Located just across the state line in Sunset Beach, North Carolina, Oyster Bay Golf Links is a standout on the northern end of the Myrtle Beach Golf Trail. With its coastal marsh views, signature island greens, and bold design, Oyster Bay offers a memorable and strategic round of golf surrounded by the natural beauty of the South Carolina–North Carolina border.
Often regarded as one of the best public courses in the Carolinas, Oyster Bay delivers a perfect mix of visual drama, thoughtful layout, and shotmaking variety — all within a short drive of North Myrtle Beach.
Course Overview
-
Designer: Dan Maples
-
Par: 70
-
Yardage: ~6,685 yards from the back tees
-
Course Rating: 73.0
-
Slope: 137
-
Opened: 1983
-
Greens: TifEagle Bermuda
Originally built as one of the first upscale public courses in the area, Oyster Bay was among the early catalysts that made the Grand Strand a golf destination. Its creative routing through marshland, moss-draped oaks, and tidal creeks makes it as visually impressive as it is challenging.
What Makes Oyster Bay Unique?
Oyster Bay is known for:
-
Two island green par 3s, including one of the most photographed holes in the region
-
Elevated tees and greens with bold contouring
-
Tidal marshes and freshwater lakes that frame numerous holes
-
Wildlife sightings including gators, egrets, and osprey
-
An emphasis on strategy over power
This is a course where smart play wins the day. It offers a more compact routing than many Myrtle Beach layouts, but the constant presence of water and wind requires sharp course management.
Signature Holes
Nearly every hole at Oyster Bay offers something memorable, but a few are especially iconic:
-
Hole 6 (Par 3): The first of two island greens, this hole demands absolute precision. There’s no bailout — just water and hope.
-
Hole 13 (Par 5): A classic three-shot hole that winds around marshland, ending at an elevated green with severe slope and bunkering.
-
Hole 15 (Par 3): The second island green — longer and even more intimidating than Hole 6 — is a true test of nerves late in the round.
-
Hole 18 (Par 4): A strong finisher that plays toward the clubhouse with water left and bunkers right — precision and poise are a must.
From the opening tee shot to the final putt, Oyster Bay keeps golfers engaged with a dynamic mix of risk-reward opportunities.
Course Conditions and Experience
Oyster Bay maintains solid conditioning year-round and has invested in upgrades to keep the course playing firm and fast. Players enjoy:
-
Smooth greens that hold approach shots well
-
Firm but fair fairways, with natural roll and shape
-
Well-defined roughs and hazard lines
-
Strategically placed bunkers that reward careful club selection
Pace of play is steady, and the staff ensures a quality experience whether you’re a solo player or part of a larger group.
Practice Facilities and Clubhouse
Oyster Bay offers a comfortable pre-round and post-round experience, including:
-
A driving range and practice green
-
A cozy pro shop with branded apparel and equipment
-
A laid-back clubhouse grill with breakfast, lunch, and drinks
-
Friendly staff familiar with group coordination and Myrtle Beach Golf Trail guests
Many players make Oyster Bay their first or last stop when playing courses on both sides of the state line.
Location and Nearby Courses
Located in Sunset Beach, NC, Oyster Bay is just 15–20 minutes from:
-
North Myrtle Beach resorts and hotels
-
Other Trail courses like The Pearl, Sea Trail, and Crow Creek
-
Coastal attractions, dining, and beach access in both North Carolina and South Carolina
Its convenient position makes it a great pairing with both northern and central Grand Strand golf packages.
Who Should Play Oyster Bay?
This course is ideal for:
-
Golfers who enjoy a strategic layout
-
Players who appreciate coastal scenery and wildlife
-
Low- to mid-handicappers looking for a challenge
-
Visiting groups on a Myrtle Beach Golf Trail itinerary
-
Anyone who wants to play a Top 100-caliber course with a unique personality
It’s particularly popular among repeat travelers who want something different from the typical resort layout.
Booking Your Round at Oyster Bay
Oyster Bay is part of the Myrtle Beach Golf Trail and can be reserved several ways:
-
Use your MBGT Local Member Card (if applicable) for preferred pricing
-
Coordinate group or buddy trip rounds with Trail partners.
Advance booking is highly recommended, especially in spring and fall seasons when tee sheets fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Oyster Bay Golf Links delivers one of the most picturesque and strategic rounds you can play along the Myrtle Beach Golf Trail. With its marsh-front holes, island greens, and strong finishing stretch, it’s a course that challenges, entertains, and impresses from start to finish.
If you’re looking to add a round with visual drama, history, and coastal charm, Oyster Bay is an experience you won’t soon forget.
