Maine, celebrated for its stunning landscapes and coastal charm, offers a range of exceptional golf courses that combine scenic beauty with challenging play.
Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a weekend enthusiast, the Pine Tree State features courses that cater to all skill levels while showcasing its natural splendor.
From historic gems like Cape Arundel Golf Club, designed by Walter Travis, to modern marvels such as Boothbay Harbor Country Club, renovated by Bruce Hepner, each course provides a unique experience.
Belgrade Lakes Golf Club and Sugarloaf Golf Club stand out for their panoramic views and demanding layouts. Portland Country Club offers an exclusive experience with views of Casco Bay, while Kebo Valley Club, one of the oldest courses in the U.S., boasts a rich history.
Finally, Sunday River Golf Club delivers picturesque mountain vistas. Explore these top seven courses to enjoy Maine’s premier golfing destinations.
The Best 7 Golf Courses in Maine for an Unforgettable Round
Discover Maine’s premier golfing destinations with our guide to the best 7 golf courses. Experience breathtaking views, challenging layouts, and unforgettable rounds at these top-rated courses
1. Cape Arundel Golf Club
Cape Arundel Golf Club in Kennebunkport, Maine, designed by Walter Travis in 1921, is a historic and challenging 5,859-yard course renowned for its small, undulating green complexes that demand precise shots and strategic play.
Preserving its original design, it harmonizes historical charm with modern golfing challenges. In contrast, Belgrade Lakes Golf Club in central Maine offers expansive fairways, generous greens, and stunning views, catering to golfers of all levels.
Its dedication to sustainability and natural beauty has garnered numerous accolades, making it a quintessential golfing experience in Maine.
2. Boothbay Harbor Country Club
Boothbay Harbor Country Club in Maine underwent a $50 million renovation in 2015 and 2016, funded by philanthropist Paul Coulombe, with Bruce Hepner redesigning the course.
It is now praised for its meticulous upkeep and features water elements, manicured flower beds, and Maine woods, providing stunning views. Significant elevation changes make using a cart advisable.
The club offers luxurious stay-and-play packages at its cottages, villas, and an oceanside resort, making it a premier golfing destination in Maine.
Belgrade Lakes Golf Club is another standout course, known for its naturally rugged terrain and panoramic views of the Belgrade Lakes region. Designed by Clive Clark, the course emphasizes environmental sustainability.
3. Belgrade Lakes Golf Club
Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, a Clive Clark design in central Maine and a former member of Golf Digest’s 100 Greatest Public list, is celebrated for its stunning scenery and challenging course.
The clubhouse and first tee offer panoramic views of lakes and forests from a high vantage point. The course’s numerous elevation changes, strategic doglegs, serene ponds, and ever-present boulders provide a mix of challenges and rewards for golfers.
The practice putting green is considered the most scenic in Maine. The back patio of the clubhouse overlooks a large, undulating double green shared by the ninth and 18th holes, adding complexity and beauty.
This serene and challenging environment makes Belgrade Lakes a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
4. Sugarloaf Golf Club
Set in the Carrabassett Valley against the Appalachians, Sugarloaf Golf Club is a challenging Robert Trent Jones Jr. mountain course, known for its narrow fairways and undulating greens.
Notable for its past inclusion in Golf Digest’s 100 Greatest Public list, the course tests golfers with dense forests and rocks.
The signature 10th and 11th holes offer stunning views and dramatic elevations, including the par-3 11th’s 120-foot drop to a small, two-tiered green. In winter, Sugarloaf becomes a renowned ski resort, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Portland Country Club
Nestled just north of downtown Portland, Portland Country Club offers an exclusive golfing experience with captivating views of Casco Bay. Designed by renowned architect Donald Ross, this private course features restored greens that maintain Ross’s original challenging slopes.
The varied layout includes more exposed front nine holes and tree-lined back nine, demanding adaptability from golfers. Restored in 2017, the course combines historical charm with modern challenges, making it a must-visit for serious golfers.
Another standout is Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, known for its breathtaking scenery and top-notch facilities. Set in the serene Belgrade Lakes region, this public course offers unique granite outcroppings and rolling fairways that challenge golfers of all skill levels.
6. Kebo Valley Club
Founded in 1888, Kebo Valley Club is one of the oldest golf courses in the country, located on Mount Desert Island near Acadia National Park and close to downtown Bar Harbor.
It has hosted notable figures like Harry Vardon, Walter Hagen, and President William Taft, who scored a 27 on the 17th hole in 1911. Walter Hagen set a course record in 1922 with a three-under 67, which lasted for 50 years.
Despite being shorter by modern standards, Kebo offers a challenging experience with its fast, true-rolling, undulating greens and stunning views of Cadillac and Dorr Mountain, making it a delightful addition to any visit to Bar Harbor.
7. Sunday River Golf Club
Nestled among the Appalachian Mountains in Newry, Maine, Sunday River Golf Club offers stunning scenic vistas designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. The course is known for its generous landing areas, providing a more forgiving experience compared to Sugarloaf.
A visit to Sunday River combines the charm of a mountain drive through quaint villages with the reward of playing amidst panoramic mountain views.
The 18-hole course is especially breathtaking in late September, offering one of the best mountain golf experiences in the Northeast.
Despite its remote location, Sunday River is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts, catering to varied skill levels and consistently ranking among Maine’s top golf destinations.
Things to Consider for Selecting Golf Courses in Maine
When choosing a golf course in Maine, consider factors such as course layout, amenities, location, difficulty level, and seasonal conditions to ensure an enjoyable and memorable golfing experience.
Location and Accessibility
Selecting a golf course in Maine should begin with considering location and accessibility, including proximity to major cities or your accommodation. Choose courses near scenic spots or charming towns to enhance your visit.
Also, evaluate the facilities available, such as clubhouse amenities, pro shops, and dining options. Many courses offer equipment rentals and lessons for both beginners and seasoned players.
Course Layout and Design
When examining potential golf courses, consider those designed by renowned architects and evaluate their difficulty to match your skill level.
Belgrade Lakes Golf Club offers a player-friendly yet challenging design, while Falmouth Country Club blends natural beauty with strategic play. Sugarloaf Golf Club provides a mountain golf experience with stunning vistas.
Scenic Views and Natural Beauty
Maine is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and natural beauty, offering golf courses with stunning views of mountains, lakes, or coastal areas. Courses like Cape Arundel Golf Club provide a visual treat for players.
Additionally, many Maine golf courses feature top-notch facilities and challenging layouts, with Belgrade Lakes Golf Club consistently ranking among the best for its impeccable greens and well-designed holes.
Amenities and Services
When choosing a golf course, consider the amenities and services available, such as pro shops, restaurants, and locker rooms.
Portland Country Club provides a premium golfing experience with top-notch amenities, while Belgrade Lakes Golf Club offers stunning panoramic views and meticulously maintained fairways.
Both courses offer an unparalleled golfing experience amid Maine’s natural beauty.
Historical Significance
Explore courses with historical significance. Kebo Valley Club, one of the oldest in the country, offers a rich history that adds a unique charm to your golf outing.
Don’t miss Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, rated one of America’s best public courses, offering stunning views and challenging play. Falmouth Country Club is notable for its meticulously maintained fairways.
Weather and Season
Maine’s weather can vary significantly by season. Plan your visit during the best golfing months, typically from late spring to early fall, to ensure optimal conditions.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player, you’ll find these top 7 golf courses in Maine offer a perfect blend of challenging play and breathtaking scenery.
Reviews and Ratings
Consult reviews and rankings for insight into each course’s quality and customer experience. Courses like Sunday River Golf Club frequently rank high, reflecting their consistent performance and satisfaction among golfers.
Other standout mentions include the Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, known for its breathtaking views and well-maintained greens. Each course provides a unique challenge, catering to golfers of all skill levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the top golf courses in Maine?
The top golf courses in Maine include Cape Arundel Golf Club, Boothbay Harbor Country Club, Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, Sugarloaf Golf Club, Portland Country Club, and Kebo Valley Club.
Which golf courses in Maine are known for their scenic views?
Belgrade Lakes Golf Club and Sugarloaf Golf Club are particularly noted for their stunning scenic views.
What should I consider when choosing a golf course in Maine?
When choosing a golf course in Maine, consider location, course layout, scenic views, amenities, historical significance, weather considerations, and reviews.
What makes Kebo Valley Club unique?
Kebo Valley Club is renowned for its historical significance and unique challenges. Established in 1888, it offers a rich history and a distinctive golfing experience.
Are there any golf courses near downtown Portland?
Yes, Portland Country Club offers an exclusive golfing experience near downtown Portland.
Conclusion
Selecting the right golf course in Maine requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure a memorable experience.
From Cape Arundel Golf Club with its challenging layout and historic charm to Boothbay Harbor Country Club which offers modern amenities and breathtaking views, each course has its unique appeal.
Belgrade Lakes Golf Club stands out with its scenic vistas and thoughtfully designed fairways. Sugarloaf Golf Club is perfect for those seeking a challenging game amidst stunning mountain landscapes.
For those nearer to Portland, the exclusivity and convenience of Portland Country Club cannot be overlooked.
Kebo Valley Club offers historical significance and distinctive challenges, capturing the rich golfing heritage of Maine. Finally, evaluating reviews and considering weather conditions is crucial for planning the best golfing experience.
Golfers must align their preferences with the course’s offerings, from layouts and scenery to amenities and historical value, to make the most informed decision.
Colin McCarthy