> DAY 7
Get an early start for an across-the-border trek to
Sunset Beach, North Carolina to Ocean Ridge Plantation
and
Tiger’s Eye Golf Links (800-233-1801; big-cats.com).
One of four feline-themed courses
at Ocean Ridge (with a fifth on the way), Tim Cate’s Tiger’s Eye stands
out for
its unique character: elevation changes of up to 60 feet,
wildflowers, abundant
use of native grasses, a waterfall at the 18th
tee and the use of native coquina
boulders as bulkhead material.
After lunch, make the short drive to Southport and The Reserve Club
at St. James Plantation (910-253-5100; stjamesplantation.com). This new Nicklaus Design course is a
terrific layout with multi-level bentgrass greens and split fairways
enveloped
by native vegetation and coastal wetlands. This is a limited
opportunity,
however; the community plans to take the course private in
February
2008.
It’s been a long and rewarding day, so head back to North Myrtle Beach
and relax amid the conviviality of Joe’s Bar & Grill (843-272-4666;
dinejoes.com), a rustic
former
plantation house perched against the salt marsh and surrounded
by moss-draped
oaks. Joe’s is a NMB landmark and conveniently across
the street from your digs
at Barefoot Resort.
> DAY 8
It’s moving day; time to put the close on this
idyllic trek and head back to reality. But that doesn’t mean you can’t sneak in
just one more round.
Our recommendation is another North Strand favorite, Surf Golf &
Beach Club (843-249-1021; surfgolf.com). If you’re a fan of The Dunes Club, you’ll
appreciate the straightforward, traditional excellence of the Surf Club.
Designed by George Cobb in 1960 and refurbished by John LeFoy in 1992, the
course may have the best greens in all of Myrtle Beach. It’s a point worth
debating as you head out of town … and simultaneously begin planning your return
to the Grand Strand.
