With more than seven decades of rich history and tradition, the Dunes Golf & Beach Club is one of the best golf courses in Myrtle Beach and has earned recognition in “Top 100 Golf Course” rankings from leading golf publications. Designed by legendary architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., this historic course is known for its challenging layout, rich tournament history, and iconic “Waterloo” signature hole.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or deciding whether the course deserves a spot on your itinerary, here is everything you need to know before booking a round at the Dunes Golf & Beach Club.
The history behind Dunes Golf & Beach Club
The Dunes Club golf course opened in 1948 and is widely regarded as one of Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s finest designs. Over the years, the club has built a strong reputation for championship golf and excellent course conditions. It carries a course rating of 75.7 and a slope rating of 144. The club has also hosted several major events, including PGA Tour and USGA tournaments, which have contributed to its national recognition.
Between 1976 and 1977, Jones returned to refine the layout, updating holes 3, 4, 11, 15, and 18. These changes improved playability while preserving the course’s original strategic design and classic character.
What to expect from the Dunes Golf & Beach Club course layout
The Dunes Golf and Beach Club layout is a beautifully crafted test of golf that rewards strategy and precision. Each hole carries its own descriptive name, giving golfers an idea of the challenge that awaits before they even step onto the tee box. The course winds through tree-lined fairways, coastal wetlands, and water hazards that demand careful shot selection throughout the round.
Some of the standout features of the course layout include:
- 18 championship holes designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.
- Multiple water hazards that come into play on a variety of holes
- Strategically placed bunkers that penalize wayward shots
- Tree-lined fairways that demand accuracy off the tee
What is the famous hole at Dunes Golf & Beach Club?
Hole 13, known as “Waterloo,” is the signature hole at Dunes Golf & Beach Club and one of the most celebrated holes in golf. This remarkable par 5 is defined by the presence of Lake Singleton, which creates a high-stakes risk-reward challenge that can dramatically influence a player’s score. Revered by golfers and course architects alike, Waterloo has become the defining symbol of the Dunes experience.
Dunes Golf and Beach Club green fees and tee times
Dunes Golf & Beach Club operates as a semi-private facility with over 800 members. Members allow limited tee-time access to select guests, making it an exclusive yet attainable experience for visiting golfers. Because availability is restricted, booking tee times well in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak season.
Here are a few things to keep in mind regarding fees and bookings:
- Dunes Golf & Beach Club green fees vary by season and tee-time availability
- Advance booking is essential due to limited guest access
- The club enforces a four-hour pace of play for 18 holes
- Golfers are required to wear non-metal spikes.
Coastal Golfaway includes assistance with tee-time reservations as part of its Myrtle Beach golf packages.
Tips for playing Dunes Golf and Beach Club
To get the most out of your round, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some practical tips:
- Arrive early to warm up and familiarize yourself with the club’s pace-of-play expectations
- Study the hole names ahead of time, as they offer clues about the challenges each hole presents
- Bring your A-game to hole 13. Waterloo is not a hole to play conservatively
- Play during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) for ideal conditions
Dress code and club etiquette
The Dunes Club upholds high standards both on and off the course. All guests are expected to follow the dress code to help maintain the club’s tradition of excellence.
For men:
- Collared or mock-neck shirts are required
- Denim of any style or color is not permitted
- Shorts must be Bermuda length or extend to just above the knee
- Hats must be worn facing forward, and shirts must remain tucked in while on the course
For women:
- Golf attire should reflect commonly accepted golf styles
- Shorts and skirts must be no shorter than 4 inches above the knee
- Sleeveless shirts are permitted, but halter tops and swimwear are not allowed
What do golfers say about Dunes Golf & Beach Club?
Dunes Golf & Beach Club reviews are consistently positive, with the course holding a 4.7-star rating on Google Reviews. Golfers frequently praise its excellent conditioning, challenging layout, and historic character, and many consider it one of the most memorable golf experiences on the Grand Strand.
Planning your Myrtle Beach golf trip with Coastal Golfaway
A Myrtle Beach golf trip is incomplete without at least one round at Dunes Golf & Beach Club. As one of the region’s crown jewels, it belongs on every serious golfer’s must-play list. Coastal Golfaway specializes in creating customized Myrtle Beach golf packages that include Dunes Golf & Beach Club alongside other top-rated Myrtle Beach golf courses.
From tee-time coordination to accommodations, Coastal Golfaway handles all the details so you can focus on your game. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, a custom golf package is one of the smartest ways to experience everything the Grand Strand has to offer.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dunes Golf & Beach Club worth playing?
Absolutely. With its world-class design, rich history, and iconic Hole 13, Dunes Golf and Beach Club in Myrtle Beach is a bucket-list round for any serious golfer visiting the area.
When is the best time to play Dunes Golf & Beach Club?
For the most enjoyable experience, consider playing Dunes Golf & Beach Club during the spring or fall. Pleasant weather and exceptional turf conditions make these seasons particularly popular among visiting golfers.
How difficult is Dunes Golf & Beach Club?
With a course rating of 75.7 and a slope rating of 144, Dunes Golf & Beach Club is a challenging layout that demands accuracy and sound course management. It is enjoyable for mid- to low-handicappers and a rewarding test for scratch golfers.
How long does a round take at Dunes Golf & Beach Club?
The club enforces a four-hour pace of play for 18 holes. Golfers are encouraged to keep pace with the group ahead to help ensure a smooth round for everyone on the course.
Are metal spikes allowed at Dunes Golf & Beach Club?
No. Dunes Golf & Beach Club is a non-metal-spike facility. Approved spikes are available for purchase in the Golf Shop if you need to replace your footwear before the round.
Can Coastal Golfaway help me book a round at the Dunes Golf & Beach Club?
Yes. Coastal Golfaway specializes in Myrtle Beach golf packages and can coordinate tee times at Dunes Golf & Beach Club, as well as rounds at other top courses.