Best golf courses near Bar Harbor, ME

Established in 1888 with play starting 1891, Kebo Valley is one of the oldest golf clubs in the country. The course is situated on Mount Desert Island, bordering Acadia National Park and just five minutes from downtown Bar Harbor. Throughout its long history, notable names including Harry Vardon, Walter Hagen and President Willliam Taft have all played the track. In 1911, President Taft played Kebo and carded a 27 on the 17th hole, which is now affectionately known as the "Taft" hole. In 1922, Walter Hagen played Kebo twice, first carding an even-par 70 before firing a three-under 67, which stood as the course record for 50 years. By modern standards, Kebo is a short course, but it is protected by very small, undulating greens that often roll true and fast. With beautiful views of nearby Cadillac and Dorr Mountain, Kebo is an enjoyable walk and pairs well with a visit to Acadia National Park.

Northeast Harbor makes terrific use of the idyllic setting in the Maine woods near the ocean on Mount Desert Island. The course is short by modern standards, but don’t let that fool you—the small, devilish greens have some severe movement, demanding that you stay below the hole to score. The club is private during the summer months but is open for public play during the spring and fall. Along with Kebo Valley near Bar Harbor, Northeast Harbor GC is the best option on Mount Desert Island. Consider playing both on a trip to Acadia National Park.