Lion's Paw

351 Ocean Ridge Pkwy SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469

$$

Lion’s Paw, the first of the Big Cats at Ocean Ridge Plantation, set the tone for a property that grew into one of the area’s most prominent. Widely regarded as one of Willard Byrd’s finest designs, Lion’s Paw provides both beauty and a rugged challenge, highlighted by native areas and a creek valley.

There is water on 15 of 18 holes with oysters shells often lining the lakes and creeks that traverse the property, so there are plenty of visuals to enhance the Lion’s Paw experience. Playing 7,003 yards from the tips, Lion’s Paw presents a significant challenge to the best of players.

For mid handicappers, the 6,457-yard white tees offer a formidable test as well, while the 5,872-yard gold tees present higher handicappers with the opportunity to score.

Among the most memorable challenges is the par-3 17th, which features a green that allows golfers to run the ball up in front of the putting surface but is otherwise surrounded by water. The 154-yard (white tees) hole helps bring drama to the closing stretch at Lion’s Paw.

Golfers need to arrive at the tee ready to play their best as the 1st and 10th holes, both medium-length par 4s, are among the course’s toughest. With a creek running along the right side of the fairway before cutting in front of the green, No. 10 will test every part of your game and players love it.

Lion’s Paw earned 3.5 stars from Golf Digest’s "Best Places to Play” guide and the clubhouse was ranked among "America’s 100 Best Golf Shops” by Golf Shop Operations magazine.

Lion’s Paw won’t break the bank and provides players with a quality layout.