The Thistle Golf Course

8840 Olde Thistle Downs Road, Calabash, NC 28467

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If you’re looking to bring a taste of Scotland to your trip, consider booking a round at Thistle Golf Club. Not only is it one of the best facilities in the area for links-style golf, but it also houses three nine-hole sets, meaning the fun doesn’t have to stop after hole No. 18. Here’s what to love about Thistle:

Located in Sunset Beach, NC, just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of central Myrtle Beach as well as many Condo-World properties for staying accommodations, Thistle’s three nines (Stewart, Mackay and Cameron) were all designed by Tim Cate. Each nine is quintessentially Scottish, with design features like wide-open fairways, large undulating greens and hazard areas of thistle and thorn. Yet the unique Lowcountry setting makes it so that no matter which two nines you play, the challenges you face are always creative and different (though it is strongly recommended to play all three nines to experience it all). Thistle’s par 5s are difficult, but the par 3s are as playable as they are beautiful to look at. And with a backdrop that will blow you away and conditions that are optimal year-round, Thistle is a great choice no matter when you plan to play and stay.

Meanwhile, Thistle’s staff inside its iconic brick, stone and wood clubhouse is known by locals and returning visitors for its unparalleled customer service. Its porch overlooks the practice putting green while having views of several holes, making it the ultimate setting to sit and relax with friends or family before or after your round.