Ellington at Wachesaw: A Luxury Resort on South Carolina's Coast

What Ellington at Wachesaw Offers

Ellington at Wachesaw is a luxury resort community in Murrells Inlet, about 30 miles south of Myrtle Beach, built around an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Tom Jackson. The resort sits on 500 acres of maritime forest and salt marsh along the Intracoastal Waterway, with accommodations ranging from hotel rooms to multi-bedroom villas. Most guests come for the golf, but the property also draws visitors who want a quieter alternative to the Myrtle Beach strip—closer to Huntington Beach State Park and the Georgetown waterfront than to the crowds.

The resort operates year-round, with peak seasons in spring and fall when temperatures hover in the 60s and 70s. Summer brings heat and humidity; winter is mild but can be rainy. Room rates and availability shift with season, so booking directly through the resort or checking their website will show current pricing and what's open on your dates.

Key Takeaways

• Ellington at Wachesaw centers on an 18-hole championship golf course, with most guests booking to play rather than simply stay.
• The resort offers hotel rooms and villa rentals with varying bedroom counts, so your accommodation type depends on party size and budget.
• The location in Murrells Inlet puts you 30 miles from Myrtle Beach's main attractions but close to state parks, fishing charters, and quieter dining.
• Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for golf and outdoor activities; summer is hot and humid, winter is mild but wet.
• Dining, spa services, and other amenities are on-site, reducing the need to leave the property for a full resort experience.

The Golf Course and Why It Matters

The 18-hole course at Ellington at Wachesaw plays to a par 72 and winds through the natural landscape rather than cutting through manicured fairways. Tom Jackson's design uses the existing wetlands, tree lines, and water features—the Intracoastal Waterway borders several holes—so the course feels less manufactured than many in the Myrtle Beach area. The course is private for resort guests and members; day-play rounds are not typically offered to the public.

If you're not a golfer, this detail matters: the resort's identity and pricing are built around golf. Non-golfers staying here are usually part of a group where others are playing, or they're using the resort as a quiet base for exploring the surrounding area. The golf course is visible from many rooms and common areas, so expect to see and hear golf activity throughout your stay.

Room Types and Where to Stay Within the Resort

Ellington at Wachesaw offers hotel rooms in the main lodge building and villa rentals scattered across the property. Hotel rooms are typically one or two bedrooms with standard resort amenities—television, climate control, bathroom with shower or tub. Villas range from two to four bedrooms and include full kitchens, living areas, and often a screened porch or patio. Some villas have golf course views; others face the marsh or forest.

The choice between a hotel room and a villa depends on party size, length of stay, and whether you want to cook some meals. Families and groups often prefer villas for the extra space and kitchen; couples or solo travelers typically book hotel rooms. Rates vary by season and room type, so the resort's website or a direct call will show what's available and priced for your dates.

On-Site Dining and Amenities

The resort has a restaurant and bar on the grounds, so you can eat without leaving the property. The menu typically features coastal Carolina fare—seafood, Low Country classics, and American standards. Hours and specific offerings change seasonally, so check the resort's website or call ahead if you have dietary restrictions or want to know what's available on a particular evening.

Beyond dining, the resort includes a spa offering massage and body treatments, a fitness center, and a pool. Some villas have private hot tubs. The Intracoastal Waterway is accessible from the property, so fishing charters and boat rentals can be arranged through the resort or nearby outfitters in Murrells Inlet.

Getting There and What's Nearby

Ellington at Wachesaw is located at 3600 Barefoot Landing Road in Murrells Inlet, about 30 miles south of Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR). From the airport, the drive takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour via US 17 South. If you're driving from Charleston, it's about 90 minutes north on US 17. Parking is included at the resort.

The immediate area around Murrells Inlet is quieter than Myrtle Beach proper. Huntington Beach State Park is about 10 minutes away and offers beach access, nature trails, and a fishing pier. The Georgetown waterfront—with its historic district, restaurants, and shops—is about 20 minutes north. Barefoot Landing, an outdoor shopping and entertainment complex, is within a few minutes' drive. If you want the Myrtle Beach boardwalk, amusement parks, or nightlife, you'll need to drive 30 to 40 minutes north.

When to Visit and What to Expect

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most popular times to visit. Temperatures range from the low 60s to mid-70s, humidity is lower, and the golf course is in excellent condition. These seasons also see higher room rates and more advance bookings, so plan ahead if you want specific dates.

Summer (June through August) brings heat and afternoon thunderstorms, but the resort is less crowded and rates drop. Winter (December through February) is mild—daytime temperatures in the 50s and 60s—but rainfall is more frequent. Many golfers still play in winter, and the resort remains open, but some outdoor activities may be limited by weather.

How to Book and What to Know Before You Arrive

You can book directly through the resort's website, by phone, or through travel booking sites. Direct booking often gives you access to current promotions and allows you to speak with someone who knows the property well. If you're booking a golf package, the resort can arrange tee times and may include golf in your rate; ask about this when you reserve.

Bring casual clothing for dining at the on-site restaurant and resort common areas. If you plan to explore Georgetown or Myrtle Beach, pack clothes for dining out. Golf shoes and clubs are not required—the resort can arrange rentals if you need them. The property is pet-friendly in some rooms, but policies vary, so confirm when you book if you're traveling with an animal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play golf if I'm not staying at the resort?

The golf course is reserved for resort guests and members. Day-play rounds are not typically offered to the public. If you want to play, you'll need to stay at the resort or be invited by a member.

Is there a minimum stay requirement?

Minimum stay requirements vary by season and room type. Spring and fall often have longer minimums (two to three nights or more), while summer and winter may allow shorter stays. Check the resort's website or call to confirm what applies to your dates.

What's the difference between a hotel room and a villa?

Hotel rooms are in the main lodge and include basic amenities; villas are separate units with full kitchens, living areas, and more bedrooms. Villas suit families or groups staying multiple nights; hotel rooms work for couples or shorter stays. Villas cost more but give you space and the option to cook.

Is the resort family-friendly?

Yes. The pool, spa, and on-site dining make it easy for families to stay on the property. Kids can enjoy the grounds and nearby Huntington Beach State Park. However, the resort's primary draw is golf, so it's quieter and less activity-focused than family-oriented resorts in Myrtle Beach.

How far is Ellington at Wachesaw from Myrtle Beach?

The resort is about 30 miles south of central Myrtle Beach, roughly a 45-minute to one-hour drive depending on traffic. You're close enough to visit the boardwalk or attractions if you want, but far enough to avoid the crowds if you prefer a quieter setting.