Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus in 1988, stands out as one of the Myrtle Beach area’s most picturesque and challenging golf destinations. Set within the grounds of a historic rice plantation, the course has earned numerous distinctions over the years, such as being named among the Top 22 in South Carolina (Golf World), a Top 10 Course on the Grand Strand (South Carolina Magazine), one of America’s Top Courses (Zagat), receiving 4 Stars in Best Places to Play (Fodor’s), and ranking among the Top 25 Layouts (Golf Digest).
A 2023 renovation led by the Nicklaus design team further enhanced its playability and preserved its natural character. The updates showcase the area’s natural beauty while refining Jack’s original design for a modern golfing experience.
Two holes exemplify Pawleys Plantation’s allure. The iconic 13th hole, a short yet formidable par 3, stretches from 40 to 150 yards depending on the tee. Positioned on a marshland dike, this hole requires a focused shot to a peninsula green that slopes subtly from back to front, with shifting coastal winds adding a layer of challenge.
The par-4 18th hole offers an unforgettable finish, with the elegant clubhouse as a stunning backdrop. Precision is essential here, as players navigate a drive clear of the marsh and sand to the left, and dense woods on the right. The green’s narrow layout, flanked by water and sand, demands an accurate mid-iron approach for a satisfying par to end the round.
