When asked to name a golf destination, even non-enthusiasts can come up with the obvious.
Pebble Beach. Augusta. Orlando.
What makes them great isn’t just their beautiful backdrop; it’s the access to more courses than you could play in one visit. It’s the variety of tracks that appeal to every level. It’s the surrounding restaurants and alternate activities.
Did you know that right here in New England sits a golf mecca with all that to offer? And while I’ve called that town my home for the past 40 years, it’s only since I truly embraced golf a few years ago that I realized this fact: While Plymouth, Massachusetts, may be known for history and coastal charm, its greatest asset may just be its incredible variety of courses to play. Plymouth is a true golf destination.
In fact, with 13 total courses – 10 of them public – Plymouth boasts the most tracks in a single town in the entire northeast, and is in the rankings of the most in the nation.
From kicked-back casual spots to nationally-ranked championship level courses, you can find your vibe – or vibes – in a Plymouth golf escape.
Here’s a basic rundown on where you can find your perfect fit on a course in America’s Hometown.
Casual but Complete: Village Links Golf Course is fast, friendly, walkable and somewhat simple. A 18-hole par 3, you can walk it quickly. And while you won’t need your driver, you’ll have plenty of chances to work your short game – and take on some interesting greens. Affordable and casual. Bonus: Breakfast or lunch at Kevin’s, on site, is phenomenal.
Executive and Excellent: There’s something refreshing about playing a well-run executive course. Whether you’re teeing off with friends who are learning or looking to have a day with more successes, Squirrel Run Golf Club does it well. You’ll hit over water, pull your driver out at least once and be treated well. Pristine and with country club level service (under same ownership as Village Links), it makes for a lovely day out. Bonus: You’ll find this author’s name on the hole in one plaque in the clubhouse.
One-of-a-kind Round: Southers Marsh was born of a dream: It started out as a few holes carved around cranberry bogs that the owner invited friends out on. Today, its unique scenery, challenging holes and true east coast beauty makes it a must visit. Where else can you play through working cranberry bogs? An executive course but the mental challenge makes it feel like more. Bonus: The Barn, their indoor to outdoor hitting bays, means weather is not going to stop the fun.
Champion Level Challenge: Crosswinds Golf Club’s 27 holes are pure challenge, demanding you to think, risk, pull out all your clubs at some point and yes: feel great about a lower score here. Near-perfect course maintenance and a lower price than other local tough courses. Bonus: the 27 hole set up means you can mix and match your two nines for a new experience each visit.
Forgiving and Yet Formidable: Down in South Plymouth, Atlantic Country Club flies under the radar – don’t let that stop you from a round there. ACC has forgiving fairways and rolls, but the bevy of bunkers and elevated greens keep you focused. Almost to the Cape, but no bridge to cross. Bonus: Absolutely fantastic practice facilities – so arrive early.
Not killed – instead stronger: Waverly Oaks was nearly taken down by the Hollywood East Scandal, but that was long ago and today it’s thriving and worthy of a visit. More than 150 feet of elevation change means challenge coupled with magnificent views of the Pine Hills region of Plymouth. Bonus: Beautiful setting and top notch food in the clubhouse.
The Mac Daddy Club: The Pine Hills regularly sits in the upper slots of any national golf course ranking list, and for good reason. The two 18-hole tracks offer championship play, impeccable conditions and a chance for moral victories just about every turn. The member-plus-public set-up gives visitors a chance to feel like a private club member from the moment you arrive. Top-notch staff service and a remarkable practice range (unlimited balls delivered to your bay!) round it out. One 18 is Nicklaus-designed; the other Jones. Bonus: Courseside restaurant is worth a visit in itself – you might even see a wedding courseside before tee off.
Someone let us in: And then there are the privates. Plymouth Country Club is one of the most respected and historic in the nation (and what views! The Walhberg Brothers frequent it) and Old Sandwich Country Club – with its superstar roster and course not visible from any road – is the mystery we all crave to get in on. Anyone need a fourth? I’m available.