The 14th Hole at the Granddaddy is One Golfers Remember

The course opened in 1927 and is rich with history. Pine Lakes was designed by Robert White, a native of St. Andrews, Scotland and first president of the PGA of America, and it was the birthplace of Sports Illustrated.

A trip through the clubhouse to sample Pine Lakes’ history is a must, but a layout that remains a favorite of Myrtle Beach golfers continues to be the primary attraction.

Pine Lakes Country Club, which plays less than a mile from the Atlantic Ocean, is located in the heart of Myrtle Beach and is routed along rolling, natural dunes, allowing players to enjoy a classically designed layout and a chance to score.

A 2009 renovation project guaranteed that Pine Lakes would continue to be a Myrtle Beach favorite as its centennial approaches, but a challenge that remains almost exactly as White conceived it is our Myrtle Beach Golf Hole of the Week.

No. 14 – Pine Lakes Country Club
Par:4
Yardage: 438 yards (tee #4), 425 yards (tee #3), 404 yards (tee #2), 327 yards (tee #1)
Handicap: 2

On a layout that isn’t exceedingly long (6,305 yards from tee #3), the 14th hole represents a brawny challenge. An elevated tee box overlooks the course’s longest par 4, which demands a long drive for two reasons: 1) it gives players a chance to reach the green in regulation, and 2) it takes the pond, which sits approximately 120 yards from the green, largely out of play.

A short drive will leave players with a dicey shot off a downhill lie over the water, a recipe for a big number. On the bright side, the fairway is exceedingly wide and if you play the hole wisely (i.e., don’t try to hit a hero recovery shot if you have a poor drive), the challenge is manageable.

In short, if your tee shot isn’t what you want, don’t be afraid to play No. 14 as a par 5 and try to take advantage of another hole.