The Best Golf Courses to Play Around Myrtle Beach
The Perfect Weekend Golf Trip to Pawleys Island, SC
Why Choose Pawleys Island for a Weekend Golf Trip?
While Myrtle Beach is famous for its golf scene, Pawleys Island, just 30 minutes south, offers a more relaxed and scenic coastal escape. Known for its Lowcountry charm, moss-draped live oaks, and historic roots, Pawleys Island is perfect for golfers who want world-class courses without the bustle of downtown Myrtle Beach.
A weekend here gives you access to three of the best golf courses in the Southeast, all within minutes of each other:
Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club
True Blue Golf Club
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Day 1: Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club
Designer: Jack Nicklaus
Signature Features: Tidal marsh views, strategic par‑3s, and challenging greens
Kick off your weekend at Pawleys Plantation, a stunning Jack Nicklaus signature design. This course is a true Lowcountry experience, weaving through marshland, saltwater lagoons, and towering pines. The back nine is especially memorable, with several holes playing along expansive tidal marshes.
Pro Tip:
Book an afternoon tee time so you can enjoy a sunset finish across the marsh—one of the most picturesque scenes in South Carolina golf.
Day 2: True Blue Golf Club
Designer: Mike Strantz
Signature Features: Massive fairways, bold bunkering, and wide-open shot options
Day two takes you to True Blue Golf Club, located just minutes from Pawleys Plantation. This Mike Strantz masterpiece is known for its daring design, dramatic elevation changes, and player-friendly wide fairways. The large, undulating greens add an extra layer of challenge, rewarding strategic approach shots.
Pro Tip:
True Blue’s size and variety make it a great all-day golf course. Plan for a morning round and relax at the clubhouse or head to nearby dining spots in Pawleys Island.
Day 3: Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Designer: Mike Strantz
Signature Features: Historic plantation setting, oak-lined fairways, and a legendary finishing hole
Cap off your weekend at the iconic Caledonia Golf & Fish Club. Built on a former rice plantation, Caledonia is one of the most acclaimed public golf courses in the U.S. Every hole is framed by centuries-old oaks, blooming azaleas, and the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.
The par‑4 18th hole, which plays over water toward a veranda-filled clubhouse, is among the most dramatic finishing holes you’ll ever play.
Pro Tip:
Arrive early for photos—the entrance road lined with massive live oaks is a must-see.
Where to Stay in Pawleys Island
Pawleys Island is home to boutique inns, rental homes, and golf-friendly condos. Staying close to the courses makes the weekend even easier.
True Blue & Caledonia Cottages: Golfers can stay right onsite with packages that include tee times.
Litchfield : My understanding is they own alot of rentals around Pawley’s Island , as well as hotels and inns. They put us walking distance to Pawley’s Plantation driving range!
Local Vacation Rentals: Perfect for groups who want shared space and kitchens.
Where to Eat & Unwind
After your rounds, treat yourself to Lowcountry cuisine:
Frank’s & Frank’s Outback: Known for upscale dining with a Southern twist.
Perrone’s Restaurant: Great for wine lovers and eclectic dishes.
Quigley’s Pint & Plate: A casual local favorite with craft beer and hearty pub fare.
Why This Itinerary Works
All three courses are minutes apart, reducing drive time
Each course offers a different style of play: Jack Nicklaus’ precision at Pawleys Plantation, the wide-open Strantz designs at True Blue, and the natural beauty of Caledonia
Pawleys Island’s charming accommodations and restaurants complete the perfect weekend
With world-class courses, historic beauty, and Southern hospitality, a Pawleys Island weekend golf trip will keep you coming back year after year.
