West Course at Myrtle Beach National Delivers Good Times, Chance for Good Score

Generous fairways, limited trouble, and outstanding conditions are a magnet for golfers, and the West Course has an abundance of all three traits.

An Arnold Palmer layout, the West Course, as you’ve likely surmised, was designed with you, the player, in mind. Each side begins with a par 5 that screams – “A good start awaits!”

The first hole plays 501 yards from the tips, but an even more manageable 453 yards from the white tees and 439 yards from the gold tees. (For some perspective, the white – 6,114 yards – and gold – 5,690 yards – are by far the most popular starting points. Few people venture back more than 6,800 yards to the tips).

The first and 10th are straightaway holes that provide plenty of margin for error. The biggest challenge on both holes, and throughout the course, is on the greens. The miniverde Bermuda grass putting surfaces are nearly perfect.

Combine a fast, pure roll on undulating greens and the need to putt well is paramount. What makes the West Course greens fun is the fairness of the challenge. They are quick and offer ample movement, but they aren’t contrived.

Good putts are rewarded with a just result.

“I love the course,” said Strasburg, Va., native Brian Whetzel, who shot a 78, his best score ever, on the West Course. “It’s a blast to play. We played it on the final day of our trip, and I went home with a little extra money in my pocket!”

While Whetzel’s group, which has been coming to the Grand Strand for 15 years, often plays the West Course on its final day, many opt to make it the first course of their trip.

Don’t mistake the chance to score for being a pushover. The West Course doesn’t give away par.

The back nine, which plays away from the clubhouse and offers players seclusion, is the stiffer of the two sides, anchored by the 14th and 15th holes.

The 14th, an almost 90-degree dogleg left, plays 361 yards from the white tees and requires a precise drive and a middle-to-long iron to the green. The USGA’s rating system says it’s the 9th toughest hole on the course, but my eyes and game tell me it’s the layout’s most difficult challenge.

The 15th hole is a straightaway par 4, playing 387 yards from the whites. A good tee shot will leave less than 150 yards to the hole, but one of the most undulating greens on the course awaits. If you are above the hole, two putts is a victory.  

West Course finishes with the memorable 165-yard, par 3 18th hole. With the clubhouse in the background and a well-bunkered green, it offers stern challenge to end the day.

Verdict: The West Course is much more than a chance to score well. Golf Digest’s prestigious Best Places to Play guide awarded the layout 4.5 stars, and great conditions and customer service are nearly as certain as the sun rising in the east. The West Course is a great addition to any Myrtle Beach golf trip itinerary.