Southern Maryland’s Best Golfing

In the heart of Southern Maryland lies a golfer's haven, a region where the allure of the sport converges with affordability and convenience. Positioned comfortably within a short drive from bustling cities like DC and Baltimore, this golfer’s paradise isn’t merely a network of meticulously crafted courses, but a retreat where the urbanity of the metropolitan areas gently melds with the pastoral beauty and quietude of nature. Whether you're an avid golfer or someone seeking a peaceful getaway, the golfing locales here aren’t just courses, but an experience, offering accessible pricing and an escape from the hustle of city life, all while cradled in the lap of idyllic views along these iconic Maryland rivers. Join us, as we journey through the green expanses, exploring every drive and putt that makes golfing in Southern Maryland not just a sport, but a sublime escape into a world where leisure meets landscape.

Swan Point Yacht & Country Club

11550 Swan Point Boulevard
Issue, Maryland 20645
Phone:  (301) 259-0047
https://www.swanpointgolf.com/

Swan Point Yacht & Country Club, established along the tranquil banks of the Potomac River, began its journey as a modest nine-hole course in Southern Maryland. However, a transformative moment came in the late 1980s when Bob Cupp, the illustrious golf course designer and consultant to the revered Augusta National Golf, was commissioned to revitalize Swan Point. The outcome is an 18-hole championship masterpiece spanning 6,857 feet (slope 130) that not only tests a golfer's mettle but also offers an unparalleled experience reminiscent of the Carolina-style courses, with its lush landscapes and water/marsh challenges that appear on 12 holes where golfers often find themselves sharing the course with graceful deer, majestic osprey, and even the occasional bald eagle.

Swan Point's reputation as a premier golf destination is further cemented with its experience in hosting esteemed tournaments, including those of the MGA & WGA. Membership at this prestigious club is open to both property owners and non-owners, creating a vibrant and diverse community. The club’s vibrancy extends beyond golf with plenty of concerts and events for members. Non-members too can enjoy the Swan Point experience by booking tee times and exploring their well-stocked Pro Shop.

One of Swan Point’s unique offerings is its maritime accessibility. Golfers can sail up to the community marina on Cuckold Creek, close to the 16th hole, and dock without incurring any fees. For the ultimate luxury, a call ahead ensures the staff awaits with a cart to whisk you to the Clubhouse and the starting tee. For members, the marina offers a plethora of amenities, from boat storage to access to excellent fishing spots.

Gastronomic adventures await at The Point Grill, open to the public and known for its freshly made seasonal dishes. During peak golfing months, the Midway Grill becomes the go-to spot for quick bites and refreshments. The Club’s beverage carts, offering cold drinks and snacks, meander the fairways, ensuring golfers stay at the top of their game.

Swan Point also serves as a dream wedding venue, where couples exchange vows at the picturesque Creekside ceremony site and celebrate their union in a ballroom nestled amid magnolia trees and radiant flowers, accommodating up to 180 guests.

Breton Bay Golf & Country Club

21935 Society Hill Rd
Leonardtown MD 20650
Phone: (301) 475-2300
https://www.bretonbaygolf.com/

Breton Bay Golf & Country Club has cemented itself as a quintessential retreat for golf enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike since its gates opened in 1971. Along the serene shores overlooking Breton Bay, this member-owned, semi-private club harmoniously combines the classic sport of golf with stunning natural landscapes, providing both members and the public with a venue that is as visually spectacular as it is pleasurable to play on.

The club features a premier Par 72 18-hole golf course, weaving through meticulously maintained greens and fairways, all whilst enveloped by the breathtaking views of Breton Bay. Not merely reserved for members, the club warmly welcomes the public, offering green fee play and ensuring the spectacular experience is accessible to all who wish to partake. Please note that golf attire is obligatory while playing.

Breton Bay Golf & Country Club presents not only a playground for the experienced but also a nurturing ground for beginners and those looking to refine their skills. The facility boasts chipping and putting areas, as well as a full driving range, ensuring that all aspects of your game can be honed under the serene bay-side sky. Furthermore, skilled PGA staff is readily available for lessons, to elevate your game to professional standards.

The amiable staff at Breton Bay stand ready to assist in all aspects of your visit to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. From arranging start times, renting golf carts, to club storage registration, every detail is meticulously handled, allowing you to immerse fully in the golfing experience. Moreover, the Pro shop on site offers an impeccable selection of golf clubs and related merchandise, meeting all your golfing needs under one roof.

While the golfing facilities are available to the general public, Breton Bay also offers exclusive swim and tennis facilities, reserved for members only. The Aquatic Facility boasts a competition pool and a toddler pool, ensuring enjoyable experiences for all ages, while the four tennis courts offer a perfect spot for a friendly match or competitive play.

For those looking to combine gastronomy with recreation, The Ironwood Grill at Breton Bay invites you to indulge in a culinary journey, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week. Non-members and members alike can revel in light fare dining and a full-service bar, all while absorbing the splendid views of Breton Bay. With rotating specials masterfully crafted by classically trained culinary staff, and cocktails concocted to perfection, every meal becomes a memorable experience, whether it's a breakfast with a refreshing mimosa, a quick bite after a round of golf, or a leisurely dinner and drinks with friends.

Chesapeake Hills Golf Course

11352 HG Trueman Road
Lusby, MD 20657
410-326-GOLF (4653)
https://www.chesapeakehills.com/

Chesapeake Hills Golf Course presents golfers with a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and natural splendor. Traversing 6,545 yards from its longest tees and sporting a par of 72 (slope 126), this 18 hole course isn't simply a recreational space but a work of art, designed meticulously in 1968 by Jim Thompson, one of the sport’s most influential promoters, pioneers and course architects. Chesapeake Hills is a public course under the stewardship of Calvert County’s Dept of Parks & Recreation, promises a balanced blend of challenge, charm, and community. A recent investment of over $1.5 million has not only preserved the course's legacy but also augmented its appeal, leading to the recent re-sprigging of all 18 fairways with a Bermuda hybrid grass to extended green seasons and elevate playability. This course is open everyday with hours are based on sunrise/sunset times which vary from month to month (call to verify).

Chesapeake Hills isn’t just about the play; it’s about mastering the sport. The professional staff at Chesapeake Hills curates one of the finest golf instructional programs in the region. Their offerings range from private one-hour lessons to group clinics, catering to all age groups and skill levels.

For those with a competitive spirit, Chesapeake Hills facilitates League Play. Whether it's the competitive Men's and Women's leagues or the more laid-back Mixed/Social Leagues, there's a place for every golfer. In keeping with the relaxed, community spirit of this course, golf attire is not required to play.

That attitude extends beyond traditional golf, too, as Chesapeake Hills is proud to be a Certified FootGolf Course of the American FootGolf League (AFGL). FootGolf, an invigorating combination of soccer and golf, tests players' mettle as they aim to kick a soccer ball into a cup on the course while navigating traditional golf hazards, bunkers, and particular slopes.

Beyond sport, Chesapeake Hills stands as a sought-after venue for weddings and private functions. The course's picturesque setting, coupled with options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, makes it a favored choice for couples looking to tie the knot amidst the grandeur of Southern Maryland.

Wicomico Shores Golf Course

35794 Aviation Yacht Club Road
Mechanicsville, Maryland 20659
Phone: (301) 884-4601
https://www.stmaryscountymd.gov/recreate/GolfCourse/

Beside the picturesque Wicomico River lies a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers alike: the Wicomico Shores Golf Course. Owned and operated with pride by the St. Mary’s County Government, this 18-hole public course sprawls over a generous 145 acres, with each hole meticulously carved out of a sloping landscape that seamlessly melds with the adjacent river and lush wooded expanses.

Each swing, each putt, is accentuated by the sight of abundant wildlife and the gentle murmur of the Wicomico River. The course's design, characterized by generously sized greens and level fairways, ensures that every golfer, regardless of their skill level, finds a challenge tailored to their abilities. With the back tees measuring 6,397 yards, a slope of 121, and a course rating of 70.0, achieving the par of 72 is an adventure in itself.

However, the Wicomico Shores Golf Course is not just a place to play; it's a place to learn and grow, especially for younger players with their Junior Golf programs. Their comprehensive instructional programs encompass every facet of golf, from the fundamentals of the swing to the nuances of rules and etiquette. Catering to all, from the budding enthusiast to the seasoned pro, the course offers private sessions, group clinics, and specialized training to ensure continuous development.

Beyond individual play, Wicomico Shores is renowned for hosting an array of non-profit and corporate tournament outings. The dedicated staff at the course works diligently to ensure that every fundraising event is not just a success, but an experience to remember. A prime example is the Scott Verbic Memorial Golf tournament, a testament to the community spirit fostered by the course. Since its inception in 1995, this tournament has raised over $100,000, with the proceeds significantly bolstering the R&P Scholarship Fund, aiding local youth in attending camps and sport leagues.

Following an invigorating round of golf or an intense tournament, players and guests can unwind at the Riverview Restaurant. This waterfront casual dining haven offers not just tantalizing culinary delights but an ambiance enriched by breathtaking views of the Wicomico River and the golf course's 18th hole. For those seeking a venue for special occasions, the Riverview Banquet Room, with its 175-seat capacity, stands as the ideal location. Be it a party, reception, meeting, or any other gathering, the combination of a serene environment and top-notch facilities ensures an unforgettable experience.

White Plains Golf Course

1015 St. Charles Parkway
White Plains, MD 20695
Phone: (301) 645-1300
https://www.charlescountyparks.com/parks/white-plains-golf-course

White Plains Golf Course, operated by Charles County Recreation & Parks, combines the accessibility of a public course with the immaculate conditions one would expect from an exclusive private club. The course boasts a Par 70, 18 Hole layout of lush Bermuda grass stretching back a considerable 6,277 feet, offering both a challenge and an opportunity for brilliant play. With a slope of 125, players can be assured of a competitive game. 

If you’re looking to perfect that swing or putt, the putting green and range offer just the spot. Beyond the game, the professionally staffed Pro Shop ensures all your golfing needs are met, from gear to advice. Moreover, they offer USGA Certified Handicaps and golf classes, ensuring that everyone can benefit, learn, and grow in their golfing journey.

Of course, golfing can be an exhaustive endeavor. If you’re looking for a mid-game snack or a post-game meal, the White Plains Golf Course Café stands ready with its snack bar and grill, operating from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Special considerations include weekday specials for twilight play, attractive discount plans and annual memberships. Walk-ups are welcomed but it’s always wise to reserve your tee time in advance!