Myrtle Beach Golf Travel: North vs South Comparison

With more than 100 golf courses spread across the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach offers one of the most diverse golf destinations in the country. While the entire region is known for great layouts and year‑round play, the experience can feel different depending on whether you stay in North Myrtle Beach or South Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Beach golf travel varies depending on whether you stay in the northern or southern part of the Grand Strand. Each area offers unique course styles and travel considerations for golf groups.

A What to Know About Myrtle Beach Golf Travel in Each Area

This guide highlights the distinctions golfers often notice when choosing where to stay, play, and plan their trip.

Course Style & Atmosphere

North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach is known for a mix of scenic, modern, and resort‑style courses. Many layouts feature wide fairways, coastal marsh views, and large resort communities built around the courses.

Golfers often describe the northern end as:

• More relaxed and residential

• Home to several multi‑course resorts

• A bit quieter in the evenings

• Ideal for groups wanting a slower pace

Popular courses in the area include Barefoot Resort’s four courses, Tidewater, and Azalea Sands.

South Myrtle Beach

South Myrtle Beach — including Surfside, Garden City, and Murrells Inlet — offers a different feel. Courses here tend to be more traditional, tree‑lined, and varied in design, with a mix of classic layouts and modern renovations.

Golfers often note:

• A blend of classic and newer course styles

• More nightlife and dining options nearby

• Shorter drives between courses

• A busier, more energetic atmosphere

Notable courses include TPC Myrtle Beach, Prestwick, Blackmoor, and the International Club.

Distance Between Courses

North Myrtle Beach

Courses in the north are more spread out, especially when traveling toward the North Carolina border. Groups may drive 20–40 minutes between rounds depending on the itinerary.

South Myrtle Beach

The southern end tends to have shorter travel times between courses. Many layouts are within a 10–20 minute radius, which can make scheduling multiple rounds easier.

Dining & Entertainment

North Myrtle Beach

The northern end offers a quieter dining scene with local seafood spots, waterfront restaurants, and laid‑back nightlife. It’s well‑suited for groups who prefer a relaxed evening after a long day on the course.

South Myrtle Beach

South Myrtle Beach has more concentrated entertainment areas, including the MarshWalk in Murrells Inlet, Market Common, and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Groups looking for more activity after golf often gravitate toward this area.

Travel Logistics

North Myrtle Beach

Groups staying in the north may have longer drives from Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), typically 35–45 minutes depending on traffic. Once settled, the area is easy to navigate, but course‑to‑course travel can be longer.

South Myrtle Beach

The southern end is closer to MYR, with many hotels and rentals 10–20 minutes from the airport. This can make arrival and departure days more convenient, especially for early tee times.

Which Area Is Better for Your Group?

Both ends of the Grand Strand offer excellent golf, but the best choice depends on the group’s style:

Choose North Myrtle Beach if your group prefers:

• Resort‑style golf

• A quieter atmosphere

• Scenic marsh and water views

• A more relaxed pace

Choose South Myrtle Beach if your group prefers:

• Shorter travel times between courses

• More dining and nightlife options

• A mix of classic and modern layouts

• Staying closer to the airport

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose North or South Myrtle Beach, the region offers a wide range of golf experiences, from championship layouts to relaxed resort courses. Understanding the differences between the two areas can help groups plan a smoother, more enjoyable trip — with the right mix of golf, convenience, and off‑course activities.