Massachusetts boasts some of the finest public golf courses in the country, offering diverse and challenging layouts for golfers of all levels.
The top five public courses are Granite Links Golf Club, Crumpin-Fox Club, Miacomet Golf Club, Pinehills Golf Club, and Waverly Oaks Golf Club.
Keep reading for a detailed exploration of what makes each of these courses a must-play destination.
Granite Links Golf Club (Quincy, MA)
Granite Links Golf Club in Quincy, MA, is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Boston skyline and challenging course layout.
This top-rated golf club provides a unique blend of natural beauty and meticulously designed holes, making it a premier golfing destination in Massachusetts.
Course Overview
Granite Links Golf Club features a remarkable layout that includes rolling hills and striking granite outcroppings, providing both aesthetic beauty and golfing challenges.
The club consists of three nine-hole courses, which can be combined in various ways to create different 18-hole experiences.
The course is celebrated for its meticulously maintained greens and fairways, ensuring a top-quality playing surface year-round.
Course Layout and Design
The club's three nine-hole courses are each distinct, offering diverse challenges and strategic play options.
The Highland Course is known for its dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views.
The Granite Course features tight fairways and strategically placed bunkers that demand precision.
The Quincy Course offers a mix of both, with rolling terrain and stunning vistas.
Each combination of these nine-hole courses provides a unique and memorable 18-hole round.
Signature holes across these courses include elevated tees with expansive views and challenging greens that require careful reading and approach shots.
The layout ensures that golfers of all skill levels will find both enjoyment and challenge in their rounds.
Amenities and Facilities
Granite Links boasts a wide range of amenities designed to enhance the golfing experience.
The clubhouse is modern and well-appointed, offering locker rooms, a pro shop, and event spaces.
Dining options include a restaurant with both indoor and outdoor seating, providing stunning views of the Boston skyline.
Additional amenities include practice facilities such as a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas, ensuring golfers can hone their skills before hitting the course.
Playing Experience
Golfers consistently praise Granite Links for its excellent course conditions and the attentive maintenance that keeps greens and fairways in top shape.
The course's layout and natural features create a challenging yet enjoyable playing experience.
Players can expect a typical pace of play that allows for a relaxed yet engaging round, with the overall atmosphere being one of both leisure and competition.
Pricing and Booking
Granite Links Golf Club's green fees are approximately $125, reflecting the premium quality of the course and its facilities.
Membership options are also available for those who wish to enjoy the club's offerings more frequently.
Tee times can be booked through the club’s official website or by contacting the clubhouse directly.
It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure a preferred time slot.
Location and Accessibility
Located in Quincy, MA, Granite Links is conveniently close to Boston, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
The club is situated just off major highways, with ample parking available on-site.
For those relying on public transportation, various options connect Quincy to Boston and the surrounding areas.
Nearby attractions include the city of Boston itself, with its rich history and cultural offerings, as well as local accommodations ranging from luxurious hotels to more budget-friendly options, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.
Crumpin-Fox Club (Bernardston, MA)
Crumpin-Fox Club, nestled in the foothills of the Berkshires in Bernardston, MA, is a true championship golf course designed by Roger Rulewich.
Known for its challenging layout and pristine conditions, this course offers a premier golfing experience that attracts players from all over New England.
Course Overview
Crumpin-Fox Club offers a classic golf experience with a layout designed by renowned architect Roger Rulewich.
Opened in 1990, the course has established itself as a top public golfing destination, combining the natural beauty of the Berkshires with a strategic and enjoyable design.
The course is characterized by its tree-lined fairways, dramatic bunkering, and subtle topographical changes that challenge golfers of all skill levels.
Course Layout and Design
The course layout at Crumpin-Fox is designed to test precision and strategy.
The fairways are lined with mature trees, creating a sense of seclusion and focus on each hole.
Bunkers are strategically placed to challenge approach shots and protect the greens.
Key features of the course include the undulating terrain and the use of natural water hazards that add both beauty and difficulty to the course.
Signature holes, such as the par-5 9th and the par-4 18th, are celebrated for their challenging layouts and scenic beauty.
Amenities and Facilities
Crumpin-Fox Club provides a comprehensive range of amenities to enhance the golfing experience.
The clubhouse is welcoming and well-equipped, featuring a pro shop with the latest golf gear and apparel.
Practice facilities include a driving range, putting greens, and a short game area, allowing golfers to fine-tune their skills.
Dining options at the club include a restaurant and bar, offering a variety of meals and beverages to enjoy before or after a round.
Playing Experience
Golfers consistently praise Crumpin-Fox for its exceptional course conditions and the high standards of maintenance.
The greens are known for their speed and true roll, while the fairways are kept in excellent shape throughout the season.
Player reviews highlight the course’s strategic design and the challenging yet fair play it offers.
The typical pace of play is well-regulated, ensuring an enjoyable and unrushed round for all.
Pricing and Booking
Green fees at Crumpin-Fox Club peak at around $125, reflecting the quality and prestige of the course.
Seasonal rates may vary, offering different pricing during peak and off-peak times.
Booking a tee time can be done through the club’s official website or by calling the clubhouse.
Early booking is recommended, especially during weekends and peak golfing season, to secure a preferred tee time.
Location and Accessibility
Located in Bernardston, MA, Crumpin-Fox Club is easily accessible from various parts of New England.
The club is situated near major highways, making it a convenient drive from cities like Boston and Hartford.
Detailed directions and transportation options are available on the club’s website.
Nearby attractions include the scenic Berkshires, which offer a range of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Accommodations in the area range from charming bed-and-breakfasts to more luxurious hotels, providing options for every visitor.
Miacomet Golf Club (Nantucket, MA)
Miacomet Golf Club, located on the picturesque island of Nantucket, offers a unique seaside links experience that stands out among New England's public golf courses.
As the only public 18-hole course on the island, Miacomet combines natural beauty with a challenging layout, making it a top destination for golfers.
Course Overview
Miacomet Golf Club is renowned for its links-style design, which provides a distinct coastal golfing experience.
The course is characterized by wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and ocean views that enhance the overall ambiance.
Historically significant, Miacomet has evolved from a modest nine-hole course into a full 18-hole championship course, earning a reputation for excellence and a loyal following among golf enthusiasts.
Course Layout and Design
The layout of Miacomet Golf Club is designed to challenge and engage golfers of all levels.
The wide fairways offer some forgiveness off the tee, but strategic bunkering and undulating greens demand precision on approach shots.
Key features include natural dunes, native grasses, and water hazards that blend seamlessly with the coastal environment.
Signature holes like the par-4 9th and the par-5 18th are particularly noteworthy, offering scenic views and requiring thoughtful shot-making.
Amenities and Facilities
Miacomet Golf Club boasts a variety of amenities to complement the golfing experience.
The clubhouse is well-appointed, featuring a pro shop stocked with the latest golf equipment and apparel.
Dining options include a restaurant that serves a range of meals, from casual snacks to full-course dinners, allowing golfers to relax and refuel.
The club also offers extensive practice facilities, including a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas.
Instruction programs are available for golfers looking to improve their skills, with lessons provided by experienced professionals.
Playing Experience
Golfers consistently praise Miacomet for its excellent course conditions and meticulous maintenance.
The greens are known for their smoothness and consistency, while the fairways are kept in top shape throughout the season.
Reviews highlight the course's challenging yet fair design and the stunning natural scenery that enhances the overall experience.
The pace of play is generally well-managed, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable round.
Pricing and Booking
Green fees at Miacomet Golf Club reflect its premium location and quality, with rates around $200 during peak season.
These rates include access to the club's amenities and practice facilities.
Booking a tee time can be done through the club's official website or by calling the clubhouse.
Given the course's popularity, especially during the summer months, it is advisable to book well in advance to secure a preferred time.
Location and Accessibility
Miacomet Golf Club is located on Nantucket, an island known for its charming coastal atmosphere and rich history.
Transportation to Nantucket typically involves a ferry ride from the mainland or a flight into Nantucket Memorial Airport.
Once on the island, the course is easily accessible by car or bike, with ample parking available.
Nearby accommodations range from luxury resorts to quaint bed-and-breakfasts, providing options for every budget.
In addition to golfing, visitors can explore Nantucket's beaches, historic sites, and vibrant dining scene.
Pinehills Golf Club (Plymouth, MA)
Pinehills Golf Club, located in Plymouth, MA, is celebrated for its outstanding facilities and exceptional course designs.
Offering two 18-hole championship courses, designed by Rees Jones and Nicklaus Design, Pinehills provides a premier golfing experience that attracts players from across the region.
Course Overview
Pinehills Golf Club has built a reputation as one of Massachusetts' top golf destinations.
The club features two distinct 18-hole courses, each offering a unique blend of challenge and beauty.
Designed by renowned architects Rees Jones and Nicklaus Design, Pinehills combines top-tier design with immaculate course conditions to deliver an unparalleled golfing experience.
Course Layout and Design
The Rees Jones course is known for its strategic layout, featuring wide fairways, challenging bunkers, and large, undulating greens.
This course emphasizes strategic play, with numerous risk-reward opportunities and a variety of hole designs that keep golfers engaged throughout their round.
Notable holes include the par-4 7th, which requires a precise tee shot to avoid water hazards, and the par-5 18th, known for its challenging approach to a well-guarded green.
The Nicklaus Design course offers a different set of challenges, with narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and smaller greens that demand accuracy.
Signature holes such as the par-3 5th, which features a picturesque island green, and the par-4 15th, with its uphill approach and multiple bunkers, highlight the thoughtful design and natural beauty of this course.
Amenities and Facilities
Pinehills Golf Club boasts a comprehensive range of amenities designed to enhance the overall golfing experience.
The clubhouse is elegantly appointed, featuring a well-stocked pro shop that offers the latest golf equipment and apparel.
Dining options include a restaurant that provides a variety of culinary delights, from casual fare to fine dining, allowing golfers to relax and enjoy a meal before or after their round.
The practice facilities at Pinehills are among the best in the region, including a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas.
The club also offers instructional programs led by experienced PGA professionals, catering to golfers of all skill levels who wish to improve their game.
Playing Experience
Golfers consistently praise Pinehills for its meticulous course maintenance and excellent playing conditions.
Both courses are kept in pristine condition, with smooth greens and well-manicured fairways that enhance the overall playing experience.
Reviews highlight the club's welcoming atmosphere and the friendly, professional staff who contribute to a positive and memorable visit.
The pace of play is generally well-managed, ensuring an enjoyable round for all players.
Pricing and Booking
Green fees at Pinehills Golf Club range from $90 to $145, depending on the course and the time of year.
Seasonal variations may apply, with peak rates during the summer months.
Booking a tee time is straightforward and can be done via the club's official website or by calling the clubhouse.
Early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure a preferred tee time and ensure availability.
Location and Accessibility
Pinehills Golf Club is conveniently located in Plymouth, MA, easily accessible from major highways.
Detailed directions are available on the club’s website, and ample parking is provided on-site.
For those traveling from further afield, Plymouth offers a range of nearby attractions and lodging options, from luxurious hotels to more budget-friendly accommodations.
In addition to golfing, visitors can explore Plymouth's rich historical sites, such as Plimoth Plantation and the Mayflower II, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.
Waverly Oaks Golf Club (Plymouth, MA)
Waverly Oaks Golf Club, located in Plymouth, MA, is a premier golfing destination known for its stunning natural terrain and challenging course design.
Designed by Brian Silva, the course makes excellent use of the region's undulating landscape, providing a memorable and rewarding golfing experience.
Course Overview
Waverly Oaks Golf Club is renowned for its beautiful, rolling terrain and expertly designed holes that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The course, designed by Brian Silva, takes full advantage of the area's dramatic elevation changes, strategically placed bunkers, and large, undulating greens.
This combination of natural beauty and thoughtful design makes Waverly Oaks a standout among Massachusetts' public golf courses.
Course Layout and Design
The layout of Waverly Oaks features significant elevation changes that create a dynamic and engaging round of golf.
Bunkers are strategically positioned to challenge players' shots and protect the greens.
The course includes several signature holes, such as the par-4 7th, which requires a precise drive to avoid hazards and an accurate approach to a well-protected green.
Another notable hole is the par-5 15th, which features a dramatic downhill tee shot and a challenging approach over water.
Each hole at Waverly Oaks offers unique challenges and requires strategic thinking, making it an enjoyable course for golfers of all skill levels.
The variety in the layout ensures that no two rounds are the same, keeping the golfing experience fresh and exciting.
Amenities and Facilities
Waverly Oaks Golf Club offers a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience.
The clubhouse is modern and well-equipped, featuring locker rooms, a fully stocked pro shop, and event spaces.
Dining options at the club include a restaurant that serves a variety of meals, from casual snacks to more formal dining, allowing golfers to relax and enjoy their time at the club.
The practice facilities at Waverly Oaks are extensive, including a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas.
These facilities provide golfers with ample opportunities to warm up before their round or work on their skills.
Additional services, such as professional instruction and clinics, are available for those looking to improve their game.
Playing Experience
Golfers consistently praise Waverly Oaks for its excellent course conditions and high maintenance standards.
The greens are smooth and fast, while the fairways are kept in pristine condition.
Reviews and testimonials highlight the course's challenging yet fair design, with many players noting the beautiful scenery and enjoyable pace of play.
The overall atmosphere at Waverly Oaks is welcoming and professional, ensuring a positive experience for all who visit.
Pricing and Booking
Green fees at Waverly Oaks Golf Club are around $100, with special rates available during off-peak times and for certain groups, such as seniors and juniors.
The booking process is straightforward, with tee times available through the club's official website or by calling the clubhouse.
Due to the course's popularity, especially on weekends and during peak golfing season, it is recommended to book tee times in advance to secure a preferred time slot.
Location and Accessibility
Waverly Oaks Golf Club is conveniently located in Plymouth, MA, making it easily accessible from various parts of the state.
The club is situated near major highways, with ample parking available on-site.
For those relying on public transportation, options are available to connect Plymouth with surrounding areas.
The proximity to local attractions, such as the historic sites of Plymouth and nearby beaches, makes Waverly Oaks an ideal destination for a golfing getaway.
Accommodations in the area range from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly options, providing suitable choices for all visitors.
Conclusion
Massachusetts offers a diverse range of top-tier public golf courses, each providing unique challenges and stunning landscapes.
From the scenic views at Granite Links to the strategic designs at Crumpin-Fox, Miacomet, Pinehills, and Waverly Oaks, these courses deliver exceptional golfing experiences.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, these premier courses are must-plays for any golf enthusiast.
