The 15 Best Golf Courses In Michigan (Public & Private)
As someone who has played golf in Michigan for over a decade, I can confidently say that the state is one of the best places to tee off in the country.
With its diverse landscapes and stunning views, Michigan boasts some truly spectacular golf courses that are sure to impress even the most discerning golfer.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there is something for everyone.
From world-renowned courses like Oakland Hills and Arcadia Bluffs to hidden gems like Crystal Downs or Forest Dunes, Michigan has it all.
But it’s not just about the courses themselves, it’s also about the people you meet along the way.
The friendly competition with fellow golfers, chatting with locals at charming mom-and-pop shops nearby, and sharing stories over drinks at a local pub after a round – these are all experiences that make playing golf in Michigan special.
Here is our list of the 15 best private and public golf courses in Michigan.
Oakland Hills Country Club – Bloomfield Hills
Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Hills is a world-renowned golf course and country club that has been host to some of the most prestigious golf tournaments in history.
The club was founded in 1916 and designed by renowned architect Donald Ross – it quickly gained recognition as one of the toughest courses in America.
Oakland Hills has hosted six U.S. Opens, three PGA Championships, two U.S. Senior Opens, a U.S. Women’s Open, and a Ryder Cup.
The course boasts two 18-hole championship courses: the South Course and the North Course.
The South Course is considered to be one of the toughest courses on earth with an average score of over par during major championships held at Oakland Hills Country Club.
The North Course has challenging layouts and demands both power and precision from golfers while showcasing breathtaking views of Bloomfield Hills’ natural beauty.
With narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens that are heavily guarded by bunkers and water hazards, this championship course demands precision and strategy from players of all skill levels.
The par-70 layout measures 7,142 yards from the back tees, providing a challenge for even the most seasoned professionals.
Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club – Arcadia
Located on the bluffs of Lake Michigan in Arcadia, Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club is a masterpiece of golf course design.
With breathtaking views of the sparkling waters below and the rolling hills that surround it, this championship course offers an unparalleled golfing experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning players.
Designed by renowned architect Rick Smith, Arcadia Bluffs Golf features two 18 holes that are both challenging and rewarding for players of all skill levels.
The course is home to some of the most dramatic holes in golf, including its signature hole – the par-3 15th – which boasts stunning views of Lake Michigan and requires a precise shot over a ravine to reach its sloping green.
The South Course was designed by Dana Frye and Jason Straka. This course is perfect for beginners looking to improve their game or experienced players who want to refine their skills.
In addition to its world-class golf facilities, Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club also offers luxurious amenities that make it an ideal destination for both casual and serious golfers alike.
Forest Dunes Golf Club – Roscommon
Forest Dunes Golf Club is one of the most beautiful golf courses in Roscommon.
This stunning course is nestled among towering trees and natural sand dunes that create a challenging yet rewarding course for golfers of all skill levels.
Designed by Tom Weiskopf, Forest Dunes has received numerous accolades and awards since it opened in 2002.
The layout of this 18-hole championship-quality course is known for its wide fairways, deceptive bunkers, and complex greens.
When playing on this course, golfers will encounter challenges such as wetlands and lakes, undulating terrain, and native grasses that require strategic thinking to navigate successfully.
The signature hole at Forest Dunes is the par-3 sixth hole which features a dramatic carry-over water to reach the green.
Crystal Downs Country Club – Frankfort
Crystal Downs Country Club is a hidden gem located in Frankfort, Michigan. This prestigious golf club was founded in 1927 and has since been recognized as one of the best courses in the world.
The course was designed by Alister MacKenzie and Perry Maxwell, two of the greatest golf course architects of all time.
Their design philosophy focused on creating a challenging yet fair course that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
The course at Crystal Downs features 18 holes, each with its unique character and challenges.
The layout takes advantage of the hilly terrain and offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan from several holes.
The greens are fast and undulating, making putting a true test of skill for golfers of all levels. The bunkers are strategically placed to catch errant shots while adding to the beauty of the landscape.
Tullymore Golf Resort – Stanwood
Tullymore Golf Resort, located in Stanwood, is a world-class golf destination that offers an unparalleled experience for both novice and experienced golfers.
With two award-winning courses, Tullymore and St. Ives, the resort boasts some of the most challenging and picturesque golf holes in the country.
Tullymore has also been named one of the top 100 resorts in North America by Golf Magazine.
The Tullymore course encompasses over 800 acres of pristine woodland and wetland areas, offering a unique golfing experience that blends natural beauty with challenging play.
The courses are set amidst natural beauty and offer a challenging but rewarding game.
Each hole offers stunning views of rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and majestic forests that will take your breath away.
Apart from golfing, there are many other activities available at Tullymore Golf Resort such as swimming in their outdoor pool or enjoying a relaxing spa treatment to rejuvenate your senses after a long day on the course.
In addition to its exceptional golf offerings, Tullymore Golf Resort also provides luxurious accommodations at its on-site lodge.
Guests can enjoy spacious rooms with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and high-speed internet access.
Bay Harbor Golf Club – Bay Harbor
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Bay Harbor Golf Club is one of the most prestigious golf resorts in the United States.
The club is renowned for its breathtaking views, world-class facilities, and challenging courses.
With three unique nines that weave their way through towering trees and along the lakefront, Bay Harbor Golf Club offers an unforgettable golfing experience.
Designed by Arthur Hills, each course at Bay Harbor has its own distinct character and challenges.
The Links Course features Scottish-style bunkers and undulating greens while The Preserve Course winds through a nature preserve with stunning vistas of Little Traverse Bay.
Finally, The Quarry Course takes players on a journey through an abandoned quarry filled with crystal blue water hazards.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking for a fun round with friends, Bay Harbor Golf Club has something for everyone.
True North Golf Club – Harbor Springs
True North Golf Club in Harbor Springs is one of the most exclusive golf courses in Northern Michigan.
Designed by renowned architect Jim Engh, this 18-hole course offers a challenging and unique experience for golfers of all skill levels.
The course is situated on acres of lush greenery, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The centerpiece of True North Golf Club is its signature 9th hole – a par-3 that requires a tee shot over water to reach the green.
This hole has become famous among golf enthusiasts around the world and has been featured in numerous publications.
But this is just one example of the many challenges that await players at True North Golf Club.
In addition to its stunning natural features, True North also boasts exceptional facilities and amenities.
The clubhouse offers fine dining options, as well as private event spaces for weddings, corporate events, and more.
Kingsley Club – Kingsley
Kingsley Club is a golf course located in the serene town of Kingsley.
This exclusive club is regarded as one of the most prestigious golf courses in the United States, with Golf Digest ranking it at number 25 on its list of America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses.
The club features a classic design by Mike DeVries, who has gained recognition for creating some of the most exceptional golf courses worldwide.
The Kingsley Club spans over 300 acres and boasts an immaculately-kept fairway that blends naturally into the surrounding landscape.
The course offers various challenges to players due to its unique layout featuring wide-open spaces, strategic bunkers, and water hazards that test even the most seasoned golfer’s skill set.
Members are treated to an unforgettable experience from start to finish, thanks to personalized attention from staff who ensure every detail is attended to.
Harbor Shores Golf Club – Benton Harbor
Harbor Shores Golf Club is a world-class course situated in Benton Harbor. This premier golf destination offers players an opportunity to experience a challenging and unforgettable round of golf.
Designed by renowned architect Jack Nicklaus, this 18-hole course is nestled between rolling sand dunes, lush forests, and a breathtaking Lake Michigan shoreline.
The course at Harbor Shores Golf Club has been masterfully designed to challenge even the most seasoned golfer.
The layout incorporates a blend of traditional links-style holes and more modern elements that will keep players on their toes throughout the entire round.
With five sets of tees available, the course can be enjoyed by golfers of all skill levels. But make no mistake – this is not a walk in the park – as each hole presents its own unique set of obstacles requiring precision shots to navigate successfully.
Lakewood Shores Resort – Oscoda
Lakewood Shores Resort in Oscoda is a premier vacation destination that offers a picturesque setting, top-tier amenities, and a plethora of activities to entertain guests of all ages.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Huron, with the Huron National Forest as its backdrop, Lakewood Shores is an idyllic hideaway for those seeking relaxation and adventure.
The resort features three distinct golf courses that cater to players of varying skill levels.
The Gailes Course boasts Scottish-style links with undulating fairways and deep pot bunkers, while Serradella’s forested fairways provide more traditional play.
The Blackshire Course offers a unique combination of both styles with rolling hills and scenic views.
Eagle Eye Golf Club – Bath
Eagle Eye Golf Club, located in Bath, is one of the most challenging and scenic golf courses in the region.
Designed by Chris Lutzke and Pete Dye, this 18-hole championship course stretches over 7,000 yards and features natural wetlands, rolling hills, and pristine fairways.
With a slope rating of 137 from the back tees, Eagle Eye Golf Club provides a true test of skill for golfers of all levels.
One of the defining features of Eagle Eye is its undulating greens that require precision putting skills.
The course also includes multiple water hazards that come into play on several holes, adding an element of risk-reward to each shot.
The fairways are wide enough to accommodate different playing styles but narrow enough to challenge even the most skilled golfers.
Grand Traverse Resort and Spa – Acme
Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, located in the quaint town of Acme, is a world-renowned destination for golf enthusiasts.
The resort boasts three championship courses designed by legends such as Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. Each course offers unique challenges and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
The Bear Course, designed by Nicklaus himself, is a true test of skill with its narrow fairways and challenging greens.
The Wolverine Course, designed by Gary Player, provides players with stunning views of East Grand Traverse Bay while also offering a variety of hazards to navigate.
Lastly, The Spruce Run Course offers more forgiving fairways while still providing golfers with an enjoyable challenge.
In addition to these top-notch courses, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa also offer exceptional amenities such as a full-service spa and multiple dining options.
The Heather at Boyne Highlands – Harbor Springs
The Heather at Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs is a must-play golf course for any avid golfer.
This 18-hole, par-72 course is situated amidst the rolling hills and natural beauty of northern Michigan.
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., The Heather has been named one of America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses by Golf Digest.
Golfers of all skill levels will appreciate the challenging layout and stunning scenery that The Heather offers.
The course features undulating fairways, well-placed bunkers, and water hazards that come into play on several holes. It also boasts immaculate greens that roll true and fast, making for an enjoyable putting experience.
The signature hole on The Heather is the par-3 11th, which requires a tee shot over a ravine to an elevated green surrounded by bunkers.
Shanty Creek Resort – Bellaire
Shanty Creek Resort, located in Bellaire, is a paradise for golf enthusiasts. With four championship courses to choose from and breathtaking surroundings, it’s no wonder why this resort is a favorite among avid golfers.
The courses at Shanty Creek are designed by some of the most renowned architects in the game and offer a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.
The Hawk’s Eye course is a golfer’s paradise, featuring an array of challenging holes that test every aspect of your game.
From doglegs and bunkers to water hazards and sloping greens, this course will push even the most experienced players to their limits.
However, it also caters to beginners with tee options that make it more forgiving for those who are still honing their skills.
The Cedar River course is the jewel of Shanty Creek’s collection. Designed by Tom Weiskopf, this course offers stunning views of the northern Michigan landscape and features elevated tees and greens that challenge even experienced golfers.
The Schuss Mountain course provides a more traditional layout with well-manicured fairways and greens that offer an excellent opportunity for scoring low.
While the Summit Course offers an undulating terrain with several doglegs that require precise shot-making skills.
Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa – Thompsonville
Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa is an all-season destination with numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
However, one of the resort’s most significant attractions is its award-winning golf course that offers stunning panoramic views of northern Michigan’s rolling hills.
Designed by renowned architect Betsy Rawls, the Mountain Ridge Course is a par 72 course that spans over 7,000 yards.
The course was named one of Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play” in 2008-2009 and has been praised as a challenging yet fair test of skill for golfers of all levels.
With four tee options available on each hole, players can customize their experience to match their abilities.
In addition to the Mountain Ridge Course, Crystal Mountain also features a shorter but equally enjoyable nine-hole course called Betsie Valley.
That’s a wrap on the best golf courses in Michigan. Have you played in any of these courses? What was your experience? Mention it in the comments section below. We’d like to know.
