News Summary
The Shelter Harbor Golf Course in Charlestown, Rhode Island, has achieved a significant milestone, ranking 50th on Golf Digest’s list of best golf courses built since 2000. Opened in 2005, the course is noted for its rolling hills and picturesque scenery, making it a favorite among golf enthusiasts. This recent recognition complements its current standing as the 153rd golf course nationally, showcasing Rhode Island’s thriving golf scene alongside other notable local courses. With its charming design and commitment to environmental preservation, Shelter Harbor is a must-visit for golfers.
Charlestown Celebrates New Ranking for Shelter Harbor Golf Course
Great news for golf lovers in Charlestown, Rhode Island! The Shelter Harbor Golf Course has just been recognized as one of the best golf courses built since 2000, and it’s now sitting pretty at number 50 on Golf Digest’s exclusive list. This is quite the achievement for a course that opened its doors just a little over 15 years ago, in 2005.
What Makes Shelter Harbor Special?
Golf Digest has described Shelter Harbor as a “lovely course built over difficult terrain”. The course design brings a charming old New England vibe, with its rolling hills and picturesque scenery. The designers, Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, definitely hit a hole-in-one with their engaging layout, giving visitors a delightful experience every time they tee off.
This latest recognition is just the cherry on top for Shelter Harbor, which has been steadily climbing the rankings and is poised to break into the top 150 courses nationwide in the near future. Currently, it stands at a respectable 153rd place among all golf courses in the United States according to Golf Digest.
Rhode Island Golf Scene
Rhode Island may be one of the smaller states in the country, but it holds its own when it comes to golf. The state is home to a variety of golf courses that showcase a unique slice of New England charm and history, particularly around its historic beach and port cities. Other noteworthy courses in Rhode Island include the prestigious Newport Country Club, The Misquamicut Club, Sakonnet, Warwick Country Club, and Wannamoisett.
Although Wannamoisett isn’t located by the ocean, it’s noteworthy for its 1914 Donald Ross design, making it a popular spot for golf enthusiasts looking for a classic course experience.
Rankings and Scores
According to USA Today’s Golfweek, Rhode Island’s golf courses received varied results across three categories. For publicly accessible courses, Rhode Island was ranked 46th, with a score of 5.62 out of 10. However, when it comes to elite private courses, the state scored an impressive 7.24 out of 10, landing itself at 20th place nationally. Overall, combining both public and private courses placed Rhode Island in a tie for 36th with Kansas and Iowa, with a combined score of 6.4.
Highlighting the Best Courses
Among the private golf courses that significantly contributed to Rhode Island’s ranking are:
- Newport Country Club: Ranked 58th among the top 200 classic courses in the U.S.
- Wannamoisett: Tied for 62nd on the same list.
- Shelter Harbor: Tied for 71st among top 200 modern courses.
- Misquamicut: Tied for 88th among top classic courses.
- Sakonnet: Recognized as a classic course with a rich history dating back to 1899.
Unique Features of Shelter Harbor
Shelter Harbor Golf Course features native grasses and striking glacial boulders that add to its natural beauty. The course is dedicated to environmental preservation and aesthetically pleasing designs, making it not just a fantastic golfing experience but also a visual treat for nature lovers.
Visitors to Shelter Harbor are in for a delightful day, boasting top-notch practice facilities and dining options, all while soaking in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding area. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or just starting to find your swing, this course offers an engaging and enjoyable experience for everyone.
As more golf enthusiasts discover the charm of Shelter Harbor, it’s clear that this gem nestled in Charlestown is not just a local favorite but is gaining national attention as well. So why not grab your clubs and see what the buzz is all about?
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Golf in the Ocean State: Discovering Rhode Island’s Best Courses
Additional Resources
- Golf News RI
- Golf Digest: Rhode Island Golf Courses Rankings
- Providence Journal
- Wikipedia: Golf in the United States
- World Atlas: Best Golf Courses in Rhode Island
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
