SouthCoast Golf Course Rankings 2026

Top Golf Courses to Explore This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to hit the links across the SouthCoast region. From challenging championship layouts to scenic public courses, golfers have a variety of options to choose from. The following list covers every featured course, highlighting distances, pars, and whether they are public or private.

Acushnet River Valley (m) sits at 685 Main St. and offers tee distances from 5,099 to 6,807 yards across four sets. Heritage Hill Golf Course (m) in Lakeville features a flexible two‑in‑one design that can be played as a par‑54 or par‑60. Lakeville Country Club (m) is known for its three picturesque fishing holes and sits at 44 Clear Pond Rd. Little Harbor Golf Course (m) sits at 1 Little Harbor Rd. and plays as an 18‑hole, par‑56 course open to all. Poquoy Brook Golf Club (m) is a parkland course built in the 1960s, located at 20 Leonard St. Rochester Golf Club (m) sits among pristine woods at 323 Rounesville Rd. The Bay Club (m) is a private championship course designed by Brad Faxon and Brad Booth, located at 63 County Rd. Mattapoisett.

Traditional clubs round out the scene. Allendale Country Club (c) offers an 18‑hole, par‑72 layout at 1047 Allen St. Country Club of New Bedford (c) is a members‑only venue at 585 Slocum Rd. that hosts the Men’s Four‑Ball, now in its 96th year. Marion Golf Club (c) opened in 1904 and provides a public 9‑hole experience at 10 South Dr. Reservation Golf and Beach Club (c) dates back to 1895, offering stunning harbor views from its private Mattapoisett location. Whaling City Golf Course (c) provides an 18‑hole public course and driving range at 581 Hathaway Road in New Bedford.

Classic vs. Modern Course Design

The list separates courses built before 1960 (classic) from those constructed in 1960 or later (modern). Classic venues retain historic layouts and often feature unique architectural touches. Modern courses incorporate updated landscaping and tee technologies to appeal to a broader skill range. This distinction helps golfers choose a round that matches their preferred style of play.

Modern courses such as Acushnet River Valley, Heritage Hill, and The Bay Club provide varied tee markers and flexible hole configurations, making them attractive for both novices and seasoned golfers. Classic clubs like Allendale Country Club, Country Club of New Bedford, and Reservation Golf preserve early‑century design elements, offering a nostalgic playing experience. Understanding the age of a course can inform expectations about terrain, maintenance approach, and overall atmosphere.

Vote for the 2026 SouthCoast Golf Course of the Year

A reader poll is underway to crown the top golf course of the year, and voting remains open until 8 p.m. on Friday, July 31. Participation helps local courses gauge community interest and can influence future developments. The poll is a great opportunity for golfers to support their favorite spots while discovering new options across the region.

To cast a ballot, simply follow the provided poll link and select your preferred course among the twelve listed venues. Each vote contributes to the recognition of excellence in the SouthCoast golf community. The winning course will be announced soon after the voting window closes, marking a celebration of the area’s best playing fields.

Why These Courses Matter for the Area

Golf facilities serve as economic drivers, drawing tourists and providing recreation for residents. The blend of public and private courses ensures accessibility for golfers of all budgets and skill levels. As the sport continues to grow, these historic and modern courses help preserve regional heritage while adapting to contemporary play expectations. Staying engaged with local courses through voting and play supports community identity and ongoing course maintenance.