The Outer Banks of North Carolina, with its stunning coastal scenery and mild climate, offers golf enthusiasts a delightful destination to enjoy their favorite pastime. With a variety of golf courses to choose from, ranging from traditional links-style layouts to challenging championship courses, golfers of all skill levels can find their perfect course on the Outer Banks. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best Outer Banks golf courses, highlighting their unique features and what makes them stand out.
1. The Currituck Club
Location: Corolla, North Carolina
Description: The Currituck Club is a picturesque golf course located in the northern part of the Outer Banks, near Corolla. Designed by Rees Jones, this championship course winds its way through maritime forests, natural wetlands, and pristine sand dunes. Golfers can enjoy stunning views of the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean as they play. The course’s rolling fairways, challenging bunkers, and well-manicured greens provide an exceptional golfing experience.
Notable Features:
- Signature hole: The par-3 6th hole, known as “Monkey Island,” requires a precise tee shot over a marsh to reach the green.
- Impeccable course conditions and attentive staff.
- Access to a clubhouse with dining options and a pro shop.
2. Nags Head Golf Links
Location: Nags Head, North Carolina
Description: Nags Head Golf Links is a true links-style course nestled between the Roanoke Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Designed by Bob Moore, this course offers a unique coastal golf experience with firm fairways, sandy waste areas, and rugged dunes. The challenging layout demands accurate shots and creative shot-making, making it a favorite among avid golfers.
Notable Features:
- Stunning panoramic views of the Roanoke Sound and Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
- Historical charm with a clubhouse designed to resemble an old coastal lifesaving station.
- Windswept terrain that adds an extra layer of challenge to your game.
3. The Pointe Golf Club
Location: Powells Point, North Carolina
Description: The Pointe Golf Club, designed by Russell Breeden, is a semi-private course known for its excellent layout and playability. Nestled within the Carolina pines, this course offers a blend of wooded and open holes that cater to golfers of varying skill levels. The well-maintained fairways and greens ensure a pleasant round of golf for all.
Notable Features:
- Affordable green fees, making it accessible to both locals and visitors.
- A welcoming atmosphere with a friendly and accommodating staff.
- Several water hazards and strategically placed bunkers to challenge your shot selection.
4. Kilmarlic Golf Club
Location: Powells Point, North Carolina
Description: Kilmarlic Golf Club is another gem in the Outer Banks golf scene. Designed by Tom Steele and Mike Brazeau, this course is set amid 605 acres of maritime forest and wetlands. Kilmarlic offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience with rolling terrain, water features, and well-bunkered greens.
Notable Features:
- The course is recognized for its environmental stewardship and commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the Outer Banks.
- A state-of-the-art practice facility for honing your skills.
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff to enhance your overall experience.
5. Duck Woods Country Club
Location: Southern Shores, North Carolina
Description: Duck Woods Country Club is a private, members-only club located in Southern Shores, offering an exclusive golfing experience on the Outer Banks. Designed by Ellis Maples, this challenging course features tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and rolling terrain. The club’s commitment to providing a top-tier golfing experience makes it a standout choice for those seeking both quality golf and a sense of community.
Notable Features:
- Membership perks include access to a clubhouse, dining options, and social events.
- Pristine course conditions year-round.
- Professional golf instruction and practice facilities for members.
6. The Carolina Club
Location: Grandy, North Carolina
Description: Situated in the heart of the Outer Banks, The Carolina Club offers golfers a challenging and enjoyable experience. Designed by Russell Breeden, this semi-private course features a mix of wooded and open holes, making it suitable for players of various skill levels. The course’s thoughtful design and scenic surroundings make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Notable Features:
- Affordable green fees and special packages for visitors.
- A welcoming clubhouse with dining options and a pro shop.
- A scenic layout that incorporates water features and mature trees.
7. Sea Scape Golf Links
Location: Kitty Hawk, North Carolina
Description: Sea Scape Golf Links offers a classic coastal golfing experience on the Outer Banks. Designed by Art Wall, this course features wide fairways, rolling dunes, and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. The open layout allows golfers to appreciate the coastal breeze and the natural beauty of the Outer Banks while enjoying a round of golf.
Notable Features:
- An oceanfront driving range and practice facility for golfers looking to warm up or improve their game.
- A friendly and accommodating staff, ready to assist you with your golfing needs.
- A relaxed atmosphere ideal for golfers seeking a laid-back round.
Course Information
| Course Name | Location | Par | Yardage | Designed By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Links at Nags Head | Nags Head, NC | 71 | 6763 yds | Bob Moore |
| Currituck Club | Corolla, NC | 72 | 6736 yds | Rees Jones |
| Nags Head Golf Links | Nags Head, NC | 71 | 6223 yds | Bob Moore |
| Kilmarlic Golf Club | Powells Point, NC | 72 | 6618 yds | Tom Steele |
| The Pointe Golf Club | Powells Point, NC | 71 | 6677 yds | Russell Breeden |
Ratings & Slopes
| Course Name | Course Rating | Slope Rating | USGA Rating | Year Built |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Links at Nags Head | 71.5 | 133 | 70.7 | 1987 |
| Currituck Club | 72.3 | 134 | 71.2 | 1996 |
| Nags Head Golf Links | 70.4 | 126 | 69.0 | 1987 |
| Kilmarlic Golf Club | 72.0 | 139 | 71.0 | 2002 |
| The Pointe Golf Club | 70.6 | 125 | 69.8 | 1995 |
Amenities
| Course Name | Clubhouse | Pro Shop | Restaurant | Practice Facilities | Rentals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Links at Nags Head | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Currituck Club | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Nags Head Golf Links | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kilmarlic Golf Club | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| The Pointe Golf Club | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Green Fees (18 Holes)
| Course Name | In-Season Rates (Weekdays) | In-Season Rates (Weekends) | Off-Season Rates (Weekdays) | Off-Season Rates (Weekends) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Links at Nags Head | $90 | $110 | $70 | $90 |
| Currituck Club | $115 | $135 | $85 | $105 |
| Nags Head Golf Links | $80 | $100 | $60 | $80 |
| Kilmarlic Golf Club | $95 | $115 | $70 | $90 |
| The Pointe Golf Club | $85 | $105 | $65 | $85 |
Contact Information
| Course Name | Phone Number | Website | Address | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Links at Nags Head | (252) 441-8073 | www.playobxgolf.com/nagshead | info@playobxgolf.com | 5615 S Seachase Dr, Nags Head, NC 27959 |
| Currituck Club | (252) 453-9400 | www.currituckgolf.com | info@currituckgolf.com | 620 Currituck Clubhouse Dr, Corolla, NC 27927 |
| Nags Head Golf Links | (252) 441-8073 | www.playobxgolf.com/nagshead | info@playobxgolf.com | 5615 S Seachase Dr, Nags Head, NC 27959 |
| Kilmarlic Golf Club | (252) 491-4220 | www.kilmarlicgc.com | info@kilmarlicgc.com | 215 W Danube St, Powells Point, NC 27966 |
| The Pointe Golf Club | (252) 491-8388 | www.thepointegolfclub.com | info@thepointegolfclub.com | 308 Pointe Golf Club Dr, Powells Point, NC 27966 |
Conclusion
The Outer Banks boasts a diverse selection of golf courses, each offering its own unique charm and challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking for a championship-caliber experience or a casual player seeking scenic beauty and friendly atmosphere, the Outer Banks golf scene has something to offer. Plan your golf getaway to this coastal paradise, and you’ll not only enjoy the game but also soak in the breathtaking natural beauty of North Carolina’s Outer Banks.
