Imagine yourself practicing your swing on the tee, a stunning ocean view on one side and gorgeous, towering trees on the other. With its unique blend of challenging courses and amazing scenery, golfing in Maine is world-class. From the almost 40 nine-hole courses perfect for a quick morning or evening game to historic courses that date to the late 1800s, Maine provides the perfect backdrop for a golfing vacation.
With more than 130 courses to choose from across Maine’s eight regions, golfers can choose from courses on the sea, to courses with mountain views, to courses surrounded by scenic lakes and rivers. The state’s golf season begins right after the snow melts in spring and runs through the autumn, when play is complemented by the infamous colors of Maine’s brilliant fall foliage.
Whether you are a seasoned player seeking a challenging game, a casual golfer looking to play nine relaxing holes or a beginner who wants to take some lessons at one of Maine’s nine golf schools, bring your clubs on your next Maine holiday.
Possibly the second-oldest course in New England, Mount Kineo Golf Course boasts scenic views of Moosehead Lake.Nine-Hole Courses
If your Maine vacation is packed so full of activities that you don’t have time for 18 holes, never fear: The state is dotted with nine-hole courses. In the Mid-Coast Region, the par-36 Searsport Pines Golf Course features nine holes, towering evergreens, water hazards, and a pro-shop.
In Aroostook County, the Caribou Country Club features a par-72 course surrounded by wildlife-rich habitat. It was designed by Geoffrey S. Cornish and hosts the annual Cary Classic. The whole family is welcome at the Barnes Brook course in West Enfield. This 3,150-yard course has a pro-shop and provides lessons for all ages.
Other 9-hole courses include:
- Grindstone Neck — founded in 1891 has ocean views from each hole
- Wilson Lake Country Club — designed by Wayne Stiles
- Wawenock Golf Club — links-style course
Enjoy a game of seaside golf in Maine’s Acadia Area.Private Courses
Though some of Maine’s private golf courses are only open to members, several offer guest passes or trial memberships. Among the best, as ranked by Golf Digest Magazine, is the Portland Country Club near Falmouth. This oceanside private course was designed by Donald Ross and is a certified Audubon Sanctuary.
Also near Falmouth, the Woodlands Club course was designed by Jim and George Fazio. This challenging course hosted the Ben Hogan-Nike New England Classic and plays to 6,848 yards.
Other private courses include:
- Maine National Country Club—a par-72 course designed by Brad Booth and Brad Faxon.
- Purpudook Club — 12 water hazards and 187 acres
- Augusta Country Club — designed by Wayne Stiles, John VanKleek and Donald Ross
Public Courses
Most of Maine’s courses are open to the public. Many are recognized as among the best in New England such as Belgrade Lakes, a central Maine course surrounded by hills and forests. This 6,700-yard, par-71 course was designed by Clive Clark and was named one of the best 100 courses in the U.S. by Golf Digest. Dogs are allowed to accompany their owners on this unique course.
The Sugarloaf Golf Club was ranked #1 in Maine by Golf Digest. Fees for 18 holes are $89 from June to September. This rugged mountain course was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and presents a challenging game.
Other notable public courses include;
- Sunday River Golf Club — a mountain course ranked #1 in Maine by Golfweek
- Spring Meadows — a par-71 championship course designed by Brad Booth
- Kebo Valley Club — founded in 1888, this rugged course borders Acadia National Park
Photo Credit: Point Sebago Golf Club, Casco, MaineResort Courses
Several Maine resorts offer stay-and-play packages that simplify vacation planning. The oldest resort course in the country, Poland Springs has welcomed famous guests from Babe Ruth to President Taft. This par-71 course features mountain and lake views and offers a range of accommodations.
For stunning lake views, Point Sebago Resort can’t be beat. This par-72 course is set on 500 acres of white birch forest and has a range of terrain that challenges beginners and seasoned golfers alike. Located near Casco, Point Sebago offers stay-and-play packages that include lessons, meals, accommodations, tournament play and cart rentals. Golf Digest rated this course #1 in southern Maine.
The Samoset Resort has ocean views from 14 holes. This par-70 course, rated “best in Maine by the Portland Press Herald”, offers stay-and-play packages that include cart rentals.
Presque Isle Golf Course, Aroostook County, Maine. Photo Credit: Paul CyrSemi-Private Courses
Maine has more than 30 semi-private golf courses, or privately owned courses that accept guests for certain tee times. The Presque Isle Country Club is home to the annual Spudland Open Tournament. This 18-hole course charges a $40 green fee.
The Martindale Country Club also offers public tee times. Founded in 1921, Martindale features stunning views of Mt. Washington from the front nine and four sets of tees to accommodate golfers of all abilities.
Other semi-private courses include:
- Sanford Country Club — host of the Maine and US Amateur tournaments
- Cape Neddick Country Club — designed by Donald Ross
- Webhannet Golf Club — challenging par-71 course overlooking the Atlantic
Whether you’re beginning golfer or have years of experience on the links, Maine’s many golf courses provide the perfect setting for an enjoyable golf vacation.
Mingo Springs Country Club & Golf Course, Rangeley, Maine
