Myrtle Beach, December 1, 2025
News Summary
The beloved River Oaks Golf Club in Myrtle Beach has officially closed as plans for a new housing development take shape. This closure marks a significant change for the local community, where the golf club has been a cherished destination since 1987. The new development will include over 200 single-family homes, leading to mixed feelings among residents who treasure the club’s history. Special events are planned to celebrate its legacy, as the golf scene in Myrtle Beach continues to evolve.
River Oaks Golf Club Says Goodbye as New Homes Are on the Horizon
The charming city of Myrtle Beach in Horry County is currently facing a major change. River Oaks Golf Club, a beloved part of the local community, has officially closed its doors for good. This closure paves the way for a new housing development that many residents are still trying to wrap their heads around.
New Beginnings on a Treasured Golf Course
The land where the River Oaks Golf Club once thrived is now zoned for SF10 housing. This means homes can be constructed within 10,000 square feet of each other, granting developers the green light to erect over 200 single-family homes. This is a significant shift for a space that has served avid golfers since its inception in 1987, where approximately 50,000 rounds of golf were played every year.
Community Sentiment
As the news of the closure has settled, a wave of sadness has washed over the community. Many residents have fond memories of the golf club, which has been a go-to spot for family outings, friendly competitions, and weekend relaxation. The warmth and friendliness of the club’s staff has always made it a special place in the community. Scott Taylor, the General Manager since 2009, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support from the community and the staff, noting the deep relationships built over the years. The emotional toll of this closure is not lost on anyone.
Myrtle Beach’s Golf Scene Shifts
This closure isn’t an isolated incident; Myrtle Beach has seen a flurry of golf course renovations and closures over the past few years. Despite these changes, Myrtle Beach remains a premier golf destination in the U.S., with over 90 courses still welcoming enthusiasts. While some courses shutter their doors, others are finding new life through renovations and improvements.
Memories and Farewell Events
As River Oaks prepares for its final season, the management is making efforts to celebrate its legacy. Special events are planned to honor the club and its history, along with commemorative merchandise that will allow loyal patrons to take home a piece of the cherished establishment. Among those deeply affected by the closure is Bill O’Brien, an 89-year-old starter at the club, who had hoped to retire at 90 with one last round of golf under his belt.
Quality Until the Very End
Even in its final days, River Oaks Golf Club is dedicated to maintaining its course in top-notch condition, a testament to its long-standing commitment to quality and community satisfaction. While the developers have yet to announce a concrete start date for construction on the new homes, the anticipation of change is already palpable in the air.
Honoring the Past and Looking Forward
One special event to look forward to during this farewell season is the Folds of Honor Charity event, scheduled for Saturday at 9 a.m. This event promises to honor the memories and contributions of the club while also giving back to a noble cause. As the days of River Oaks Golf Club draw to a close, it’s clear that the love for the game and for this establishment will linger long after the golf carts have been parked.
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Additional Resources
- WPDE News
- Myrtle Beach Online
- WMBF News
- On the Green Magazine
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: Myrtle Beach
- Google Search: River Oaks Golf Club
- Google Scholar: Golf Courses in Myrtle Beach
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach
- Google News: River Oaks Golf Club closure
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.
