The Maples Course at Sea Trail Golf Resort in Sunset Beach, North Carolina, is a classic Lowcountry layout that continues to impress golfers decades after its debut. Designed by Dan Maples and opened in 1986, the course reflects the architect’s trademark style: wide fairways, large greens, and a layout that works with the land, not against it.
As one of three 18-hole courses at Sea Trail, the Maples Course offers a traditional coastal Carolina experience with beautiful natural surroundings and a playable but strategic design. It’s a favorite among those who value shotmaking, simplicity, and serenity.
Course Overview
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Designer: Dan Maples
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Par: 72
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Yardage: ~6,751 yards from the tips
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Course Rating: 72.2
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Slope: 133
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Greens: Champion Bermuda
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Opened: 1986
The course winds through tall Carolina pines, centuries-old live oaks, and native wetlands, creating a peaceful atmosphere that stands out even on the busy Grand Strand. With fewer forced carries and limited elevation change, it’s walkable and inviting for players of all levels.
What Makes the Maples Course Unique?
This is not a flashy or gimmick-laden layout — it’s a classic test of golf built on rhythm and strategy. The Maples Course emphasizes:
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Smart tee shots to set up angles to large, sloped greens
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Natural doglegs that require thoughtful club selection
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Well-placed bunkers and mature trees framing each hole
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Scenic marshland and lakes integrated seamlessly into the routing
It’s a course where course management, not raw distance, will help you score.
Notable Holes
While the entire course is strong from start to finish, a few holes highlight its character:
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Hole 5 (Par 3): A long par 3 over water with a deep green, requiring distance control and confidence.
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Hole 9 (Par 5): A reachable par 5 with a marshy approach — risk-reward in its purest form.
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Hole 14 (Par 4): A sharp dogleg with a narrow landing area that tests precision off the tee.
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Hole 18 (Par 4): A strong closer that wraps around a large lake to a heavily bunkered green.
The closing stretch offers a final exam in ball control and patience.
Course Conditions and Experience
Recent renovations have kept the Maples Course in excellent playing shape. Golfers can expect:
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Smooth Champion Bermuda greens
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Clean, consistent bunkers
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Manicured fairways with great lies year-round
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Excellent pace of play and welcoming staff
The course offers a great warm-up or cool-down round when playing all three Sea Trail layouts.
Who Should Play the Maples Course?
The Maples Course is ideal for:
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Mid- to high-handicap players who enjoy wider fairways and playable rough
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Senior golfers looking for a walkable course
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Course purists who appreciate traditional design over modern flash
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Couples and travel groups playing all three Sea Trail layouts
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Locals and Myrtle Beach Golf Trail cardholders seeking a reliable, relaxing round
Its balance of challenge and forgiveness makes it one of the most accessible courses in the area.
Location and Accessibility
Located in Sunset Beach, NC, the Maples Course is:
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Just ~20 minutes from North Myrtle Beach
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Convenient to other Trail courses like the Byrd and Jones Courses, The Pearl, and Sandpiper Bay
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Easy to reach from major highways and local lodging
It’s an excellent choice for golfers staying in Brunswick County or playing a full Sea Trail itinerary.
Booking a Round at the Maples Course
You can book your tee time at Sea Trail – Maples Course through the Myrtle Beach Golf Trail:
Book your round at Sea Trail – Maples Course
Click HERE to se the Sea Trail location map, score cards, and more.
Advance booking is encouraged, especially in spring and fall golf seasons.
Final Thoughts
The Maples Course at Sea Trail may not shout for attention — but it doesn’t have to. Its classic design, peaceful setting, and consistent conditions make it a favorite for golfers who appreciate the fundamentals. If you’re looking for a relaxing, strategic round that still keeps you on your toes, the Maples Course belongs on your Myrtle Beach Golf Trail list.
