GreenlitBETA
Arcadia, Michigan

Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club - The Bluffs Course

A wind-swept links masterpiece on Lake Michigan's bluffs that plays like Ireland's most dramatic holes transplanted to American dunes.

About the Course

The Bluffs Course is revered for its wind-swept native grasses, sod-walled bunkers, wide fairways, spacious greens, and stunning views of Lake Michigan. Built on a spectacular bluff overlooking the lake's eastern shore, Arcadia Bluffs delivers the raw, elemental golf that few American courses can match. Construction began in 1997 and was completed in 1999, with designers Warren Henderson and Rick Smith creating the course. The 240-acre property features relentless wind, massive dunes, and breathtaking vistas around every corner. GPS-equipped golf carts are included in your round, or you may take advantage of the seasonal caddie program, and players are always welcome to walk and carry or push their clubs. This is bucket-list golf that justifies every penny, with the Bluffs Course ranking as Michigan's 3rd best course and USA's 102nd best course according to Golf Digest 2025/26.

Why It's Great for Groups
  • Authentic links-style golf with natural dunes, firm conditions, and relentless wind that rivals Irish courses like Ballybunion and Lahinch
  • Panoramic Lake Michigan views from nearly every hole create an unforgettable visual experience unmatched in the Midwest
  • Multiple tee positions and wide fairways accommodate all skill levels while maintaining championship challenge—perfect for mixed-ability groups
  • On-site luxury lodging with world-class dining means your group never has to leave the property for an immersive stay-and-play experience
  • The South Course provides a contrasting challenge on the same property—two vastly different 18-hole experiences with one trip
Courses on Property
The Bluffs Course18 holes · Par 72

The signature championship course with links-style play, dramatic views, sod-walled bunkers, and a slope rating of 146.

The South Course18 holes · Par 72

A Dana Fry design inspired by golden-age architecture featuring massive greens and strategic bunkering without Lake Michigan views.

The Dozen12 holes · Par 42

The newest nine-hole addition featuring six par-3s and six par-4s with generous fairways and thought-provoking bunkering.

Ready to play here?
Add this course to one of your trips.
Sign in to add to a trip
Key Details
💰
Green Fees
$125–$265/person est.
🚶
Walking Friendly
Yes
🎒
Caddies Available
Yes
📅
Best Time to Visit
<cite index="7-2,7-3,7-4">Green fees at Arcadia Bluffs typically range from $125 to $265 depending on season and time of day, with twilight rates available.</cite> <cite index="35-1">The Bluffs Course is open to the public seven days a week April through November each year.</cite> Visit June through September for warm weather and calm(er) conditions. October offers spectacular fall colors with fewer crowds and often the best rates in Michigan. <cite index="43-12">November rates are the best value in Michigan if weather is decent.</cite> Avoid winter closures and the intense summer wind if you prefer calmer playing conditions—though the wind is part of the charm for most golfers.
LinksOcean ViewsBucket ListWalking OnlyCaddies AvailableResortChampionshipHidden GemWaterfront
Stay on Property
<cite index="23-2,23-3">The Lodge at Arcadia Bluffs is located on the second level of the beautiful Nantucket coastal estate-style clubhouse, accommodating 15 comfortably appointed guest rooms with 1 King bed each and 1 Suite, with most rooms facing west and offering breathtaking views of the Bluffs Course and Lake Michigan.</cite> <cite index="23-4">The Bluffs Lodge offers 21 comfortable guest rooms with 2 queen beds, as well as a state of the art workout facility for guests.</cite> <cite index="23-5,23-6">The Cottages at Arcadia Bluffs are 1900 square foot, four bedroom, four bath cottages providing world-class comforts with privacy and spaciousness ideal for groups or families.</cite>

<cite index="23-2,23-3">The Lodge at Arcadia Bluffs is located on the second level of the beautiful Nantucket coastal estate-style clubhouse, accommodating 15 comfortably appointed guest rooms with 1 King bed each and 1 Suite, with most rooms facing west and offering breathtaking views of the Bluffs Course and Lake Michigan.</cite> <cite index="23-4">The Bluffs Lodge offers 21 comfortable guest rooms with 2 queen beds, as well as a state of the art workout facility for guests.</cite> <cite index="23-5,23-6">The Cottages at Arcadia Bluffs are 1900 square foot, four bedroom, four bath cottages providing world-class comforts with privacy and spaciousness ideal for groups or families.</cite>

Nearby Lodging