When golfers talk about the most memorable golf experiences along the Grand Strand, Tidewater Golf Club consistently earns a place among the nation’s top 100 public golf courses. Known for its breathtaking marsh views, championship-caliber design, and challenging yet enjoyable layout, the course has built a reputation as one of the premier destinations for golf enthusiasts visiting the South Carolina coast.
Whether you’re booking a golf package for a group or looking for a bucket-list solo round, this guide covers everything you need to know before you tee off.
The history behind Tidewater Golf Club
Opened in 1990, Tidewater Golf Club quickly gained national attention for its stunning setting and thoughtful design by architect Ken Tomlinson. The course sits between the Intracoastal Waterway and Cherry Grove Inlet, creating a dramatic backdrop rarely found elsewhere in the region.
Over the years, Tidewater has earned numerous awards and accolades from golf publications and travel organizations. Its combination of challenging holes and spectacular scenery has helped establish it as one of South Carolina’s most respected golf destinations.
Some highlights of Tidewater Golf Club include:
- Consistently ranked among South Carolina’s top public golf courses
- Stunning waterfront holes overlooking marshes and waterways
- Excellent playing conditions throughout much of the year
- A reputation for outstanding customer service and hospitality
What makes Tidewater Golf Club unique?
Many coastal golf courses offer scenic views, but few combine natural beauty and strategic challenge as effectively as Tidewater. Several factors help set the course apart:
Incredible natural surroundings
The course winds through coastal marshes, mature pine forests, and waterfront landscapes. Golfers enjoy panoramic views throughout the round, creating an experience that feels deeply connected to the area’s natural environment.
Strategic design
The layout rewards smart course management rather than simply hitting the ball as far as possible. Well-positioned bunkers, water hazards, and elevation changes encourage thoughtful decision-making on nearly every hole.
Variety from start to finish
No two holes feel alike. Players encounter doglegs, risk-reward opportunities, elevated tee shots, and demanding approach shots that keep the round engaging from beginning to end.
Tidewater Golf Club Course Layout: What Golfers Should Expect
One of the reasons golfers enjoy returning to Tidewater is its memorable design. The Tidewater Golf Club course layout features 18 championship holes that showcase the area’s diverse terrain.
Key characteristics include:
- Par 72 championship design
- Multiple tee boxes to accommodate different skill levels
- Marsh-front and waterway-facing holes
- Strategic bunkering throughout the course
- Large, well-maintained greens
The course also offers brand-new FPV drone flyover videos of every hole, giving you a player’s eye view before you arrive. It’s a great way to map out your strategy and visualize each approach shot.
Signature holes you should not miss
Several holes have become favorites among golfers who visit Tidewater Golf Club.
No. 4
Often considered one of the most beautiful par 4s on the Grand Strand, No. 4 is a sweeping dogleg left that rewards an accurate tee shot and a precise approach. The views of Cherry Grove Inlet make it a memorable start to the round.
No. 12
Known as the “Wishing Well,” this iconic par 3 plays across a saltwater marsh to a peninsula green. Wind conditions often make club selection one of the biggest challenges on the course.
No. 13
This stunning par 5 runs alongside the marsh and offers spectacular coastal scenery. From the green, golfers can enjoy distant views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of Tidewater’s signature holes.
Playing experience for different skill levels
One reason Tidewater appeals to such a broad audience is its flexibility.
For beginners
- Multiple tee options help create a manageable experience
- Wide landing areas on several holes offer forgiveness
- Spectacular scenery enhances enjoyment regardless of score
For intermediate golfers
- Strategic shot placement becomes increasingly important
- Risk-reward opportunities create exciting decisions
- Course management can significantly influence scoring
For advanced players
- Demanding approach shots test precision
- Fast greens reward excellent putting
- Wind conditions can dramatically impact strategy
This versatility contributes to its reputation as one of the best golf courses in North Myrtle Beach.
Tidewater Golf Club green fees and tee times
Tidewater Golf Club green fees vary by season, time of day, and whether you are booking as part of a package or a single round. Peak-season rates are typically higher, while off-peak tee times can offer excellent value without compromising the experience.
Tips for getting the best value on Tidewater Golf Club tee times:
- Book early-morning or twilight rounds to secure lower rates
- Consider stay-and-play golf packages through Coastal Golfaway for savings
- Shoulder season (spring and fall) offers ideal weather and competitive pricing
- Group bookings may unlock additional discounts for larger parties
Planning a golf trip to Tidewater Golf Club
Planning a golf trip around Tidewater is straightforward when you use a reliable booking service. Coastal Golfaway specializes in custom golf itineraries featuring top Myrtle Beach golf courses, pairing your round at Tidewater with accommodations, dining options, and additional courses across the Grand Strand.
When planning your trip, keep the following in mind:
- Allow at least 4.5 hours for your round, given the course’s scenic design and typical pace of play
- Arrive early to warm up and take in the views from the practice area
- Bring a camera, as several holes overlook the Intracoastal Waterway and saltwater marshes
How to book through Coastal Golfaway
Coastal Golfaway makes it easy to include Tidewater Golf Club in a fully customized Myrtle Beach golf trip. Choose from a wide range of stay-and-play golf packages that bundle your tee times with accommodations and access to other courses in the area.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Grand Strand regular, combining Tidewater with two or three other top-rated North Myrtle Beach courses creates an itinerary that maximizes value and variety throughout your stay.
Tidewater Golf Club Reviews, Ranking & Accolades
Tidewater Golf Club has built an outstanding reputation among both golfers and industry experts. The course holds a 4.5-star rating on Google, while 96% of reviewers on Facebook recommend it, reflecting consistently positive experiences from visitors.
Its recent accolades include:
- Ranked No. 9 Public Golf Course in South Carolina by Golfweek
- Ranked No. 25 in South Carolina’s Greatest Modern Golf Courses Designed After 1980 by the South Carolina Golf Course Ratings Panel
- Ranked No. 7 Public Golf Course in South Carolina by Golfweek
- Ranked No. 39 in America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses by Golf Digest
Frequently asked questions
Is Tidewater Golf Club worth playing?
Yes. Tidewater is widely regarded as one of the top public golf courses on the Grand Strand, thanks to its scenic views, challenging layout, and excellent course conditions.
Why is Tidewater Golf Club so highly rated?
The course combines award-winning design, waterfront scenery, strong maintenance standards, and exceptional customer service.
What are the best holes at Tidewater Golf Club?
Many golfers highlight holes 4, 12, and 13 as some of the most memorable and scenic on the course.
When is the best time to play at Tidewater Golf Club?
Spring and fall are widely considered the best times to play, thanks to mild temperatures, lower humidity, and consistently excellent course conditions.
How difficult is Tidewater Golf Club?
The course can be challenging, but multiple tee boxes make it enjoyable for golfers of varying skill levels.
How far is Tidewater Golf Club from North Myrtle Beach?
The course is conveniently located in North Myrtle Beach and is easily accessible from most area accommodations.
Can beginners play at Tidewater Golf Club?
Yes. While the course offers challenges, beginners can enjoy the experience by selecting appropriate tee boxes.