Golf Course Review: The Sun Rises at Carolina Shores

When Carolina Shores opened its fairways in 1974, the course was outlier in Brunswick County, the northern-most layout on the Myrtle Beach golf scene.

Noted architect Tom Jackson was commissioned to design the groundbreaking layout and was asked to build the toughest course along the Grand Strand, figuring golfers would travel up the road to face the challenge.

They were right. With 103 bunkers flanking greens and fairways, Carolina Shores was a favorite among low-handicappers in the years following its opening. But the course needed to be softened for mid to high handicappers, and it was changed in ways that allowed it to maintain its challenge for better players.

The bunker removal project created more width and depth for safe landing off the tee, a vital luxury on a property with 9,000 pine trees that line every fairway.

For golfers that haven’t played Carolina Shores recently, the changes are immediately noticeable.

The second hole, a par 4, used to have a large (deep) bunker at the corner of the dogleg, which made any play up the right side a risky gambit. Now, with the bunker removed, the area has turned into a plateau, making it easier for players to get to the corner and far less penal if you get to close.

The primary attraction at Carolina Shores remains the rock-solid layout. It’s a classic design, featuring smallish greens, compared to many contemporary designs, that are accessible via the air or ground.

Jackson wasted little time introducing players to the virtues of his work. The course is strong throughout, but there is a compelling argument that its three best holes are on the front nine. The third, sixth and ninth holes – a par 3, 4 and 5 – are arguably the class of Carolina Shores.

[Check Out the Three Best Holes at Carolina Shores]

With tees at 6,055, 6,439 and 6,755 yards, in addition to senior tees at 5,554 and women’s tees at 5,010 yards, Carolina Shores is playable for every level of golfer.

The Verdict: Carolina Shores rightfully prides itself on delivering value to players. The design is outstanding and the conditions, including everything from soil composition to maintenance practices, is getting better with each passing day. If a good round of golf at a great price sounds appealing, Carolina Shores would be a nice addition to your next Myrtle Beach golf trip.