Which golf courses near Carolina Beach, NC offer the best mix of location, facilities, value, and coastal scenery in 2026? While Carolina Beach does not have a full-size golf course directly on the island, golfers can reach several well-regarded public, private, resort, and country club facilities in the Wilmington and Brunswick County areas. Based on available ratings, services, and practical golfer considerations, these are the best Golf Courses Carolina Beach NC visitors should consider.
1. Pine Valley Country Club Inc
Pine Valley Country Club is a private golf course and non-profit country club in Wilmington, making it a strong choice for members and guests seeking a traditional club atmosphere. The facility is located at 500 Pine Valley Dr and is rated 4.6 from 125 reviews. As a private club, access policies may vary, so golfers should call before planning a round. My practical takeaway is that this venue is better suited to golfers who value a quieter, member-focused setting over casual walk-in play.
Phone: (910) 791-1656
Website: pinevalleycountryclub.com
Pros:
- Highly rated private golf course
- Country club environment
- Convenient Wilmington location
- Good option for members and invited guests
Cons:
- Not generally suited to unrestricted public play
- Tee-time and guest policies should be confirmed
2. Rivers Edge Golf Club
Rivers Edge Golf Club is located at 2000 Arnold Palmer Dr in Shallotte and is one of the strongest-rated golf attractions near the Carolina Beach area. With a 4.5 rating from 871 reviews, it has broad appeal among visiting golfers. The course is part of the coastal Brunswick County golf scene and offers a destination-style experience for players willing to drive south. In my experience comparing coastal golf options, courses in this area are especially appealing during a beach vacation because they combine a scenic setting with a dedicated golf facility.
Phone: (910) 755-3434
Website: playriversedgegolf.com
Pros:
- Strong 4.5 rating with a large review base
- Popular tourist attraction
- Suitable for golfers planning a dedicated day trip
- Located in the Brunswick County golf region
Cons:
- Farther from Carolina Beach than Wilmington courses
- Advance booking is recommended during peak seasons
3. Inland Greens Park & Golf Course
Inland Greens Park & Golf Course is a public golf facility at 5945 Inland Greens Dr in Wilmington. Rated 4.5 from 140 reviews, it is a practical option for golfers searching for public golf near Carolina Beach NC. Its park-style setting makes it a convenient choice for a relaxed round, practice session, or casual outing. I would place this course high on the list for travelers who want a straightforward public facility without the formality of a private club.
Phone: (910) 765-7459
Website: wilmingtonnc.gov
Pros:
- Public access
- Excellent 4.5 rating
- Convenient Wilmington location
- Good choice for casual golfers
Cons:
- May offer fewer resort amenities than private clubs
- Confirm course format, availability, and tee times before visiting
4. The Clubs At St James
The Clubs At St James is a private golf club at 3779 Members Club Blvd in Southport. In addition to golf, the property lists golf instruction, tennis courts and instruction, swimming instruction, and physical fitness programs. It holds a 4.5 rating from 43 reviews. This is a strong fit for golfers traveling with family or looking for a full country club lifestyle. Based on the facility mix, it stands out more for its complete recreational experience than for golf alone.
Phone: (910) 253-9500
Website: theclubsatstjames.com
Pros:
- Private golf club with broad amenities
- Golf instruction available
- Tennis, swimming, and fitness facilities
- Attractive option for members and families
Cons:
- Private access may restrict casual visitors
- Fewer reviews than some public courses
5. Beau Rivage Golf & Resort
Beau Rivage Golf & Resort at 649 Rivage Promenade in Wilmington combines a golf course with resort hotel accommodations. It has a 4.4 rating from 1,002 reviews, giving it one of the largest review profiles on this list. For Carolina Beach visitors, the resort format is particularly convenient because golfers can stay onsite and build a full weekend around their rounds. My practical recommendation is to consider Beau Rivage when lodging, golf, and convenience are more important than finding the closest possible course.
Phone: (910) 812-4885
Website: beaurivagegolf.com
Pros:
- Golf course and hotel in one location
- More than 1,000 reviews
- Convenient Wilmington-area option
- Well suited to golf weekends and group trips
Cons:
- Resort rates may be higher during busy periods
- Hotel and course availability can change seasonally
6. Olde Fort Golf Course
Olde Fort Golf Course is a public course at 3189 River Rd SE in Winnabow. With a 4.2 rating from 220 reviews, it offers another accessible option south of Wilmington. The course is a sensible choice for golfers who prefer public play and want to explore Brunswick County. I find public courses like Olde Fort useful for vacation schedules because they typically offer a more relaxed atmosphere than private clubs, although players should confirm current conditions and tee-time procedures.
Phone: (910) 371-9940
Website: facebook.com
Pros:
- Public golf course
- Reasonable review volume
- Convenient for golfers heading toward Brunswick County
- Relaxed option for vacation rounds
Cons:
- Fewer listed amenities than resort facilities
- Website and current information should be verified before arrival
7. Wilmington Municipal Golf Course
Wilmington Municipal Golf Course, located at 311 Donald Ross Dr in Wilmington, is a public facility rated 4.1 from 347 reviews. Its municipal status makes it a useful option for golfers seeking accessible golf near Carolina Beach NC. The Wilmington location is convenient for combining a round with other local activities. In planning a coastal golf itinerary, I would shortlist this course for value and public accessibility.
Phone: (910) 791-0558
Website: wilmingtonnc.gov
Pros:
- Public municipal course
- Large review base
- Convenient Wilmington location
- Suitable for casual and visiting golfers
Cons:
- Rating is lower than several nearby alternatives
- Tee times and course conditions should be checked in advance
8. St James Properties
St James Properties is located at 4006 St James Dr SE in Southport and represents a larger private resort and residential community. Listed amenities include a private golf course, marina, resort hotel, and retirement community. It has a 4.1 rating from 181 reviews. This property may appeal to golfers interested in a broader coastal community experience rather than a single standalone round.
Phone: (910) 253-4805
Website: stjames-properties.com
Pros:
- Private golf and resort community
- Marina and hotel facilities
- Strong option for extended stays
- Southport-area location
Cons:
- Access may be limited to residents, members, or guests
- Primarily a community and property destination
9. Lockwood Folly Country Club
Lockwood Folly Country Club is at 19 Clubhouse Dr SW in Supply and has a 4.1 rating from 434 reviews. The course provides another Brunswick County option for visitors searching for coastal golf close to Southport and surrounding beach communities. Its substantial review count suggests consistent interest from local and visiting players. Call ahead for availability, rates, and guest policies.
Phone: (910) 842-5666
Website: lockwoodfolly.com
Pros:
- Established golf course with 434 reviews
- Coastal Brunswick County location
- Suitable for vacation golfers
- Dedicated golf facility
Cons:
- Ratings are more moderate than top choices
- Availability may vary by season
10. Ocean Ridge Plantation Golf
Ocean Ridge Plantation Golf is located at 351 Ocean Ridge Pkwy SW in Ocean Isle Beach. It is rated 3.7 from 236 reviews and operates as a golf destination in the southern coastal region. The location makes it worth considering for golfers already visiting Ocean Isle Beach or planning a longer Brunswick County golf trip. My recommendation is to compare current conditions, pricing, and reviews with higher-rated alternatives before booking.
Phone: (800) 233-1801
Website: bigcatsgolf.com
Pros:
- Destination golf location
- Convenient for Ocean Isle Beach visitors
- Suitable for a multi-course Brunswick County itinerary
Cons:
- Lowest rating on this list
- Farther from Carolina Beach
- Confirm current course conditions and availability
For most visitors, the best Golf Courses Carolina Beach NC choices are Wilmington Municipal Golf Course, Inland Greens Park & Golf Course, and Beau Rivage Golf & Resort for convenience. Golfers seeking a private club experience should investigate Pine Valley Country Club or The Clubs At St James, while Brunswick County offers excellent day-trip alternatives such as Rivers Edge and Lockwood Folly. Always confirm tee times, guest access, pricing, and seasonal conditions before traveling.
