Barefoot Resort – Norman Course
Sprawling across the sandy terrain of Myrtle Beach, the Barefoot Resort – Norman Course stands as a splendid golfing gem etched into the lush South Carolina landscape. Designed by Greg Norman — who holds two British Open Championships and 20 PGA Tour titles to his name — this course brilliantly blends the natural beauty of the land with challenging golfing feats.
Course Design and Layout
Experienced golfers will appreciate the Norman Course for its precise use of native sand, which comes into play on an impressive 14 out of the 18 holes. This tactic, called “bump and run,” borrows from the traditional Australian sandbelt courses style that Norman had experienced as he honed his skills and is designed to accommodate players’ low draws.
At 7,200 yards from the longest tees, the Par-72 layout features seven holes along the Intracoastal Waterway. Course routing is dramatically framed by modest elevation changes, long white faces of sand, and waste areas running the entire length of holes, transforming the course into a landscape garden.
Challenges and Hazards
The Barefoot Resort – Norman Course calls upon players of all skill levels to test their abilities. Throughout the course, intricately placed hazards like rolling fairways, I-Beam and bulkhead wall bunkers, and a prevailing wind combine to create a fantastic and challenging round of golf.
Holes 3, 4, and 6 are particularly notable for their risk-reward dynamic. However, they require accurate driving, precision iron shots, and careful putting. Meanwhile, the 9th and 18th holes, both par 5s, serve as serene yet formidable closers due to their proximity to the Intracoastal Waterway.
Recreational Facilities
Beyond the golfing greens, the Barefoot Resort – Norman Course ensures a comprehensive recreational experience. Facilities such as a driving range, a fully stocked pro shop, a golf school, and professional instruction services ensure that a golfer’s every need is catered to.
The clubhouse, enchantingly nestled among low-lying vegetation, offers sweeping views of the course. It houses a restaurant and bar, providing a perfect spot for golfers to unwind after a round. The ambiance in the clubhouse is one of calm and comfort, making it an ideal place for relaxation or socializing with fellow golfers.
Environmental Stewardship
Greg Norman’s outstanding environmental stewardship is apparent in every aspect of the course design. Each hole is carefully crafted to blend seamlessly with the existing natural features, offering breathtaking views while minimizing the impact on the local ecosystem. The resort is also a wildlife refuge, attracting an abundance of native flora and fauna, including egrets, ospreys, turtles, and alligators.
In Conclusion
With its splendid combination of challenging play, stunning scenery, and world-class facilities, the Norman Course at Barefoot Resort is worth a stop on any golfer’s trip to Myrtle Beach. Whether you’re a golfing novice eager to improve your game, a seasoned pro looking for fresh challenges, or simply a nature lover who enjoys an idyllic scenic escape, this course provides an excellent golfing experience. The Barefoot Resort – Norman Course encapsulates all the beauty and challenge that Myrtle Beach has to offer. It stands as a testament to Greg Norman’s design prowess and his passion for the game.
Love the review! I’ve had my share of tricky shots on this course. By the way, anyone knows if they offer twilight rates?
Always astounded by the natural aesthetic of the Norman Course. The use of the native sand really sets it apart, not to mention the views from the 18th hole!
Love reading about these courses, especially ones like Norman’s at Barefoot Resort. Always wonder how intimidating those I-Beam and bulkhead wall bunkers are in person. Anyone got any hitting-out-of-the-sand tips for when I make the trip there next season?
I played the Norman Course twice, and I must admit, the sighting of a turtle on hole 7 both times was the highlight. The ‘bump and run’ certainly added a layer of complexity but boosted my confidence when I figured it out! Pro tip – Don’t forget your sand wedge at home, you’ll need it!
Having played the Norman Course last spring, I can say it seems like Norman took a page straight out of nature’s playbook. Tricky bunkers and hazards though! Makes you reconsider your strategy quite a bit, but it’s worth it. Anyone else felt this way?
Visited the course last month and it really does live up to the hype. The ‘bump and run’ strategy on 14 holes gives the course a unique challenge. Norman’s design really highlights the natural beauty of South Carolina. Also, the wildlife sightings add a nice touch to a day on the greens!