Why Myrtle Beach Is the Golf Capital of the World
Why Myrtle Beach Is the Golf Capital of the World
Every golf destination claims to be the best.
Scottsdale has sunshine. Pinehurst has history. Bandon Dunes has breathtaking scenery.
But when it comes to the combination of golf volume, variety, value, accessibility, and overall vacation experience, there's a reason Myrtle Beach has earned the nickname: The Golf Capital of the World®.
The headline number gets plenty of attention: more than 3 million rounds of golf are played annually across the Grand Strand.
But the real story is what drives that number.
Start with sheer variety.
The Myrtle Beach area is home to more than 75 golf courses spread across 60 miles of coastline. Few destinations can offer golfers such a diverse collection of experiences. On one trip, you can play a classic Lowcountry layout framed by live oaks, a modern resort course with expansive fairways, a links-inspired design, and a championship-caliber test that has hosted professional events.
Just as importantly, Myrtle Beach offers golf at every price point.
Whether you're looking for a luxury experience, a bucket-list round, or an affordable golf getaway with friends, you'll find options that fit your budget. That flexibility helps attract everyone from first-time visitors and family vacationers to serious golfers and annual buddy trip groups.
Then there's accessibility.
Unlike many destination golf markets, Myrtle Beach is within driving distance of a massive portion of the U.S. population. Golfers from the Carolinas, Georgia, Virginia, Tennessee, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and beyond can easily reach the area by car.
Air travel continues to strengthen the market as well.
Myrtle Beach International Airport has experienced significant growth in nonstop service over the past decade, making it easier than ever for golfers to fly directly from major cities across the United States and Canada. Fewer connections and shorter travel days mean more time on the golf course.
Of course, golf alone doesn't create 3 million rounds.
The complete vacation experience matters.
After the round, golfers can enjoy waterfront dining along the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, nightlife at Broadway at the Beach, shopping at Barefoot Landing, oceanfront entertainment, live music, fresh seafood, and 60 miles of beautiful beaches.
And perhaps Myrtle Beach's biggest advantage is something many golfers don't think about until they're here: convenience.
Courses are clustered throughout the Grand Strand, allowing visitors to play multiple highly-rated layouts without spending hours in the car. Combined with thousands of lodging options, golf package opportunities, and year-round playing conditions, the result is a destination built specifically for golfers.
That's why Myrtle Beach isn't just a place to play golf.
It's a place designed around golf.
And that's what makes it the Golf Capital of the World.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is Myrtle Beach called the Golf Capital of the World?
Myrtle Beach earned the nickname because of its unmatched combination of golf course volume, annual rounds played, affordability, accessibility, and year-round golf opportunities.
- How many golf courses are in Myrtle Beach?
The Grand Strand is home to more than 75 golf courses spread across approximately 60 miles of coastline.
- How many rounds of golf are played in Myrtle Beach each year?
More than 3 million rounds are played annually, making Myrtle Beach one of the busiest golf destinations in the world.
- Why do golfers choose Myrtle Beach over other golf destinations?
Golfers are attracted by the variety of courses, affordable pricing, convenient travel options, golf packages, and extensive entertainment offerings.
- Is Myrtle Beach easy to reach for golf travelers?
Yes. Myrtle Beach is accessible by both major highways and a growing number of nonstop flights through Myrtle Beach International Airport.
- Does Myrtle Beach offer golf for all skill levels?
Absolutely. The area features courses ranging from beginner-friendly layouts to championship-caliber tests.
- What can golfers do after their round in Myrtle Beach?
Popular activities include dining, nightlife, shopping, beach activities, live entertainment, fishing, and visiting attractions like Barefoot Landing and Broadway at the Beach.
- Can golfers play year-round in Myrtle Beach?
Yes. Myrtle Beach's mild climate makes it one of the few destinations in the eastern United States where golfers can enjoy play throughout the year.
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