Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – perhaps the nation’s premier region for destination golf – hasn’t really gotten in on the short course movement that’s been gaining popularity in the resort space. Until now that is.
Legends Golf Resort, which features five distinctive courses as part of its stay-and-play packages, announced it is building a new par 3 course that will open for play in late 2026. Designed by architect Ken Baker and Baker Golf Design, the lighted, nine-hole course called The Piper is located directly off the back patio of the clubhouse at Legends, developed within the resort’s 30-acre practice facility.
The Piper itself sits on just 12 acres, with holes that range in length from 54 to 122 yards, and is positioned as a true modern short course experience with a focus on social connection, music, food and beverage, and the option to extend the golf day with lighted play.
“The Piper is a course that we’ve envisioned for a long time at Legends,” said 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 positioned close to the resort’s lighted grass range, 50,000 square-foot putting green and short game area.
From a playability standpoint, the short course emphasizes creativity, strategy and shot-making over distance, making it ideal for a warm-up round, afternoon match among friends, or bonus holes at the end of the day. There will be three-hole loops and multiple food and beverage outlets throughout the course, creating a resort amenity unlike anything else currently in the Grand Strand. The Aero Club, located about 12 miles from Legends and adjacent to Myrtle Beach International Airport, is a standalone 18-hole par 3 course that has lights for night play.
With its name and experience rooted in Scottish heritage, the layout of The Piper encourages a variety of approaches and a focus on the ground game, encouraging players to think creatively.
“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,” said 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.”
Guests have a full view of the course from the clubhouse patio, with the ability to watch players across multiple greens at the same time.
Legends Golf Resort has long put a premium on its all-inclusive golf packages, with on-site villas and five 18-hole courses: the Heathland, Moorland and Parkland courses that all play out of the main clubhouse, as well as two other in the area in Oyster Bay and the Heritage Club.
Short courses (whether Par 3 or executive length) have comprised more than 40% of new openings in the U.S. over the past five years while accounting for about 10% of existing supply, according to the National Golf Foundation. Many of these recent adds have been at resorts and high-end private clubs.