ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
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Course Report
The course occupies a site formerly used as a sprawling landscape nursery and orchard, and is known for vistas so dramatic that golfers often feel like they're playing on Ireland’s coast.
About
Newport National Golf Club, designed by Arthur Hills and Drew Rogers, is an acclaimed public links-style course set on 200 acres offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Sakonnet Passage. Opened in 2002, it features fescue-lined, bentgrass fairways and greens reminiscent of classic Irish links with challenging winds and strategic bunkering.
Caddie Tip
Play conservatively off the tee as the wind varies drastically and the abundant fescue can make recovery almost impossible. Pay close attention to pin placements due to challenging green contours, and factor the ocean wind into every iron shot, especially on the exposed back nine.
The Main Challenge
The course’s primary challenge is its exposure to unpredictable ocean winds, which test ball control and club selection on nearly every shot. Narrow driving corridors bordered by tall fescue and marshland demand both accuracy and strategy, while large, undulating greens make for tough approaches and tricky putts.
The Good
Golfers consistently praise the stunning ocean views and authentic links feel, with sweeping fescue, rolling fairways, and the challenging, ever-present coastal winds. The visual drama and routing evoke classic Irish seaside golf, making many holes both picturesque and memorable for players of all skill levels.
The Not So Good
The most common criticisms are regarding the frequency and severity of windy conditions, which can make the course extremely difficult for the average golfer. Additionally, some players note patchy conditioning during shoulder seasons and wish for more extensive clubhouse facilities and food offerings.
Signature Hole:
#
16
The par-3 16th hole at Newport National is a visually striking challenge, set along a windswept corridor with expansive fescue and panoramic water views. It demands an accurate tee shot over natural grasses to a well-protected green, with ocean winds often affecting club selection and shot shape. Precision and creativity are required to navigate its hazards.
Clubhouse
Amenities include a welcoming pro shop with a curated selection of golf apparel and equipment, plus a comfortable lounge and grill room offering food and beverage service. Locker rooms are available but more limited than major resorts, with the focus primarily on golf.
Practice Facilities
Newport National offers an expansive driving range with natural turf, a large short game and chipping area, multiple putting greens, and well-kept practice bunkers. Facilities are designed to allow thorough warmups or skill sharpening before your round.
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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