At Tidewater Golf Club, we believe that every detail matters—from the quality of the turf under your feet to the design and condition of the bunkers that shape each hole’s character. This past year, we completed a significant renovation project focused on one of the most critical design elements of the game: the greenside bunkers.
This blog takes you behind the scenes of our greenside bunker renovation, offering a look into the planning, purpose, and positive impact this project has had on both playability and aesthetics.
Why Renovate the Bunkers?
Bunkers are more than just hazards—they’re part of the strategic design of the course. Over time, however, even the best bunkers deteriorate. Drainage issues, sand contamination, erosion, and outdated construction methods can turn a challenging but fair bunker into a frustrating experience.
At Tidewater, our greenside bunkers had reached the end of their functional life. In many areas, the edges had softened, liners had broken down, and poor drainage led to inconsistent playing conditions. As one of the Grand Strand’s most scenic and challenging courses, we knew it was time to take action.
This renovation also aligned with a broader commitment made by KemperSports, who assumed management of the property in Fall 2023. One of their first priorities was to invest back into the golf club, enhancing the overall playing experience and course infrastructure. The greenside bunkers were identified early on as a key area where thoughtful upgrades could deliver immediate and long-term impact.
Scope of the Project
It’s important to clarify the scope: this project did not involve every bunker on the golf course, but it did include either the removal or complete replacement of all greenside bunkers throughout the layout. Our goal was to enhance the experience around the greens—where golfers most often encounter sand—and make these areas both more playable and visually striking.
Some bunkers were eliminated entirely to improve pace of play or reduce unnecessary difficulty. Others were reshaped, re-edged, and fitted with modern liners and new sand. The result? A refreshed Tidewater that retains its iconic layout while offering better performance where it matters most.
Planning and Timing
The project was carefully scheduled from November to March, a time of year that allowed us to minimize disruption while still maintaining excellent conditions across the rest of the course. We phased the work by hole, allowing parts of the course to remain open and playable while crews worked methodically through the renovation plan.
Thanks to the leadership of Superintendent Shaun Donahue, who has managed the course for more than 20 years, and Assistant Superintendent Russell “Woody” Woodson, who brings 17 years of experience at Tidewater, the work moved efficiently—even with the occasional weather challenge along the Grand Strand.
Upgraded Materials, Better Performance
A key feature of the project was the use of a modern bunker liner system designed to prevent washouts and contamination, two major issues that plagued the previous bunkers after heavy rains. The new liners allow water to drain effectively, keeping sand in place and providing a more consistent experience after storms.
We also replaced the old sand with premium bunker sand—chosen for its drainage properties, texture, and clean appearance. Golfers will notice improved consistency in lies, easier raking, and better visual definition from fairway to green.
Where Strategy Meets Aesthetics
The greenside bunker renovation wasn’t just about improving play—it brought new life to the visual and strategic character of Tidewater’s most memorable holes.
Hole 4
The par 4’s old cluster of flat, undefined bunkers was replaced with bold, reshaped traps featuring sharper edges and better depth. The update improves shot framing and drainage while highlighting the marsh views that make this hole a standout.
Hole 12
This par 3 now features a single, deep bunker that replaces a spread of shallow ones. The cleaner look opens up the green visually and pairs beautifully with the marsh backdrop for one of the course’s most photogenic tee shots.
Hole 13
Once surrounded by smaller, indistinct bunkers, this par 5 now showcases two sculpted traps that add strategic edge to the green complex. The new design encourages varied approaches and amplifies the natural slope and coastal view.
Across all three holes—and throughout the course—the renovations combine visual clarity with smarter playability, making every approach more engaging and every photo more striking.
The Team Behind the Work
This level of quality and care wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible agronomy team. Superintendent Shaun Donahue brought not only technical expertise but also a deep commitment to preserving the soul of Tidewater. His leadership, combined with Woody Woodson’s hands-on project management and longtime familiarity with the course, ensured the job was done right the first time.
Our maintenance crew worked tirelessly, often before sunrise, to keep progress on schedule while ensuring the rest of the course remained in top playing shape.
What Golfers Are Saying
Since completing the renovation, feedback from golfers has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have remarked on the improved playability and fairness of the bunkers. The upgraded sand offers a more consistent feel, while the reshaped contours allow for a wider variety of creative recovery shots.
Perhaps the biggest compliment? Returning guests say the course still “feels like Tidewater”—only better. The views are sharper, the experience smoother, and the overall presentation more refined.
Continuing the Legacy
The greenside bunker renovation is part of Tidewater Golf Club’s ongoing investment in excellence. As a coastal course exposed to the elements year-round, we understand that continuous improvement is essential—not just for conditions but also for ensuring every round played here is memorable for the right reasons.
While the bunkers may be the most visible improvement for now, the work never truly stops. We’re already looking ahead to other course enhancements and environmental sustainability projects that will keep Tidewater at the top of its game for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Bunkers are often where golf’s beauty and challenge collide—and at Tidewater, we’ve taken that philosophy to heart. Our greenside bunker renovation wasn’t just about sand and shape; it was about elevating the entire playing experience, honoring the original design, and preparing for the future.
So the next time you find yourself eyeing a tight pin tucked behind one of our new greenside bunkers, know that you’re not just looking at a hazard—you’re looking at the result of vision, craftsmanship, and a deep love for the game.
Come experience the transformation for yourself. We’ll see you behind the greens.