Sea Trail Resort – Jones Course: A Championship Coastal Classic

The Jones Course at Sea Trail Resort in Sunset Beach, North Carolina is a true championship layout designed by renowned architect Rees Jones. With wide fairways, large undulating greens, and scenic water hazards, this course is a favorite for both vacationing golfers and competitive players. Just minutes from the South Carolina border and less than 15 minutes from North Myrtle Beach, Sea Trail offers accessibility and variety in one beautiful package.

📍 Location & Accessibility

Address: 75A Clubhouse Rd, Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Distance from Myrtle Beach: ~15 minutes north of North Myrtle Beach
Setting: Located just inland from the Atlantic Ocean, Sea Trail is set against coastal forests, freshwater lakes, and the peaceful charm of Sunset Beach

🛠️ Course Overview

Number of Holes: 18
Course Type: Resort / Semi-Private
Opened: 1990
Course Architect: Rees Jones
Greens: A1/A4 Bentgrass
Fairways: Bermuda

🧭 Yardage & Tee Boxes

Tee Box	Yardage	Rating	Slope
Blue	6,761	72.8	132
White	6,339	70.5	128
Gold	5,928	68.9	124
Red	4,948	70.2	120

⛳ What to Expect on the Course

The Jones Course is defined by its wide, forgiving fairways and large, strategic greens. Water hazards come into play on 11 holes, and deep bunkers protect many of the putting surfaces. The back nine delivers a particularly strong finish, with risk-reward options and scenic closing holes.

Signature Hole: Hole #5 – A par-5 with a dogleg right, water along the left, and a narrow approach to a well-guarded green
Play Style: Ideal for golfers of all skill levels, though the greens require thoughtful approaches
Pace of Play: Average round is about 4 hours and 15 minutes

📝 Golfer’s Review

“The Jones Course is classic coastal golf done right. It’s fair but forces you to think — and those green complexes are no joke.”
— Jeff Gilder, executive Producer, Traveling Golfer TV Show

🍽️ Amenities & Clubhouse Experience

Sea Trail Resort provides a full-service golf experience, with excellent amenities:

Restaurants: On-site there are restaurants serving breakfast, lunch, upscale dinners, and cocktails, with options for grab-and-go. Sunset Prime, 55 Bistro, Sunset Cove, Sunset Slice offer full variety.
Clubhouse Patio: Overlooks the course with a relaxing view for post-round drinks

🎯 Why You Should Play the Jones Course

Course Design: Championship layout from one of golf’s most respected architects
Playability: Accommodating for mid- and high-handicappers, yet challenging for better players
Resort Vibe: Relaxed but professional atmosphere with excellent service

🧳 About Sunset Beach, NC

Sunset Beach is one of the quietest and most charming beaches along the Carolina coast. Sea Trail sits just minutes from the shoreline, with easy access to beach rentals, shopping, and dining. It’s the perfect mix of beach town and golf getaway.

🏆 Awards & Accolades

“Top 100 Courses in North Carolina” – GolfStyles Carolinas
4 Stars – Golf Digest Places to Play
Host of U.S. Kids Golf & CGA Tournaments

👥 Ideal For

Resort guests looking for a refined golf experience
Seniors and mid-handicappers wanting playability and beauty
Couples or buddy groups seeking golf near the beach

🔁 Compare to Other Myrtle Beach Courses

Compared to inland courses in Myrtle Beach, the Jones Course stands out with its open fairways, resort-level conditioning, and championship pedigree. If you enjoy Grande Dunes or Tidewater, Sea Trail’s Jones Course will feel right at home.