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By David Theoret
The Waccamaw Golf Trail is located at the south end of The Myrtle Beach Grand Strand and includes a dozen of the area’s very best courses. In fact, this collection of courses has garnered more awards than any other comparable golf trail in America. Most of the courses are built on 18th Century rice and indigo plantations, and their routing is often dictated by centuries-old moss-draped oak trees and gently flowing tidal rivers.
This region has come to be known as South Carolina’s historic Hammock Coast, comprised the townships of Murrells Inlet, Litchfield, Pawleys Island and Georgetown. In addition to great golf, you’ll find beautiful beaches, an outstanding selection of accommodations, superb restaurants and various points of historic interest.
One location that incorporates both excellent dining and accommodations is The Inlet Sports Lodge, Costa Coastal Kitchen & Bar located right next door. Although it has only been open a few months, Costa (www.costamyrtlebeach.com) is quickly becoming a favorite among travelers and locals alike. Their dishes are unique, such as Stuffed Banana Peppers, three large banana peppers stuffed with a homemade Italian sausage. Their Italian fare and seafood fare are equally as delectable, and their steaks melt in your mouth. Portions are almost big enough to share, but with food this good, who wants to do that? They also have an extensive wine list and are best known for their incredible daily specials.
Mystical Golf Magic in Myrtle Beach
Man O’ War, The Wizard, and The Witch Golf Courses By Tim Cotroneo
Born into a golf architecture legacy dating back to the late 1800s, Dan Maples has designed and seen his share of spectacular golf holes. That’s why it’s fascinating to note the golf photo that greets visitors on Maples’ captivating website.
The initial www.maplesdesign photo jumping off your computer screen is the par 3, 173-yard, 15th hole at Man O’ War Golf Course in Myrtle Beach, SC. Readers learn that Man O’ War is part of a trio of Maples’ designed 18-hole layouts known as Mystical Golf.
Joining Man O’ War in this superb South Carolina golf trifecta are The Witch and The Wizard. Like the names imply, these are one-of-a-kind golf experiences. With Man O’ War and The Wizard located side-by-side, and The Witch just a 20-minute drive, this threesome of Maples masterpieces are perfect for first-time vacationers looking to personally discover why over 3-million golfers travel annually to Myrtle Beach.
Mystical Magic in Myrtle Beach – by Dave Finn
Myrtle Beach SC – A year and a half ago my wife and I had the fantastic opportunity to tour Wales and England. Ever since we visited Tintagel England, I have been fascinated by Arthurian legend. According to folklore, the “Lady of the Lake” gave King Arthur his infamous sword Excalibur. Viviane was a tale of two personalities – the evil and deceitful villainess but also a kind and benevolent maiden, who raised Lancelot as if he were her son. Merlin the mystical on the other hand, was the guardian of young Arthur and served as King Arthur’s advisor until he was bewitched and imprisoned by the Lady of the Lake.
Fore Reasons to Play & Stay in Myrtle Beach & Grand Strand, SC by Dave Finn
If you are a serious golfer, you have to tick Myrtle Beach off your list of “have to play before I die” destinations. A number of years ago I had the distinct pleasure and privilege of having lunch with Mr. Clay Brittain Jr. at his Sea Captain’s House Restaurant. Mr. Brittain is one of the “fathers of golf” for Myrtle Beach.
Are You Up for the Challenge? – by Dave Finn
Myrtle Beach S.C. – My knees were knocking, my palms were sweating and my toes were actually tingling as I approached the tee blocks. All I could think about was “don’t make a fool of yourself on the first drive of the day”.
Normally, I don’t get unnerved very easily but I can recall in vivid detail how I felt preparing to lead our fearsome foursome into battle last August. I was playing at the Myrtle Beach World Amateur Handicap Championship, reportedly the largest amateur golf tournament on the planet, and I certainly did not want to embarrass myself.
Have you ever tried to fly to a destination, play eight different golf courses in five days while traveling the entire length of a State? Recently, I had the great pleasure of accompanying seven other North American golf journalists on a five day golf marathon in South Carolina. We were lucky enough to visit three very different regions, two of which were completely brand new experiences for me.
Pawleys Island SC – The Myrtle Beach/Grand Strand area is a 60 mile stretch of coast line that is home to almost 100 top-ranked courses so choosing a handful to play can be a tough decision. On this trip we ventured to the very south end of the Grand Strand to explore the Pawleys Island region, best known for its’ “low country-style” layouts.
By Dave Finn
Santee SC – I have exhibited at or attended well over a hundred golf and travel shows across Canada and the north east United States and have yet to find a better valued golf destination then Santee. You tell me! Where else can you go to stay and play 18 holes of golf with a power cart, overnight accommodation and continental breakfast for $56 USD? In my own backyard, green fees alone start at $56 and that’s without a cart let alone food and a room to flop in.