Pawleys Plantation isn’t just another stop on the Grand Strand—it’s one of its crown jewels. Designed by the Golden Bear himself, Jack Nicklaus, this course is a master class in Lowcountry golf: challenging, scenic, and immaculately kept. Nestled in the quiet charm of Pawleys Island, just 30 minutes south of Myrtle Beach, this course blends championship pedigree with Southern hospitality in a way few others do.

📍 Location

Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club
70 Tanglewood Dr.
Pawleys Island, SC 29585

⛳ Course Overview

  • Architect: Jack Nicklaus

  • Opened: 1988

  • Yardage: 7,031 yards from the tips

  • Slope Rating: 144

  • Course Rating: 74.6

  • Par: 72

This semi-private course is open to the public and remains one of the most picturesque and strategically designed courses along the Carolina coast. The routing gracefully transitions between mossy oaks, tidal marshes, and coastal wetlands, with several holes playing right along the saltwater flats of the Waccamaw Neck.

🦅 Signature Holes & Strategic Play

Pawleys is not for the faint of heart—it’s a thinking man’s course. The front nine winds through tree-lined corridors that demand precision. The back nine opens up with unforgettable marsh views, especially on the par-3 13th and par-4 16th, where club selection and wind are everything.

Nicklaus’ touch is apparent throughout. The greens are heavily contoured, and many holes invite risk-reward decisions that can change your round in a heartbeat.

💬 The Golfer’s Review

I’ve played Pawleys Plantation more times than I can count, and it always leaves me smiling (and sometimes shaking my head). It’s fair, but firm. If you hit your lines, you’ll have chances to score. But make no mistake—poor decisions are punished. This is one of those rare courses where you’ll remember the holes long after you’ve played them. It’s a course I recommend to every serious golfer visiting the Grand Strand.

🏌️ Tee Options

Tee Box Yardage Rating Slope
Nicklaus (Black) 7,031 74.6 144
Blue 6,647 72.4 139
White 6,151 70.0 131
Gold 5,568 67.6 122
Red (Ladies) 4,967 69.7 120

With five sets of tees, it’s playable for all skill levels—but remains a true test from the tips.

🏠 Unique Amenities

  • Plantation House Clubhouse – A stately Southern-style clubhouse with dining, a bar, and event space

  • Oak Grille & Bar – Overlooks the 18th green and offers a casual upscale dining experience for golfers and guests

  • On-Site Accommodations – Stay-and-play villas and suites available through the resort, perfect for golf groups

  • Practice Complex – Full driving range, short game area, and practice green for pre-round prep

  • Wedding & Event Venue – A popular spot for destination weddings thanks to its gorgeous marshfront views

🧳 Why You Should Play It

Pawleys Plantation is more than just a round of golf—it’s a Lowcountry golf experience with pedigree and prestige. Whether you’re a low handicapper looking for a true test or just want to walk in Jack’s footsteps surrounded by one of the most serene landscapes in South Carolina, this course should be near the top of your Grand Strand golf bucket list.