Palmer’s Finest Work in the Carolinas? Rivers Edge Makes its Case

The combination of hiring a golf legend to design a course and a stunning piece of property often means great things, and that was certainly the case at Rivers Edge.

Arnold Palmer, the King, designed Rivers Edge and he didn’t disappoint, making maximum use of a piece of land that runs along the Shallotte River.

Here is what you need to know about a layout that has been ranked among America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses by Golf Digest.

— Let’s get this out of the way first: Rivers Edge is on the northern edge of the Grand Strand, so it will require a drive, but the layout makes every mile worthwhile. Your group will spend the ride home recounting a round on one of the area’s most memorable layouts. Rivers Edge is worth the trip, so much so I’d recommend replaying (as you will see below, the decision to do so is a no-brainer).

— Seven holes at Rivers Edge, including the final four, play along the Shallotte River, setting up one of the Myrtle Beach golf scene’s most dramatic finishes. Picking a favorite is difficult but No. 18, a dogleg right that plays around the river, tops many lists. Players can decided how much of the dogleg they want to challenge, which helps determine the length of their approach on the 350-yard hole (white tees).

— There is no doubt as to which hole is the most controversial as the 509-yard, par-five ninth wins in a romp. Players must confront the marshy waters of the Shallotte River every step of the way and a green that is 48 yards deep enjoys just a fraction of that distance in width, making the it inaccessible in two no matter how far you hit the ball. Even on a short approach, there isn’t much margin for error. Many golfers love the hole, others not so much, but either way, you will absolutely be talking about it.

— The holes along the river, understandably, attract all the attention, but the interior holes are equally good. Best of all, River Edge provides a fair test for everyone. For mid to high handicappers, the white tees play 6,033 yards and the rating and slope are just 68.4/124. Step back to the black tees (6,440) and those numbers jump to 70.9/134. Anyone who plays the 6,909-yard gold tees better be a stud.

— If you want to play Rivers Edge, one of the best ways to do so is Golf Zoo’s 36+36+36 special. The four-night package includes accommodations in a Barefoot Resort golf villa and golf at Farmstead, Rivers Edge and Meadowlands, including FREE replays. Best of all, it’s just $368 per person. What are you waiting for?