When golfers think of South Carolina, Myrtle Beach often comes to mind. With its high-energy atmosphere and dozens of courses, it’s long been a popular destination. But just 30 minutes south, Pawleys Island offers a quieter, more refined alternative that shines brightest in the fall. With world-class courses, comfortable weather, and a laid-back pace, Pawleys Island is a true hidden gem for autumn golf getaways.
Why Pawleys Island Is the Hidden Gem of Fall Golf Getaways
Why Fall Is the Perfect Golf Season in Pawleys
There’s no bad time to visit Pawleys Island, but fall is especially ideal for golf trips.
Comfortable Weather – The summer heat fades, leaving crisp mornings and warm afternoons that are perfect for 18 holes. Humidity drops, breezes pick up, and the conditions make walking the course enjoyable.
Smaller Crowds – In autumn, the area feels more peaceful. Tee times are easier to book, restaurants are less crowded, and there’s more time to enjoy the beauty of the Lowcountry without the summer rush.
Scenic Backdrop – Fall adds extra charm to an already beautiful setting. Marsh grasses take on golden tones, live oaks provide shade, and sunsets over the coastal waterways are the perfect way to end a round.
For golfers seeking both challenge and tranquility, Pawleys Island in fall offers the best of both worlds.
Top Golf Courses Near Pawleys Island
The biggest draw for golfers is the sheer quality of courses within a short drive. Here are some of the standouts you can enjoy:
True Blue Golf Resort
Mike Strantz’s masterpiece is bold and unforgettable. With wide fairways, dramatic bunkers, and creative greens, True Blue delivers a round that challenges players of every skill level. Staying in Tidelife’s vacation condos at True Blue puts you just steps from the action.
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Directly across from True Blue, Caledonia is consistently ranked among the best public courses in America. The oak-lined entrance sets the stage for a round where every hole is a blend of strategy and beauty. The finishing hole, with its approach over the marsh, is one you’ll remember long after your trip.
Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club
A Jack Nicklaus signature course, Pawleys Plantation is as scenic as it is strategic. The front nine plays through wooded areas, while the back nine opens up to sweeping views of the salt marsh. Precision is key, and the course rewards careful shot placement. Stay with Tidelife to enjoy this beautiful community.
Litchfield Country Club
As one of the first courses built on the Grand Strand, Litchfield offers classic design and Southern charm. It’s welcoming for golfers of all levels, making it a great option for groups with mixed experience.
Willbrook Plantation
Steeped in history, Willbrook winds through centuries-old oaks and historic rice fields. It’s a course that blends natural beauty with thoughtful design, offering an experience that feels uniquely Lowcountry.
Founders Club at Pawleys Island
This modern course features rolling fairways, creative bunkering, and a layout that keeps things interesting from start to finish. It’s a fun addition to any Pawleys Island golf itinerary.
With so many acclaimed courses within a 30-minute drive, Pawleys Island makes an excellent base for a golf-focused trip.
Stay Steps from the Fairways with Tidelife Vacation Rentals
Golf trips are as much about where you stay as where you play. That’s where Tidelife Vacation Rentals comes in.
True Blue Condos – Perfect for golfers who want maximum convenience. These rentals place you right on the resort grounds, so you can wake up and walk straight to the first tee.
Spacious Coastal Homes – Ideal for groups, these rentals provide room to spread out, full kitchens for post-round meals, and comfortable living spaces for relaxing together.
Close to Dining and Beaches – After golf, enjoy Pawleys Island’s dining scene, boutique shops, and quiet beaches — all just minutes from your rental.
Tidelife’s wide range of properties ensures you’ll find the perfect home base, whether you’re here for a weekend or a week-long golf getaway.
Pawleys Island vs. Myrtle Beach
While Myrtle Beach boasts quantity, Pawleys Island focuses on quality. Golf here feels more intimate and relaxed, with courses designed to highlight the area’s natural beauty. Instead of rushing from one crowded tee box to another, you’ll have time to savor each round and enjoy the peace that makes Pawleys so special.
Plan Your Fall Golf Getaway
This autumn, skip the busy fairways of Myrtle Beach and discover why Pawleys Island is a hidden gem for golfers. With legendary courses, stunning scenery, and convenient rentals through Tidelife, you’ll experience the perfect blend of challenging play and coastal relaxation.
Book your Pawleys Island vacation rental today and make this fall your best golf season yet.