Carolina National Golf Club is one of the best golf clubs in the United States, especially in North Carolina. Located in the town of Bolivia, this club offers a fun and relaxing place to play golf, whether you’re a beginner or an expert. With beautiful scenery, a friendly atmosphere, and a top-rated golf course, it’s no surprise why so many people visit Carolina National Golf Club each year.
Where Is Carolina National Golf Club?
Carolina National Golf Club is located in Bolivia, a quiet town in southeastern North Carolina. It is near the coastal city of Wilmington and just a short drive from beautiful beaches like Oak Island and Holden Beach. The club sits inside the Winding River Plantation community, making it easy to get to from many vacation spots and neighborhoods. If you’re traveling from larger cities like Myrtle Beach or Raleigh, the club is only a couple of hours away by car. Its peaceful location makes it the perfect escape from the busy city life, while still being close enough for a day trip.
The golf course is surrounded by forests, rivers, and wetlands, making it a beautiful and quiet place to play. Whether you’re a tourist visiting North Carolina or someone who lives nearby, Carolina National Golf Club is a wonderful place to enjoy golf and nature all in one.
What Makes This Golf Club Special?
Carolina National Golf Club stands out because of its well-designed golf course, its natural beauty, and its welcoming atmosphere. It was designed by Fred Couples, a famous PGA Tour player, who made sure the course was both fun and challenging. Many golfers love this club because it doesn’t just test your skills—it also gives you great views and a peaceful place to relax.
The club is also special because of its layout. It has 27 holes instead of the regular 18, which means you can play different combinations of holes every time you visit. This gives golfers more variety and makes the game even more exciting.
Another reason the club is so loved is the friendly staff and clean facilities. Golfers often say how nice the people are and how well the course is kept. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’ve been there many times, you’ll feel welcomed.
How the Golf Course Looks and Feels
Carolina National Golf Club is more than just a golf course—it’s a place where nature and golf come together. Every hole is designed with care and attention, offering a fun challenge while letting you enjoy the natural surroundings. There are wide fairways, smooth greens, and smart layouts that make every round of golf interesting.
A Place Full of Nature
One of the best things about Carolina National is its natural beauty. The course runs along the Lockwood Folly River and includes wetlands, hardwood forests, and salt marshes. You’ll often see birds, deer, and other wildlife while you play. The sounds of nature, the clean air, and the peaceful setting make it a relaxing place to spend a few hours. The club is also certified as an Audubon-Certified Sanctuary, which means it works to protect nature and wildlife on the course.
Three Nines for More Fun
Instead of the usual 18-hole course, Carolina National has three different nine-hole courses—Egret, Heron, and Ibis. This gives golfers the chance to mix and match and play a different 18-hole game each time they visit. Each nine has its own look and feel. Egret is open and gentle, Heron is more wooded and quiet, and Ibis runs along the river and has more water hazards. These different styles make the course fun for everyone, no matter your skill level.
Great Views from Every Hole
Every hole at Carolina National gives you something special to look at. From river views to tall trees and open marshes, the course is full of beauty. You don’t just play golf here—you enjoy the view, breathe in the fresh air, and feel closer to nature. Some holes offer views that are so pretty, you’ll want to stop and take a photo.
Is It Good for Beginners and Kids?
Yes, Carolina National Golf Club is great for beginners and kids. The course is designed to be fun for everyone, not just expert golfers. It has multiple tee boxes, so younger players or those just starting out can play from shorter distances. This helps make the game more enjoyable and less stressful.
The staff at Carolina National are also very helpful and friendly. They make sure everyone feels welcome, no matter your age or skill level. There are also golf lessons available for kids and beginners who want to learn the game the right way. Some families come here just to have fun together on the course, and they always leave with smiles.
What Else Can You Do There?
Besides golf, there are other things you can enjoy at Carolina National Golf Club. The clubhouse has a nice pro shop where you can buy golf gear, clothes, and souvenirs. There’s also a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal or a cold drink after your game. The food is tasty, and the staff make you feel at home.
The club is also close to outdoor activities. Since it’s near the coast, you can go fishing, kayaking, or to the beach after your golf game. There are also nearby trails for walking and biking. If you’re visiting from out of town, you can stay at local hotels or vacation homes near the beach.
Carolina National Golf Club is more than just golf—it’s a place where you can enjoy a full day of fun, food, and fresh air.
Are There Events or Tournaments?
Yes, Carolina National Golf Club hosts many events and tournaments throughout the year. These are great for golfers who enjoy a bit of competition or just want to be part of a fun group. Some of the events are serious and for advanced players, while others are more relaxed and open to everyone.
Family-Friendly Events
There are special events that are perfect for families. These include fun golf days, holiday celebrations, and junior golf programs. Sometimes there are parent-child tournaments or golf clinics that let the whole family take part. These events help kids learn about golf while having fun with their parents or grandparents.
Local Tournaments
The club also hosts many local tournaments for adults. These may be charity events, member tournaments, or open competitions for anyone in the area. If you’re visiting from out of town and love playing golf in a group setting, ask the clubhouse about upcoming events. Some tournaments even come with prizes, food, and music.
How to Book a Tee Time at Carolina National Golf Club
Booking a tee time is easy. You can go online to their official website and choose your day and time. There’s also a phone number you can call if you prefer to speak to someone. The website shows available times, current prices, and any special deals that may be running. If you’re planning to go on the weekend or during a holiday, it’s best to book early since it can get busy.
You don’t have to be a member to play at Carolina National Golf Club. Public players are always welcome, and the staff will help you feel at home from the moment you arrive.
Why People Love Carolina National Golf Club
People love Carolina National Golf Club for many reasons. The natural beauty, friendly people, and well-kept course make every visit special. Golfers often say it’s one of the most peaceful and beautiful courses they’ve ever played on. They like that it offers a challenge but isn’t too hard for newer players.
Families enjoy the safe and relaxing setting, while more serious golfers enjoy the smart layout and changing conditions. It’s also a great place to meet new people, take golf lessons, and improve your skills.
Even people who aren’t huge golf fans enjoy coming here just to take in the views, walk around, or have a meal at the clubhouse.
The Bottom Line
Carolina National Golf Club is one of North Carolina’s hidden gems. With 27 holes of golf, beautiful river and forest views, and a friendly atmosphere, it’s a place where anyone can have a great time. Whether you’re a local looking for a regular course to play or a tourist searching for fun things to do, this golf club has something for everyone.
Kids, beginners, families, and pro-level golfers will all feel at home here. The mix of nature, good design, and great service makes it stand out from other golf courses. So next time you’re in North Carolina, don’t miss your chance to play at Carolina National Golf Club—it’s fun, beautiful, and truly one of a kind.
