Founders Club is a Keeper

Myrtle Beach’s youngest course is more than a decade old, but there are still golfers waiting to discover Founders Club at Pawleys Island.

Set amidst several of Myrtle Beach’s most prominent golf courses, Founders Club was designed with the idea of being different and architect Thomas Walker succeeded. What makes the layout stand out, and why should you give it a long look when you plan your next trip?

Dare to be Different
Pawleys Island is renowned for its Lowcountry beauty, but why try to beat Caledonia, Heritage Club and Pawleys Plantation at their own game? Walker designed a layout that stands apart from its neighbors. Elevated, rolling fairways, surrounded by waste bunkers that frame nearly every hole, are the layout’s defining trait and they create a memorable look and challenge. The course is full of risk-reward decisions that help make it memorable.

Founders Club’s Best
What hole will you absolutely remember? The par 3 third hole and the par 5 12th are among Founders Club’s best, but the vote here is for No. 18. The par 4 concludes in the shadow of the clubhouse and requires a dramatic carry over water to reach the green. The challenge is short, playing just 338 yards from the white tees, but water heightens the anxiety on a hole that surrenders birdies and double bogeys in almost equal numbers. It’s a great conclusion.

Your Favorite Beach
Those never-ending waste bunkers are much more than a hazard to be avoided. Pavement is almost non-existent, and the elevated fairways drain water into the sandy soil, which quickly absorbs even the heaviest of rains. As a result, players are almost always riding the fairways at Founders Club.

Prime Time(s) for a Golf Package
If you want to play Founders Club, the Prime Times Rewards package, which allows groups to choose between 22 courses, is calling. Among the layouts you can partner with Founders Club are fellow South Strand favorites Pawleys Plantation, Willbrook, River Club, Litchfield and TPC Myrtle Beach. Don’t forget King’s North, Grande Dunes, Pine Lakes and Long Bay Club are also among your options a little further up the road, and everyone gets a $100 gift card, good for use in the pro shop and for food and beverage. This popular package is offered by numerous providers, including Bay View on the Boardwalk Oceanfront Resort.

The Grand Strand’s Best Food is Here
The best food along the Grand Strand is in Pawleys Island. Chive Blossom, Bistro 217, Perrone’s and Frank’s are outstanding restaurants; identifying the best of the bunch is a matter of personal taste. BisQit and Rustic Table are more moderately priced, but sacrifice nothing in quality. Pawleys Island Tavern is a great venue for live music, and Island Bar is an ideal happy hour spot. Pawleys Island is unassuming on first blush, but the area has everything your group needs, on and off the course.