Best Public Golf Around Wilmington, NC: Thistle, Leopard’s Chase & More

Sep 6

Wilmington, North Carolina is one of the most underrated coastal golf hubs in the Southeast. Within 30–60 minutes of downtown Wilmington, golfers have access to some of the best public golf courses in coastal North Carolina.

If you’re searching for the best golf around Wilmington, NC, these courses consistently rise to the top — from championship layouts to scenic coastal tests.

Here’s where to play.

1️⃣ Thistle Golf Club (Sunset Beach, NC)

Often ranked among the top public courses near Wilmington, Thistle Golf Club delivers 27 holes of Scottish-inspired golf just over an hour from downtown Wilmington.

With immaculate conditioning and thoughtful design, Thistle is a must-play for serious golfers visiting the Wilmington area.

Why Thistle Is One of the Best Golf Courses Near Wilmington

27-hole layout (three nines)
Strong conditioning year-round
Links-style influences
Consistently top-rated in coastal NC

For pure quality and consistency, Thistle belongs at the top of any Wilmington golf list.

2️⃣ Leopard’s Chase (Ocean Ridge Plantation)

Located in Ocean Isle Beach, Leopard’s Chase is one of the most dramatic public courses near Wilmington.

Known for elevation changes, waterfalls, and memorable finishing holes, it offers a more visually striking experience than many coastal layouts.

Why Leopard’s Chase Stands Out

Challenging finishing stretch
Strong elevation movement
Part of the Ocean Ridge collection
High-end public access

It’s one of the most exciting rounds you can play near Wilmington.

3️⃣ Sea Trail Golf Club (Sunset Beach, NC)

Sea Trail Golf Club offers 54 holes across three distinct courses and is a staple of coastal Carolina golf.

With recent renovations and strong playability, Sea Trail provides excellent value and variety for Wilmington-area golf trips.

Why Sea Trail Is a Smart Wilmington Golf Trip Play

Three courses (Byrd, Jones, Maples)
Great for multi-round trips
Close to Sunset Beach
Solid value pricing

Sea Trail is ideal if you’re planning multiple rounds near Wilmington.

4️⃣ Rivers Edge Golf Club (Shallotte, NC)

Designed by Arnold Palmer, Rivers Edge Golf Club is one of the most scenic public courses along the North Carolina coast.

The marshland views and dramatic water carries on the back nine make it one of the most memorable rounds near Wilmington.

Why Rivers Edge Belongs on This List

Arnold Palmer design
Stunning marshland holes
Championship layout
Public access

For coastal visuals and shot-making variety, Rivers Edge delivers.

5️⃣ Oak Island Golf Club (Oak Island, NC)

If you’re staying closer to Wilmington and want something more relaxed, Oak Island Golf Club offers classic coastal Carolina golf with a friendly atmosphere.

While not as dramatic as some others on this list, Oak Island provides strong value and accessibility.

Why Oak Island Is Worth Playing

Convenient coastal location
Affordable green fees
Laid-back atmosphere
Good conditioning for the price

It’s a solid option for golfers looking for approachable coastal golf near Wilmington.

6️⃣ Beau Rivage Golf & Resort (Wilmington, NC)

Located just south of downtown Wilmington, Beau Rivage is one of the most convenient public courses in the area.

It’s a smart option if you want quality golf without driving far.

Why Beau Rivage Makes Sense

Minutes from downtown Wilmington
Resort-style layout
Good value
Easy access for visitors

If convenience matters, Beau Rivage is hard to beat.

⭐ Bonus: Tidewater Golf Club (Near the South Carolina Border)

While technically located in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Tidewater Golf Club sits right near the North Carolina border and is within reach for Wilmington-area golf trips.

Tidewater is consistently ranked among the top public courses in the Myrtle Beach region and offers dramatic marshland views and elevation changes. 100% worth the drive.

Why Tidewater Is Worth the Drive

Borderline NC/SC location
Elevated tees over marsh
Strong national rankings
Premier coastal design

If you’re willing to drive a bit farther south, Tidewater adds a high-end championship option to your Wilmington golf itinerary.

Planning a Wilmington, NC Golf Trip

If you’re planning to play the best golf around Wilmington:

Book early during spring and fall peak seasons
Consider staying near Sunset Beach for access to multiple top courses
Mix championship layouts with value rounds
Allow drive time for Ocean Ridge and Shallotte-area courses

The Wilmington area offers one of the strongest collections of public golf courses in coastal North Carolina.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for the best golf around Wilmington, NC, this lineup delivers a mix of championship design, coastal scenery, and strong public access:

Thistle
Leopard’s Chase
Sea Trail
Rivers Edge
Oak Island
Beau Rivage
Bonus: Tidewater (near the SC border)

For golfers planning a Wilmington golf trip, these courses represent the best the region has to offer.

Jacob Roche