News Title:Tilghman Estates: Historic North Myrtle Beach community poised for rare new home development
Tilghman Estates, one of North Myrtle Beach’s most established and prestigious residential neighborhoods, is entering a new chapter with a rare opportunity for new home construction within its historic boundaries. A vacant parcel of approximately 5.08 acres located between 16th and 18th Avenue North is being planned for 17 new residential homesites, offering the opportunity to build new homes in a community that has been largely established for decades. Located in the desirable Ocean Drive section of North Myrtle Beach, this small infill development is just a block from the beach and adjacent to The Surf Golf & Beach Club, providing residents with convenient access to coastal amenities, dining, shopping, Main Street, and one of the area’s most historic golf destinations.
Unlike many newer communities built around production-style homes and defined phases, Tilghman Estates developed gradually over many decades through individual homesites and custom construction. The neighborhood began taking shape in the 1950s as one of the earliest large-scale residential areas in what is now North Myrtle Beach. Rather than being developed by a single builder or through a traditional master-planned community model, Tilghman Estates evolved organically as homeowners purchased lots and local and regional builders created a diverse collection of custom residences. This unique pattern of development helped establish the neighborhood’s timeless character, with mature tree-lined streets, spacious homesites, and a wide variety of architectural styles that continue to distinguish Tilghman Estates today.
Over the years, Tilghman Estates has grown into one of North Myrtle Beach’s largest and most recognized residential neighborhoods, with several hundred custom single-family homes along with nearby condominium and townhome developments that contribute to the area’s diverse housing options. While much of the community has been built out for many years, occasional redevelopment and new custom homes have allowed Tilghman Estates to continue evolving while maintaining the established coastal character that has made it one of the area’s most desirable addresses.
The planned development of the 5-acre parcel represents one of the few remaining opportunities for new residential construction within Tilghman Estates. Rather than being a new phase of the neighborhood, these 17 homesites will become an extension of the existing community, blending into the character and appeal that residents have valued for generations. With limited undeveloped land remaining in this sought-after area, the project represents a unique opportunity to introduce new homes while preserving the legacy of one of North Myrtle Beach’s most historic neighborhoods.
The connection between Tilghman Estates and The Surf Golf & Beach Club reflects the vision of Charles Tilghman, one of the early figures who helped shape the growth of North Myrtle Beach. A member of the Tilghman family, Charles Tilghman played an important role in the development of Tilghman Estates and later helped establish The Surf Golf & Beach Club in 1960. The club, designed by renowned golf architect George Cobb, remains one of the Grand Strand’s most distinctive golf courses, tucked away among a maritime forest just steps from the Atlantic Ocean. His contributions helped transform the area from a quiet coastal community into a desirable residential and golf destination, creating a legacy that continues today.
Plans, home designs, builders, pricing, and timing for the new 17-home section of Tilghman Estates have not yet been announced. As additional details become available, this rare new construction opportunity will provide a chance to become part of one of North Myrtle Beach’s most established and historically significant communities.