Willbrook Plantation Golf Course in Pawley’s Island has made a name for itself as a favorite for female golfers. What makes this course so special is its appeal to men and women – and any appreciator of a day of golf in a locale unlike any other.
Distinctions run the gamut for Willbrook Plantation Golf Course. Golf for Women Magazine ranks it 25th in its Top 50 for Women list. It’s also in Golf Digest’s America’s Top 50 Courses for Women. Ladies aren’t the only big fans. The award-winning TV show Nature Scene featured the course’s calm ambiance and melding of the golf course and nature. Provincial oaks, waterways and wetlands lend beauty and challenge to Willbrook.
Golf Digest recognized Willbrook Plantation Golf Course with a 4.5-star rating in their Places to Play list. It’s part of the 21-course Prime Times Founders Collection, representing the best golf courses in Myrtle Beach. It’s a challenging course that also plays well for first-time visitors.
“Staff and course were all excellent in providing a superior day of golf enjoyment. Course is tough but fair and I look forward to playing it again.”
The Design
Designer Dan Maples considers Willbrook Plantation Golf Course, a par-72 course at 6,722 yards from the longest tees, one of his best works. Nature gave him a tremendous canvas to work with. Amid centuries-old oaks on the site of two Carolina plantations, this beauty is part of the Waccamaw Golf Trail, a collection of a dozen gorgeous courses on the Grand Strand’s hammock coast.
It features wide, crisp fairways, rolling greens, and new Bermuda grass installed in 2006 that gives it an exquisite upgrade. The course itself opened in 1988, and is considered a must-play when you’re in Pawley’s Island.
All holes at Willbrook Plantation Golf Course are high-risk, high-reward. It’s a course that rewards accuracy more than distance, which plays right into tactical differences in women vs. men on the golf course. Take some time to read the 6 historic markers throughout the course. One of the plantations on which the site is built dates to 1798. You might even get to share your round with an occasional alligator, deer or hawk.
“I don’t think there is a member of our group that doesn’t like this golf course! It’s on our itinerary every year. We love the overall feel of this course, the history surrounding you on multiple holes, and the natural beauty of the Low Country.”
Signature Hole
The book The 100 Greatest Holes along the Grand Strand features two at Willbrook Plantation Golf Club – Nos. 1 and 15. Aesthetically pleasing challenges are on full display on the par-5 No. 15. The entire course at Willbrook Plantation Golf Course is a showcase of nature that requires a high degree of tactical play to navigate, through Lowcountry marshes and natural grasses.
So many get honorable mention, including one we liked even more: No. 6. A par-3, 127-yard play from the white tees, No. 6’s appeal is quickly apparent as you approach. You’ll have to navigate a sizable left of the green and two grass hollows beyond. The up and down becomes difficult if you miss to the left of the green.
“Accuracy is at a premium, especially when avoiding large trees. It’s not the longest course on the Strand, but it is going to make you think your way around it. It’s also very peaceful and serene on the course; I think this is what Mark Twain was talking about when he said, ‘a good walk spoiled.’”
Type of greens
The hybrid Champion Bermuda grass greens at Willbrook Plantation Golf Club installed in 2006 get rave reviews, and roll true in every season. They’re receptive, and provide an outstanding finish on a gorgeous course.
Clubhouse
The dining room is popular to players and locals. Grab breakfast before your round or a lunch afterward. Stay awhile and watch the game on several big-screen TVs. The Willbrook Plantation Golf Course clubhouse features a full bar, too.
“Played Willbrook with our group of 8 golfers on our annual trip. First visit won’t be the last. Beautiful property, very nice condition. There is a lot of water but the course is playable. We have handicaps in our group that range from 4 to 19 and everyone enjoyed it.
Have to give special mention to the nice lady who ran the snack bar. She was by herself when the lunch rush hit all at once and she handled it great. Try the meatloaf sandwich!”
Practice Facilities
Willbrook Plantation Golf Course boasts a wonderful 12-tee targeted practice area on grass. It has a putting green, short-game area and sand and chipping area. It’s a comprehensive practice area with plenty of room and options.
Learn more
For tee times, a photo gallery of Willbrook Plantation Golf Course, and reviews, visit the site’s website today.