Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course Review, Arcadia, Michigan

I played Arcadia Bluffs with my wife (Kate) in June of 2006. The funny thing about this course is that it is built about a half hour north of where I grew up (Manistee). I never imagined that a course of this caliber would be located so close to my hometown. Now I have an additional reason to take the 5-hour drive to visit my parents!

We played in the early afternoon, teeing off around 1, so we had plenty of time beforehand to peruse the golf shop, which had some very nice, distinct items (Kate was already thinking of Christmas presents, so we left with a bagful). We also had time for lunch, and it was definitely a few steps above most clubhouse fare. Lots of choices too. If you go save time for lunch before or after your round.

The first few holes start off “simple” enough, and by simple, I mean that you’re not distracted by the views of Lake Michigan (yet). From the onset you know that this isn’t going to be like most rounds of golf in Northern Michigan (or North America, for that matter). The bunkering is a dead giveaway that this round is going to be something special.

Interesting bunker at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

By the time you get to the third tee, you can see a lot of the golf course, and Lake Michigan, and the anticipation sets in (at least for me it did). There’s no feeling quite like being on the first couple holes of a golf course, and seeing all the wonderful terrain to come. Experiencing anticipation like this is what it’s all about to me.

I started the course par, par, and then birdie on the 3rd (stuck a wedge very close) to be one under after 3. Then I started thinking about how well I was doing, and it started to unravel, but mercifully, slowly.

Birdie putt on third hole

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the restroom facilities on the 4th hole. As a guy, it’s not really a big deal, but when you play golf with a woman, it matters… a lot. My wife noted that these were some of the cleanest bathrooms she’s ever seen on a golf course. That’s a pretty big kudos to the staff.

Working our way towards the lake over the next couple holes, then back to the clubhouse for 9, just enjoying the views. It was a little foggy that day, but it came and went just enough to tease us of what was to come on the back 9.

Stopping at the turn for a soda (OK, probably a couple beers), I noticed a collection of Adirondack chairs that have a view of the 18th, and Lake Michigan. A very nice, unexpected touch.

Adirondack Chairs at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

The 10th has a massive, deep bunker in front of the green that is tough to miss (well, at least for me). It reminded me of some of the bunkers at Whistling Straits, where we honeymooned. Calls for a special shot, so be prepared to hit flops out of sand.

Bunker on 10th hole at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

The 11th, a 563 yard downhill par 5 is easily the best hole on the course. You work your way downhill towards the Lake, and the views up and down the hole are fantastic. I think I took 10 pictures playing this hole. It’s one of those holes that you keep thinking about, even after you’re 3-4 holes past. Looking from the green back up the hill towards the clubhouse produced one of my personal favorite pictures, out of the 2,500 or so that I’ve taken on golf courses.

View from 11 tee at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

Looking back at clubhouse at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

The 13th is one of those par 3’s that you don’t soon forget either. All carry, into the wind. Take a few extra clubs, but beware there’s a “secret” bunker behind the green that I wasn’t prepared for that you can’t see from the tee. You definitely don’t want to be short, because you’ll be OB, but don’t be long either. Like I said, a very memorable par 3.

Par three 13th at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

As we worked our way through the remainder of the course, the fog was 90% gone, and it provided great views of Lake Michigan, the clubhouse, and the rest of the golf course. The finishing hole is a strong one; your drive is downhill, but approach is uphill. This type of hole makes for a great photo opportunity too.

View from 18 tee at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

The prices are not for the faint of heart, and are not anywhere near what the other area golf courses are charging, but that being said, it is a once in a lifetime experience you won’t want to miss out on. We went on a Wednesday, which in 2006 was ladies day, so Kate’s fee was half price. The staff was attentive, all the way from taking our bags at the drop, to shuttling us back to the parking lot to get our car after our round. I would easily suggest this course to anyone who wants to “experience” golf, rather than just play it.

Last approach shot at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

Visit my Flickr page for more Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course pictures and photos.

Other Michigan Golf Course Reviews:

Bay Harbor Golf Club, Bay Harbor, Michigan
Threetops Par 3, Treetops Resort, Gaylord, Michigan
Fazio Premier, Treetops Resort, Gaylord, Michigan
Jones Masterpiece, Treetops Resort, Gaylord, Michigan
Rick Smith Signature, Treetops Resort, Gaylord, Michigan
Canthooke Valley, Manistee National Golf & Resort, Manistee, Michigan
Hemlock Golf Club, Ludington, Michigan
The Heathlands, Onekama, Michigan
Heather Golf Course, Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs, Michigan
Arthur Hills Golf Course, Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs, Michigan
The Bear Golf Course, Grand Traverse Resort, Acme, Michigan