Which Tom Jackson Par-5 11th Is Tougher: River Club or River Hills?

Tom Jackson has left an unmistakable mark on the Grand Strand, designing golf courses that reward smart decision-making while never letting you get too comfortable. Two of his most memorable challenges come on the par-5 11th hole at River Club and River Hills—both demanding, both scenic, and both capable of swinging a scorecard in a hurry.

We recently captured fresh photos of each hole, and it sparked an online debate: which one is tougher?

River Club Golf Course – Pawleys Island, SC

Located just south of Myrtle Beach in Pawleys Island, River Club is a Lowcountry classic that leans heavily on strategy over brute force. The par-5 11th is widely considered the course’s most difficult hole—and for good reason.

At first glance, it tempts you to be aggressive. But this is a hole where restraint pays off, starting with the dog-leg right tee shot. The second shot is all about positioning, setting up a manageable approach into a long, bow-tie shaped green that slopes noticeably to the right. Miss your spot, and the water waiting on that side quickly comes into play. Holding this green, especially with a longer club, is no easy task. 

It’s a hole that quietly asks: How much do you really want to bite off?

River Hills Golf & Country Club – Little River, SC

Farther north near the North Carolina border in Little River, River Hills offers a different flavor of Tom Jackson design—one that puts constant pressure on your alignment and discipline.

The par-5 11th features water running the entire left side from tee to green, making accuracy essential from the opening shot. Off the tee, the smart play is favoring the right side of the fairway. From there, a well-placed layup toward the second fairway bunker—roughly 80 yards short of the green—sets up the best angle into a guarded target.

It’s less about temptation and more about execution. Drift left at any point, and the hole can unravel quickly.

Two Great Tests, Two Different Questions when playing this hole.

River Club asks you to manage temptation and green access.
River Hills demands precision and discipline from start to finish.

Both are classic Tom Jackson par 5s—and both leave golfers debating long after the round is over.

So which one gets your vote?
Why not play them both and find out—check out this two-round deal featuring both of these Tom Jackson–designed Grand Strand favorites

Photos for this feature from MyrtleBeachGolfTrips Instagram Account