ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
Cape Arundel Golf Club is one of the oldest in Maine and has long attracted U.S. presidents and celebrities as summer visitors.
About
Cape Arundel Golf Club, established in 1896, features a historic 18-hole layout shaped by Alexander Findlay and completed by Walter Travis. Renowned for its bold, undulating greens and modified links-style design, the course provides a strategic test with river winds and small, elusive putting surfaces. Recent restoration highlights Travis’s original intent, making it a premier Golden Age experience.
Caddie Tip
Focus on strategic placement off the tee rather than length—the greens are small, firm, and often hidden, so being below the hole leaves your best chances for an up-and-down. Take wind and tide into account, especially on approaches, and prepare for bold contours and sharp runoffs at the greens.
The Main Challenge
The toughest aspect is negotiating the crowned and canted Travis greens, which demand precise approach shots and deft touch on and around the putting surfaces. Add unpredictable winds from the Kennebunk River—especially at the closing stretch—and even accomplished golfers must play smart and adjust throughout the round.
The Good
Golfers rave about the ingenious green designs by Walter Travis—subtle, complex, and challenging, they require creativity on every approach and putt. The distinctive links feel and riverfront setting, combined with the course’s rich history, make every round a memorable experience, especially for architecture enthusiasts.
The Not So Good
Some golfers note the course’s shorter yardage and non-traditional par as limiting for those seeking a modern championship test; the small greens and closely-mown slopes can also be unforgiving to less precise players, making recovery difficult if not familiar with links-style play.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th hole—a par 4—finishes beside the classic Craftsman-style clubhouse and the Kennebunk River. Approach shots are played to a famously bold and sloping Walter Travis green, requiring precise distance and trajectory. Wind off the river and subtle undulations add drama, making it a memorable finish and a striking example of the course’s unique Golden Age character.
Clubhouse
Historic Craftsman-style clubhouse with river views, locker rooms, dining, bar, outdoor patio, and pro shop. The setting emphasizes camaraderie and a classic, relaxed Maine golf atmosphere.
Practice Facilities
The club features a 19-acre driving range and short game area across the river—a rare amenity for such an old course—plus putting greens and professional instruction available for all levels.
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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