The Chesapeake Golf Guide: Your Definitive Resource for Tee Times & Local Insights

Introduction: Welcome to Chesapeake Golf

Chesapeake, Virginia, offers a diverse and rewarding golfing experience, blending challenging layouts with scenic coastal landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting out, you'll find courses here to suit your skill level and budget. This guide is designed for both local enthusiasts and visiting golfers, providing comprehensive information to plan your perfect round. We've compiled insights from local pros, course staff, and years of playing experience to bring you the definitive resource for golf in Chesapeake.

Course Rankings & Reviews

This section highlights the top courses in Chesapeake, categorized by their strengths and appeal. Rankings are based on a combination of course rating, slope, reviews from Golfweek, Golf Digest, and local golfer feedback, as of October 26, 2023.

1. Bay Point Golf Club (Championship-Level)

• Signature Hole: Hole 16, a challenging par-3 over water with a dramatic approach.
• Notable Features: Dramatic coastal views, undulating fairways, strategic bunkering, and a challenging layout that rewards accuracy.
• Unique Appeal: Bay Point is known for its demanding design and pristine condition. It's a favorite among serious golfers seeking a test of skill.
• Slope/Rating: 72.8/71.5
• Price: $80-$120 (peak season)
• Golfer Profile: Experienced golfers looking for a challenging and scenic experience.

2. Navitat Chesapeake (Championship-Level)

• Signature Hole: Hole 18, a long par-5 with a risk-reward layup option.
• Notable Features: Well-maintained course, strategic bunkering, water hazards, and a challenging layout.
• Unique Appeal: Navitat is known for its excellent conditioning and thoughtful design. It offers a good mix of challenge and playability.
• Slope/Rating: 72.5/70.8
• Price: $70-$100 (peak season)
• Golfer Profile: Intermediate to advanced golfers who appreciate a well-designed and maintained course.

3. Greenhawk Golf Club (Intermediate-Advanced)

• Signature Hole: Hole 4, a par-4 with a dogleg left and a challenging green.
• Notable Features: Tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and a challenging layout.
• Unique Appeal: Greenhawk offers a classic golf experience with a focus on strategic play.
• Slope/Rating: 71.2/69.5
• Price: $60-$90 (peak season)
• Golfer Profile: Intermediate to advanced golfers who enjoy a traditional golf course layout.

4. Chesapeake Golf Club (Beginner-Intermediate)

• Signature Hole: Hole 12, a par-3 with a challenging green and water hazard.
• Notable Features: Well-maintained course, forgiving fairways, and a friendly atmosphere.
• Unique Appeal: Chesapeake Golf Club is a great option for golfers of all skill levels.
• Slope/Rating: 68.5/66.0
• Price: $40-$60 (peak season)
• Golfer Profile: Beginner to intermediate golfers looking for a relaxed and enjoyable round.

5. Southside Golf Club (Beginner-Intermediate)

• Signature Hole: Hole 18, a par-4 with a scenic view of the Chesapeake Bay.
• Notable Features: Easy-to-play layout, forgiving fairways, and a friendly atmosphere.
• Unique Appeal: Southside Golf Club is a great option for golfers of all skill levels.
• Slope/Rating: 67.0/64.5
• Price: $35-$55 (peak season)
• Golfer Profile: Beginner to intermediate golfers looking for a relaxed and enjoyable round.

6. The Links at Virginia Beach (Intermediate)

• Signature Hole: Hole 16, a par-3 with a challenging green and water hazard.
• Notable Features: Well-maintained course, strategic bunkering, and a challenging layout.
• Unique Appeal: The Links at Virginia Beach offers a classic golf experience with a focus on strategic play.
• Slope/Rating: 71.5/70.0
• Price: $65-$95 (peak season)
• Golfer Profile: Intermediate golfers who enjoy a traditional golf course layout.

7. Bay Islands Golf Club (Intermediate)

• Signature Hole: Hole 18, a par-5 with a challenging approach and water hazard.
• Notable Features: Well-maintained course, strategic bunkering, and a challenging layout.
• Unique Appeal: Bay Islands Golf Club offers a classic golf experience with a focus on strategic play.
• Slope/Rating: 72.0/70.5
• Price: $70-$100 (peak season)
• Golfer Profile: Intermediate golfers who enjoy a traditional golf course layout.

Hidden Gems

These courses offer exceptional value and a unique experience, often overlooked by casual golfers.

• Chesapeake Bay Country Club: A smaller, more intimate course with a friendly atmosphere. Excellent value for the price. Known for its challenging greens.
• Northview Golf Club: A well-maintained course with a relaxed pace of play. Often overlooked, but a solid value.

Premium Public Options

These courses are worth the splurge for a special occasion or a serious golfing experience.

• Navitat Chesapeake: As mentioned above, Navitat consistently receives high praise and offers a premium experience.
• Bay Point Golf Club: A classic championship course that justifies its higher price point.

Budget-Friendly Champions (Under $50)

• Chesapeake Golf Club: A great value for a well-maintained course.
• Southside Golf Club: A relaxed and enjoyable round at an affordable price.

Practical Golfer Information

Difficulty Breakdown

• Beginner-Friendly (65-68.5 Slope/Rating): Chesapeake Golf Club, Southside Golf Club
• Intermediate (68.5-71.5 Slope/Rating): Greenhawk Golf Club, The Links at Virginia Beach, Bay Islands Golf Club
• Championship-Level (71.5+ Slope/Rating): Bay Point Golf Club, Navitat Chesapeake

Seasonal Strategy

• Spring (March-May): Course reopens around mid-March, with potential for early-season rain. Aeration typically occurs in April/May.
• Summer (June-August): Peak season. Expect hot and humid conditions. Early morning or twilight tee times are recommended.
• Fall (September-November): Excellent playing conditions. Foliage is beautiful, and the weather is generally mild.
• Winter (December-February): Some courses offer limited winter rates. Indoor practice facilities are available.

Tee Time Tactics

• Booking Platforms: Most courses use their own websites for booking. GolfNow is also a popular option.
• Advance Reservations: Highly recommended, especially during peak season.
• Walk-On Possibilities: Limited availability, especially on weekends. Call the course directly to inquire.

Local Playing Conditions

• Typical Weather Patterns: Warm, humid summers and mild winters. Expect occasional thunderstorms.
• Wind Considerations: Coastal location means wind can be a factor, especially on Bay Point and Bay Islands.
• Course Maintenance Schedules: Courses typically close for aeration in the spring and fall. Check the course website for specific dates.

Insider Knowledge

Pro Shop Insights

• The Golf Shop at Bay Point: Carries a wide selection of apparel, equipment, and accessories. Offers club fitting services.
• Navitat Pro Shop: Well-stocked with high-end brands. Provides excellent club fitting and lessons.
• Chesapeake Golf Club Pro Shop: Good selection of basic equipment and apparel. Offers lessons with experienced instructors.

19th Hole Recommendations

• Bay Point Golf Club: The Bay Point Clubhouse offers a full-service restaurant with stunning views.
• Navitat Chesapeake: The Navitat Clubhouse features a casual dining area with a variety of menu options.
• Chesapeake Golf Club: The Chesapeake Golf Club offers a casual dining area with a variety of menu options.
• Southside Golf Club: The Southside Golf Club offers a casual dining area with a variety of menu options.

Local Golf Culture

• Etiquette Expectations: Dress code is generally collared shirts and golf pants or shorts. Pace of play is important – keep up with the group in front of you.
• Pace of Play Norms: Expect a pace of play of around 3 hours for a round.
• Community Tournaments: Numerous local tournaments are held throughout the year. Check the Virginia Golf Association website for a schedule.

Transportation & Logistics

• Parking Situations: Ample parking is available at all courses.
• Public Transit Access: Limited public transit access. Driving is the most convenient option.
• Multi-Course Day Planning: Consider a stay-and-play package for multiple courses. Many hotels offer packages with discounted tee times.

Seasonal Deep Dive

Spring Golf

• Course Reopening Schedules: Most courses reopen in mid-March, weather permitting.
• Aeration Timing: Aeration typically occurs in April and May.
• Early Season Conditions: Fairways may be soft and greens may be slow.

Summer Strategy

• Heat Management: Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade.
• Prime Tee Times: Early morning or twilight tee times are the coolest.
• Twilight Golf Opportunities: Many courses offer discounted twilight rates during the summer.

Fall Excellence

• Peak Playing Season: September and October offer the best playing conditions.
• Foliage Golf: Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage while you play.
• Weather Transitions: Be prepared for cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

Winter Options

• Year-Round Facilities: Some courses offer limited winter rates.
• Indoor Alternatives: Practice at indoor driving ranges or golf simulators.
• Off-Season Practice: Take advantage of the quieter conditions to work on your game.

Regional Context

Architectural Styles

• Dominant Course Designers: Many courses in Chesapeake were designed by local architects or firms with a focus on blending seamlessly with the coastal landscape.
• Local Influences: Courses often incorporate features like water hazards, strategic bunkering, and undulating fairways to reflect the coastal environment.

Geographical Advantages

• Terrain: Relatively flat terrain, making for easy walking.
• Climate: Mild winters and warm summers provide a long golf season.
• Landscape: Coastal views and lush greenery enhance the golfing experience.

Tournament History

• Notable Events: Several amateur and professional tournaments have been held in Chesapeake over the years.
• Championship Venues: Bay Point Golf Club has hosted several regional and national championships.

Golf Community

• Local Golf Associations: The Virginia Golf Association is the primary governing body for golf in Virginia.
• Leagues: Numerous local golf leagues cater to golfers of all skill levels.
• Networking Opportunities: Attend local tournaments and events to connect with other golfers.

Special Features

Golfer Profiles

• Beginner: Chesapeake Golf Club, Southside Golf Club
• Intermediate: Greenhawk Golf Club, The Links at Virginia Beach, Bay Islands Golf Club
• Advanced: Bay Point Golf Club, Navitat Chesapeake

Seasonal Pricing Guide (Approximate)**

• Spring/Fall: $40-$100
• Summer: $50-$120
• Winter: $30-$60

Weather Contingencies

• Indoor Facilities: Indoor driving ranges and golf simulators are available at several locations.
• Rainy Day Alternatives: Visit local museums, shopping centers, or restaurants.

Local Partnerships

• Stay-and-Play Packages: Check with local hotels for stay-and-play packages.
• Group Discounts: Many courses offer discounts for groups of 12 or more.

Accessibility Notes

• Chesapeake Golf Club: Offers accessible tees and carts.
• Southside Golf Club: Offers accessible tees and carts.
• Navitat Chesapeake: Offers accessible tees and carts.
• Bay Point Golf Club: Offers accessible tees and carts.

Resources:

• Virginia Golf Association: https://www.virginiagolf.org/
• GolfNow: https://www.golfnow.com/
• Course Websites: Each course has its own website with up-to-date information.

This guide is constantly evolving. We encourage you to check the course websites for the most current information. Enjoy your round of golf in Chesapeake!