ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
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Course Report
The course was built on a former Army air base and is meant to replicate Ireland’s Ballybunion, featuring over 1,000 hand-built bunkers—many unmarked on maps or the scorecard.
About
Whistling Straits (Straits Course), designed by Pete Dye, is an iconic public links course on the shores of Lake Michigan, known for its rugged terrain, windswept fescue, and over 1,000 bunkers. The course hosts major tournaments including PGA Championships and the Ryder Cup, and is renowned for its challenging layout and stunning scenery.
Caddie Tip
Always trust your caddie on wind direction, especially near the lake, as conditions can change mid-swing. Local knowledge is critical: play more club to raised greens, avoid aiming at flags positioned near edges, and use cautious landing zones since errant shots easily find sand or tall fescue.
The Main Challenge
The routing exposes players to shifting lake winds, narrow fairways guarded by penal bunkers, and elevated greens with severe runoffs. The relentless design punishes poor tee shots, and players must manage club selection and wind on every approach. The high rough and fescue further raise the stakes.
The Good
Golfers rave about the exhilarating design that forces creative shotmaking, along with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan on nearly every hole. The setting is uniquely atmospheric, evoking the great links courses of Ireland, with risk-reward choices and remarkable hole variety.
The Not So Good
Common criticism focuses on the punishing rough and the number of bunkers—missing a fairway often leads to lost balls or difficult stances. The pace of play can slow on busy days, and walking the steep hills and dunes is a challenge even for fit golfers.
Signature Hole:
#
17
The 17th hole, a par 3 named 'Pinched Nerve,' is one of golf's most dramatic one-shotters. Playing along Lake Michigan, this hole requires a precise shot over a valley with wind as a major factor. The green is well-protected by deep bunkers, and any miss right will find the lake.
Clubhouse
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The Scottish-inspired clubhouse includes upscale locker rooms, well-stocked pro shop, fine and casual dining, terrace seats overlooking the lake, lounge areas, and tournament event spaces. Caddies and carts are coordinated seamlessly, with attentive guest services standard.
Practice Facilities
Extensive onsite practice area with a large driving range, short game zones, chipping greens, and putting greens. Facilities are pro-level, accommodating major championships and daily fee guests alike, with experienced teaching staff, caddie services, and well-maintained turf.
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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