River Club’s Greatest Hits: Three Holes That Steal the Show

Tucked away in Pawleys Island, River Club often flies under the radar. But once discovered, this Tom Jackson design becomes a regular part of the Myrtle Beach rotation for many group leaders.

With water on 15 of 18 holes and a rating and slope of 72.5 and 139 from the tips (6,617 yards), River Club offers plenty of challenge, but most importantly, the course is fun to play, and that’s at the heart of its appeal. As you plan for your next Myrtle Beach golf trip, here is a closer look at three holes at River Club that drive the conversation in the course’s new clubhouse restaurant, Jackson’s View.

No. 7 ● 364 yards ● Par: 4 ● Handicap: 9
This is a short par-4, but it’s not really reachable, even from the 328-yard white tees. That doesn’t mean there isn’t a decision to be made. All the data tells you to hit the ball as far as possible to make the next shot easier, but water runs up the entire left side of the hole, meaning the more aggressive you get, the greater your chances of rinsing the ball. Did I mention the preferred angle of approach is from the left-center of the fairway, allowing you to mitigate the risk from two greenside bunkers on the right? Layup or hammer driver? The choice is yours. Either way, No. 7 is fun to play.

No. 14 ● 186 yards ● Par: 3 ● Handicap: 16
We all love a good island green par-3, hence the inclusion of No. 14 on this list. The island offers plenty of real estate, but you will need to carry the ball 140 yards (from the 149-yard white tees) to find dry land and the green is fronted by four bunkers, adding to the challenge. The bunkers make the tee shot as nervy as the water on a hole you and your buddies will absolutely discuss after the round. No way this is the second easiest hole on the back nine. (Top photo)

No. 18 ● 518 yards ● Par: 5 ● Handicap: 10
River Club’s most recognizable hole, the inclusion of No. 18 on this list was a no-brainer. Long hitters can reach the green in two on the dogleg left, but there is ample risk involved. There is water up the entire left side of the hole, but players with the fortitude to play close to the pond off the tee will be rewarded with an approach from approximately 170 yards, though it’s all carry over water, to set up a possible eagle putt. For the less daring among us, playing up the right side of the hole eases the risk of a big number, but it plays longer and depending on pin placement you will eventually have to confront the water.

Photos for this feature from MyrtleBeachGolfTrips Instagram Account