Myrtle Beach, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Myrtle Beach is buzzing with the 42nd Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship, highlighting its role as a golfing hub with a staggering $1.6 billion economic impact. The region supports over 13,000 jobs and contributes significantly to local tax revenues. With approximately $705 million expected to flow into the economy from the tournament alone, golf tourism proves to be a powerhouse for community development. Experts underscore that golf extends beyond recreation, fostering charitable efforts and environmental stewardship in the area.
Myrtle Beach’s Golf Scene is Hitting the Greens with a $1.6 Billion Impact
Myrtle Beach, often celebrated as the “Golf Capital of the World,” is buzzing with excitement as nearly 3,000 golfers tee off in the 42nd Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship. This high-profile event is not just about swinging clubs and sinking putts; it serves as a major showcase of the region’s massive economic force. The championship takes place on over 50 stunning courses along the Grand Strand, drawing in participants from all 50 states and more than 20 countries.
A Glimpse at Golf’s Economic Punch
The recent economic impact study reveals that golf is a staggering $1.6 billion industry in the Myrtle Beach area alone. This figure reflects the significant role the sport plays in the local economy, supporting over 13,000 jobs. That’s right, folks! Golf isn’t just a fun pastime here; it’s a vital economic engine that churns out almost $483 million in wages and benefits for residents. And for the local and state coffers, golf contributes roughly $135 million in taxes. Not too shabby for what many consider a leisurely activity!
Golf Tourism: A Powerhouse for the Local Economy
The World Amateur, or World Am as it’s affectionately known, is a prime example of how golf tourism benefits Myrtle Beach. This tournament alone is expected to inject approximately $705 million directly into the local economy. Can you imagine? An estimated 759,000 visitors traveled more than 50 miles just to partake in the beautiful game, paving the way for about 1.4 million rounds of golf played this year!
Community Development Through Golf
The impact of golf extends beyond just financial figures. According to experts, the sport has been integral to the Myrtle Beach area’s development for nearly a century. When you factor in charitable contributions and a strong sense of environmental stewardship, it’s clear golf is about more than just sport in this region. Tracy Conner, from the Myrtle Beach Area Golf Course Owners Association, points out the long-term effects that golf has on local communities, showing that it generates a spirit of giving back and caring for the environment.
Study Details: How Do They Know All This?
The findings stem from thorough research conducted in 2024, which combined operational, economic, and tourism data. This collaboration involved several organizations, including the National Golf Foundation and the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism. Their joint efforts have provided an insightful look into the immense impact of golf on the area.
World Championship Fun for Everyone
The World Am is facilitated by Golf Tourism Solutions and caters to golfers of all skill levels, featuring highly-ranked courses like Caledonia Golf and Fish Club and TPC Myrtle Beach. The tournament embraces a net, stroke play format that allows players of different handicaps to compete fairly, making it as inclusive as it is competitive.
Prizes and More Prizes!
If competition wasn’t enough to lure players in, the prizes sure will! Major sponsors such as the PGA Tour Superstore contribute to the excitement with a lineup of random drawing prizes totaling $25,000, not to mention the chance to win for flight winners. This takes the thrill of the game to a whole new level!
In Conclusion: Swinging for the Stars!
As the tournament continues, one thing is clear: Myrtle Beach and its golf industry are thriving. The economic impact underscores the importance of golf to the community and makes it evident that this beloved sport is here to stay. So whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, grab those clubs and experience the magic of Myrtle Beach’s greens. Who knows? You might just be part of the next big golf story!
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Additional Resources
- Forbes: Golf’s $1.6 Billion Economic Engine Powers Myrtle Beach Region
- My Horry News: Economic Impact Study Illustrates Importance of Golf to the Grand Strand
- Spectrum Local News: South Carolina Tourism: Myrtle Beach Golf Impact
- WMBF News: Study: Golf Generates $1.6 Billion and Over 13,000 Jobs in Myrtle Beach Area
- Google Search: Myrtle Beach Golf Impact
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
