of the coastal waters.
- The Allure of the Waterway: The par-3 No. 3 and the par-5 No. 13 are particularly spectacular, presenting golfers with expansive vistas across the Intracoastal Waterway. The par-5 13th even offers a serene, distant glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean, a rare visual treat that underscores the course’s unique coastal proximity. These holes demand not only precision but also offer moments to pause and absorb the sheer beauty of the surroundings.
- The Legendary “Wishing Well”: Perhaps the most iconic is the par-3 12th, aptly nicknamed “The Wishing Well.” Guarded by saltwater marsh and strategically placed bunkers, an accurate tee shot here is paramount. The thousands of golf balls that have found their resting place in the marsh mud serve as a vivid, albeit humbling, testament to its true difficulty and the mental fortitude it demands. Successfully navigating this hole often feels like a significant accomplishment, leaving golfers with a memorable story, regardless of their score.
- A Tapestry of Views: With nine holes gracefully hugging the picturesque coastal marshes and waterways, golfers are virtually guaranteed a spectacular view from nearly every tee. This distinctive coastal proximity, a feature often associated with world-class golf destinations, ensures a truly unique and immersive golfing experience.
The Strategic Ensemble: A Test of Finesse and Fortitude
Beyond its postcard-worthy views, Tidewater Golf Club excels as a comprehensive golfing challenge. Ken Tomlinson’s masterful execution is evident throughout the par-72 layout. Golfers will find themselves skillfully navigating narrow fairways, facing elevated greens that demand precise distance control, and consistently being challenged by the nuanced design of each hole. It’s an exquisitely orchestrated blend of strategic doglegs, thoughtfully placed bunkers, and those ever-present undulating greens that characterize championship golf.
A defining characteristic of Tidewater is the pervasive presence of water, which comes into play on an astounding 15 of the 18 holes. This adds a critical layer of complexity and beauty to nearly every shot, compelling players to prioritize strategic shot placement and course management over raw power. Furthermore, given its coastal location, wind can be a significant and variable factor, requiring constant adaptation in club selection, trajectory, and aim. This dynamic environment ensures that no two rounds are ever quite the same, always demanding thoughtful play and a certain measure of courage.
Designed for Every Golfer: Adaptability and Accessibility
Tidewater is thoughtfully designed to accommodate and challenge a wide spectrum of golfers, featuring four distinct sets of tees that range from approximately 4,700 to over 7,000 yards. This adaptability ensures that whether you’re a seasoned low-handicapper seeking a championship test or an enthusiastic beginner looking for an enjoyable round, a suitable challenge awaits. Playing from the correct yardage enhances both enjoyment and the strategic depth of the experience, allowing everyone to fully appreciate the course’s intricate design.
| Tee | Yardage (Approx.) |
| :—— | :—————- |
| Black | 7,044 yards |
| Blue | 6,514 yards |
| White | 6,003 yards |
| Gold | 5,219 yards |
Beyond the Green: The Complete Tidewater Experience
The commitment to an exceptional experience at Tidewater extends beyond the course itself. Guests can indulge in a seasonal menu featuring fresh ingredients and homemade entrees at Joey’s Clubhouse Grille, a delectable part of the Tidewater experience. For those looking to refine their game, Tidewater’s instructional team uses state-of-the-art technology and a deep understanding of the game’s human element to offer personalized lessons, helping golfers turn bogeys into birdies on this stunning North Myrtle Beach golf course. Additionally, excellent practice facilities ensure players can warm up adequately or work on their skills.
Tidewater’s unwavering commitment to customer service and impeccable course conditions are held in equal regard to its stunning scenery, making this one of the best golf travel experiences in the Southeast.
Is Tidewater Your Next Golfing Destination?
Tidewater Golf Club undeniably holds merit in its comparison to “Pebble Beach of the East,” combining golfing rigor with unparalleled natural beauty. It presents a formidable challenge that rewards thoughtful play, alongside a course meticulously maintained and supported by a team dedicated to hospitality.
Pros:
- Spectacular, panoramic views that profoundly enhance the golfing experience, with nine holes running along the water.
- Challenging yet fair layout that rigorously tests skills for all proficiency levels.
- Strategic play is paramount, driven by abundant water hazards and variable coastal breezes.
- Consistently excellent course conditions coupled with renowned Southern hospitality.
- Rich history and numerous prestigious awards underscore its enduring quality.
- Comprehensive amenities, including a clubhouse grille, instructional team, and practice facilities.
Cons:
- Extensive water hazards on most holes can be particularly penalizing for players with less accurate ball striking.
- Variable wind conditions can significantly impact club selection and overall strategy, requiring constant adaptation.
Whether you’re drawn by the challenge, the history, or the sheer beauty of a round played alongside the majestic Carolina coast, Tidewater Golf Club promises an experience you won’t soon forget. It offers not only a chance for stunning photographs but also a renewed appreciation for the game in one of golf’s most scenic and strategically engaging settings. Discover why Tidewater is not just a golf course, but an unforgettable journey.\n\n
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