Not every layout can be TPC Myrtle Beach, and that’s okay. Aberdeen Country Club, among the area’s westernmost courses, has long filled out trip itineraries, ideal for a day of arrival or departure round of golf.

That being said, dismissing Aberdeen as merely a layout that helps fill a vacation lineup is a mistake.

Following a transformative 2019 renovation that included work on the course and a complete rebuild of the clubhouse, Aberdeen has emerged as one of the area’s hidden gems. Once a 27-hole property, the Woodlands nine, which was prone to flooding, closed.

The remaining 18 holes – the Highlands and Meadows nines – are in sterling conditions, helping make Aberdeen a sneaky-good course.

If you are thinking of teeing it up on the Tom Jackson design, here are five things you need to know, according to head pro Steve Shaffer:

– The since departed Woodlands nine was tight off the tee, driving the perception Aberdeen is narrow in general, but that’s not the case. Aberdeen offers ample room to drive the ball. The Highlands nine is open throughout while the Meadows, despite the first two holes being narrow, earned its name.

– The terrain along the Grand Strand is mostly flat, but Aberdeen plays along a rolling property that features some of the area’s most undulating greens. The quality of your short game will likely dictate your score, as recovery shots and the ability to avoid three putts will go a long way towards helping you post a number you want to tell friends about.

– If you want to make birdie, No. 1 on the Highlands nine (pictured below) is the hole to take advantage of. The 491-yard (white tees) par 5 is as straight as an arrow and other than water on the left off the tee, there is little danger. Get your tee shot in play and you can fire away in hopes of circling a four on the card.

– Superintendent Tim Lowe has done an outstanding job, ensuring Aberdeen is in outstanding condition from tee to green. In particular, those undulating greens are superb, enhancing the experience.

– When your round ends at Aberdeen, your day shouldn’t. The 2019 clubhouse renovation included the addition of a full-service restaurant that provides a sports bar-like feel. The food is good and so is the atmosphere so take full advantage of both.

Aberdeen Country Club may not be a top 100 golf course but it will deliver a good time for you and your friends.