Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a renowned destination for golf enthusiasts, is now embracing the burgeoning trend of short course golf, a movement that has seen significant growth within the resort sector. Legends Golf Resort, a property boasting five distinct courses integral to its stay-and-play packages, has announced plans for a new par 3 course slated to open in late 2026.
Introducing “The Piper”
Designed by architect Ken Baker of Baker Golf Design, the new nine-hole course, christened “The Piper,” will be a lighted facility situated directly off the rear patio of the Legends clubhouse. It is being developed within the resort’s existing 30-acre practice area.
Spanning just 12 acres, The Piper will feature holes ranging from 54 to 122 yards. It is envisioned as a contemporary short course experience, emphasizing social interaction, music, food, and beverage offerings, with the added amenity of lighted play to extend golfing hours.
“The Piper is a course that we’ve envisioned for a long time at Legends,” stated Larry Woodberry, director of operations for Legends Golf Resort. “We expect it to bring new energy to the resort and resonate with our guests, especially those who are looking to add to their afternoon and evening itineraries. The Piper reflects what our guests and today’s golfers want – a social, playable golf experience where groups come together for friendly competition, music, food, drinks and a relaxed atmosphere. We see The Piper as a gateway for new experiences with short, fun rounds and music-driven celebrations for new golfers and avid players alike.”
The Piper will be strategically located near the resort’s lighted driving range, a 50,000-square-foot putting green, and a dedicated short game area.
Design and Playability
From a playability perspective, the short course prioritizes creativity, strategy, and skillful shot-making over sheer distance, making it an ideal venue for a warm-up round, an afternoon match with friends, or for playing additional holes at the conclusion of the day. The design incorporates three-hole loops and multiple food and beverage stations throughout the course, aiming to create a unique resort amenity within the Grand Strand region. For context, the Aero Club, located approximately 12 miles from Legends and near Myrtle Beach International Airport, is an established 18-hole par 3 course that also offers lighted play.
With its name and design ethos drawing inspiration from Scottish heritage, The Piper’s layout encourages a variety of strategic approaches and a strong emphasis on ground play, prompting golfers to think creatively about their shots.
“We set out to create holes that are visually engaging and memorable, but also fit with the landscape and atmosphere that we’re looking to highlight at the resort,” commented Baker. “That inspiration comes to life through the routing of the course, with a links feel and drama happening on the ground rather than in the air. Entries into the greens are open to encourage creativity and shotmaking. We’re creating a place and experience that encourages fun, connection and camaraderie – both among your group and with those watching across the course or from the nearby clubhouse patio.”
The clubhouse patio will offer guests an unobstructed view of the course, allowing them to observe players on multiple greens simultaneously.
Legends Golf Resort’s Offerings
Legends Golf Resort has a well-established reputation for its comprehensive all-inclusive golf packages. The resort features on-site villas and five 18-hole courses: the Heathland, Moorland, and Parkland courses, all accessible from the main clubhouse, in addition to Oyster Bay and The Heritage Club located elsewhere in the vicinity.
According to the National Golf Foundation, short courses, including both par 3 and executive length layouts, have accounted for over 40% of new golf course openings in the U.S. over the last five years, representing approximately 10% of the existing golf supply. A significant portion of these recent additions have been incorporated into resort properties and high-end private clubs.
Business Style Takeaway: Legends Golf Resort’s investment in “The Piper” exemplifies a strategic response to evolving golfer preferences, prioritizing social engagement and flexible play formats. This development is poised to enhance Myrtle Beach’s appeal by catering to a broader demographic, including newer golfers and those seeking more casual, entertainment-focused golf experiences.
Information compiled from materials : www.forbes.com