Designed to Challenge: A Hole-by-Hole Look at King’s North’s Par-3s
Mention King’s North at Myrtle Beach National and the iconic par-5 sixth hole, otherwise known as “The Gambler,” is understandably always the first topic of conversation. The Arnold Palmer design is also home to several memorable par-4s – Nos. 3 and 18 come immediately to mind, but taken as a hole, the course’s par-3s might be its strongest.
The four one-shotters at King’s North all have two things in common – water and drama – but they vary considerably in challenge. If you are thinking of teeing it up at King’s North, here is a look at each of the course’s par-3s following architect Brandon Johnson’s renovation.
No. 4
Distance: 180 yards (black tees), 168 yards (gold tees), 107 yards (white tees), 97 yards (blue tees), 82 yards (red tees)
Handicap: 16
The opening par-3 demands the round’s most delicate shot. Johnson dramatically expanded the teeing area, allowing the hole to play differently depending on the pin location. The green was enlarged on both sides, introducing new front pin positions that invite birdie – and disaster – with water guarding the front edge.
Johnson also removed trees behind the green that once shielded tee shots from the wind. With those pines gone, golfers are rewarded with expansive views of the fifth and sixth holes, but the danger from swirling breezes is heightened.
No. 8
Distance: 190 yards (black tees), 178 yards (gold tees), 159 yards (white tees), 139 yards (blue tees), 107 yards (red tees)
Handicap: 18
The longest of the par-3s requires a full carry over water but plays to one of the course’s largest greens. The putting surface features a pronounced middle tier and a back bowl that adds both challenge and intrigue.
Finding the correct tier is essential. Hitting the green is only the beginning, as bunkers guard both sides and recovery shots can be demanding depending on the pin location. (8th top photo)
No. 12
Distance: 140 yards (black tees), 129 yards (gold tees), 110 yards (white tees), 98 yards (blue tees), 81 yards (red tees)
Handicap: 17
Johnson reinterpreted the iconic “SC” bunkers flanking this island green to great effect. While maintaining the recognizable look, what was once two bunkers is now five, creating a more dramatic look from the tee.
This remains one of the Myrtle Beach area’s most recognizable par-3s, but here’s the dirty little secret: if you don’t let the water get in your head, it’s arguably the easiest one-shotter on the course.
No. 17
Distance: 160 yards (black tees), 136 yards (gold tees), 119 yards (white tees), 103 yards (blue tees), 85 yards (red tees)
Handicap: 15
Johnson significantly expanded and reshaped the 17th green, adding contour while reconnecting it to the bunkers that loom on both sides. Left-side pin placements bring the fronting beach bunker into play, while right-side locations allow players to use the slope of the green and surrounding contours to feed the ball toward the cup.
Photos for this feature from MyrtleBeachGolfTrips Instagram Account