Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, is known for its pristine coastline, charming community, and laid-back atmosphere — but it's also a premier destination for golf lovers. With its year-round mild climate, scenic beauty, and an abundance of world-class courses, the area attracts players of all skill levels.
Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just beginning in the game, the variety of golf courses in and around Ocean Isle Beach offers an exceptional playing experience that perfectly complements the coastal lifestyle. For current homeowners and those exploring homes for sale in Ocean Isle Beach, NC, these golf courses are part of what makes the area so desirable.
The Links at Brick Landing
Located just minutes from Ocean Isle Beach, The Links at Brick Landing is one of the area's most scenic and challenging courses. Often referred to as "The Brick," this semi-private course offers breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway and is known for its thoughtful design that combines natural beauty with strategic play.
The course features 18 holes with a par of 71, offering a mix of open fairways and tighter, tree-lined holes. The first hole opens with a view of the waterway, setting the tone for a round that is as visually rewarding as it is competitive. The well-maintained greens and friendly staff contribute to a top-tier golfing experience.
In addition to golf, the on-site restaurant and clubhouse offer excellent dining and social opportunities, making it a favorite for both residents and guests. Its proximity to many neighborhoods makes it a convenient and attractive amenity for those exploring homes for sale in Ocean Isle Beach, NC.
The course features 18 holes with a par of 71, offering a mix of open fairways and tighter, tree-lined holes. The first hole opens with a view of the waterway, setting the tone for a round that is as visually rewarding as it is competitive. The well-maintained greens and friendly staff contribute to a top-tier golfing experience.
In addition to golf, the on-site restaurant and clubhouse offer excellent dining and social opportunities, making it a favorite for both residents and guests. Its proximity to many neighborhoods makes it a convenient and attractive amenity for those exploring homes for sale in Ocean Isle Beach, NC.
Ocean Ridge Plantation: Home of the Big Cats
Just a short drive from Ocean Isle Beach lies Ocean Ridge Plantation, a celebrated golf destination featuring four championship courses collectively known as the “Big Cats.” These courses — Lion’s Paw, Panther’s Run, Leopard’s Chase, and Tiger’s Eye — offer diverse layouts and challenges that attract golfers from all over the Southeast.
Tiger’s Eye is perhaps the most well-known of the four, frequently ranked among the top public courses in North Carolina. Designed by Tim Cate, it features dramatic elevation changes, coquina boulder-lined fairways, and fast, undulating greens.
Leopard’s Chase impresses with water features and meticulous landscaping, while Panther’s Run and Lion’s Paw offer strategic layouts through dense forest and scenic wetlands.
Ocean Ridge Plantation is more than just a golf complex; it's a thriving community with resort-style living, ideal for those who want a golf-focused lifestyle. Buyers considering homes for sale in Ocean Isle Beach, NC, often view Ocean Ridge as an extension of the area's appeal thanks to its incredible golfing amenities and sense of community.
Tiger’s Eye is perhaps the most well-known of the four, frequently ranked among the top public courses in North Carolina. Designed by Tim Cate, it features dramatic elevation changes, coquina boulder-lined fairways, and fast, undulating greens.
Leopard’s Chase impresses with water features and meticulous landscaping, while Panther’s Run and Lion’s Paw offer strategic layouts through dense forest and scenic wetlands.
Ocean Ridge Plantation is more than just a golf complex; it's a thriving community with resort-style living, ideal for those who want a golf-focused lifestyle. Buyers considering homes for sale in Ocean Isle Beach, NC, often view Ocean Ridge as an extension of the area's appeal thanks to its incredible golfing amenities and sense of community.
Sandpiper Bay Golf & Country Club
Located in nearby Sunset Beach, just a ten-minute drive from Ocean Isle Beach, Sandpiper Bay Golf & Country Club is another standout in the region. This 27-hole facility features three distinct 9-hole courses: Sand, Piper, and Bay. The course layout emphasizes playability and enjoyment for all skill levels, with forgiving fairways and well-bunkered greens.
Recognized for its friendly atmosphere and consistently excellent course conditions, Sandpiper Bay is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The club also offers a full-service pro shop, practice facilities, and a welcoming clubhouse.
Its location makes it easily accessible to Ocean Isle Beach residents, particularly those who value casual, relaxed golf without compromising on course quality or aesthetics.
Recognized for its friendly atmosphere and consistently excellent course conditions, Sandpiper Bay is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The club also offers a full-service pro shop, practice facilities, and a welcoming clubhouse.
Its location makes it easily accessible to Ocean Isle Beach residents, particularly those who value casual, relaxed golf without compromising on course quality or aesthetics.
Sea Trail Golf Resort & Convention Center
Just across the Intracoastal Waterway in Sunset Beach lies Sea Trail Golf Resort, a sprawling facility with three championship courses: the Byrd Course, the Jones Course, and the Maples Course. Each offers a distinct playing experience, catering to various skill levels and preferences.
The Jones Course, designed by Rees Jones, is known for wide fairways, large greens, and a forgiving layout that’s ideal for newer players or those seeking a more relaxed round.
The Byrd Course presents a slightly more technical challenge, with water coming into play on many holes and subtle green complexes.
The Maples Course, designed by Dan Maples, is perhaps the most scenic, winding through oak trees and natural lakes.
With on-site accommodations, restaurants, and event spaces, Sea Trail is a full-service golf destination perfect for stay-and-play getaways or regular rounds for local residents. Its proximity to Ocean Isle Beach adds to the area's reputation as a premier golf destination.
The Jones Course, designed by Rees Jones, is known for wide fairways, large greens, and a forgiving layout that’s ideal for newer players or those seeking a more relaxed round.
The Byrd Course presents a slightly more technical challenge, with water coming into play on many holes and subtle green complexes.
The Maples Course, designed by Dan Maples, is perhaps the most scenic, winding through oak trees and natural lakes.
With on-site accommodations, restaurants, and event spaces, Sea Trail is a full-service golf destination perfect for stay-and-play getaways or regular rounds for local residents. Its proximity to Ocean Isle Beach adds to the area's reputation as a premier golf destination.
Thistle Golf Club
Located in nearby Sunset Beach, Thistle Golf Club offers a more upscale and exclusive experience. This Scottish-inspired course consists of three 9-hole layouts — Stewart, MacKay, and Cameron — each offering lush fairways, water features, and a traditional feel that honors the game's roots.
Known for impeccable course conditions and excellent customer service, Thistle appeals to discerning golfers looking for a premium experience. The course is challenging but fair, with undulating greens and a layout that emphasizes shot-making.
Thistle’s clubhouse, modeled after a 19th-century Scottish estate, adds to the ambiance with its stonework, wood finishes, and a top-tier restaurant and bar. For buyers seeking homes for sale in Ocean Isle Beach, NC, Thistle offers an attractive combination of elegance, exclusivity, and access to great golf.
Known for impeccable course conditions and excellent customer service, Thistle appeals to discerning golfers looking for a premium experience. The course is challenging but fair, with undulating greens and a layout that emphasizes shot-making.
Thistle’s clubhouse, modeled after a 19th-century Scottish estate, adds to the ambiance with its stonework, wood finishes, and a top-tier restaurant and bar. For buyers seeking homes for sale in Ocean Isle Beach, NC, Thistle offers an attractive combination of elegance, exclusivity, and access to great golf.
Explore Ocean Isle Beach Living
If you’re ready to explore the many benefits of coastal living — including access to some of the best golf courses in the region — reach out to The Cheek Team. With local expertise and personalized guidance, they can help you find the ideal property and lifestyle fit. Whether you're an avid golfer or simply love the peaceful charm of this coastal town, now is a great time to discover homes for sale in Ocean Isle Beach, NC. Let the journey to your dream home begin today.
