Heron/Ibis at Carolina National Golf Club

Carolina National Golf Club's Heron and Ibis nines form part of a 27-hole facility located in Bolivia, North Carolina, approximately 30 miles south of Wilmington in Brunswick County. The course was designed by Fred Couples in collaboration with Gene Bates and Kipp Schulties, opening in the late 1990s as part of the region's coastal golf development. The design team created three distinct nines—Heron, Ibis, and Egret—that can be combined into different 18-hole configurations, with the Heron/Ibis pairing being one of the primary championship rotations.

The layout occupies relatively flat coastal plain terrain characteristic of southeastern North Carolina, with routing that incorporates natural wetlands, pine forests, and strategic water features. The design emphasizes playability while requiring thoughtful course management, reflecting Couples' playing philosophy of creating accessible yet strategic golf. Wide fairways accommodate various skill levels, while greenside bunkering and water hazards positioned around several greens demand precision on approach shots.

The course serves a public-access facility that attracts both local golfers and visitors to the Brunswick County beaches. The setting provides a quieter alternative to the more heavily trafficked resort courses along the Grand Strand to the south, with the natural lowcountry landscape defining the playing corridors. The three-nine configuration allows the facility to accommodate high volumes of play while offering variety for repeat visitors to the area.