Michigan golf vacations

Known for immaculate conditioning, dramatic elevation changes, and breathtaking lake views, Michigan delivers a pure golf experience that suits buddies’ trips, couples’ getaways, and dedicated golf tours alike. Add in long summer daylight hours, charming resort towns, and a vibrant craft beer scene, and a Michigan golf vacation offers as much enjoyment away from the fairways as it does on them.

Travel tips for golfers visiting Michigan

• Best time to visit: June to September offers the best playing conditions, with mild temperatures, low humidity, and daylight ideal for 36 holes a day.
• Top tip: Many northern Michigan courses feature elevation changes and exposed holes near lakes. Club selection and wind management are key.
• Travel time: Traverse City and Pellston airports provide convenient regional access, with scenic drives connecting the main resorts.
• Transport: Car rental is recommended, as courses and resorts are spread across northern Michigan.
• Booking tip: Summer is peak season, particularly July and August, so early booking is advised for popular resorts to get your choice of tee times and room types.

Some of Michigan’s best golf courses include:

Bay Harbor Golf Club | Bay Harbor Architect: Arthur Hills | Par: 72

Set along the shores of Lake Michigan, Bay Harbor is famed for its dramatic cliffside holes and sweeping waterfront views. The combination of Links, Quarry, and Preserve nines creates a memorable and visually spectacular round.

Course highlight: Stunning lakeside finishing holes that rank among the most scenic in the United States.

Jones Masterpiece Course, Treetops Resort | Gaylord Architect: Robert Trent Jones Sr. | Par: 72

A bold and challenging layout carved through forested terrain, the Masterpiece is known for its elevated tees, strong par 3s, and panoramic views across northern Michigan.

Course tip: Expect dramatic elevation changes and demanding approach shots.

Fazio Premier Course, Treetops Resort | Gaylord Architect: Tom Fazio | Par: 72

A more forgiving but beautifully sculpted course, the Fazio Premier blends playability with strategy, offering generous landing areas framed by woodland scenery.

Good to know: Ideal for groups with mixed handicaps looking for variety and enjoyment.

Arthur Hills Course, The Highlands at Harbor Springs | Harbor Springs Architect: Arthur Hills | Par: 72

Renowned for its rolling terrain and elevated greens, the Arthur Hills course provides a scenic yet strategic test through forest and hillside landscapes.

Course tip: Accurate iron play is essential to hold the raised greens.

The Heather, The Highlands at Harbor Springs | Harbor Springs Architect: Robert Trent Jones Sr. | Par: 72

A classic northern Michigan layout and one of the region’s most established championship tests, The Heather rewards precision and thoughtful course management.

Good to know: A traditional design that remains a favourite for repeat visitors.

The Alpine Course, Boyne Mountain Resort | Boyne Falls Architect: Robert Trent Jones Sr. | Par: 72

The first course built at Boyne Mountain, The Alpine features rolling fairways, tree-lined corridors, and classic resort charm.

Insider tip: A fun and playable layout that perfectly complements the more demanding Monument course.