20 of the Best Golf Courses in Michigan for Retirees in 2025

Michigan’s reputation for exceptional golf extends far beyond its scenic landscapes and challenging terrains. The state boasts numerous world-class courses that cater specifically to retirees seeking both enjoyment and accessibility in their golfing experience. You’ll find Michigan offers an impressive variety of golf courses designed with senior players in mind, combining reasonable pricing, manageable layouts, and amenities that enhance comfort during play.

As you plan your retirement golfing adventures, knowing which Michigan courses best accommodate senior players can significantly improve your experience. From the renowned Boyne Golf resorts in Northern Michigan to the award-winning Forest Dunes Golf Club that consistently ranks among America’s best public courses, Michigan delivers exceptional golfing opportunities for retirees of all skill levels.

1. Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club

Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club stands as one of West Michigan’s finest upscale public golf facilities. Spread across over 400 acres, this magnificent course features bent grass fairways and distinctive green complexes that create a truly exceptional golfing experience.

The course offers six different yardage options, allowing you to select your preferred level of challenge for each round. Your journey takes you along meticulously manicured fairways lined with tall white pines and black oaks, culminating at pristine undulating bent grass greens.

For retirees seeking a combination of tranquility, natural beauty, and excellent golf, Pilgrim’s Run is an absolute must-play destination. The peaceful surroundings and well-maintained course create an ideal environment for relaxed yet engaging rounds of golf.

The club also features a driving range and golf shop, providing comprehensive facilities for practicing your swing or picking up necessary equipment before heading out to enjoy this award-winning course.

Rating: 4.9 (634 reviews)
Location: 11401 Newcosta Ave, Pierson, MI 49339
Contact: (231) 937-6707
Website: Visit Website

2. Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

Perched on the shores of Lake Michigan, Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club offers retirees a truly exceptional golfing experience. The club features three distinct courses that cater to different playing styles and preferences, making it ideal for seniors who appreciate variety in their golf outings.

The flagship Bluffs Course resembles a seaside links design with breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Michigan. For those who appreciate golf history, the South Course pays tribute to classic course design from a bygone era, providing a nostalgic experience many retirees will appreciate.

The newest addition, The Dozen, offers a more manageable 12-hole experience with 6 par-3s and 6 par-4s. This layout is particularly appealing for retirees who might prefer a shorter round while still enjoying generous landing areas and thoughtfully designed green complexes.

Beyond golf, you’ll find exceptional lodging and dining options that make Arcadia Bluffs perfect for extended stays. The restaurants offer spectacular views of both the courses and Lake Michigan, providing the perfect setting to relax after your round.

Rating: 4.7 (476 reviews)
Location: 14710 Northwood Hwy, Arcadia, MI 49613
Contact: (231) 889-3001
Website: Visit Website

3. Tullymore Golf Resort

Nestled within 800 acres of pristine Michigan woodlands and wetlands, Tullymore Golf Resort offers a truly exceptional golfing experience for retirees seeking both challenge and beauty. The resort features two distinct world-class courses crafted by highly acclaimed architects, each providing its own unique experience.

The courses at Tullymore were reclaimed from land carved by ancient glaciers, creating a naturally stunning backdrop for your game. You’ll find yourself immersed in the peaceful surroundings as you navigate through the thoughtfully designed layouts that showcase Michigan’s natural beauty.

Beyond golf, the resort provides luxuriously appointed accommodations perfect for extended stays. Premium amenities include a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and two comfortable clubhouses where you can relax after your round. The Villages at Tullymore even offer options to make this your home away from home.

Your golfing experience here balances challenging play with serene surroundings, making it an ideal destination for retirees who appreciate quality course design and upscale amenities in a tranquil setting.

Rating: 4.5 (570 reviews)
Location: 11969 Tullymore Dr, Stanwood, MI 49346
Contact: (231) 972-4837
Website: Visit Website

4. Forest Dunes Golf Club

Nestled in the tranquil Huron National Forest in northern Michigan, Forest Dunes Golf Club offers a premier golfing experience for retirees seeking both challenge and natural beauty. The resort focuses exclusively on golf, making it ideal for enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in the sport.

The property features multiple outstanding courses, including Forest Dunes, a Tom Weiskopf-designed masterpiece ranked in the Top 50 nationally. This course showcases two distinct personalities – the front nine winds through dense forest while the back nine utilizes natural sand dunes left by ancient glaciers.

What truly sets Forest Dunes apart is The Loop, North America’s only truly reversible golf course designed by Tom Doak. You can play the Black routing one day and the Red routing the next, effectively giving you two completely different courses. For more relaxed play, Bootlegger offers a fun 10-hole short course where you can unwind with a beverage in hand.

Your accommodations sit just yards from the first tees, eliminating long commutes to the courses. This convenience, combined with the secluded forest setting, creates an ideal retreat for retirees looking to focus on their golf game while enjoying Michigan’s natural splendor.

Rating: 4.5 (345 reviews)
Location: 6376 Forest Dunes Dr, Roscommon, MI 48653
Contact: (989) 275-0700
Website: Visit Website

5. Harbor Shores Golf Club

Harbor Shores Golf Club in Benton Harbor offers a superb golfing experience for retirees seeking a blend of challenge and natural beauty. The well-maintained course provides an engaging play experience with picturesque views that keep golfers coming back.

Situated just 90 minutes from Chicago, this destination makes for an accessible getaway or permanent retirement spot. The club is conveniently located near 12 miles of hiking trails and the beautiful beaches of Lake Michigan, providing additional recreational opportunities beyond golf.

Harbor Shores offers complete facilities including a bar and grill for post-round relaxation. The pro shop is well-stocked with golf equipment and sportswear, making it easy to upgrade your gear or replace items you may have forgotten.

For retirees considering a more permanent arrangement, Harbor Village offers vacation homes that allow you to fully embrace the resort lifestyle. You’ll appreciate having a quality golf course right at your doorstep while enjoying the surrounding natural amenities.

Rating: 4.6 (521 reviews)
Location: 201 Graham Ave, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Contact: (269) 927-4653
Website: Visit Website

6. Bay Harbor Golf Club

Bay Harbor Golf Club stands as a premier golfing destination on the shores of Lake Michigan near Petoskey. This Arthur Hills masterpiece features 27 holes divided into three distinct nine-hole courses, each offering its own unique character and challenges.

Set against the backdrop of Little Traverse Bay, the course harnesses the natural landscape to create an experience of awe-inspiring beauty. You’ll find immense diversity as you play from elevated shoreline views to forested sections and through a former shale quarry.

After your round, you can enjoy lunch, dinner, or drinks at the clubhouse restaurant while taking in spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the Quarry’s finishing hole. For those seeking accommodations, the nearby Inn at Bay Harbor offers luxurious lakeside rooms, an outdoor pool, beach access, and fine dining options.

The semi-private club welcomes public guests to play, dine, and host events, while offering membership options with exclusive benefits that extend to Inn at Bay Harbor and BOYNE Golf. The club is now open for the 2025 season, making it an excellent choice for retirees seeking world-class golf.

Rating: 4.7 (371 reviews)
Location: 5800 Coastal Ridge Dr, Bay Harbor, MI 49770
Contact: (888) 483-4946
Website: Visit Website

7. Shepherd’s Hollow Golf Club

Nestled in Clarkston, Michigan, Shepherd’s Hollow Golf Club offers retirees an exceptional golfing experience across 27 holes of championship golf. The course is built on 350 acres of spectacular woodlands, providing a secluded and peaceful atmosphere that many seniors appreciate.

You’ll find the terrain pleasantly challenging with rolling hills, dense forests, and strategic bunkers that test your skills without being overly demanding. The layout draws inspiration from classic northern Michigan courses, but remains accessible for players of varying abilities.

The clubhouse deserves special mention with its panoramic views of the course and comfortable amenities. As a retiree, you’ll appreciate the attentive service and relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind after your round.

Beyond golf, Shepherd’s Hollow serves as a social hub for many seniors in the area. Regular events and tournaments create opportunities to meet fellow golf enthusiasts and build lasting friendships in your retirement years.

Rating: 4.3 (867 reviews)
Location: 9085 Big Lake Rd, Village of Clarkston, MI 48346
Contact: (248) 922-0300
Website: Visit Website

8. Boulder Creek Golf Club & Restaurant

Boulder Creek Golf Club offers a championship 18-hole course that beautifully combines challenging play with natural scenery. Designed by Mark DeVries and opened in 1998, this public course features diverse terrain with elevated front nine holes and lush, rolling hills on the back nine.

The course accommodates golfers of all skill levels with five separate tee boxes. From the back tees, it stretches to nearly 7,000 yards for experienced players, while the forward tees measure a more manageable 4,949 yards, making it accessible for retirees.

After your round, you can enjoy lunch or dinner at the Boulder Creek Restaurant, which offers varied cuisine and excellent service with scenic course views. The restaurant operates Monday through Friday for both lunch and dinner, with Saturday dinner service as well.

Beyond golf, Boulder Creek provides excellent amenities for social gatherings. Their banquet facilities can host 25 to 200 guests, making it perfect for group events with fellow retirees or family celebrations.

Rating: 4.3 (429 reviews)
Location: 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, MI 49306
Contact: (616) 363-1330
Website: Visit Website

9. Hidden River Golf & Casting Club

Hidden River Golf & Casting Club offers a unique golfing experience in northern Michigan. Designed by W. Bruce Matthews III, this masterpiece features impeccable course conditions and a natural “lay of the land” style that distinguishes it from other courses in the region.

Located just 15 miles north of Petoskey and 12 miles east of Harbor Springs, this club has consistently earned its place among GolfWeek’s “Best Courses You Can Play” from 2013 to 2025. The course design includes push-up greens and fairways that naturally pitch and roll, creating an organic golfing experience.

Beyond golf, Hidden River offers excellent amenities for retirees. The club features Trovato Italian Restaurant for dining, a well-stocked golf shop with apparel, and PGA Golf Professionals available for instruction. The turn grill operates daily, and a beverage cart runs most days for your convenience.

Membership opportunities provide cost-effective ways to enjoy club privileges, including participation in special events like the Men’s Royal Wulff Member/Guest tournament. The small putting surfaces often situated on high areas of the routing present a pleasant challenge for golfers of all skill levels.

Rating: 4.7 (202 reviews)
Location: 7688 Maple River Rd #9726, Brutus, MI 49716
Contact: (231) 529-4653
Website: Visit Website

10. University of Michigan Golf Course

The University of Michigan Golf Course stands as a prestigious option for retirees seeking a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience. Designed by renowned architect Alister MacKenzie, this varsity 18-hole course combines historical significance with exceptional playing conditions.

You’ll appreciate the thoughtful layout that makes this course both challenging and rewarding for players of various skill levels. The course features beautiful landscaping throughout its grounds, providing a scenic backdrop for your game while you navigate its strategically placed hazards.

For practice enthusiasts, the driving range offers ample space to work on your swing before tackling the main course. After your round, you can relax at the Petrovich Family Grill, where you can enjoy a meal while discussing the highlights of your game.

The course offers various membership options, including season passes and the Trueblood Club for dedicated players. You might also want to inquire about their leagues, which provide excellent opportunities for retirees to socialize while enjoying regular play.

Rating: 4.6 (338 reviews)
Location: 500 E Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Contact: (734) 615-4653
Website: Visit Website

11. Kingsley Club

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Northern Michigan, Kingsley Club stands as one of the state’s most exclusive golfing experiences. This private club offers a pristine course designed by renowned architect Mike DeVries, creating a natural, links-style layout that challenges golfers of all skill levels.

The course features rolling terrain with natural contours that blend seamlessly into the landscape. You’ll find minimal artificial elements here, as the designers have prioritized the natural topography to create a pure golfing experience. The walking-focused course encourages a traditional approach to the game that many retirees appreciate.

Membership at Kingsley Club provides access to exceptional amenities in a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll encounter fewer crowds than at more commercial venues, allowing for unhurried rounds and genuine appreciation of the course’s beauty. The club maintains a low-key ambiance that creates a welcoming environment for seniors looking for quality golf.

The course receives consistent praise for its excellent maintenance and challenging yet fair design. You’ll face strategic decisions throughout your round rather than simply distance challenges, making it appealing for golfers who value thoughtful play over raw power.

Rating: 4.9 (59 reviews)
Location: 600 Niblick Trl, Kingsley, MI 49649
Contact: (231) 263-3000
Website: Visit Website

12. Lost Dunes Golf Club – PRIVATE

Lost Dunes Golf Club offers retirees an exceptional private golfing experience in Southwest Michigan. The course is renowned for its challenging layout and pristine conditions that provide both enjoyment and strategic difficulty for golfers of all skill levels.

Designed with careful attention to the natural landscape, Lost Dunes features rolling terrain and dramatic elevation changes that make each hole distinctive. You’ll find the course beautifully integrated with the natural dunes and sandy soil of the Lake Michigan shoreline region.

Membership at Lost Dunes provides you with access to top-notch facilities and services that cater specifically to discerning golfers. The exclusive atmosphere and limited play ensure unhurried rounds and well-maintained course conditions throughout the season.

For retirees seeking a premier golfing community, Lost Dunes offers the perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment. The club’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the course to include practice facilities and a welcoming clubhouse environment.

Rating: 4.8 (64 reviews)
Location: 9300 Red Arrow Hwy, Bridgman, MI 49106
Contact: (269) 465-9300
Website: Visit Website

13. Orchard Lake Country Club

Orchard Lake Country Club offers retirees a perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and exceptional golf. Located in West Bloomfield Township, this prestigious club has been a cherished destination since 1926, providing members with an “Up North” experience close to home.

The club features a beautifully maintained golf course where you can enjoy the sound of “purely struck golf balls” while taking in scenic views of Orchard Lake. The waterfront setting creates a peaceful atmosphere that helps you escape from daily responsibilities while remaining conveniently close to home.

Beyond golf, you’ll find a welcoming community where lasting friendships flourish. The club prides itself on fostering relationships built on sportsmanship, teamwork, and respect—ideal for retirees seeking social connections and recreational activities.

The club’s rich history and family-oriented tradition make it more than just a place to play golf. It’s a community where you can create treasured moments and enjoy your retirement years in an elegant setting that balances relaxation with activity.

Rating: 4.7 (183 reviews)
Location: 5000 W Shore Dr, West Bloomfield Township, MI 48324
Contact: (248) 682-0100
Website: Visit Website

14. Evergreen Golf Resort

Nestled on 327 acres of picturesque Michigan landscape, Evergreen Golf Resort offers retirees an exceptional golfing experience with two renowned courses to choose from. Located just outside Cadillac, this full-service resort combines quality golf with comfortable accommodations.

The resort features modern rooms with free WiFi and home-like amenities, making it perfect for extended stays while you explore all the golfing options. After your round, you can take advantage of the indoor pool and hot tub to soothe those golf-tired muscles.

Beyond golf, you’ll appreciate the complimentary breakfast to start your day and the opportunity to enjoy the natural surroundings through hiking and biking on picturesque trails. In winter months, the resort transforms to offer snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, making it a true year-round destination.

The resort’s casual dining options provide convenient meal choices after a day on the links, allowing you to relax without having to venture far from your accommodations.

Rating: 4.1 (1123 reviews)
Location: 7880 Mackinaw Trail, Cadillac, MI 49601
Contact: (231) 775-9947
Website: Visit Website

15. Sweetgrass Golf Club

Sweetgrass Golf Club offers retirees an exceptional golfing experience in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Named the 2021 Michigan Golf Course of the Year and 2022 Jemsek National Course of the Year, this prestigious course delivers both challenge and enjoyment for golfers of all skill levels.

The course features an open parkland layout with strategically designed greens including Redan, Biarritz, Island, and Double-green styles. You’ll particularly enjoy the famous island green on hole 15 and the spectacular finishing par 5 holes that provide a satisfying conclusion to both the front and back nine.

What makes Sweetgrass truly special is how it honors the rich heritage of the Hannahville Indian Community. Holes are thoughtfully named after traditional Potawatomi clans, villages, medicines and symbols, creating a golf experience that connects you to the area’s cultural history.

As host to the Epson Tour Island Resort Championship, part of the “Road to the LPGA,” Sweetgrass maintains professional-quality conditions while remaining accessible and enjoyable for retirees seeking a premium golf destination.

Rating: 4.5 (536 reviews)
Location: W339 US-41, Harris, MI 49845
Contact: (906) 723-2251
Website: Visit Website

16. Bucks Run Golf Club

Bucks Run Golf Club in Mt. Pleasant offers retirees an exceptional golfing experience in the heart of Mid-Michigan. The Jerry Matthews-designed course features 18 challenging yet playable holes with meticulously sculpted fairways and tee boxes that accommodate various skill levels.

The natural beauty of the course is a major highlight for seniors looking to enjoy their retirement on the greens. With Chippewa River frontage, picturesque lakes, and natural wetlands incorporated into numerous holes, you’ll appreciate both the challenge and scenery during your round.

The club’s central location in Mount Pleasant makes it an ideal meeting point for retirees who want to connect with friends from different parts of Michigan. You can easily access the course whether you’re a local resident or traveling through the area, making it convenient for your regular golf outings or special occasions.

Beyond golf, Bucks Run also offers dining options and event facilities, providing a complete experience for retirees who want to socialize after their round. The combination of quality course conditions and additional amenities makes this a standout choice for your retirement golfing needs.

Rating: 4.6 (463 reviews)
Location: 1559 S. Chippewa Rd, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858
Contact: (989) 773-6830
Website: Visit Website

17. Ravines Golf Club

Nestled in the scenic woodlands of Saugatuck, Michigan, Ravines Golf Club presents an exceptional option for retirees seeking a quality golfing experience. This Arnold Palmer Signature Course features meticulously maintained rolling fairways, strategic bunkers, and immaculate greens that challenge and delight golfers of all skill levels.

The natural beauty surrounding Ravines provides a peaceful atmosphere perfect for retirees who appreciate both a good game and serene landscapes. You’ll find the course layout thoughtfully designed to offer a rewarding experience whether you’re a seasoned player or still developing your skills.

Beyond golf, the club offers a welcoming clubhouse with a full-service restaurant where you can relax after your round. For retirees who enjoy hosting family gatherings, Ravines doubles as an event venue with spaces for weddings and special celebrations, making it more than just a place to play golf.

The club’s commitment to exceptional service ensures you’ll feel well taken care of during each visit, creating a community atmosphere that many retirees find particularly appealing.

Rating: 4.7 (302 reviews)
Location: 3520 Palmer Dr, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Contact: (269) 857-1616
Website: Visit Website

18. Nightmare Golf Course

Don’t let the name fool you—Nightmare Golf Course in West Branch is anything but a nightmare for golf enthusiasts. This stunning course features some of the largest fairways you’ll find anywhere in Michigan, making it particularly appealing for retirees looking for a less punishing golf experience.

Carved from 312 acres of beautiful northern Michigan hardwoods, Nightmare Golf Course offers a spectacular setting for your game. The expansive fairways provide plenty of forgiveness for your shots, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty without the frustration of constantly searching for your ball in tight spaces.

This course is considered one of northern Michigan’s golfing jewels and is sister to The Dream course on the same property. You’ll appreciate the thoughtful design that balances challenge with playability, making it suitable for golfers of varying skill levels and particularly welcoming for seniors.

For retirees seeking a course that combines natural beauty with player-friendly design, Nightmare Golf Course delivers an experience that defies its intimidating name. The course’s layout respects the natural terrain while providing an enjoyable and accessible challenge.

Rating: 4.8 (396 reviews)
Location: 5745 Old 76 (M-55), West Branch, MI 48661
Contact: (989) 345-1500
Website: Visit Website

19. Timber Wolf Golf Club

Timber Wolf Golf Club offers a quintessential Northern Michigan golfing experience across 120 rolling acres. The course features large, expertly maintained modern greens with significant elevation changes that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

You’ll appreciate how the course accommodates all skill levels with a thoughtful design. The scorecard reveals considerable differences between the blue and white tees, ensuring an appropriate challenge regardless of your golfing abilities.

Retirees will find this club particularly appealing for its commitment to being fun, relaxing, and affordable. The friendly staff works diligently to make each visit special, and the outstanding playing conditions make every round enjoyable.

The club provides various membership options that can help with fitness goals while enjoying the game. Whether you prefer playing a few holes during lunch, a quick nine after dinner, or participating in league play, Timber Wolf accommodates diverse schedules and preferences.

Rating: 4.6 (165 reviews)
Location: 5646 M-72, Kalkaska, MI 49646
Contact: (231) 258-5685
Website: Visit Website

20. The Fortress Golf Course

The Fortress Golf Course in Frankenmuth offers retirees an exceptional golfing experience with its meticulously maintained grounds and challenging layout. Designed to resemble a medieval fortress, this course provides strategic bunkers and water hazards that will test your skills while being accessible to players of various abilities.

You’ll appreciate the peaceful surroundings and well-paced play that make this course particularly appealing for retirees. The course features undulating fairways and large, receptive greens that remain in excellent condition throughout the golfing season.

As part of the Zehnder’s hospitality family, The Fortress delivers the same attention to detail and customer service that made Frankenmuth famous. After your round, you can enjoy the charming Bavarian-themed town with its restaurants and shops just minutes away.

The course’s convenient location in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula makes it easily accessible for retirees looking for a day trip or weekend getaway. With reasonable rates and senior-friendly policies, The Fortress has earned its place among Michigan’s top golf destinations for retirees.

Rating: 4.7 (309 reviews)
Location: 950 Flint St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734
Contact: (989) 652-0460
Website: Visit Website