Thinking about golfing in Rhode Island? The short answer is a resounding yes. Not only can you golf in the Ocean State, but you'll find a surprisingly rich, scenic, and challenging collection of courses packed into America’s smallest state. This guide will walk you through exactly why Rhode Island is a fantastic golf destination, when the best times to play are, which public courses you absolutely have to visit, and some pro tips for conquering its unique terrain.
When golfers think of New England destinations, they might picture the mountains of Vermont or the coast of Massachusetts. But overlooking Rhode Island is a big mistake. The state offers a unique blend of golf experiences that you won't find anywhere else. Because of its size, you can stay in a central location like Providence or Newport and reach a dozen fantastic tracks without spending all day in the car.
What truly sets Rhode Island apart is its coastline. The state boasts incredible coastal views and courses that deliver a true links-style feel. You’ll battle swirling sea breezes, navigate fescues, and play shots against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and Narragansett Bay. Beyond the coast, you'll find classic parkland courses designed by legendary architects, all offering pristine conditions and a sense of history. From world-class public tracks that rival private clubs to friendly, affordable local favorites, Rhode Island has a course for every budget and skill level.
Like the rest of New England, golfing in Rhode Island is seasonal. Understanding when to go can make or break your trip. As a coach, I always tell players to prepare for the conditions, and that starts with knowing the calendar.
This is prime time. The weather is typically warm and sunny, courses are in immaculate condition, and the lush green fairways stand out beautifully against the blue coastal skies. Everything is open, from the high-end daily-fee courses to the local munis. It's the perfect time for a dedicated golf trip where you can count on good weather and top-tier playing surfaces.
For my money, this can be the absolute best time to play in Rhode Island. The crowds have thinned out, and the greens fees are often lower. In spring, you get to see the courses come to life after a long winter. In the fall, you’re treated to spectacular New England foliage as a backdrop for your round. The weather can be more unpredictable, but a spectacular 65°F and sunny day in October is pure golf bliss.
This is for the truly dedicated - or desperate - golfer. Most courses in Rhode Island close entirely during the winter. Those that remain open will be on temporary greens and often "walkers only." Conditions are tough: the ground is frozen, your ball gets zero roll, and the wind off the Atlantic can be brutal. You might find a rare, warmish day to sneak out for a few holes, but this isn't the time to plan a golf getaway.
Rhode Island is home to some legendary private clubs (like Newport Country Club, a founding member of the USGA), but it also boasts an incredible roster of publicly accessible courses. Here are a few must-plays.
Often ranked as the #1 public course in New England, Newport National is an absolute must. This is as close to a Scottish or Irish links experience as you can get in the United States. Designed by Arthur Hills and Drew Rogers, the course is defined by its dramatic, windswept landscape. Expect fescue grasses, rolling fairways, and challenging green complexes. It’s a true test of golf where the wind is always a factor. The views of the Sakonnet Passage and the Atlantic Ocean are just a bonus.
Perfect for: The serious golfer looking for a world-class challenge and an authentic links experience.
If you're a fan of golf history and classic architecture, you have to play Triggs. This is a bona fide Donald Ross design from 1927 and is widely considered one of his greatest municipal courses. Ross's genius is on full display here with brilliant routing and, most notably, his signature crowned, undulating greens. Hitting the putting surface is one thing, keeping your ball on it is another. Triggs requires thought, strategy, and a delicate touch around the greens. It remains a powerful test of golf for a ridiculously affordable price.
Perfect for: The "feel" player, the golf historian, and anyone who appreciates strategic design over brute force.
Looking for a fantastic round that won’t empty your wallet? Head to Richmond CC. This place is a local favorite for a reason. It's consistently praised for its superb conditioning, friendly staff, and fun, challenging layout. The course features a beautiful mix of holes that wind through woods and wetlands, demanding good shot-making and accuracy. It’s got a "country club for a day" feel with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a casual round.
Perfect for: Anyone looking for great value, pristine conditions, and a fun, fair test of golf.
Located on a gorgeous piece of land right on Mount Hope Bay, Montaup delivers that coastal golf experience in spades. Eight of its holes run directly along the water, offering spectacular views and a firm dose of wind. It’s an older course with a classic feel - not overly long, but small greens and the ever-present sea breeze make it tricky. When the wind is up, it can play completely differently from one day to the next. It’s a scenic, fun, and memorable round of golf.
Perfect for: Golfers who love water views and windy, coastal conditions.
Success here isn't just about a good swing, it's about smart golf. Rhode Island's courses demand a bit of local knowledge. Here's what I tell my students before they tee it up in the Ocean State.
At courses like Newport National and Montaup, the wind is not just a factor, it's the main character. You must learn to play in it.
Classic designs like Triggs and coastal layouts punish poor decisions. You can’t just mindlessly pull driver on every par 4.
New England weather can change in a heartbeat. Don't get caught unprepared.
Rhode Island is an outstanding and often overlooked golf destination. With its variety of courses, from championship links-style tracks to classic Donald Ross gems, it offers a memorable experience for any golfer willing to explore beyond the more famous New England states.
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