8.78

The Kittansett Club

Course info

ACCESS
Private
EST.
1923
GRASS
Bentgrass
SEASON
April–October
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
285
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Links
Unknown
Par
71
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10
City
Marion

Score

8.78
Design
40%
9.2
Conditions
25%
8.5
Desirability
15%
8.6
Scenery
10%
8.9
Fun
5%
8.1
Uniqueness
5%
8.3

Difficulty

Overall
Hard

Slope 139

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind High

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
250
$
285
$
320
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

The name 'Kittansett' is said to mean 'near the sea' in Wampanoag. The club is also famed for hosting the 1953 Walker Cup.

About

The Kittansett Club is a historic private club on a beautiful peninsula by Buzzards Bay in Marion, Massachusetts. Originally designed by William Flynn with input from Hugh Wilson and opened in 1923, it is renowned for its classic links-style holes, coastal scenery, and recent restoration work by Gil Hanse to recapture Flynn's vision.

Caddie Tip

Wind direction changes frequently at Kittansett, especially across open seaside holes. Trust your yardages on approach shots, play conservatively when in doubt, and carefully read the subtle slopes on greens. On signature holes like #3, taking an extra club and a smooth swing is often wise.

The Main Challenge

The toughest aspect of Kittansett is wind. With many holes exposed on the Buzzards Bay peninsula, even average days bring significant gusts, affecting club selection and ball flight. The greens are subtly contoured and well-protected by deep bunkers, testing both approach shots and short game skills.

The Good

Golfers love Kittansett’s unique blend of classic links design and dramatic coastal views. The routing’s variety—transitioning from open, seaside stretches to tighter, tree-lined holes—creates interest on every shot. Its breeze-filled peninsula location and restored original features are frequently cited as sources of charm and enjoyment.

The Not So Good

Some members and guests feel tree management on certain holes has been overly aggressive, leading to less definition in the inland parts of the course. As a walking club, pace can sometimes lag behind groups using caddies, though improvements have been made. Occasional coastal weather can disrupt play.

Signature Hole:

#

3

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The par 3 3rd hole at Kittansett is carved along Buzzards Bay and is fully encircled by sand. Players must hit a precise tee shot across the water to a peninsula green, contending with wind and seaside elements. This iconic shot and breathtaking setting make it a standout even among Massachusetts golf’s best.

Clubhouse

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The classic clubhouse provides panoramic bay views, traditional locker rooms, a lounge, dining areas, and well-attended staff. Members and guests enjoy full-service meals and drinks, modern fitness center, and social events. The focus is on understated luxury and welcoming service.

Practice Facilities

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Kittansett offers a full driving range, short game practice area, and two putting greens, along with a golf simulator. Lessons and clinics are available for all ages and abilities from experienced PGA professionals. The facilities are well maintained and easily accessible before your round.

Dress Code:

Strict

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.

Massachusetts
U.S.A.