Five Things You Need to Know About the Revitalization of The Pearl
The Pearl, home to a pair of courses, has been a gem on the Myrtle Beach golf scene for 25 years, showcasing memorable views of the Calabash River and two enjoyable layouts.
But every stone needs the occasional polish, and the Grand Strand’s favorite Pearl is in the midst of having its luster restored. Here are five things you need to know about the revitalization of the 36-hole facility.
– If you haven’t been, the Pearl, home to the East and West courses, enjoys an outstanding piece of property and architect Dan Maples took full advantage. The West Course, which earned 4.5 stars in Golf Digest’s prestigious Best Places to Play guide, has several holes that play along the Calabash River and a great finishing stretch.
– Both courses feature impeccable new greens. The East Course installed new MiniVerde greens in the fall of 2011 and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The West Course reopened on December 26, 2012 after installing A1/A4 bentgrass, the preferred surface of most golfers. Whether you are playing the East or West Course, both feature smooth, fast new greens.
– As general manager Bryan Thomas likes to say, “The Pearl is getting better every day,” but the facility’s amicable leader is also quick to mention that it’s not as good as it’s going to be. Trees are being pared back to expose the layouts to more sun and wind, cart paths are being repaired, and a new bunker project will soon be launched.
– Bring your driver to the West Course, the more open of the two layouts. The West Course is home to the monster 614-yard, par 5 16th hole, the fourth longest hole on the Grand Strand.
– The Pearl has long been at the forefront of Myrtle Beach golf scene. It was the North Strand’s first multi-course facility, helping pave the way for the likes of Ocean Ridge Plantation, Thistle, Sea Trail and Sandpiper Bay, all of which are home to at least 27 holes. The revitalization project will keep the Pearl top of mind with traveling golfers.
