Renovation talk in the
air at Marsh Harbour

By Shane Sharp, Contributing Writer

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (Dec. 26, 2003) - Marsh Harbour, closed since Dec. 2002, is showing signs of life. The North Strand course was listed on the National Golf Foundation's renovations list for 2003/04.

Owner Ladane Williamson could not be reached over the holiday weekend for comment. However, a representative at Ladane Golf Management told MyrtleBeachGolf.com the course will undergo major renovations this year and is slated to open in the spring of 2005. The spokesperson, speaking under condition of anonymity, said Williamson hasn't officially retained an architectural firm to oversee the work but is leaning heavily toward Tom Fazio.

Fazio Golf Course Designers Inc. could not be reached for comment due to holiday closures. But retention of the heralded, Hendersonville, N.C. based designer would mark a major change in direction in Ladane Golf Management's plans for Marsh Harbour.

Earlier this year, Williamson told MyrtleBeachGolf.com that Dan Maples, the course's original designer, was the most likely choice for restoring the layout to its mid 90s grandeur. Maples, based in Pinehurst, operates a small design and management firm that deals primarily with Carolinas-based properties.

Fazio, on the other hand, is widely considered the preeminent golf course architect of his time and maintains a client list that includes Donald Trump and Steve Wynn. His design work typically carries a seven figure price tag and some projects have even topped the eight figure mark.

The Marsh Harbour representative said that Williamson feels the course and its enviable coastal location is worthy of the investment in a "big name" architect like Fazio. No official date has been set for retaining a golf course architectural firm to oversee the project, however.

World Tour Golf Links to add accommodations

Plans for an additional nine hole circuit at World Tour Golf Links may have stalled, but the 27-hole replica facility recently announced its plans to construct two condo/townhouse units adjacent to the clubhouse. Dubbed the "World Tour Village," the two three-story units would house 26 condo units each. The club also announced plans to renovate the upstairs portion of the clubhouse for use as meeting space/lounge/sportsbar.

Louis's at Pawleys still going strong

Pawleys Island, often referred to as the Rodeo Drive of the Grand Strand, and Louis's at Pawleys continue to build upon the perfect marriage. The gourmet, Lowcountry eatery founded by renowned chef Louis Osteen opened in March 2002 to rave reviews.

• Profile of architect Tom Fazio • Myrtle Beach Golf Features • Myrtle Beach Golf Course Guide

Osteen recently revamped the entire menu, expanding on a handful of local favorites and introducing a slew of new items. The dinner menu is buoyed by a selection of "Simply Prepared Fish" including Grouper, Tuna and Salmon served with a choice of garlic herb emulsion, Beurre Blanc, Szechwan peanut, and béarnaise sauces.

The Louis's Fish Camp Bar has emerged as a hot spot with year round residents. The ambiance is Lowcountry meets fern bar, the menu is a solid supplement to the main restaurant, and the service is superior to anything in the area. Warm air is pumped through the outdoor patio by gas heaters, forming the perfect complement to the cold, locally brewed draft beers. Louis's is located in the Hammock Shops off U.S. 17. For more information or to peruse menus, log on to www.louisatpawleys.com.