The Golf Club at Harbor Shores
Benton Harbor, MI • Public
Brian Walters
Brian Walters
Brian Walters
Brian Walters
Brian Walters
Overview
Just 90 minutes from Chicago in western Michigan, Harbor Shores is a scenic Jack Nicklaus layout that often gets high marks for conditioning from our panelists. It was constructed over parts of a former manufacturing facility that requred a significant amount of remediation, but the result is a sanctuary of nature where toxic compounds used to be. Because of the previous use of the property and the need to remove and work around defunt buildings, the holes are spread far and wide around the vast site, broken into distinct sections while crossing the Paw Paw River several times. The course is a regular host of the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship, having hosted five times, including in 2022 and 2024. Harbor Shores offers intriguing design variety, with dense forest, dunes, creeks and fescue all in play, and a highlight stretch of three holes along Lake Michigan.
About
Awards
Ranking history:
100 Greatest Public: Not previously ranked.
2023-'24 ranking: 90th.
Best in State: Ranked 25th, 2021-'22.
2023-'24 ranking: 19th.
Panelists
Ratings from our panel of 1,900 course-ranking panelists
100 GREATEST/BEST IN STATE SCORES
Shot Options
Character
Challenge
Layout Variety
Fun
Aesthetics
Conditioning
Reviews
Review
“One of the most unique Nicklaus Signature courses you will ever play. Bring a few extra balls."
Read More2024
Review
“A course with a little of everything, view of the Lake, elevation changes, some unique hole designs that end with large undulating greens that is playable if the correct tees are utilized."
Read More2023
Review
“For a course with such high difficulty it’s pretty friendly off the tee. It bares its teeth on and around those greens. The 7th and 8th holes are worth the price of admission alone."
Read More2023
Review
“Greens are potato chip and complex. Lots of variety in hole length. Course plays fair with forgiving landing areas but greens are challenging and with plenty of contour surrounding. The golf course from an aesthetic standpoint is built without walking in mind and many streets are visible from the course. However, the course itself and layout are diverse and challenging with firm and fast conditions."
Read More2022
Review
“Could be tough if you choose the wrong tees. Lots of fun with some beautiful views."
Read More2019
Review
“Upscale public-access complex with great conditioning and wonderful scenery and views. Courses are a somewhat odd mix of holes."
Read More2018
Readers
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