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Course Report
Maidstone is one of the few true links courses in the U.S., occupying prime oceanfront land in the Hamptons with several holes routed through natural dunes along the Atlantic coast.
About
Maidstone Club in East Hampton, New York, is an exclusive private club founded in 1891 and designed by Willie Park Jr. Often regarded as one of the top links-style courses in the country, Maidstone mixes historic charm with dramatic Atlantic coastal scenery. The 18-hole layout features natural dunes, ocean winds, and classic strategic design elements, earning frequent national top-100 rankings.
Caddie Tip
Play conservatively off the tee on windy days, as the Atlantic breezes can dramatically affect ball flight. Keep approaches low and favor the center of greens, especially on the exposed stretch from the 8th through the 11th. The fast, firm greens reward careful lag putting, and recovery from bunkers and dunes often requires creative shot-making.
The Main Challenge
The toughest stretch at Maidstone is the exposed dune holes along the ocean. Strong winds and tight fairways punish wayward drives, and recovery from deep sand and tall native grasses is demanding. Firm greens place a premium on quality approach play and thoughtful lag putting, with miss-placed shots often leading to challenging up-and-downs.
The Good
Most golfers love Maidstone’s distinctive blend of sandy dunes, ocean views, and historic links architecture. The holes directly along the beach, especially the back nine, offer inspiring scenery that makes each round memorable. Its firm, fast turf emphasizes creativity and rewards great shot-making, providing a classic links experience that is rare in the United States.
The Not So Good
Some players note that Maidstone’s short par fives and overall course length can feel defensively soft for lower-handicap players, and conditioning can suffer following major storms. Access is highly restricted, and occasional over-fertilization or inconsistent rough heights can detract from consistency. Drainage on the inland holes is sometimes an issue after heavy rain.
Signature Hole:
#
9
The 9th hole, a par 4 measuring 402 yards, is widely celebrated as Maidstone’s signature test. With the Atlantic Ocean lining the right and dramatic dunes shaping the narrow fairway, this hole demands both accuracy and nerve, culminating in a challenging uphill approach to a well-defended green that rewards courage and precision.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse offers classic Hamptons charm with multiple dining rooms, locker facilities, and elegant event spaces. Members can enjoy a full suite of amenities including private beach access, heated swimming pool, tennis courts, and a croquet green. The focus is on quality service and privacy.
Practice Facilities
Maidstone offers a modest driving range and short game area, suitable for warming up before a round but not extensive by modern standards. There is also a practice putting green near the clubhouse. The facilities prioritize tradition and ambiance over expansive practice options.
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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