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New England may be known for its rugged coastline, autumn foliage, and colonial history—but it also boasts some of the most scenic and character-rich public golf courses in the country. Whether you’re teeing off along the rocky shores of Maine, winding through the forests of New Hampshire, or playing a Golden Age classic in the heart of Boston, the region offers world-class golf without the need for a private membership.
This guide highlights twelve of the best public-access courses across all six New England states. From mountain layouts to seaside gems, each of these courses welcomes everyday golfers and rewards those who make the journey. These are the tracks where architecture, scenery, and accessibility converge—perfect for your next long weekend or summer golf trip without needing to know member or have a guest pass.
Maine
Cape Arundel Golf Club (Kennebunkport)
A historic seaside course redesigned by Walter Travis, known for tiny, tricky greens and coastal winds that keep you on your toes. Public tee times are widely available, though members have priority windows.
Boothbay Harbor Country Club (Boothbay Harbor)
A top-notch resort course offering stunning landscaping, elevated greens, and excellent conditioning. Welcomes public play with premium green fees and a required stay to play.
Belgrade Lakes Golf Club (Belgrade Lakes)
Secluded and peaceful, with rolling terrain, dramatic views, and a layout that’s both challenging and fair. Known for its outstanding service and immaculate conditioning.
Sugarloaf Golf Club (Carrabassett Valley)
A mountain golf destination with bold elevation changes and scenic river views. It’s a rugged, remote course that provides a true adventure for public golfers.
New Hampshire
Mount Washington Resort (Bretton Woods)
A classic Donald Ross layout with wide fairways and stunning White Mountain scenery. Recently restored to bring back Ross’s original green and bunker contours — open to all golfers.
Shattuck Golf Club (Jaffrey)
A bold, wooded Rees Jones design with tight fairways and forced carries. The isolation and scenery make it a favorite among adventurous public golfers.
Massachusetts
Farm Neck Golf Club (Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard)
A beautiful island course that blends coastal views, marshes, and woodlands. Open to the public and known for attracting both everyday golfers and VIP visitors.
Waverly Oaks Golf Club (Plymouth)
A highly rated daily-fee course with generous fairways and large greens. Elevation changes and excellent maintenance make it a standout for public golf.
William J. Devine Memorial Golf Course (Boston)
One of America’s oldest public courses, combining Golden Age charm with a city-park vibe. Walkable, affordable, and rich in history.
Connecticut
Yale Golf Course (New Haven)
A bold C.B. Macdonald/Seth Raynor creation that’s open to the public, featuring dramatic elevation changes and template holes. A bucket-list course for architecture lovers.
Shennecossett Golf Course (Groton)
A municipal gem with Ross-redesigned holes along Long Island Sound. The seaside holes are both scenic and challenging.
Keney Park Golf Course (Hartford/Windsor)
A beautifully restored muni with vintage charm, known for its strategic bunkering and classic feel. A favorite among public golfers in Connecticut.
Here are the green fee ranges and quality local lodging options for each truly public-access golf course in New England:
⛳ Green Fees
Course Name | 18-Hole Green Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
Cape Arundel Golf Club (ME) | $175–$250 |
Boothbay Harbor CC (ME) | $100–$150 |
Belgrade Lakes GC (ME) | $80–$150 |
Sugarloaf Golf Club (ME) | $90–$175 |
Mount Washington Resort (NH) | $75–$85 |
Shattuck Golf Club (NH) | ~$75–$100 |
Farm Neck Golf Club (MA) | $80 |
Waverly Oaks Golf Club (MA) | $60–$100 |
William J. Devine GC (MA) | $60–$90 |
Yale Golf Course (CT) | $75–$125 |
Shennecossett GC (CT) | ~$65–$95 |
Keney Park GC (CT) | $49–$51 (non-resident) |
Summary & Planning Tips
Here are some top lodging choices near each course, blending convenience, quality, and character:
Maine (Kennebunkport area): Choose Cape Arundel Inn for history or the luxurious White Barn Inn for romance and charm.
NH (Bretton Woods): Stay on-site at the Omni Resort or opt for the Townhomes for a cozy retreat near the mountain courses.
MA (Plymouth/Martha’s Vineyard): While Mirbeau Inn is nearest to golf, Hotel 1620 offers waterfront convenience and easy access to dining & sightseeing.
CT (New Haven): For Yale-inspired golf stays, Omni New Haven at Yale offers upscale lodging; The Blake is a stylish boutique alternative.
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