Best Golf Course Communities Along the Grand Strand

Dated: September 3 2026

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For many buyers, living near a golf course is about more than having an easier path to the first tee. Golf communities along the Grand Strand can offer scenic surroundings, active social calendars, resort-style amenities, and convenient access to the beaches, restaurants, and attractions that make coastal South Carolina appealing.

The Myrtle Beach area is home to more than 80 golf courses, giving buyers a wide selection of communities across Horry and Georgetown counties. From large master-planned developments to quieter neighborhoods built around a single course, Grand Strand real estate offers options for full-time residents, retirees, second-home owners, and investors.

There is no single community that is best for every buyer. The right choice depends on your preferred location, housing style, membership expectations, budget, and daily lifestyle.

Grande Dunes in Myrtle Beach

Grande Dunes is one of the most recognizable golf-oriented communities in the Myrtle Beach area. This master-planned development combines residential neighborhoods with resort amenities, golf, a marina, and access to the coast.

The community promotes private beach access, championship golf, an on-site marina, pools, fitness opportunities, and social activities. Its residential options may appeal to buyers looking for an upscale primary residence, second home, or coastal retreat with amenities nearby.

The Resort Club at Grande Dunes features a Roger Rulewich-designed course that has undergone renovations to its greens and bunkers. Grande Dunes also has a separate Members Club course designed through a collaboration between Nick Price and Craig Schreiner.

Buyers considering Grande Dunes should compare the individual neighborhoods carefully. Property types, association fees, club access, and included amenities can differ throughout the larger development.

Barefoot Resort in North Myrtle Beach

Barefoot Resort is a strong option for buyers who want golf, water access, and North Myrtle Beach conveniences in one large community.

The resort is home to four championship courses designed by Greg Norman, Davis Love III, Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye. Residential options in and around the resort include condominiums, villas, townhomes, and single-family homes, offering possibilities for several budgets and ownership goals.

Beyond golf, the Barefoot area provides access to a deep-water marina, dining, spa services, shopping, and entertainment. Barefoot Landing is also nearby, making this area attractive to buyers who enjoy having restaurants, shops, and live entertainment close to home.

Before purchasing, buyers should review whether the property permits short-term rentals, what amenities are included, and whether golf privileges or memberships transfer with the sale. Rules can vary between neighborhoods and associations.

Tidewater Plantation Near Cherry Grove

Tidewater appeals to buyers who value natural scenery and proximity to both golf and the water.

Tidewater Golf Club is located between the Intracoastal Waterway and Cherry Grove Inlet. Its coastal setting and nationally recognized public course make it one of the area’s distinctive golf destinations.

The surrounding residential community includes a range of homes and amenities, while its North Myrtle Beach location provides access to Cherry Grove, Little River, restaurants, marinas, and the beach.

This area may appeal to buyers seeking a more established neighborhood with mature landscaping and a strong connection to the natural coastal environment. As with any gated or amenity-based community, prospective owners should evaluate HOA fees, maintenance responsibilities, and membership arrangements.

Myrtle Beach National and Carolina Forest Area

The Carolina Forest area offers access to numerous residential communities, everyday shopping, restaurants, healthcare services, and several major roads connecting residents to Myrtle Beach and Conway.

Nearby Myrtle Beach National is a 54-hole golf property featuring three Arnold Palmer-designed courses: King’s North, West Course, and SouthCreek. While not every home in Carolina Forest is located directly within a golf community, buyers can find several neighborhoods near courses throughout this part of Horry County.

This location can be especially attractive to buyers who want a residential setting with convenient access to golf without necessarily paying for a private club lifestyle. Housing options range from condominiums and townhomes to established houses and new construction.

Murrells Inlet Golf Communities

Murrells Inlet combines golf access with boating, seafood restaurants, marsh views, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

TPC Myrtle Beach is an 18-hole Tom Fazio-designed course located in Murrells Inlet. The surrounding area also includes courses and communities such as Blackmoor, International Club, and Wachesaw East, giving buyers several settings to explore.

Living in Murrells Inlet places residents near the MarshWalk, Huntington Beach State Park, Brookgreen Gardens, medical services, and dining along the southern Grand Strand. Buyers who want golf to be part of their lifestyle, but not their only interest, may find this area especially appealing.

Property styles and community structures vary, so it is important to compare HOA rules, course access, rental restrictions, and proximity to local attractions.

Pawleys Island and the Southern Grand Strand

Pawleys Island offers a quieter Lowcountry atmosphere with access to several respected golf courses. The greater area includes Pawleys Plantation, Heritage Club, River Club, Founders Club, Tradition Club, and other nearby courses listed throughout the Grand Strand golf market.

Golf communities in this part of Georgetown County may appeal to buyers looking for mature landscaping, historic coastal character, and a slower pace than the central Myrtle Beach area.

Residents can also enjoy local restaurants, beaches, boating, and nearby cultural destinations. The area’s housing includes condominiums, patio homes, traditional residences, and luxury properties.

What Should Buyers Compare?

A beautiful course view is important, but it should not be the only factor in your decision. Before purchasing a golf course home, consider:

  • Whether club membership is required or optional
  • Membership costs and transfer rules
  • HOA fees and included services
  • Public versus private course access
  • Rental restrictions
  • Golf cart rules
  • Privacy and exposure to course activity
  • Irrigation, landscaping, and maintenance
  • Distance to beaches, healthcare, shopping, and restaurants

Homes directly along fairways may offer attractive views, but buyers should also consider golf-ball exposure, course maintenance schedules, and the amount of privacy provided by the lot.

Find the Right Grand Strand Golf Community

The best golf community is the one that fits your entire lifestyle, not simply your favorite course. Some buyers want a private club and an active social calendar. Others prefer a quiet home near several public courses without mandatory membership expenses.

CENTURY21 Broadhurst offers over 50 years of Myrtle Beach real estate expertise, backed by a legacy of trust. Our agents help buyers compare golf communities, association structures, housing options, and locations throughout Horry County, Georgetown County, and the Grand Strand.

To begin exploring golf course homes and communities, call 843-448-7189 or email connect@century21broadhurst.com to schedule a consultation with CENTURY21 Broadhurst. Our local knowledge can help you find a property that supports both your real estate goals and the coastal lifestyle you want.

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