North Strand: Big Views and Bold Coastal Golf.
Myrtle Beach ranks among America's premier golf destinations for its unmatched density of quality public courses, and the North Strand, from central Myrtle through North Myrtle Beach into Brunswick County, emphasizes expansive marsh and inlet views over the more intimate lowcountry oak framing of the South Strand. Expect bluff-top tees, tidal river drama, and layouts built for big groups chasing scenery and playability rather than Pawleys' tighter, history-soaked precision. This stretch suits high-energy trips blending beach bars with coastal visuals, while the South leans quieter and food-focused. Routing favors bold carries and wind play amid spartina grass and open bays.
Featured Golf Courses
Tidewater Golf Club – North Myrtle Beach, SC
Architect: Ken Tomlinson (1990)
Tidewater occupies a spectacular bluff and marsh setting along Cherry Grove Inlet and the Intracoastal Waterway, routing holes out toward the saltwater vistas before tucking back into pine and live oak corridors. The design demands disciplined tee balls into canted landing areas and precise approaches to greens framed by marsh and bunkering, yet feels like a golfer's course first with doglegs and complexes that reward sequencing over raw power. Several par 3s and 4s play directly along the water, mixing carry shots with bailout options so both shotmakers and cautious players can find their path.
Rivers Edge Golf Club – Shallotte, NC
Architect: Arnold Palmer (1999)
Rivers Edge hugs bold bends of the Shallotte River, with marshland holes that expose players mentally and visually. Palmer alternates inland corridors and tidal edges, pressing greens against the marsh to emphasize distance control and wind. The back nine, in particular, has a reputation for tightening the screws, with risk reward par 4s and 5s where a great drive can set up birdie and a small miss can turn into a big number. Conditions are typically solid for the price point, giving it an “affordable but still great” reputation among Myrtle veterans who want views and intrigue without top tier fees.
Thistle Golf Club – Sunset Beach, NC
Architect: Tim Cate (1999)
Thistle offers 27 holes on gently rolling ground where fairways are generous but rarely flat. The three nines can be paired in different combinations, yet the identity stays consistent: clean sightlines, strong conditioning, and just enough carry over native areas to keep better players engaged. A blend of heather and fescue touches with Carolina pines create a refined, almost clubby feel rather than a pure resort atmosphere. Its authentic Scottish-style clubhouse and polished service add to the sense that you are slipping into a more private environment while still paying public-access rates.
Plan Your Next Trip the Right Way
Insider Notes:
Tidewater is worth building your day around; try to play it in the morning for calmer winds, then linger on the clubhouse deck to watch groups tackle the marsh holes below.
Rivers Edge is famous among regulars for a back nine that can wreck a card; consider moving up a tee if it is your first time and treat it as a match-play venue where one wild hole will not ruin the day.
Thistle’s 27-hole setup is ideal for groups who like replays; many visitors play a standard 18, grab a bite, then loop a different nine in the late afternoon for a fresh look without leaving the property.
Courses on the North Strand are spread out along Highway 17 and into Brunswick County, so renting a car is usually more practical than relying on rideshares, especially if your group is bouncing between North Myrtle, Sunset Beach, and inland tracks.
If nightlife is a priority, stay in North Myrtle Beach or near Barefoot Landing for easy access to bars and restaurants; if you prefer quieter evenings, Sunset Beach or Little River rentals put you closer to Thistle and Rivers Edge with less bustle.
Airport Access:
Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
Tidewater Golf Club: ~35–40 minutes
Rivers Edge Golf Club: ~55–60 minutes
Thistle Golf Club: ~50–55 minutes
Wilmington International Airport (ILM)
Tidewater Golf Club: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Rivers Edge Golf Club: ~1 hour
Thistle Golf Club: ~1 hour 5 minutes
Driving Times:
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade: ~30 minutes
Wilmington, NC: ~1 hours 30 minutes
Charleston, SC: ~2 hours 30 minutes
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