Ocean Isle Beach
Golf Club Delivers
Tradition and Value

By Shane Sharp,
Contributing Writer

Located just a little bit further than a Harrison Frazar drive from Myrtle Beach, Ocean Isle Beach Golf Course exists in a vacuum of coastal charm. The beach itself is snuggled in the picturesque South Brunswick Islands, and the course (refreshingly) is not cut amidst cookie cutter housing.

In fact, there is not a dwelling to be had - other than the occasional bird's nest or gopher hole. The course's literature announces that it is a favorite among locals, and the best-kept secret on the beach. As a writer (and a pest in general), I often search for argument with such cliché-ridden proclamations - but you'll find none here.

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With its old school attributes, the course virtually bleeds tradition - a nice departure from the ridiculously wide fairways and gargantuan greens of some newer courses.

"This course is over 25 years old, the second oldest in Brunswick County," adds Bisset. "It has water, but not that much water that comes into play."

Ocean Isle's layout is right out of an early 1920's Donald Ross or A.W. Tillinghast design manual. In designing Ocean Isle, course architect Russell Breeden moved about as much dirt as a bladed wedge shot.

Mounding is minimal if not non-existent, greens may be approached by air or by land, and if you land in a bunker, you have only yourself to blame.

In terms of overall difficulty, Ocean Isle shouldn't take a toll on your handicap. The beach course plays to a slope of 132 from the tips, and 125 from the whites, while playing to a gentle 111 from the women's tees.

"The course is right on par with other courses around here in terms of difficulty," says Bisset. "Its very traditional in its design, so it can be friendly."

The signature hole at Ocean Isle is the par-5, 11th hole, which according to Bisset is the hardest hole on the course due completely to its sheer length and narrow landing area.

Classic layout and charming surroundings aside, if a course sets you back too many greenbacks, you'll probably visit it as often as you do the Learning Channel. This is where Ocean Isle surprises like no other, with greens fees of $31 during the peak season, $21 during the summer, and $12 during the winter months.

Shame on me for not knowing about Ocean Isle Beach Golf Course? Maybe. But shame on you if you don't know about it now.

For tee times and more info, call the pro shop at (910)579-2610.