ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
While Shoreacres sits mere yards from Lake Michigan, no golf holes actually border the lake; Raynor instead routed the course inland, leveraging the property’s striking ravines.
About
Shoreacres, located in Lake Bluff, Illinois, is a private Seth Raynor design from 1921 recognized for its ingenious routing and use of dramatic ravines and classic Raynor template holes. Shoreacres pairs strategic interest with walkable beauty, offering original features and a memorable test of golf. Shoreacres is effectively a no‑electronics club: members and guests are expected to leave cell phones, GPS units, rangefinders, and similar devices in the car and not use them on club grounds.
Caddie Tip
Mind the angles: Success at Shoreacres depends on positioning, especially on approach shots into bold and sloped Raynor greens. Study the ravine holes—accuracy typically rewards more than length, and playing to the correct side of fairways often leaves much easier next shots.
The Main Challenge
The toughest challenge lies in negotiating the ravine holes, particularly on the back nine, where forced carries and sloping fairways test nerves and execution. Strategic bunkering and demanding green contours also punish careless approaches, elevating the mental and technical rigors.
The Good
Golfers love the distinctive routing and bold use of the dramatic ravines that wind through the heart of the property. The variety of Raynor template holes, the walkable intimacy of the course, and the perfectly conditioned greens make each round memorable and strategically captivating.
The Not So Good
Some wish for more holes along Lake Michigan’s edge and lament there are no water views during play, despite shoreline proximity. The course length can challenge longer hitters seeking greater distance, and severe green slopes occasionally frustrate those less familiar with Raynor designs.
Signature Hole:
#
15
The par-5 15th is Shoreacres’ most original hole, playing 520 yards as it doglegs left and crosses a dramatic ravine twice. The risk-reward choices off the tee and on the second shot, combined with the unique topography and bold green, make this a standout on Raynor’s celebrated design.
Clubhouse
The historic clubhouse houses full dining, locker rooms, lounges, and stunning Lake Michigan views not seen on the course itself. Hospitality is old-world, with attentive service, quiet luxury, and refined social spaces welcome to members and guests.
Practice Facilities
Expect a classic warm-up range, short game area, and putting green suited for honing touch on fast greens. While not sprawling, facilities mirror Shoreacres’ refined style: privacy, immaculate turf, and enough space for robust practice before rounds.
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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