ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Arcadia Bluffs drops over 225 feet from its highest point to the bluff edge, with 3,100 feet of uninterrupted frontage on Lake Michigan.
About
Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club (Bluffs) is a dramatic public coastal course designed by Warren Henderson and Rick Smith, set atop windswept bluffs above Lake Michigan. Open since 1999, the Bluffs Course is modeled after seaside Irish links, with wide fairways, natural fescue rough, and massive undulating greens, offering stunning vistas and a memorable challenge.
Caddie Tip
Embrace the winds off Lake Michigan—they can dramatically affect club selection, especially on the exposed holes. Favor the wide side of fairways away from bunkers; many greens have severe slopes, so approach shots must land underneath the hole for the best chance at par.
The Main Challenge
Constant wind off the lake is a major defense, turning even moderately open holes into tough tests. The course's fescue rough is extremely penal, and large, undulating greens demand precise approaches and superb lag putting to avoid three-putts.
The Good
Golfers rave about the panoramic, world-class views over Lake Michigan from nearly every hole. The dramatic elevation changes and towering fescue create an atmosphere reminiscent of the greatest seaside links, making each round feel special and providing an unforgettable setting at sunset.
The Not So Good
Many visitors feel the pace of play, especially during busy summer weekends, is slower than ideal—5 hours is common. Some wish for a bit more variety in hole design across the back nine, and a few voice concerns about the price point at peak times versus overall service levels.
Signature Hole:
#
13
The 13th is a breathtaking par 3 playing 240 yards from the tips. Players face a demanding tee shot across a deep canyon, with the green set on the edge of a bluff that drops dramatically to Lake Michigan below. The combination of distance, wind, and scenery makes this hole unforgettable.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse boasts a large patio overlooking Lake Michigan, multiple dining options including the renowned Sunset Grill, locker rooms, pro shop, and luxurious lodging accommodations on property, plus meeting and event spaces for groups.
Practice Facilities
Full driving range, short game area, practice putting green, and skilled staff available for lessons. The facilities are modern and well-maintained, helping golfers prepare for the challenging round ahead.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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