If you're looking for top-notch golf courses near Boston, you'll find a mix of stunning views, historic designs, and challenging layouts.
Here are five of the best options: Granite Links Golf Club, George Wright Golf Course, Pinehills Golf Club, William J. Devine Golf Course, and Red Tail Golf Club.
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what makes each course special.
Granite Links Golf Club (Quincy, MA): Spectacular Views and Premier Amenities
Just south of Boston, Granite Links Golf Club is a standout for golfers seeking a scenic experience with top-tier amenities.
With its sweeping views of the Boston skyline and Boston Harbor, combined with its semi-private access, this course attracts both locals and visitors alike.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the greens or a challenging round, Granite Links has something for everyone.
Overview
Granite Links features 27 holes spread across three separate nine-hole courses, allowing for a varied golfing experience each time you visit.
The layout combines links-style play with dramatic elevation changes, offering a unique challenge for golfers.
Situated on former quarries, the course’s natural landscape creates striking backdrops throughout your game.
The club is conveniently located just south of Boston, making it accessible for both city residents and visitors.
In addition to the golf course, Granite Links boasts premium amenities like a large clubhouse, a well-maintained driving range, and a popular outdoor patio bar.
These facilities make it a destination not only for golfing but also for socializing and unwinding after a round.
Why Play Here
One of the biggest draws of Granite Links is the breathtaking scenery.
Few courses in the Boston area offer such clear views of both the skyline and the harbor, making your round of golf as visually appealing as it is engaging.
The elevation changes throughout the course provide not only a challenge but also opportunities for memorable shots.
The semi-private nature of the club gives it an exclusive feel, yet public guests are welcome to book tee times.
This balance makes it a great choice for both regular players in the area and those visiting for the first time.
On top of the golf itself, the clubhouse offers everything you need for a comfortable experience.
The patio bar, in particular, is a favorite among golfers, providing a perfect spot to relax with a drink after a game while soaking in the views.
If you're looking to improve your swing, the club’s well-maintained driving range and practice facilities are perfect for some pre-round warm-ups or focused practice sessions.
Tips for Booking
Granite Links is popular, so securing a tee time—especially during peak hours—can be competitive.
It’s highly recommended to plan ahead and book your tee time as early as possible.
If you’re flexible with your schedule, consider aiming for off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings or afternoons, when there’s less demand.
For visitors or those with tighter schedules, using the online booking system will make it easier to find available slots.
Additionally, the course occasionally offers twilight rates, which not only provide a cost-effective option but also let you enjoy a game during the quieter, late afternoon hours when the sun setting over the city creates a beautiful backdrop.
George Wright Golf Course (Hyde Park, MA): A Historic Donald Ross Design
Nestled just 30 minutes from downtown Boston, George Wright Golf Course is a hidden gem for those who appreciate a classic golf experience.
Designed by the legendary Donald Ross, this municipal course offers a blend of history, challenge, and affordability, making it a must-play for golfers of all levels.
Overview
George Wright Golf Course is renowned for its traditional design, which highlights Donald Ross's signature features.
The course boasts a classic layout with rolling terrain and mature tree-lined fairways that test a golfer's accuracy and strategy.
The natural undulations of the land create a variety of elevations throughout the course, keeping each round exciting and varied.
This municipal course is both accessible and budget-friendly, making it an appealing choice for local golfers.
The combination of well-maintained greens and a challenging design has earned it a spot among the best public courses in Massachusetts.
Its proximity to downtown Boston makes it a convenient option for both residents and visitors who want a high-quality golf experience without venturing too far from the city.
Why Play Here
George Wright is known for providing excellent value without sacrificing the quality of the playing experience.
As a municipal course, it offers affordable rates that make it accessible to a wide range of players, yet the course layout and maintenance rival those of more expensive private clubs.
The course’s historical significance adds another layer of appeal. It’s not just one of the best public courses in the state but also a proud piece of Boston's golfing heritage.
Donald Ross’s design shines through in the thoughtful positioning of hazards, the undulating greens, and the strategic use of the landscape, offering challenges that test golfers while remaining enjoyable.
If you love traditional course designs that emphasize shot-making and course management, George Wright is perfect.
It’s a course where the ability to hit straight, controlled shots often outweighs sheer power.
Course Highlights
Some of the most memorable holes on this course are those that take full advantage of the natural terrain.
The uphill par-4s and rolling par-5s provide a satisfying balance of difficulty and reward, particularly for players who can effectively manage the uneven lies and tree-lined fairways.
When playing George Wright, focus on keeping your ball in play, as the mature trees lining many holes can quickly turn an errant shot into a challenging recovery.
Understanding the contours of the greens is also key—many feature subtle breaks and slopes typical of a Donald Ross design.
Staying below the hole is often a smart strategy to avoid fast, downhill putts.
For those looking to improve their game, the course’s practice facilities offer a convenient space to work on everything from your long drives to your short game.
All in all, George Wright Golf Course is a great balance of challenge, affordability, and historic charm, offering something for every golfer.
Pinehills Golf Club (Plymouth, MA): Championship Courses in a Serene Forest Setting
Pinehills Golf Club, located in Plymouth, MA, offers a serene golfing experience that’s well worth the drive from Boston.
Set amidst a lush pine forest, the club provides two distinct championship courses designed to challenge and delight players of all levels.
Overview
Situated a bit farther from Boston, Pinehills Golf Club is an accessible getaway that offers two exceptional courses: the Nicklaus Course and the Jones Course.
Both are championship-level layouts, each with its own unique design elements.
The wide fairways give players room to maneuver, while the carefully placed bunkers require thoughtful shot selection.
The entire course is nestled in a peaceful, scenic pine forest, creating a quiet and relaxed atmosphere away from the hustle of the city.
The Nicklaus Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is known for its strategic play, requiring accuracy and careful navigation around tricky bunkers and subtle greens.
On the other hand, the Jones Course, crafted by Rees Jones, presents wider fairways and more forgiving greens but with challenging hazards that reward shot planning and precision.
Why Play Here
Pinehills offers golfers the luxury of choice with two distinct courses.
Whether you’re looking for a strategic, precision-focused round on the Nicklaus Course or a more forgiving but still challenging experience on the Jones Course, there’s something here for everyone.
Both courses are designed to be accessible to players of all skill levels, making it a great spot for beginners while still offering a solid test for more experienced golfers.
The club also offers PGA instruction, which is ideal for players looking to improve their game.
With access to two championship courses, you can practice on a variety of terrains and face different challenges, all while refining your skills under professional guidance.
What Makes It Unique
What truly sets Pinehills apart is the distinct experience offered by the two courses.
The Nicklaus Course focuses on finesse and shot-making, demanding precision, while the Jones Course is more generous but still rewards thoughtful play.
This contrast allows players to tailor their golfing experience based on their preferences or skill level, ensuring that each round feels fresh and exciting.
The natural setting of Pinehills is another major draw.
The tranquil pine forest surrounding the course creates a relaxing and immersive environment, enhancing the overall experience.
The peaceful atmosphere combined with the quality of the courses makes Pinehills a top choice for those seeking both challenge and relaxation in a beautiful setting.
William J. Devine Golf Course (Dorchester, MA): Historic Course Near Downtown Boston
Located in Franklin Park, just 20 minutes from downtown Boston, William J. Devine Golf Course offers a mix of historic charm and modern-day play.
Established in 1896, it is one of the oldest public golf courses in the U.S., making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists seeking a quick round close to the city.
Overview
William J. Devine is steeped in history, having been around for over a century.
The course is known for its sloping hills and mature, tree-lined fairways that create a picturesque and challenging environment.
Despite its proximity to the bustling city, the course offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of natural beauty.
Its well-maintained greens and diverse layout provide both a welcoming atmosphere for casual players and enough complexity to keep seasoned golfers engaged.
Being a municipal course, William J. Devine is not only convenient but also affordable, making it an ideal option for a wide range of players.
Its location in Franklin Park, one of Boston’s largest green spaces, adds to its appeal for those who want to enjoy a round without venturing far from the city.
Why Play Here
One of the primary reasons to play at William J. Devine is its accessibility. If you're looking for a quick game close to Boston, this course is hard to beat.
The combination of history, beautiful scenery, and a challenging yet approachable layout makes it attractive to golfers of all levels.
Whether you're a beginner wanting to work on your game or an experienced player looking for a challenging day out, this course offers plenty to enjoy.
The rich history of William J. Devine adds a unique layer to the experience.
Knowing you're playing on one of the oldest public courses in the country gives each round a special sense of tradition.
The course’s classic design, combined with its ongoing improvements, ensures that it remains a top-notch facility for modern golfers.
Pro Tips
Navigating the course’s sloping hills requires strategic play.
Pay close attention to your approach shots, as the undulating terrain can lead to awkward lies if you’re not careful.
The tree-lined fairways also demand accuracy off the tee, so it’s smart to focus on placement rather than distance for many of your drives.
For those who appreciate the history of the game, take some time to explore the course’s background during your visit.
Walking the same fairways that golfers have been enjoying for over 100 years adds a special dimension to the experience, making it a memorable part of your Boston golfing adventure.
Red Tail Golf Club (Devens, MA): A Coastal-Style Inland Course with Natural Beauty
Red Tail Golf Club, located in Devens, MA, offers a peaceful golfing experience set against a backdrop of natural beauty.
Situated on a former military base, this inland course mimics coastal landscapes with its open greens, sand dunes, and water hazards, making it a unique option for golfers looking for a quiet, yet challenging round.
Overview
Red Tail Golf Club is a scenic 45-minute drive from Boston, providing a tranquil retreat for golfers who enjoy a more relaxed pace.
The course features wide, open fairways combined with coastal-style elements like sand dunes and strategic water hazards, creating a beautiful yet challenging environment.
The course’s design allows for a variety of shot options, offering both novice and experienced golfers an enjoyable test of skill.
Set on a sprawling, former military base, Red Tail has maintained a natural atmosphere, with an emphasis on preserving the surrounding landscape.
The result is a peaceful environment that feels far removed from the city’s hustle and bustle, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying a round of golf.
Why Play Here
Red Tail is perfect for golfers seeking a quieter, less crowded experience.
Unlike some of the busier courses closer to Boston, Red Tail offers a more laid-back atmosphere where you can truly take your time and appreciate the game.
The course itself is designed to be challenging but fair, with plenty of natural obstacles such as sand dunes and water hazards that require strategic thinking without being overly punishing.
After your round, you can unwind at the on-site tavern, which adds to the overall appeal of the club.
The tavern’s relaxed vibe makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal or drink while reflecting on your game or soaking in the scenic views.
How to Make the Most of It
To get the best experience at Red Tail, be mindful of the course’s sand dunes and water hazards.
These natural features add a layer of difficulty to certain holes, so it’s important to plan your shots carefully.
Avoiding the sand traps and keeping the ball in play around water hazards can be the key to a successful round here.
For a truly serene experience, consider playing during off-peak times, such as early mornings or late afternoons.
Not only will you encounter fewer crowds, but the soft light during these hours can make the course’s natural beauty even more striking.
Conclusion
Each of these five golf courses near Boston offers a unique experience, from scenic views and historic designs to challenging layouts.
Whether you're looking for a quick round close to the city or a peaceful retreat in nature, there's a course that fits your needs.
Choose the one that matches your style and enjoy a great day on the greens.
