Nestled along the banks of the Calabash River in Sunset Beach, North Carolina, The Pearl Golf Links is a coastal golf treasure that blends natural beauty with a layout that challenges and rewards players of all skill levels. Often referred to as the “Gem of the Carolinas,” The Pearl has earned its reputation through its striking views, strong design, and consistently good conditions.
With its North, East, and West layouts, The Pearl offers three distinct nines that combine to create three possible full 18-hole experiences—each with a character of its own. It’s a standout stop on the Myrtle Beach Golf Trail for anyone seeking a round that’s scenic, strategic, and satisfying.
Course Overview
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Designer: Dan Maples
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Par: 72
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Yardage: ~7,006 yards from the tips
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Course Rating: 73.2
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Slope: 135
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Greens: MiniVerde Bermuda
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Opened: 1987 (Renovated in recent years)
The course features a mix of tree-lined fairways, marshland carries, and wide open finishing holes along the river. Its natural elevation changes, bunkering, and water hazards make every hole feel distinct—while the course’s setting near the Intracoastal Waterway provides plenty of photo-worthy moments.
What Makes The Pearl Unique?
The Pearl is known for:
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Stunning natural setting with views of the Calabash River and tidal marsh
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Three distinct nines: the more traditional, tree-lined front and the open, links-style back
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Abundant wildlife, including deer, herons, and osprey
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Strategic water features and large bunkers that demand accuracy and smart course management
It’s a course where every club in the bag will be tested, but where golfers of all levels can find opportunities to score well.
Notable Holes
Each nine offers memorable moments, but several holes stand out:
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Hole 5 (Par 3): A scenic shot over marsh to a large green, framed by tall pines and coastal grasses
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Hole 8 (Par 5): A double dogleg with risk-reward potential — long hitters can go for the green in two, but beware the water right and bunkers left
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Hole 16 (Par 4): A riverfront beauty with wind exposure and stunning views from tee to green
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Hole 18 (Par 4): A dramatic finisher with water in play and a large green guarded by bunkers
The closing stretch, especially along the back nine, is some of the most picturesque golf you’ll find on the Trail.
Course Conditions and Amenities
The Pearl continues to invest in course quality, and players benefit from:
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Smooth MiniVerde Bermuda greens
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Well-maintained fairways and tee boxes
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Clearly marked yardages and updated cart paths
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A welcoming clubhouse with a full-service bar and grill
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Practice facilities including a driving range and short game area
The course provides consistently good pace of play and courteous staff, making it a popular return stop for many groups.
Who Should Play The Pearl?
This course is perfect for:
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Mid- to low-handicap golfers who enjoy strategic layouts
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Couples and groups looking for a mix of challenge and playability
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Visiting players who want to enjoy true coastal Carolina golf
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Locals and repeat travelers who appreciate scenic variety and strong value
It’s especially well-suited for those playing multiple rounds on the Myrtle Beach Golf Trail, thanks to its location and layout diversity.
Location and Accessibility
The Pearl is located in Sunset Beach, North Carolina, just:
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~20 minutes from North Myrtle Beach
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Easily accessible from other nearby Trail courses like Sea Trail, Sandpiper Bay, and Crow Creek
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Convenient to lodging, restaurants, and attractions across the North Strand
Booking a Round at The Pearl
You can book your tee time at The Pearl through the Myrtle Beach Golf Trail:
Click HERE to see The Pearl location map, score cards, and more
Advance booking is recommended during spring and fall peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
The Pearl Golf Links delivers everything you want in a coastal Carolina round — natural beauty, strategic challenge, and peaceful surroundings. With its dual nines, recent course improvements, and ideal location on the Trail, it’s easy to see why so many golfers return year after year.
If you’re building a golf trip or looking to expand your Trail rotation, make sure The Pearl is on your list.
