By Mike May
For golfers searching for an unforgettable coastal golf experience, then Rivers Edge in the Brunswick Isles area of North Carolina is a great choice. This par-72 Arnold Palmer design in Shallotte, North Carolina overlooks the nearby Shallote River tidal basin which impacts play on seven holes, while marshes, ponds, and lakes influence play on another nine holes. With six different tees on every hole, it’s easy finding your comfort zone at Rivers Edge.
“At Rivers Edge, no two holes are the same and the stretch along the river was done in such a way that to replicate it today would be difficult, if not impossible,” notes Jeff Pianelli, head golf professional at Rivers Edge.
When playing the seven holes along the Shallotte River, take the time to admire Mother Nature’s beauty, which includes sightings of osprey, turtles, fox squirrels, and the occasional alligator.
“With the tidal change throughout a day, it is not odd to see different aspects of river life during your round,” adds Pianelli.
At Rivers Edge, the first four holes are inland, but water does come into play, especially Mr. Happy’s Pond, which borders the 2nd green. At the 5th, a short par three, you’ll see the Shallotte River. While not long, the fifth hole does require a full carry from tee to green.
After disappearing into the countryside for the next two holes, you emerge into the tidal basin for the final two holes on the front nine. The 8th is a splendid downhill par three with the tidal basin behind the green. The 9th is the only hole at Rivers Edge with a name: Arnie’s Revenge. This par five features two shots over water with a narrow approach to a peninsula green bordered by the tidal basin on three sides. If you play the hole too conservatively, you can easily make double bogey. If you play it too aggressively, a ‘snowman’ or worse is quite possible. Securing a par, or better at Arnie’s Revenge is a worthy achievement.
“What the design may lack in overall yardage, it makes up for in course strategy,” adds Pianelli. “Each hole offers a safe route or a risk/reward that can be chosen by the player. If you successfully pull off the game, you are rewarded for your efforts. Rivers Edge is definitely a place that allows multiple play without getting bored.”
After playing the front nine, you’ll discover that the back nine is even better. The highlights of the inward half are your approach shot to the par five 11th hole, where Palmer Lake sits greenside; the commute along the ‘river’s edge’ from the 11th green to the 12th tee; and the last four holes which are flanked by the Shallotte River. Palmer’s creativity in designing those four finishing holes leaves you impressed and begging for more. The views across the Shallotte River while playing 15, 16, 17, and 18 are worth the price of admission, as they say.
