The number of Myrtle Beach golf courses began to explode in the mid-1980s, ushering in a period of nearly two decades when annual course openings where norm. With the boom, some of the Grand Strand’s classic designs found themselves overshadowed by newcomers.
But smart golfers never lost contact with the area’s pre-boom layouts, particularly Arcadian Shores. Rees Jones’ first solo design, Arcadian Shores was once ranked No. 51 on Golf Digest’s list of America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses, reminding many of the Dunes Club with its large bunkers, undulating greens and wide fairways.
Arcadian Shores is a classic design that has been reinvigorated in recent years, combining Jones design expertise with a commitment to customer service and conditioning.
The layout is highlighted by the 408-yard 13th hole, a beautiful par 4 that requires a carry over water to a green that plays downhill. The approach is as scenic as it is daunting.
If the 13th hole isn’t your favorite, the par three second hole almost surely will be. Playing 201 yards from the tips (but just 148 from the white tees), the tee shot requires a carry that is almost entirely over water. It’s a dramatic hole that helps jump start your day.