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
See how the courses, hotels, and areas sit relative to each other in Myrtle Beach & North Strand.
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
Tidewater Golf Club – North Myrtle Beach, SC Reviews
-
“We played 3 different rounds last week while on vacation and Tidewater was hands down the best round we had. Not only are the views on the course next level but the course itself was in great shape. Staff was friendly and very helpful. This course will definitely be in our rotation for years to come."
-Jay
-
"Played 3 courses while in Myrtle Beach. Ranking 1. Tide Water 2. Man of War and 3. The Pearl Golf Links (don’t go here). Tide Water was challenging and we got to play it before all the trees grow in… Greens are challenging and miss hits are punished. Bring your A+ game with the putter, watch out for the trees and plenty of sand to avoid! Staff was friendly and the food hut at the turn was great."
-Shawn
-
"Golf course is one of the prettiest courses I have played with fantastic views. The course was in fantastic shape after torrential rain the last few days. Tee boxes, fairways, and greens were all in great condition. Top notch"
-Randy
Rivers Edge Golf Club – Shallotte, NC Reviews
-
“Course is challenging and varied in hole design. Tee boxes were in bad shape due to drought. Greens OK. Excellent and attentive staff. Cart only restriction made for very slow play on a 90 degree day (was due to heavy rain previous day).”
-Alan
-
"Nothing average about this place. Course was in excellent shape, though rather difficult for just an occasional golfer. #9 was nearly impossible, but entertaining to watch everyone in our group try to navigate the hazards. A bit pricey, but worth every penny if you're looking to be challenged. I would definitely recommend and will certainly return."
-Kevin
-
"Played the course for the first time ever this past weekend. Beautiful scenery and good layout. Course was in excellent shape. Staff was friendly and welcoming. Only addition needed is on-course restrooms. Can’t wait to come back."
-Barry
Thistle Golf Club – Sunset Beach, NC Reviews
-
"One of my favorite golfing experiences. Played all 27 holes. Everything from tee boxes to green were immaculate. I loved the revetted bunkers you'll find on Stewart. Lots of water and wildlife await you around the course. Even the carts were a step above. I can't wait to bring my mates back here one day. I hadn't played a links style course before this day, and hitting that first tee shot on Cameron I knew it was going to be a treat. Don't miss out on this one and treat yourself.”
-Chris
-
"Course is in a phenomenal shape tee to green. Greens are true and roll great. Everybody from cart staff to pro shop and restaurant were super nice. Best public course in the area."
-Brandon
-
"First time here. Excellent course in great condition for this early in the growing season. Greens will provide a good lesson on putting in fast conditions. Putts roll pure.Very accommodating staff. Will be playing again very soon.”
-Randy
