King’s North at Myrtle Beach National to reopen after major renovation

King’s North at Myrtle Beach National is set to reopen in early October following a two-phase renovation led by Brandon Johnson and supported by Founders Group International (FGI). The redesign, the most significant since 1995-96, blends tribute to Arnold Palmer’s original vision with modernized playability and aesthetics, reflecting current trends in golf course architecture and ownership investment.

Designed to honor and update the 52-year-old Arnold Palmer layout, the multi-million-dollar project has expanded greens by more than 36 percent, restored lost pin positions and used contemporary TifEagle ultradwarf bermudagrass. Johnson’s choices heighten King’s North’s signature risk-reward style, notably on holes 12 and 18 — the former’s iconic “SC” island green now features seven distinct bunkers, and the latter reimagines bunkering to emphasize strategy with fewer, more impactful hazards. Such enhancements align with industry shifts toward greater shot variety, clearer visual targets and improved sustainability.

This renovation is part of an industry-wide push by FGI, Myrtle Beach’s largest golf course operator, which has invested in nearly a dozen area facilities. Amid a banner year for Myrtle Beach golf tourism, with double-digit growth in golf vacation bookings for 2025, revamped layouts like King’s North strengthen the Grand Strand’s status as a domestic golf destination for both repeat visitors and new audiences, according to the company.

As King’s North prepares to welcome golfers back, the course signals a commitment to evolving play while maintaining roots in Palmer’s original intentions. Operators across the industry can watch closely, mindful of the growing demand for both tradition and innovation in public-access golf.

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