Wrightsville Beach Golf Courses
A visiting golfer worried about having withdrawals while at the beach can take a deep breath and relax. Here are some of the great and gorgeous golf courses, private, semi-private and public, which can be played when a break from the surf, sand and sun is needed:
The Cape Fear course at the Cape Fear Country Club in Wilmington is one of the oldest in New Hanover County. This historic local course is 112 years old and is one of only two Donald Ross-designed courses in Wilmington. With 18 holes spanning more than 6,856 yards with a par of 72, the Cape Fear Course, off Oleander Drive, is open year-round but restricted to Cape Fear Country Club members. (910) 762-4652
If a picturesque stroll from hole to hole is more your style, The Country Club of Landfall, just across the Intracoastal Waterway from Wrightsville Beach, contains two courses: the Jack Nicklaus course and the Pete Dye course. The 18-hole Pete Dye course spans 6,997 yards with a par of 72, while the Jack Nicklaus course has 27 holes covering more than 10,583 yards. The Country Club of Landfall is a private golf course.(910) 256-8411
In 2007, Eagle Point Golf Club was 83rd on the list of the top 100 American Golf Courses by Golf Digest. The appeal may have something to do with its scenic location on the Intracoastal Waterway, overlooking New Hanover County’s amazing marshlands and wildlife. Lying opposite Figure Eight Island on the mainland, Eagle Point has 18 holes covering 7,170 yards with a par of 72. The course is also noted by Wilmington golfers as being especially challenging, with 10-15 mile-per-hour winds sweeping in from the waterway. Eagle Point Golf Club is restricted to members. (910) 686-4653
The Wilmington Municipal Golf Course in the Long Leaf Hills community is the only public golf course in town, but fortunately, one of the local favorites. Over the years, the Donald Ross-designed course has been extensively renovated and is now one of the finest courses in the area. With 18 holes covering 6,564 yards with a par of 71, the Wilmington Municipal Golf Course is perfect for amateurs and experts. The third hole has been named “One of North Carolina’s Ten Best Holes” by Golf Digest because of its demanding uphill slope. It was also named 50th best Municipal golf Course by Golf Week Magazine. The course is open year-round to the public. (910) 791-0558
The Porters Neck Country Club is a Tom Fazio-designed golf course that has been named “Number One Coastal Course” by Golf Digest. Measuring 7,122 yards with a par of 72, Porters Neck offers rolling terrain and a striking view. The 18-hole course, located at the northernmost point of New Hanover County, has hosted the North Carolina Open, the North Carolina Amateur and the first stage of the PGA Tour Qualifying School. The club is member-owned but also open to the public. (910) 686-1177
Since 1955, Pine Valley Country Club, nestled in the heart of Wilmington, has offered its members beautiful greens. With 18 holes spanning 6,472 yards with a par of 72, Pine Valley has something to offer golfers of all skill levels. There is also a kids’ course for the little ones to test their skills. Pine Valley is a year-round private golf course that prides itself on family fun. Not only does Pine Valley offer a stimulating golfing experience, but tennis and swimming, as well. (910) 791-3971
Echo Farms Golf and Country Club opened in 1974 and has an 18-hole championship golf course over 6,724 yards with a par of 72. The course is considered one of the widest in the area, as well as one of the most difficult, with frequent bunkers and forced lay-ups. The course is surrounded by beautiful North Carolina pines and lies bordering the Cape Fear River, making it an aesthetically gratifying day on the greens. In addition to the course, Echo Farms offers members and guests a driving range with both synthetic and grass tees. Echo Farms is a semi-private golfing facility with membership and public availability. (910) 791-9318
Built in 1983, Beau Rivage Resort & Golf Club offers golfers 18 challenging holes covering 6,565 yards with a par of 72. Golfers are invited to “stay and play” at their delightful Southern plantation-style golf villas. The resort also offers a golf school, with classes and lessons taught by J. Banks Guyton and Norwood Ezzel, two of the most experienced instructors on the coast. Beau Rivage Resort and Golf Club is a semi-private club, accepting new members and public play. 800-628-7080
Magnolia Greens is a 27-hole, Tom Jackson signature golf course. Located in Leland, N.C., only a few miles from the North Carolina beaches, Magnolia Greens is a public course that was the host of the 1998 and 1999 PGA Qualifying Tours. The course offers an on-site golf school, taught by professionals, and outstanding practice facilities. Other accommodations include a full-service deli and pro shop.