The Golfer’s Guide to Nantucket
Golf lovers can play some of the best courses on the East Coast right in Nantucket.
Golf lovers can play some of the best courses on the East Coast right in Nantucket.
Nantucket is home to a handful of prestigious golf courses, each offering distinct layouts, scenic views, and challenging play. Although most of these courses are private, there are a few ways to access them through memberships, guest policies, or special events. Here’s what golfers can expect when visiting Nantucket, along with the best courses and golf-adjacent activities to enjoy.
Miacomet Golf Course (Public)
Location: Off Somerset Road, about 3 miles from downtown Nantucket.
Type: Public (with some private memberships available).
Miacomet is the only 18-hole public golf course on Nantucket, making it the go-to destination for most golfers visiting the island. The course is beautifully designed, with a mix of links-style and traditional holes. It’s known for its well-maintained fairways and greens, with challenges provided by the coastal winds, rolling terrain, and strategically placed bunkers.
Miacomet offers a fully stocked pro shop, practice facilities, and an excellent restaurant. The course is open to both locals and visitors, and tee times can be booked in advance. Its facilites include a driving range, putting green, restaurant/bar, and pro shop.
Sconset Golf Course (or Skinners Golf Course)
Location: Sconset, on the eastern end of the island
Type: Public; 9 Holes
Although only a 9-hole course, Sconset Golf Course (also known as Skinners Golf Course) is another great public course option for Nantucket visitors. Established in 1894, it is one of the oldest golf courses in the U.S. and offers a casual, laid-back atmosphere for golfers of all skill levels.
Sankaty Head Golf Club (Private)
Location: Sconset, on the eastern end of the island, near Sankaty Head Lighthouse.
Type: Private (with limited access through guests of members or special events).
Sankaty Head is one of the most historic and prestigious golf clubs in New England. The 18-hole course is a links-style layout with beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and Sankaty Head Lighthouse. Its challenging design, combined with coastal winds and rolling dunes, offers an authentic Nantucket golfing experience.
While primarily a private club, Sankaty occasionally allows non-members to play through charitable events or tournaments. It also has a historic caddie camp, one of the few remaining in the country. The club features full practice facilities, a pro shop, and a classic clubhouse.
Practice at Miacomet’s Driving Range: Even if you aren’t playing a full round of golf, Miacomet Golf Course driving range and practice facilities are open to the public.
Golf Clinics and Lessons: Miacomet Golf Course offers golf lessons and clinics for both beginners and experienced golfers. These sessions are great for improving your game or introducing new golfers to the sport. The course’s PGA professionals provide private lessons and group clinics.
Dining at Golf Course Restaurants: Miacomet Golf Course has a great restaurant offering casual dining with views of the course. It’s open to the public, making it an excellent spot for a post-round meal or even just a relaxing lunch or dinner.
Attend Golf Tournaments and Charity Events: Many of Nantucket’s golf clubs, including Sankaty Head and Nantucket Golf Club, host charity golf tournaments and special events throughout the year. These events are often open to non-members and provide an opportunity to experience some of the island’s best courses while supporting local causes.
