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Top-Rated Golf Courses In Myrtle Beach

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Myrtle Beach is the champion course mecca for ordinary golfers. The laid-back southern paradise began as an upscale community of private country clubs. Vast green fairways, rustic foliage, and ocean views equate to charming scenery. Amateurs and pros equally enjoy Myrtle Beach golf due to the presence of terrific challenges. More than 100 courses cover the 23 square mile section of the Grand Strand area most notably known as the “Golf Capital of the World”. Want to play a round here? You can’t go wrong with course selection. However, these top-rated golf courses in Myrtle Beach stand out from the rest.

Caledonia Golf & Fish Club

Caledonia’s layout, landscape, and location all attribute to its fame. A pleasant provincial ambience lends to this old rice plantation turned popular public golf course. Picturesque oak trees draped in veils of moss furnish the fairways. In addition, an old-fashioned clubhouse sets the scene. Mike Strantz designed Caledonia’s 70-par course in order to challenge the best hitters in the world. Fashionable traps and natural water source utilization make this course famous. Caledonia ranks #27 on Golf Magazine’s “Top 100 Courses You Can Play” and earned “America’s Top 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses” and “Top 50 Courses in Myrtle Beach”. In conclusion, Caledonia rightfully earns a place among the top-rated golf courses in Myrtle Beach.

Dunes Golf and Beach Club

Dunes Golf and Beach Club’s oceanside terrain attracts players worldwide. Robert Trent Jones designed a precise course consequently requiring lifetime quality standards. Because of this, large-scale renovations are frequently performed. Most noteworthy is The Dunes’ individual hole nomenclature. This is because the names give golfers an idea of upcoming challenges. The famous #13 hole called Waterloo garners worldwide prestige due to the sharp navigational drive required around Lake Singleton. Dunes Golf and Beach Club ranks #47 on Golf Magazine’s “Top 100 Courses You Can Play”. Additionally, The Dunes hosts many tournaments including a previous PGA Tour Championship.

Barefoot Resort

The Barefoot Resort’s four-for-one package offers anything a golfer could ever want. Play along the Norman’s Intracoastal Waterway or through the Love’s plantation remains. Challenge yourself within the Fazio’s classic Lowcountry forage or across the Dye’s undulating dunes. This ultimate golfing getaway combines memorable landscapes with unique features. As a result, the Barefoot Resort boasts many recognitions, including rankings in Golf Magazine, Golf Week, and Golf Digest. The Love course in particular earned #86 on “Golf Magazine’s Top 100 Courses You Can Play”. The Barefoot Resort easily earns its ranking as one of the top-rated golf courses in Myrtle Beach.

True Blue Plantation

Caledonia’s design sister is the True Blue Plantation. This stylistic endeavor is unique because of Mike Stanz’s usage of varied terrain. True Blue is an interesting 72-par course across long rolling greens. Players’ primary obstacles are interspersed tree patches. The undulations of the course are matched in difficulty by hidden traps and carefully placed waste bunkers. True Blue is considered a links-style course. Because of this, the True Blue Plantation combined with Caledonia presents a well-rounded golfing experience. True Blue is recognized as the “#1 Public Course in the Myrtle Beach Area” and listed in “America’s Top 100 Public Courses”.

Hero photo by Andrew F. Kazmierski

The Best Places To Catch Trout In South Carolina

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The state of South Carolina contains limited but quality trout fishing destinations, including cool mountain streams and crystalline lakes. The Southern Appalachian mountains encompass most of these locations. The wilderness offers a beautiful natural setting and a welcome respite from the Southern heat. In addition to rivers and lakes, the region boasts a few prominent tailwaters. The state contains immense trout fishing diversity for any level of fishermen. Here are the best places to catch trout in South Carolina.

Chattooga River

The Chattooga River spans the border between Georgia and South Carolina and is notably the best stream in the state. The river runs through the Ellicott Wilderness Area. Because of this, the Chattooga River is a popular trout fishing location within a refreshing mountain setting. The Walhalla State Fish Hatchery stocks the river with bountiful rainbow trout which can be caught alongside semi-wild brown trout. Notably, the prime fishing spots are the Burrells Ford Bridge Road and State Highway 28 bridge. The limit for the area is eight trout daily except when catch and release regulations apply.

Lake Jocassee

This prominent lake spans more than 7,000 acres of the state. Lake Jocassee is known as the premier still-water trout fishing location. Enormous hatchery-grown trout populate the water on account of plentiful herring and shad. Their large size makes Lake Jocassee one of the best places to catch trout in South Carolina. A five trout limit exists as well as a minimum size regulation. Anglers should be knowledgeable of complete regulations especially the prohibition of net usage on the lake. The large size of the fish makes Lake Jocassee one of the best places to catch trout in South Carolina.

Whitewater River

The Whitewater River boasts a popular trout fishing spot nestled between its Upper and Lower Whitewater Falls. A mixture of mostly wild rainbow and brown trout are found here although some stocking is done to maintain the population. Free public access adds to the river’s appeal. While the land is owned by Duke Energy, it remains within the borders of the Jocassee Gorges area. The Foothills Trail contains the ideal fishing spot along a modest bridge, although wading and fly fishing are certainly possible due to the river’s mild current.

Estatoe River

Sweeping across the border of the Jocassee Gorge area is the Estatoe River, an avid trout fishing location at a high elevation. Following the river downstream beyond the Estatoe Valley leads to an area of mixed private and public entry. Wild trout abound but the river is stocked due to its limited accessibility. Rules apply on both the upper and lower sections of the river. The upper access points within the Heritage Reserve restrict all bait except artificial lures and enact a daily seven fish limit. The lower river allows ten fish and any kind of bait.

The Lower and Middle Saluda River

The beautiful Saluda River contains two sections of great trout fishing within the Jones Gap State Park. A mixture of an average 40,000 rainbow and brown trout are stocked at intervals throughout the year. The upper waters are reachable from the Saluda Shoals Regional Park and Hope Ferry Landing. Catch and release only regulations apply. The lower waters are suitable for fisherman of all varieties including fly fisherman, spin fisherman, and bait fisherman. There is a daily limitation of five trout. Notably, quickly rising water and strong rapids pose moderate hazards.

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Plan This Road Trip To See Every Waterfall In South Carolina

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Stop 1: Reedy Falls, Cedar Falls Park, Greenville, SC

Your road trip to see every waterfall in South Carolina begins in the heart of downtown Greenville. Here the 25ft Reedy Falls cascade provides a dose of tranquil nature. It is a sight for sore eyes amidst the bustle of the city streets.

Stop 2: Jones Gap State Park

Drive five hours northwest to Jones Gap State Park. It is located in the upper western corner of South Carolina. This popular recreational area contains many remarkable falls including the Jones Gap Falls, Eastern Stream Falls, Dargan’s Cascade, Oil Camp Falls, and Toll Road Falls. Strenuous hiking between the falls is often required.

Stop 3: Rainbow Falls, Camp Greenville Property

The astounding 140ft dropping Cox Camp Creek Rainbow Falls lies just due west of Jones Gap. It is located on Camp Greenville Property. The views are worth the 45min downhill trek.

Stop 4: Caesar’s Head State Park

South of Rainbow Falls tucked away in Caesar’s Head State Park are a few notoriously beautiful waterfalls. Respectively, they are called Firewater Falls and Rockcliff Falls.

Stop 5: Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area

Travel south of 276 from Caesar’s Head. The Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area resides just below the highway. A three mile hike from the Asbury Hills Camp brings you to Moonshine Falls, named after the illegal activities that used to take place in the area. In addition, the Wilderness area contains Raven’s Cliff Falls. This waterfall drops Matthew’s Creek nearly 400ft across rocky outcroppings. It can viewed from both a platform and rocky outcropping located off of the Raven’s Cliff Falls Trail. It is notably the most remarkable and photographed waterfall in the entire state.

Stop 6: Wildcat Branch Falls

From the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, follow highway 276 south to the intersection of SC 11. The 30ft Wildcat Branch Falls is visible from the road. This multi-tiered cascade rages down dark shelves of exquisite weathered rock.

Stop 7: Matchbox Falls/Misty Falls

Head northeast on highway 276 to a narrow gravel road. At the end of the road are two hidden waterfalls. Bushwhacking 0.2 miles into the woods from the guardrail will bring you to Misty Falls. Travel an additional 0.2 miles to view Matchbox Falls. Just follow the sound of the flowing water. This two-for-one package is worth the effort!

Stop 8: Table Rock State Park

Driving south on highway 11 brings you to Table Rock State Park, home of the infamous Carrick Falls. Carrick is a lovely 15ft drop into a wading pool. It is located off of the paved road leading from the parking lot. Wade through the shallows on a warm day.

Stop 9: Laurel Fork Falls, Jocassee Gorges Wilderness Area

Further south along highway 11 is the vast expanse of the Jocassee Gorges Wilderness Area. The massive realm boasts the 80ft waterfall known as Laurel Fork Falls. Access to the falls requires a grueling five hour hike but satisfying views.

Stop 10: Sumter National Forest

Taking highway 11 down to route 107 will bring you into Sumter National Forest. You can’t miss this location to see every waterfall in South Carolina. A two hour hike brings you to splendid Bee Cove Falls. It is unique due to the double 40ft and 30ft tiers across layers of granite. Driving further down route 107 will deliver you through access points to Lee Falls, Yellow Branch Falls, Issaqueena Falls, and Secret Falls.

Within the Sumter National Forest along SC 28 are Chauga Narrow Falls, Hidden Falls, and Fall Creek Falls. They are all noteworthy natural wonders.

Two striking waterfalls reside in the southern portion of the Sumter National Forest. Blue Hole Falls is a 45ft long rushing Cedar Creek torrent that empties into a crystalline blue pool. Riley Moore Falls is only 12ft high but 100ft wide and classified as a class VI whitewater rapid.

The western edge of the Sumter National Forest embraces the family-friendly Brasstown Cascades and Fall Creek Falls, a three-for-one package.

Stop 11: Ramsey Creek Falls/Chau Ram County Park

After leaving the expansive Sumter National Forest, head back southeast along route 76 to the final waterfall. Ramsey Creek Falls is located within the Chau Ram County Park in Westminster, SC. In addition to the falls, nearby hiking trails and picnicking areas add utility to this family-friendly destination. In conclusion, this mapped out journey will allow you to see every waterfall in South Carolina.

Hero photo by Jeff McCord

Amazing Charleston Area Homes You Want To Live In

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Most people know that Charleston, South Carolina, is the cultural capital of the south. It is a popular city brimming with historic charm, breathtaking architecture and phenomenal views. But did you know there are other areas surrounding Charleston that offer all the advantages of living in Charleston but without the constant stimulation of city life. When you want to live somewhere close to but not in the city proper consider one of the following luxurious homes available at this time. Check out the below communities that you can live in that offer amazing luxury homes.

Kiawah Island

Coastal Living calls the Town of Kiawah Island “The Happiest Seaside Town in America”. This is a private island located just south of Charleston where you can enjoy boating, hiking, water sports, golf, fishing, dining out, shopping the many specialty shops or just kick back and enjoy life in a home like this prime luxury property at 25 Surfsong Road, Kiawah Island. Kiawah Island is made up of 10,000 acres of land and is over 10 miles long and 1-1/2 miles wide. Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers memberships where there are 90 holes of championship golf to be played on 5 different courses – The Ocean Course, Turtle Point, Osprey Point, Oak Point, and Cougar Point.

Sullivan’s Island

At 3.3 miles long, Sullivan’s Island can be found in the mouth of Charleston Harbor next to Isle of Palms and just minutes from downtown Charleston. The area is full of history and folklore, provides many local shops and restaurants for dining and is a beautiful, vital environment anyone would be proud to call home. Homes like this luxury home shown here at 806 Star of the West Street, on The Point are among the many homes that overlook Charleston Harbor, the Charleston skyline and the ICW.

John’s Island

As the largest island in the state of South Carolina, John’s Island offers waterfront lots that overlook Wadmalaw Sound and the Kiawah and Stono Rivers. Just 10 minutes from downtown Charleston, this area boasts two brand new bridges, an executive airport and a 4- lane expressway to Kiawah Island. Homes as gorgeous as this luxurious 6275 sq ft home at 4138 Nature View Circle, John’s Island, are available. John’s Island is where you can see a 1,500 years old Angel Oak tree. This Live Oak towers 65 feet high, is 25.5 feet in circumference, and provides 17,000 square feet of shade.

Daniel Island

Just 15 minutes from downtown Charleston, Daniel Island offers a wealth of natural beauty, a sense of community among neighbors, good schools and an endless assortment of amenities and conveniences. Shown here is what may be the most beautiful home on Daniel Island and is located at 1480 Wando View Street. The island is made up of 4,000 lush acres and is surrounded by more than 23 miles of pristine coastline. The area boasts beautiful marsh views, rivers, and creeks as well as nationally ranked golf, impressive parks and sports stadiums and a vibrant pedestrian-friendly downtown.

Hero photo by Elizabeth Foley

Top Surf Spots Along The Carolina Coast

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Whether you’re an experienced surfer looking for the best waves along the coastline of Hilton Head Island or you’re headed to Myrtle Beach and dreaming about how cool it would be to be a surfer… we have compiled the most popular surfing spots with the best and biggest waves along the South Carolina coastline to tell you about.

As any surfer will tell you, no matter where you choose to get your surf on, it’s always wise to pay attention to the tides before heading out. There are charts and guides available online including these Hilton Head tide guides and the Myrtle Beach tide charts and guides. Each area typically has a killer place to check out when the waves are cresting and getting you the best chance to catch one.

Burkes Beach, Hilton Head Island

Burkes Beach is the premiere surfing beach on Hilton Head Island appealing to advanced through expert level surfers. The beach relies on drifting sandbars, but there is a small river mouth that is the entrance to the folly waterway and rock pile jetty on the south side of the folly opening. Due to the folly setup, there are various sandbars scattered throughout the beach causing a variety of breaks. Occasionally waves will have more energy around the follow. On most days surfers are scattered at various peaks right out in front of the walkway from Burkes Beach Avenue.

Folly Beach, Charleston

Folly Beach is one the top spots for surfing along the eastern coastline. This is a super beach for first timers just learning to surf. Folly hosts a number of surfing contests every year including the Wahine Contest in May. While the “Washout” is considered the best waves on Folly, there are several other popular spots. For the best surfing on Folly be sure to check it out when a storm is coming or nearby. Day camps and private lessons are available in the area.

The Pier, Pawleys Island

Located just 22 miles south of Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island is a relaxed beach community offering great local surfing. Weekdays offer less crowded conditions. Breaks are at extreme north and south ends of island, the pier, and one spot in the middle. The northeast swells during mid to high tide provide surfers with longer lefts. Incoming tides generally won’t break at low but waves shut down if they get overhead. The pier does little to cut the drift. Pawley’s is best suited for experienced surfers.

Garden City Pier, Garden City Beach

Garden City Pier is an exposed beach/Pier break that has consistent surf and works well any time of the year. Works best when there are offshore winds from the northwest. Tends to receive a mix of groundswells and windswells and the optimum swell angle is from the south/southeast. SE and NE swells offer best conditions at mid and high tide. The beach break provides left and right handers. Surfing suitable for all abilities. Can be super crowded on weekends but few surfers to be found most weekdays.

Dunes Cove, Myrtle Beach

If you’re looking for the best surfing in Myrtle Beach, you’ll find it in front of the Dunes Country Club during low tide when the tide is rising. This is an exposed river break that offers consistent surf. The swash creates a distinct sandbar that breaks both ways into the river mouth, giving longer rights on the SE swells. The best wind direction is from the northwest. Surf receives a mix of groundswells and windswells with the best swell direction being from the southeast. Waves at the river tend to peel to the right. There are plenty of board rentals in the area as well as lessons.

27th Avenue, North Myrtle Beach

27th Avenue South in North Myrtle Beach is an exposed beach break with reasonably consistent surf. Offshore winds blow from the north. Waves are from local windswells as well as distant groundswells. The best swell direction is from the south/southeast. The beach break provides both left and right handers. Good surf at all stages of the tide. This is a popular site that can get crowded on weekends. Great spot for any level surfer from beginner to experienced. Pollution may be a hazard at this break. Free parking available at the beach access.

If you’ve never surfed, let this be the year you try it. Find a place that rents boards, pay for a lesson (it’s well worth it!) and get yourself in the water. The first time you catch a wave you’ll be hooked. Riding that first wave, no matter how long, is incomparable to anything else you’ve ever done. You’ll be hooked on surfing right then and there.

When you’re making your surfing plans and are looking for accommodations check out all of the above areas!

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8 Historic South Carolina Landmarks

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Check out these amazing historic South Carolina landmarks all over the Palmetto State.

Brookgreen Gardens

Gorgeous doesn’t even start to describe the Brookgreen Gardens in Pawleys Island, South Carolina. With scenic views unlike any other place along the Grand Strand, you need to go to Brookgreen Gardens to appreciate it’s beauty.

Charleston Historic District

Check out the amazing Charleston Historic District next time you’re in Chucktown. It’s a great way to enjoy the best that this amazing city has to offer.

College of Charleston

Of course, it wouldn’t be a complete list without mentioning the renowned College Of Charleston.

Farmers’ and Exchange Bank

A national historic landmark since 1973, the Farmers and Exchange Bank is a historic building in Charleston, South Carolina.

Fireproof Building

Located at 100 Meeting Street, the Fireproof Building is historic landmark too. Completed in 1897, the oldest fire resistant building in the United States now houses the South Carolina Historical Society.

Powder Magazine

The oldest public building in South Carolina, Power Magazine is great for family trips and other historical trips around lovely Charleston, South Carolina.

Atalaya Castle

Built in 1933, Atalaya Castle in Murrells Inlet is known for its storied and rich history. Now a converted space for historical purposes and weddings, the Castle is a year-round photographic focal point of the area.

USS Yorktown

Commissioned in 1943, the USS Yorktown was a critical piece in the Pacific Offensive that began in late 1943 and ended with the defeat of Japan in 1945. Without the USS Yorktown, a different outcome may have occurred.

Hero photo by Craig Zerbe