The South Course: Coastal Golf with a Different Personality

While the North Course delivers bold greens and an intriguing journey through dunes and pines, the South offers a different attraction. Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw combined generous fairways, natural contours and spectacular coastal holes to create a layout that encourages thoughtful, enjoyable golf.

In our interview, Jon stressed that a visit should include both courses. After exploring their contrasting designs, it is easy to understand why.

The South’s opening holes introduce a more sheltered setting among the pines. However, the fourth changes the atmosphere as the fairway sweeps downhill towards the coastline.

From there, ocean views become a defining feature. Even so, the scenery should not distract you from the strategy. Wide fairways provide options, but your position still matters when approaching the green.

South Course Holes to Look Out For

The fourth: the coastal reveal

The fourth marks the transition from the opening woodland setting to the open coast. This sweeping par four turns right and descends towards a green framed by sand and ocean views.

Consequently, it offers more than a memorable photograph. The slope and running turf also influence how far your tee shot travels and where it finishes.

The fifth: a striking seaside par three

Next, the fifth presents a downhill tee shot with the ocean beyond the green. Its exposed setting makes judging the breeze important, while the steep drop at the front adds another consideration.

Rather than letting the backdrop dictate your swing, choose a clear target and commit to your club selection.

The eleventh: a demanding approach towards the sea

The eleventh is a strong par four that heads towards the coastline. Sandy hazards and an elevated, well-protected green make it a substantial test.

Here, distance alone will not solve the problem. Instead, think about the position that gives you the clearest approach.

The fourteenth: temptation on a short par four

The short 14th introduces an inviting risk-and-reward decision. Longer hitters may consider attacking the green, but the surrounding sand gives that ambition a price.

Alternatively, a controlled tee shot leaves a shorter approach without taking on the same risk. It is a useful reminder that the boldest option is not always the smartest.

The closing stretch: strategy beside the beach

The final holes combine coastal scenery with contrasting challenges. The 15th requires care with placement, while the shorter 16th adds a dip before the green that complicates a running approach.

Then comes the downhill par-three 17th, with its ocean backdrop and substantial sandy hazards. Finally, the par-five 18th brings the round home along the coast, with sand influencing the approach.

Together, these holes provide a finish worth allowing time to savour.

Use the Ground, Not Just the Air

Published playing accounts consistently highlight the South Course’s generous width and opportunities to run the ball towards the greens. However, that does not make every approach straightforward.

As Jon explained, golfers need to consider their position and use the contours rather than simply swing harder. Therefore, assess the landing area as carefully as the flag.

A lower approach or a putt from off the green may offer a useful alternative to a high wedge. Equally, some greens and hazards require a more direct aerial shot.

My recommendation is to include both courses in your itinerary. The North and South share the same remarkable coastal setting, yet their different designs give you two distinct golfing experiences.