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Course Report
Before the course was built, the property hosted a grand summer hotel that drew Boston's elite in the late 1800s. Traces of the Victorian-era hotel can still be found near today’s fourth green and fifth tee.
About
Eastward Ho! Country Club in Chatham, Massachusetts, is a private, 18-hole, par-71 links-style course established in 1922 and designed by Herbert Fowler. Set on Pleasant Bay, the layout offers panoramic Atlantic views and challenges with rolling terrain and breezy conditions. Renovation by Keith Foster in 2004 preserved its classic seaside character while enhancing playability and strategy.
Caddie Tip
Pay close attention to wind direction on every hole—breezes off Pleasant Bay can quickly turn a straightforward shot into a challenge. Favor conservative lines off the tee, and avoid missing greens short, as many putting surfaces are raised and protected by runoffs and bunkers.
The Main Challenge
The most demanding aspect of Eastward Ho! is managing uneven lies on the rumpled fairways, negotiating tight landing areas, and judging wind gusts off the bay. Greens are small and tilted, so missing in the wrong spot leads to difficult recovery shots into fast, firm surfaces.
The Good
Golfers consistently praise the classic links routing and stunning seaside vistas at Eastward Ho!, with every hole offering a view of Pleasant Bay or the Atlantic. The undulating fairways and challenging green sites demand creative shotmaking and keep each round exciting and distinct.
The Not So Good
Guests and some members occasionally mention that access is limited due to the club’s strict guest policy, and the exclusivity can affect the social aspect compared to more accessible Cape clubs. Certain stretches can also be wind-exposed, which adds difficulty for higher-handicap players.
Signature Hole:
#
14
The 14th hole, a par 4, is widely regarded as the signature hole at Eastward Ho! It features a dramatic tee shot from an elevated position toward Pleasant Bay with a sharply contoured fairway and green complex. Wind and elevation changes make club selection and shot shape crucial, and the breathtaking views highlight the course’s natural beauty.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse features elegant dining overlooking the bay, locker rooms, event spaces, and a pro shop. The verandah and lounge provide one of the Cape’s most scenic settings for post-round refreshments and member events.
Practice Facilities
Eastward Ho! offers a full driving range and short game area for members and guests. The facilities are well-maintained, though somewhat compact due to land constraints. Rental clubs and electric carts are available on request.
Dress Code:
Prestigious
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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