Are you dreaming of waking up to lush fairways, tranquil lake views, and the exclusive lifestyle only a golf course community can offer? If so, the North Strand of South Carolina — stretching from Little River to North Myrtle Beach — is a hidden gem that deserves your attention.
Whether you're a homebuyer looking for a forever home, a snowbird seeking a second residence, or an investor eyeing short-term rental potential, the North Strand’s golf course communities offer the perfect blend of luxury, recreation, and long-term value.
Why Choose a Golf Course Community in the North Strand?
The North Strand is one of the most desirable coastal regions in South Carolina, known for its mild year-round climate, award-winning golf courses, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Golf course communities here offer:
- Gated security and privacy
- Professionally maintained landscapes
- Community amenities such as clubhouses, pools, and tennis courts
- Resort-style living with easy access to shopping, dining, and the beach
- Strong property value appreciation over time
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes in golf course communities tend to maintain higher resale values and attract more affluent buyers and renters, making them ideal for both long-term ownership and investment.
Top Golf Course Communities in the North Strand
Here are some of the most sought-after golf course neighborhoods in the North Strand:
1. Tidewater Plantation (North Myrtle Beach)
Often dubbed the “Pebble Beach of the East,” Tidewater Plantation is a prestigious gated community built around the Tidewater Golf Club, one of the highest-rated public courses in South Carolina. Home options range from luxury condos to custom waterfront estates.
Highlights:
- 24-hour gated security
- Oceanfront beach cabana for residents
- On-site restaurant and pro shop
- Intracoastal Waterway and golf course views
Perfect for: Retirees, second-home buyers, and luxury investors.
2. Barefoot Resort & Golf (North Myrtle Beach)
With four championship courses designed by Greg Norman, Davis Love III, Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye, Barefoot Resort is a massive master-planned community offering a mix of villas, townhomes, and custom homes.
Highlights:
- Marina on the Intracoastal Waterway
- Private beach cabana with shuttle access
- Shopping, dining, and entertainment at Barefoot Landing
- High rental potential for vacation homes
Perfect for: Investors and vacation homebuyers seeking rental income.
3. River Hills Golf & Country Club (Little River)
Tucked away in scenic Little River, River Hills is a charming and established community with mature landscaping and rolling hills — a rare feature in the coastal plains.
Highlights:
- Affordable home options starting in the mid $300s
- Semi-private golf course with club memberships
- Quiet, residential atmosphere just minutes from the beach
Perfect for: Retirees and full-time residents seeking peaceful living.
4. Brunswick Plantation (Calabash/Little River area)
Just across the North Carolina border but popular among North Strand buyers, Brunswick Plantation offers resort-style living at a fraction of the cost compared to other areas.
Highlights:
- 27-hole golf course with practice facilities
- Amenity-rich community with pools, fitness center, and tennis
- Gated entrance and on-site dining
Perfect for: Value-conscious buyers and snowbirds.
Investment Insights: Is It Smart to Buy in a Golf Community?
Yes — and here's why:
- Tourism drives demand. Myrtle Beach welcomed over 20 million visitors in 2024 alone (source: Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce), many of whom are golfers.
- High rental rates for golf-themed vacation properties, especially in peak seasons.
- Lifestyle appeal attracts affluent tenants and long-term buyers.
Whether you're flipping homes or investing in short-term rentals, golf course communities offer stable appreciation and consistent demand.
Tips for Buying or Selling in a Golf Community
For Buyers:
- Research HOA fees and rules — they can vary significantly.
- Ask about golf membership options — some are mandatory, others optional.
- Consider views and lot placement — homes with golf course or water views typically command higher values.
For Sellers:
- Highlight proximity to course amenities and community perks in your listing.
- Stage your home to emphasize outdoor living — patios and screened porches are a big draw.
- Consider selling in spring or fall, when golf activity peaks.
Final Thoughts
From high-end estates in Tidewater to investor-friendly condos in Barefoot, golf course communities in the North Strand offer something for every lifestyle and budget. The blend of natural beauty, premier amenities, and strong real estate fundamentals makes this region a top choice for anyone looking to invest in coastal Carolina living.