While summer’s end signals the close of golf season for many players, it marks the start of peak season in North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands, one of the Southeast’s more underrated fall golf destinations.
With daytime temperatures typically ranging from the upper 60s into the mid 70s in October, lower humidity and more than 20 layouts in the area, autumn is the ideal time to enjoy the Brunswick Islands along North Carolina’s southeast coast.
The BrunswickIslands stretch from the Cape Fear River to the state line. Five barrier islands provide six pristine beaches for families and nature-lovers, while quaint island and mainland towns beckon with family-owned B&Bs, restaurants and shops. Forts, lighthouses, historic architecture, boating, fishing and more than 20 golf courses offer plenty to do and see on a trip that harkens back to a simpler time.
The area’s collection of acclaimed courses includes Rivers Edge, an Arnold Palmer design that provides a stunning finish along the Shallotte River. Thistle Golf Club combines Scottish-inspired architecture with immaculate conditioning and first-class service. Oyster Bay Golf Links remains one of Dan Maples’ signature designs, winding along tidal marshes and through live oak trees, while Sea Trail Golf Resort’s trio of courses – the Byrd, Jones and Maples layouts – and onsite accommodations provide visitors with the convenience of a full-service resort.
Additional favorites include four courses at Ocean Ridge Plantation – Leopard’s Chase, Tiger’s Eye, Panther’s Run, Lion’s Paw – The Pearl Golf Links, Lockwood Folly Country Club, Meadowlands Golf Club, Sandpiper Bay Golf Club and Crow Creek Golf Club, among many others, creating endless possibilities for group leaders.
“Fall showcases everything that makes golf in the Brunswick Islands special,” said John Sneed, executive director of Brunswick County Tourism Development Authority. “The weather is idyllic, and the courses are in outstanding condition, allowing golfers to enjoy a great trip in a setting that is as relaxing as it is beautiful.”
The destination’s appeal extends well beyond the course. Visitors can spend afternoons exploring the waterfront communities of Southport, Calabash and Shallotte, enjoy fresh local seafood, stroll uncrowded beaches, or relax with sunset views along 45 miles of coastline after finishing their rounds.
Just as appealing is the destination’s value. Numerous golf resorts and package providers offer stay-and-play experiences that combine golf with villas, condominiums and resort accommodations, making it easy for groups to build multi-day trips. Sea Trail Golf Resort, for example, allows guests to stay, play and dine entirely on property, while Brunswick Plantation offers onsite accommodations and customizable packages as well.
With ideal playing conditions, a variety of courses and the relaxed pace of a coastal destination, North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands continues to establish itself as one of the Southeast’s premier fall golf escapes.
For information on golf packages, accommodations and trip planning, visit NCBrunswick.com.
Photo: River’s Edge along the Shallotte River (River’s Edge)