Charlie Floyd

Charlie Floyd's devotion to golf and to the Myrtle Beach community helped the Grand Strand grow into America's premier golf destination. His love of the game took hold while he was a student at Furman University, and in 1960 he put down roots on the coast, spending his summers at The Surf Club learning every facet of the operation.

After graduation, Floyd became an educator and coach at Myrtle Beach High School, eventually serving as head football coach and athletic director. Summers at Myrtlewood Golf Course deepened his appreciation for the bond between golf and hospitality, and in 1970 he entered the hotel business, developing the Paradise Inn and later owning and operating Sand Castle Resort North and South over a five-decade career.

Floyd recognized early how closely the two industries were linked. His resorts ran successful golf package companies, and his vision led to partnerships in the development and ownership of several area courses, including Buck Creek Golf Club, River Hills Golf Club, World Tour Golf Links and Arrowhead Country Club.

He served two terms on the Myrtle Beach Area Golf Course Owners Association Board and 12 years on the board of the National Golf Course Owners Association. Known for his faith and leadership, he often opened meetings with words of encouragement and prayer, touching countless lives along the way.