Indian Wells Golf Club: You Can Judge This Book by Its Cover

The Myrtle Beach area is home to 90 courses, but surprisingly few of them are visible from the area’s major thoroughfares. Indian Wells Golf Club is the exception.

Multiple holes on the Gene Hamm design are in full view from Highway 17 as vehicles drive through Garden City, showcasing the quality conditions the course is known for and the beauty players find so appealing. That view helps lure players to a course that is even more attractive on the tee than it is from a passing car.

As you make plans for your next trip, here is what you need to know about Indian Wells:

● Success is largely predicated on finding the short grass off the tee. The course isn’t long at 6,624 yards from the tips and 6,225 yards from the white tees, but the fairways are tight. If you are in the trees, it’s going to be a long day. Whether it’s the driver, a three-wood and even a hybrid, hitting the fairway is more important than gaining an extra 15 yards.

● There is water on 15 of 18 holes but any forced carries aren’t arduous. The water adds beauty but doesn’t make the course unnecessarily difficult, so don’t let the wet stuff get in your head.

● One of the toughest holes at Indian Wells does involve water: the par-3 17th. With a lake running from tee to green and the prevailing wind often in your face, the 186-yard tee shot is the course’s most daunting challenge.

● Three of the four par 5s play 471 yards or less, so if you want to score well, take advantage of the opportunities they present. The scorecard tells you the par 5s are among the layout’s toughest holes, but if you’re playing from the white tees, you likely won’t see it that way. The back nine par 5s – 13 and 15 – play 465 and 458 yards, distances that should provide scoring opportunities.

● There are a variety of ways to play Indian Wells but, like all Founders Group courses, the Rewards Package offered by numerous package providers like Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort is difficult to beat. The deal lets golfers choose among 22 layouts and provides everyone a $100 gift card good for use in the pro shop, on the beverage cart, or in the clubhouse restaurant. Good luck trying to find a better offer.

It’s time to stop driving by Indian Wells and start driving into the parking lot. A good day for your group awaits.