The South Course was the first course built at the ultra-private John's Island Club in Vero Beach; developer Llwyd Ecclestone broke ground in March 1969 and the first round was played in December 1969 (GolfPass lists a 1970 opening). It was designed by Pete Dye. Jack Nicklaus is sometimes credited as a consultant, though Alice Dye stated Nicklaus never actually worked on the course. The South was later renovated by Craig Schreiner (2000 and 2005).