Avocet Course at Wild Wing Set for Comprehensive Restoration

When the Avocet Course at Wild Wing opened in 1993, it was ranked among the Top 10 New Courses in America by Golf Digest, and the Jeff Brauer-Larry Nelson design quickly became one of Myrtle Beach’s most popular layouts.

Over time, the strength of the design has endured, even as three of Avocet’s sister courses closed and natural aging began to impact course conditions. In 2026, Founders Group International will undertake a comprehensive restoration project to return Avocet to its original design intent and overall standard of play.

The course will close on May 18 for an approximately four-month renovation, with work focused on restoring greens, improving bunkering, and enhancing overall playability.

The renovation will center on a full restoration of the green complexes. Over time, the greens have gradually reduced in size, limiting original pin placements and design variety. The project will restore the greens to their original footprint, reintroducing pin positions that have not been available in decades. All greens will be rebuilt using a new root-zone mix and TifEagle bermudagrass to improve consistency, durability, and long-term conditioning.

Bunker work will focus on reducing overall size while maintaining the original design character. The updated bunkering will improve playability, create clearer visual presentation, and reduce overly penal recovery situations. All bunkers will be rebuilt and fitted with concrete capillary liners to ensure consistent conditions throughout the course.

A notable design element returning as part of the project is the Valley of Sin on the ninth hole. This collection area, located left of the green, was part of the original design but was lost over time. Its restoration will reintroduce a unique strategic feature to the hole.

Additional improvements will include the installation of forward tee boxes on 16 holes, expanding accessibility for a wider range of players. Combined with the restoration of greens and bunkers, the updates are intended to enhance the playing experience while remaining true to the course’s original design.

Improvements will also extend beyond the golf course. The Avocet pro shop will be redesigned with an updated upscale-casual appearance, and the grill will be converted into a sports bar-style venue featuring an updated menu and golf simulators. Additional on-site upgrades will include new signage, refreshed natural areas, and general amenity improvements across the property.

The project is designed to restore Avocet to its original character while positioning the course to meet current player expectations and long-term operational standards.