Best Coastal Golf Courses in Maine

Dunegrass sits in Old Orchard Beach and draws golfers for both casual rounds and special events. The course opens with a tee shot from an elevated spot overlooking a long fairway, then takes you through tree-lined holes that demand solid ball-striking. The 18-hole layout is well maintained and moves at a good pace, though one regular suggests bringing your own water on hot days since the course doesn't have a cart girl.

Visitors consistently praise the greens and the spacious, vibrant grounds. The staff earns high marks, and the course works well for events beyond golf. One recent visitor called it ideal for weddings, noting the open spaces and helpful team.

This municipal course in Portland sits right on the Riverside and offers a lot of elevation and memorable holes. The layout includes plenty of contour and blind shots, so you'll get a real test even at a public rate. The pro shop is solid, staff are helpful, and there's a nice bar and patio to relax at after your round.

One thing to know: there's no drinking water on the course itself, only in the pro shop. The rough isn't overly punitive, so you can usually find your ball if you don't spray too far off the fairway. The elevation changes and routing mean that wild tee shots can be costly. A regular called it "an absolute gem" for its layout and the variety it offers.

Atlantic Pines sits near Wells and offers a different flavor than other courses in the Wells and Kennebunk area. It's beautiful and challenging, with water and marshes coming into play throughout. Visitors appreciate the design and the departure from more traditional local layouts.

Note that this course has had mixed reviews recently about maintenance and pricing. Check current rates and conditions before you book, as some golfers have reported dry fairways and worn greens in peak season. When the course is in shape, it's an attractive option for golfers who want more water hazards and a scenic marsh setting.

Natanis sits near Vassalboro and stands out for offering two full 18-hole courses on the same property: the Tomahawk and Arrowhead. This gives you two distinct playing experiences and the option to choose based on your schedule and challenge level. A driving range rounds out the facility. The courses are well maintained and offer good value for a two-course membership or visit.

Pricing has increased in recent years, so factor that into your budget. A long-time regular noted that rates have climbed steeply, though the courses themselves remain solid. If you're planning multiple rounds during a Maine trip, Natanis's dual-course setup is worth considering.

Belgrade Lakes sits near Augusta and is widely praised as one of Maine's finest courses. The setting is spectacular: views of lakes, mountains, and pines frame nearly every hole, and the greens overlook pristine water. The layout makes excellent use of the land, and conditioning is consistently immaculate. Greens are fast but fair, fairways are perfect, and pace of play moves along smoothly.

Visitors from across the country rank this among the best courses they've ever played, with one calling it superior to high-end resort courses in Hawaii. The clubhouse staff, starters, and grounds crew all create a welcoming atmosphere. It's a premium experience, and the rates reflect that, but most golfers feel it's worth the investment for a Maine golf trip.

Boothbay Harbor Country Club sits in Boothbay and delivers what visitors describe as a first-class experience from the moment you drive through the gate. The course is gorgeous and immaculate, with challenging holes and perfect conditions. Amenities are excellent, and the staff, from the pro shop to the grounds crew, demonstrate genuine hospitality with friendliness and professionalism.

One guest played five days in a row and found the experience consistently excellent. The walk is comfortable, with a couple of elevation changes to the 11th and 13th tees, and staff provide chilled water bottles along the way. Multiple visitors have called it bucket-list golf and one of the best courses they've played, praising Paul and his team by name.

Ledges sits in York near Ogunquit and is a challenging but fair course with beautiful scenery and a great location. The layout includes plenty of elevation changes and varied turns throughout, with quick greens that reward precision. Fairways are wide enough to hit your tee shot, but you'll need to pick your spots. The rangers keep pace moving even during busy summer season.

Staff are consistently friendly and welcoming. The course attracts serious, talented golfers who maintain a fun atmosphere. One visitor who played years ago on a New England vacation called it enjoyable and challenging, and recent golfers agree it delivers a solid test without being unfair.

Fox Ridge sits in Auburn and is a beautiful course with a deserved reputation for excellent conditioning. The designer Lenny and the maintenance crew led by Ed keep the fairways soft and lush and the greens among the best in Maine. The course features blind tee shots on several holes, so bring binoculars or be ready to play it a bit on faith.

Visitors love the elevation changes and challenging routing. There are bell ringers on two holes and water stations throughout, and staff are welcoming to out-of-towners. One golfer noted that the course plays superbly and offers plenty of opportunity to score well despite its challenges. Aaron in the pro shop gets specific praise for his service.

Kebo Valley sits in Bar Harbor near Acadia National Park and is a par-70 course on the shorter side, making it accessible while still beautiful and well-designed. The setting is stunning with wide-open play and great views. The course is well maintained with fast, smooth greens even in fall, and it's a favorite for visitors exploring the Acadia area.

One recent visitor had a phenomenal morning round with great weather and scenery. Tee times can be booked 6 days in advance, so plan ahead during peak season. Multiple visitors have called the course incredible and worth the green fee, praising both the layout and the staff.

Rocky Knoll sits in Orrington and offers a solid course with an improving reputation. The front nine is open and easy to play, making it accessible for golfers of all levels. Recent visitors report that conditions have improved significantly, with the owners actively engaged in the course's upkeep and development. The staff is great, and the owners show real pride in the place.

One tournament player noted that conditions were excellent despite a hot, dry summer. If you haven't played it, it's worth checking out, especially if you're exploring courses in the central Maine region. The course has also worked to expand its dining options, with visitors enjoying steak sandwiches, wraps, and local beers in the clubhouse.