Cape Ann Golf Club

Cape Ann Golf Club: A Classic New England Course with Coastal Charm

Tucked away in the seaside town of Essex, Massachusetts, Cape Ann Golf Club is a family-owned nine-hole coursethat offers stunning views, strategic play, and a laid-back atmosphere. Established in 1931, this hidden gem sits on rolling terrain overlooking the Essex River and salt marshes, making it a must-play for golfers who appreciate natural beauty and a fun yet challenging round. Whether you’re looking for a quick nine or playing it twice for a full 18-hole experience, Cape Ann delivers a well-maintained course with personality.

A Layout That Balances Fun and Strategy

Cape Ann may be a nine-hole course, but don’t let that fool you—it has plenty of variety to keep golfers engaged. Spanning 3,045 yards from the back tees, this par-34 course features subtle elevation changes, well-placed bunkers, and breathtaking coastal views that add to the experience.

Playing the course twice for 18 holes brings it to 5,871 yards, offering a mix of risk-reward holes and scoring opportunities. The combination of tight fairways, raised greens, and ocean breezes forces golfers to think their way around the course while still providing an enjoyable, relaxing round.

Front Nine: A Scenic Start with Thoughtful Shot Selection

The first few holes ease golfers into the round, with open fairways and inviting greens. However, accuracy off the tee is key, as many fairways are lined with trees or natural marshland hazards that demand careful club selection.

One of the standout holes is Hole 4, a scenic par-4 with a stunning view from the elevated tee box. The dogleg left requires a precise drive, and with the Essex marshes serving as a backdrop, it’s a hole that combines challenge and beauty in perfect balance.

Back Nine: A More Demanding Test with Coastal Elements

When playing Cape Ann as a full 18-hole round, the back nine adds variety, with slightly altered tee positionsproviding a fresh look at familiar holes. The wind can change dramatically in the afternoon, adding an extra layer of challenge that forces golfers to adjust their club selection.

Hole 7, a long par-3, plays directly into the coastal breeze, making distance control a major factor. The slightly raised green is well-defended, rewarding precision while punishing misjudged approach shots.

Course Conditions: Well-Maintained with True Greens

Despite its seaside location, Cape Ann boasts excellent course conditions throughout the season. The irrigation systemkeeps fairways lush, while the greens are well-manicured and roll true. Even with New England’s unpredictable weather, the course holds up remarkably well, ensuring a quality playing experience year-round.

Amenities: A Relaxing Post-Round Experience

Cape Ann may not have a sprawling country club, but it does offer everything needed for a great day of golf. The Fairway Pub, located in the clubhouse, serves classic New England fare, including fresh seafood and cold drinks—a perfect way to cap off a round. The deck overlooking the course is a great spot to unwind, enjoy the view, and recap the best shots of the day.

The pro shop offers essentials, and while practice facilities are minimal, golfers can still get in some warm-up swings before heading to the first tee.

The Verdict: A Hidden Gem on the North Shore

Cape Ann Golf Club captures the essence of classic New England golf—stunning coastal views, a friendly atmosphere, and a layout that rewards smart play. Whether you’re a local looking for a relaxing weekend round or a visitor exploring the North Shore, this course offers a memorable golf experience that keeps players coming back.

Final Ratings:

• Course Layout: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – A fun, engaging nine-hole design with plenty of personality.
• Course Conditions: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – Well-maintained fairways and true-rolling greens ensure a great round.
• Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – The Fairway Pub and scenic deck provide a welcoming post-round experience.
• Overall Experience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – A charming course with stunning views and enjoyable playability.

Whether you’re a casual golfer or an experienced player, Cape Ann Golf Club delivers a relaxed yet engaging round in a setting that’s as beautiful as it is enjoyable.

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Course Difficulty

With rolling terrain, elevation changes, and coastal breezes, the course requires players to stay focused while enjoying the scenic surroundings. Here’s a breakdown of its difficulty:

Slope & Rating:

With a course rating of 67.2 and a slope rating of 110 from the back tees, Cape Ann Golf Club presents a moderate challenge suitable for golfers of various skill levels. These ratings indicate that while the course is approachable for beginners, it also offers enough complexity to engage seasoned players.

For Beginners:

New golfers will find Cape Ann Golf Club welcoming, thanks to its manageable length and straightforward layout. The absence of par-5 holes reduces the intimidation factor, allowing beginners to focus on developing their skills. While water hazards and elevation changes are present, they are designed to enhance the playing experience without overwhelming less experienced golfers.

For Experienced Golfers:

Seasoned players will appreciate the strategic elements woven into the course design. The fourth hole, a dogleg left atop a hill, offers a particularly challenging approach, demanding precise shot placement to navigate the elevation and surrounding hazards. The coastal winds and well-placed bunkers further require thoughtful club selection and course management, ensuring that even low-handicap golfers find the course stimulating.

Conclusion:

Cape Ann Golf Club strikes a harmonious balance between accessibility and challenge. Its scenic vistas, combined with a thoughtfully designed layout, make it an enjoyable destination for golfers of all abilities. Whether you're a novice looking to learn the game or an experienced golfer seeking a strategic test, Cape Ann offers a rewarding experience.

Difficulty Rating: 7/10

This rating reflects a course that provides a moderate challenge—rewarding strategic play and precision, yet accessible enough to be enjoyable for golfers of varying skill levels.

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