The Best Golf Courses in Maine

Maine's diverse landscape creates the perfect backdrop for some of New England's most spectacular golf courses. From oceanside links with dramatic coastal views to serene lakeside fairways and challenging mountain layouts, the Pine Tree State offers unforgettable golfing experiences for players of all skill levels. Our comprehensive guide explores the best golf courses in Maine, highlighting their unique features, challenges, and amenities to help you plan your perfect Maine golf getaway.

Belgrade Lakes Golf Club

Consistently ranked among the top public courses in the country, Belgrade Lakes Golf Club offers a spectacular golfing experience in central Maine. Designed by acclaimed architect Clive Clark, this 18-hole masterpiece opened in 1998 and has been captivating golfers ever since with its perfect blend of challenge and natural beauty.

The course winds through rolling terrain with dramatic elevation changes that provide stunning views of the surrounding Belgrade Lakes region. Each hole feels secluded, creating an intimate connection with Maine's natural landscape. The immaculately maintained fairways and greens are complemented by strategic bunkering that rewards thoughtful play.

What truly sets Belgrade Lakes apart is its commitment to the complete golfing experience. The staff provides exceptional service from the moment you arrive, and the clubhouse offers comfortable amenities with panoramic views of the course. Walking is encouraged to fully appreciate the natural beauty, though carts are available.

Sugarloaf Golf Club

Nestled in Maine's western mountains, Sugarloaf Golf Club offers one of the most dramatic and challenging golf experiences in New England. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this mountain course has consistently been ranked among the top courses in the country since its opening in 1985.

The course is characterized by significant elevation changes, with many holes featuring breathtaking drops from tee to fairway. The front nine winds through the valley floor alongside the Carrabassett River, while the back nine climbs up the mountainside with spectacular views of the Bigelow Mountain Range. The signature 11th hole, a downhill par 3 with a 120-foot vertical drop, is one of the most photographed holes in New England.

Sugarloaf's conditioning is impeccable, with bentgrass fairways and greens maintained to championship standards. The clubhouse offers full amenities including a pro shop, restaurant, and practice facilities. As part of the larger Sugarloaf Resort, golfers can combine their golf experience with other mountain activities and accommodations.

Samoset Resort Golf Club

For a truly memorable oceanside golf experience, Samoset Resort Golf Club in Rockport delivers spectacular views of Penobscot Bay from nearly every hole. This classic New England course has been challenging golfers since 1902 and underwent a significant redesign by Robert Elder in the 1970s.

The 18-hole championship course features seven oceanside holes with dramatic views of the bay, islands, and the historic Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse. The ocean comes into play on several holes, and coastal breezes add an additional challenge to club selection and shot-making. The signature 4th hole, a par 4 that plays along the rocky coastline, is one of the most scenic holes in Maine.

Beyond the stunning views, Samoset offers impeccable conditions with bentgrass fairways and greens. As part of a full-service resort, golfers have access to excellent practice facilities, professional instruction, a well-stocked pro shop, and multiple dining options. The resort amenities make Samoset an ideal destination for golf getaways.

Kebo Valley Club

As the eighth oldest golf club in the United States (established in 1888), Kebo Valley Club in Bar Harbor combines rich history with spectacular natural beauty. Located near Acadia National Park, this historic course has hosted golf legends and presidents throughout its storied past.

Designed by Herbert C. Leeds and later modified by Donald Ross, Kebo Valley features a classic layout that has stood the test of time. The course is framed by the stunning backdrop of Cadillac Mountain and the surrounding Acadia landscape. The signature 8th hole, known as "Kebo's Nemesis," features a deep bunker that famously frustrated President William Howard Taft.

The course offers a challenging yet fair test of golf with narrow fairways, strategic bunkering, and undulating greens. Wildlife sightings are common as the course borders Acadia National Park. The historic clubhouse provides a charming atmosphere for post-round relaxation, and the pro shop offers equipment and apparel.

Boothbay Harbor Country Club

Following an extensive renovation completed in 2016, Boothbay Harbor Country Club has emerged as one of Maine's premier golf destinations. Located on the scenic Boothbay Peninsula, this stunning course combines classic New England golf with modern amenities and conditioning.

The 18-hole championship course, originally designed by Wayne Stiles and John Van Kleek in 1921, features rolling fairways, strategic water hazards, and challenging green complexes. The renovation by Bruce Hepner preserved the classic design while enhancing playability and visual appeal. Multiple tee options make the course accessible to golfers of all skill levels.

What truly distinguishes Boothbay Harbor is its world-class facilities. The spectacular new clubhouse features luxury locker rooms, a well-stocked pro shop, and multiple dining options including the acclaimed Paul's Steak House. The practice facilities include a driving range, short game area, and putting green. Comfort stations throughout the course provide refreshments during your round.

Sunday River Golf Club

Designed by acclaimed architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., Sunday River Golf Club in Newry offers a mountain golf experience that rivals any in New England. Opened in 2005, this dramatic course is set against the backdrop of the Mahoosuc Range and Sunday River ski resort.

The course is characterized by significant elevation changes, with many holes offering spectacular mountain vistas. The layout takes full advantage of the natural terrain, with fairways that wind through forests and across mountain streams. Strategic bunkering and challenging green complexes demand thoughtful shot-making throughout the round.

Conditioning at Sunday River is exceptional, with bentgrass fairways and greens maintained to championship standards. The clubhouse provides a comfortable setting for post-round relaxation, and the Clubhouse Restaurant offers excellent dining with panoramic views. Practice facilities include a driving range, putting green, and short game area.

Cape Arundel Golf Club

Steeped in history and presidential connections, Cape Arundel Golf Club in Kennebunkport offers a classic golf experience that has changed little since its design by Walter Travis in 1896. This historic course has been a favorite of presidents and golf purists for generations.

Cape Arundel is a traditional links-style course featuring small, undulating greens, strategic bunkering, and the Kennebunk River coming into play on several holes. At just 5,881 yards and par 69, the course may appear deceptively simple, but its classic design demands precision and course management rather than power.

The course is perhaps best known for its association with the Bush family, particularly former President George H.W. Bush, who played here regularly during summer visits to his Kennebunkport compound. The historic clubhouse, known as the "41 House" in honor of the 41st president, offers a glimpse into the club's storied past and provides a charming setting for post-round refreshments.

Webhannet Golf Club

Founded in 1901, Webhannet Golf Club in Kennebunk offers a classic New England golf experience with coastal influences. This semi-private club combines history with excellent conditioning and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors during the golf season.

The 18-hole layout features a challenging front nine with what many consider three of the toughest par-3 holes in Maine. The course is characterized by undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and subtle green complexes that reward precise approach shots. Natural water hazards, including tidal-fed streams, come into play on several holes.

While not directly on the ocean, Webhannet's coastal location means sea breezes often add an additional challenge to club selection and shot-making. The clubhouse provides comfortable amenities including dining options with views of the course. Practice facilities include a driving range and putting green to prepare for your round.

Dunegrass Golf Club

Located just minutes from the popular beaches of Old Orchard Beach, Dunegrass Golf Club offers a modern championship golf experience on Maine's southern coast. Designed by Dan Maples and opened in the 1990s, this course has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The 18-hole layout stretches across more than 300 acres of diverse terrain, featuring woodlands, streams, and natural undulations. At 6,644 yards from the back tees, the par-72 course provides an appropriate challenge for skilled players while remaining enjoyable for recreational golfers from the forward tees. Strategic water hazards come into play on several holes, and well-placed bunkers guard the generous greens.

Dunegrass is known for its excellent conditioning and player-friendly design. The recently renovated clubhouse offers a full-service restaurant and event space, making it a popular destination for tournaments and outings. Practice facilities include a driving range and putting green to warm up before your round.

Point Sebago Golf Course

Set along the shores of Maine's second-largest lake, Point Sebago Golf Course in Casco offers a scenic parkland golf experience in a resort setting. Designed by George Sargent and Phil Wogan, this course takes full advantage of its beautiful lakeside location.

The 18-hole championship layout features rolling fairways that wind through mature pine forests with occasional glimpses of Sebago Lake. At 6,709 yards from the back tees, the par-72 course provides an appropriate challenge for players of all abilities with multiple tee options. Natural elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and well-protected greens require thoughtful course management.

As part of the larger Point Sebago Resort, the golf course offers excellent amenities including a pro shop, restaurant, and practice facilities. The resort setting makes it an ideal destination for family golf vacations, with numerous recreational activities available beyond golf. The course is known for its friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere.

The Ledges Golf Club

Consistently recognized as one of New England's top public courses, The Ledges Golf Club in York offers a premium golf experience on Maine's southern coast. Designed by William Bradley Booth and opened in 1998, this modern championship course features dramatic natural elements that create both visual appeal and strategic challenge.

The course gets its name from the distinctive rock ledges that emerge throughout the property, creating unique hazards and visual landmarks. The 18-hole layout stretches to nearly 7,000 yards from the back tees, with significant elevation changes and undulating greens that demand precise approach shots. Multiple tee options make the course accessible to golfers of all skill levels.

Conditioning at The Ledges is exceptional, with bentgrass fairways and greens maintained to championship standards. The clubhouse offers a full-service restaurant with panoramic views of the course, and the well-stocked pro shop provides equipment and apparel. Practice facilities include a driving range, putting green, and short game area.

Planning Your Maine Golf Trip

Experience Maine's Golfing Excellence

Maine's diverse landscape creates the perfect setting for truly memorable golf experiences. From the challenging mountain courses of western Maine to the historic coastal layouts along the Atlantic, the Pine Tree State offers something for every golfer. Whether you're planning a dedicated golf vacation or looking to include a round or two during your Maine visit, these top courses provide exceptional playing experiences that showcase the natural beauty and charm of this remarkable state.

Each course on our list offers its own unique character and challenges, reflecting the diverse landscapes that make Maine special. As you plan your golf adventure, consider the different regions and experiences available – from the presidential history of Cape Arundel to the mountain vistas of Sunday River and Sugarloaf, or the coastal beauty of Samoset and Webhannet. Wherever you choose to play, Maine's top golf courses promise unforgettable rounds in some of New England's most spectacular settings.