Sea Trail Golf Resort

Courses: Jones, Byrd, Maples | Location: Sunset Beach, NC| Established: 1977

Tucked away on the serene southeastern coast, just minutes from the shores of Sunset Beach and a short drive from Myrtle Beach, Sea Trail Golf Resort is a top destination that blends Southern charm with coastal beauty, perfect for a golf vacation in North Carolina.

With three championship-caliber courses designed by Rees Jones, Willard Byrd, and Dan Maples, Sea Trail offers a rich and varied golfing experience. Each layout presents a different personality, from dramatic water features to quiet woodland settings, making it the perfect place for extended golf vacations, buddy trips, and year-round play.

Golf Courses

Sea Trail’s trio of 18-hole championship courses is what makes the resort a standout in the Carolinas. Whether you’re in search of bold architectural design or a more relaxed round in a natural setting, Sea Trail has something for every golfer.

• Jones Course - A striking Rees Jones design, this course features wide, undulating fairways, bold bunkering, and water on 11 holes, including a stunning island green on the par-3 5th, the course’s signature challenge. Precision is rewarded here, and the course's blend of visual drama and strategic shot-making makes it a favorite among seasoned players.
• Byrd Course - The Willard Byrd layout winds through dense woodlands and marshy lowlands, demanding thoughtful course management. With several forced carries over native wetlands, elevated greens, and subtle contouring, it provides a true test of accuracy while showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
• Maples Course - Designed by Dan Maples, this is the most accessible of the three layouts, offering generous fairways and open approaches, ideal for mid- to high-handicap players. Risk-reward holes and creative routing make it both friendly and fun, perfect for warm-up rounds or casual competition.

With distinct character and architectural pedigree, all three courses at Sea Trail are par-72 layouts and maintain a balance between challenge and playability that keeps guests returning year after year.

Clubhouse & amenities

Sea Trail is more than just a golf destination; it’s a full-service resort with extensive amenities to enhance your stay both on and off the course.

• Practice facilities - A comprehensive practice area includes a full driving range, chipping green, bunker complex, and multiple putting greens, giving players ample space to sharpen their skills before the round.
• Pro shops - Each course features its own fully stocked pro shop, offering equipment, branded apparel, and local knowledge. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to assist with club fittings, tee times, or gear.
• Golf carts & rentals - Modern GPS-enabled carts are available for all courses, and club rentals make it easy for golfers to enjoy the game without extra baggage.

Restaurant & Bars

Sea Trail offers multiple on-site dining options to suit any post-round craving or casual evening:

• Clubhouse Grill – Located at the heart of the resort, this relaxed restaurant serves up American classics, local seafood, and refreshing drinks, all with views over the fairways.
• Outdoor Patio – A favorite spot for post-round drinks and group gatherings, especially during the golden hour.
• Nearby Sunset Beach dining – Just minutes away, enjoy a wide selection of Southern coastal cuisine, from fresh shrimp and oysters to barbecue and Lowcountry fare.

Accommodation

The Sea Trail Villas are located directly on the resort property, offering a wide selection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, many with golf course views. Ideal for groups, families, or extended stays, each villa includes:

• Fully equipped kitchens
• Spacious living areas
• Private patios or balconies
• Wi-Fi and smart TVs
• Access to resort amenities including pools, hot tubs, and a fitness center

Location

Sea Trail Golf Resort is located in a laid-back beach town known for its stunning shoreline, gentle surf, and family-friendly atmosphere.

The resort is:

• 10 minutes from Sunset Beach Pier
• 20 minutes from Calabash (the "Seafood Capital of the World")
• 45 minutes from Myrtle Beach International Airport
• 1 hour from Wilmington, NC

Its convenient location makes it an ideal base for exploring the greater Brunswick Islands region or enjoying the entertainment and nightlife of Myrtle Beach, just a short drive south.

Nearby

Enhance your golf trip with these local highlights:

• Sunset Beach – Pristine, uncrowded, and consistently ranked among the best beaches in North Carolina. Perfect for a post-round walk or swim.
• Ingram Planetarium – A unique local attraction with family-friendly astronomy exhibits.
• Bird Island Reserve – A protected coastal ecosystem perfect for kayaking, bird-watching, or nature photography.
• Calabash Waterfront – Ideal for a seafood dinner and waterfront stroll after a day on the links.