The Dean of the Waterway, Myrtlewood’s Palmetto Course, Continues to Please

Forty-five years after its opening, the Palmetto Course at Myrtlewood remains the dean of an exclusive group. The Edmund Ault design was the first in the area to play along the Intracoastal Waterway and is one of only six Myrtle Beach golf courses that bring the man-made marvel into play.

Great as the scenery is, the Palmetto Course offers more than unforgettable views.

If you are considering a round on the venerable layout, here is what you need to know:

— This is a playable golf course, and we mean that in the best sense. The gold tees, the layout’s most frequently played, measure 6,009 yards, an ideal length for the majority of players, and there is plenty of room to hit the ball. The course isn’t a pushover, but you don’t have to be Dustin Johnson to post a respectable number. Play well, score well. That’s a nice combination if you are on a golf trip.

— Myrtlewood-Palmetto doesn’t turn at the clubhouse, so it’s one of the few area layouts that single tees throughout the day. What that means for your group is A.M. tee times don’t end at 9:30. You can play at any point throughout the day, which provides tee time flexibility that is always a bonus.

— The highlight of the round is the closing stretch, led by the 18th, which plays along the Waterway. The final hole is 377 yards from the gold tees and the fairway is runway wide, so if you hook the ball in the water, you deserve to lose it. The 17th, a downhill par 3 that requires a carry over water, is equally memorable and at 162 yards, no less challenging. Throw in No. 15, a meaty par 4 with water lurking on the right side, and the 16th, a stout dogleg right, and you better take advantage of the Palmetto Course early in the round.

— If your group wants to play the Palmetto Course – it comes recommended – Founders Group International’s Rewards Package is the way to go. The area’s most popular deal, allows you to choose among 22 courses, including Grande Dunes, TPC Myrtle Beach, King’s North and Pawleys Plantation, and it provides every member of your group a $100 gift card. Want to experience it on a great stay & play experience? Check out Ocean Reef Resort, offering nearby oceanfront accommodations to go with your golf and rewards.

— Located off 38th Avenue in the heart of Myrtle Beach, just minutes from Broadway at the Beach and other major area attractions, Myrtlewood is as conveniently located as any golf course along the Grand Strand.