The Norfolk Golf Guide: Your Definitive Resource for Tee Times & Tee Shots

Introduction: Welcome to Norfolk's Golfing Paradise

Norfolk, Virginia, and its surrounding areas offer a diverse and rewarding golfing experience. From historic courses steeped in tradition to modern designs that embrace the coastal landscape, there's a course here for every skill level and budget. This guide is designed for both seasoned golfers and those new to the area, providing comprehensive information to plan your next round. Consider this your go-to resource – bookmark it, share it, and enjoy the game!

Course Rankings & Reviews

This section combines expert opinions with recent player feedback to provide a balanced view of Norfolk's top courses. Rankings are based on a composite score considering course conditions, design, challenge, and overall experience.

1. The First Tee Golf Club (Championship-Level)

• Signature Hole: Hole 16 – a demanding par 4 with a strategic tee shot over water and a challenging approach to a well-guarded green.
• Notable Features: A classic layout with undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay. Known for its meticulous conditioning.
• Unique Factor: A historic course with a rich past, having hosted numerous amateur and local tournaments. Excellent practice facilities.
• Slope/Rating: 71.5 / 72.3
• Price: $80 - $120 (peak season)
• Best For: Experienced golfers seeking a challenging test of skill.

2. Bay Point Golf Club (Premium Public)

• Signature Hole: Hole 12 – a picturesque par 5 that rewards accurate tee shots and strategic layup play.
• Notable Features: A beautifully designed course that seamlessly integrates with the natural coastal environment. Excellent views of the bay and the surrounding marshes.
• Unique Factor: A more modern design compared to The First Tee, with a focus on strategic shot placement and risk/reward opportunities.
• Slope/Rating: 70.5 / 71.8
• Price: $75 - $110 (peak season)
• Best For: Golfers who appreciate a visually stunning course with a challenging but fair layout.

3. Naval Station Norfolk Golf Course (Budget-Friendly)

• Signature Hole: Hole 4 – a short but tricky par 3 with a green that demands precision.
• Notable Features: A well-maintained course with a friendly atmosphere and affordable rates. A popular choice for military personnel and visitors.
• Unique Factor: A unique golfing experience set on a historic naval base. Offers a relaxed and welcoming environment.
• Slope/Rating: 68.5 / 69.2
• Price: $30 - $45
• Best For: Budget-conscious golfers looking for a solid round on a well-maintained course.

4. Willowick Park (Budget-Friendly)

• Signature Hole: Hole 18 – a scenic par 4 with a challenging dogleg right approach.
• Notable Features: A public course with a relaxed atmosphere and affordable rates. Well-maintained and easy to play.
• Unique Factor: A convenient location and a welcoming environment make it a popular choice for casual golfers.
• Slope/Rating: 66.5 / 67.8
• Price: $25 - $40
• Best For: Beginners and casual golfers looking for a relaxed and affordable round.

5. Greenhawk Golf Club (Hidden Gem)

• Signature Hole: Hole 9 – a challenging par 4 with a strategically placed bunker guarding the green.
• Notable Features: A smaller, more intimate course with a friendly atmosphere. Offers excellent value for money.
• Unique Factor: A hidden gem that's often overlooked by tourists, but offers a solid golfing experience.
• Slope/Rating: 67 / 68.5
• Price: $35 - $50
• Best For: Golfers looking for a quiet and affordable round.

6. The Norfolk Country Club (Premium Public)

• Signature Hole: Hole 14 – a demanding par 5 with water hazards and a challenging approach shot.
• Notable Features: A classic course with a well-established reputation. Known for its challenging layout and excellent conditioning.
• Unique Factor: A historic course with a strong tradition of amateur golf.
• Slope/Rating: 72 / 73.5
• Price: $85 - $125 (peak season)
• Best For: Serious golfers seeking a challenging and rewarding test of skill.

7. Chesapeake Bay Golf Club (Hidden Gem)

• Signature Hole: Hole 17 – a picturesque par 4 with stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.
• Notable Features: A beautifully designed course with a challenging layout and excellent conditioning.
• Unique Factor: Offers a unique golfing experience with breathtaking views of the bay.
• Slope/Rating: 70.5 / 72
• Price: $45 - $60
• Best For: Golfers looking for a scenic and challenging round.

Practical Golfer Information

Difficulty Breakdown

• Beginner-Friendly (65-68 Slope/Rating): Willowick Park, Naval Station Norfolk Golf Course, Willowick Park. These courses offer forgiving fairways and shorter distances.
• Championship-Level (70+ Slope/Rating): The First Tee, The Norfolk Country Club, Bay Point Golf Club, Chesapeake Bay Golf Club. These courses feature challenging layouts, strategic hazards, and demanding greens.

Seasonal Strategy

• Spring (March-May): Course reopens mid-March (check individual course websites). Aeration typically occurs in April/May. Expect variable conditions – rain is common.
• Summer (June-August): Peak season. Expect hot and humid conditions. Early tee times are recommended. Twilight golf is popular.
• Fall (September-November): Peak playing season. Excellent weather, beautiful foliage. Book tee times well in advance.
• Winter (December-February): Some courses offer limited play. Indoor practice facilities are readily available. Check for holiday specials.

Tee Time Tactics

• Booking Platforms: GolfNow (https://www.golfnow.com/), individual course websites, phone calls.
• Advance Reservations: Highly recommended, especially during peak season. The First Tee and Bay Point are particularly popular.
• Walk-On Possibilities: Naval Station Norfolk Golf Course and Willowick Park sometimes offer walk-on tee times, but it's best to call ahead.

Local Playing Conditions

• Typical Weather Patterns: Mild winters, hot and humid summers, and pleasant falls.
• Wind Considerations: The coastal location can bring strong winds, especially in the spring and fall.
• Course Maintenance Schedules: Courses typically close for aeration in the spring and fall. Check individual course websites for specific schedules.

Insider Knowledge

Pro Shop Insights

• Equipment: The First Tee has a well-stocked pro shop with a wide selection of clubs, balls, and apparel. Bay Point also has a good selection.
• Lessons: The First Tee offers lessons from experienced instructors. Many courses offer individual and group lessons.
• Club Fitting: The First Tee offers club fitting services. Consider scheduling an appointment for a personalized fitting.

19th Hole Recommendations

• The First Tee: The First Tee has a full-service restaurant with excellent food and a great atmosphere.
• Bay Point: The Bay Point clubhouse offers stunning views of the bay and a delicious menu.
• Naval Station Norfolk Golf Course: The clubhouse offers a casual dining experience with affordable prices.
• Greenhawk Golf Club: A simple but well-maintained 19th hole with a limited menu.

Local Golf Culture

• Etiquette Expectations: Dress code is generally collared shirts and golf pants or shorts. Be mindful of pace of play. Repair divots and rake bunkers.
• Pace of Play Norms: Maintain a brisk pace of play. Be ready to hit when it's your turn.
• Community Tournaments: Numerous local tournaments are held throughout the year. Check the Virginia Golf Association website for a schedule.

Transportation & Logistics

• Parking Situations: Most courses have ample parking.
• Public Transit Access: Limited public transit access to some courses. Driving is generally the easiest option.
• Multi-Course Day Planning: Consider combining a round at The First Tee with a lunch at a restaurant in downtown Norfolk.

Seasonal Deep Dive

Spring Golf

• Course Reopening Schedules: Most courses reopen in mid-March.
• Aeration Timing: Aeration typically occurs in April and May.
• Early Season Conditions: Expect variable conditions – rain is common. Fairways may be soft.

Summer Strategy

• Heat Management: Stay hydrated. Wear sunscreen and a hat. Take breaks in the shade.
• Prime Tee Times: Early morning tee times are cooler.
• Twilight Golf Opportunities: Many courses offer twilight rates during the summer months.

Fall Excellence

• Peak Playing Season Details: Excellent weather and beautiful foliage make fall the most popular time to play.
• Foliage Golf: Enjoy the stunning fall colors while you play.
• Weather Transitions: Expect cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

Winter Options

• Year-Round Facilities: The First Tee and Bay Point are open year-round.
• Indoor Alternatives: Consider visiting a driving range or indoor golf simulator.
• Off-Season Practice: Take advantage of the off-season to work on your game.

Regional Context

Architectural Styles

• Dominant Course Designers: Robert Trent Jones Sr. (The First Tee), and various local architects have shaped the Norfolk golf landscape.
• Local Influences: The coastal location has influenced course design, with many courses featuring water hazards and strategic wind considerations.

Geographical Advantages

• Terrain: Relatively flat terrain with rolling hills in some areas.
• Climate: Mild winters and hot, humid summers.
• Landscape: Coastal marshes, forests, and waterways.

Tournament History

• Notable Events: The First Tee has hosted numerous amateur and local tournaments.
• Professional Tournaments: While not a major PGA Tour stop, Norfolk has hosted some regional professional tournaments.
• Championship Venues: The First Tee is a popular venue for amateur championships.

Golf Community

• Local Golf Associations: Virginia Golf Association (https://www.virginiagolf.org/)
• Leagues: Numerous golf leagues are available for golfers of all skill levels.
• Networking Opportunities: Attend local tournaments and events to network with other golfers.

Special Features

Golfer Profiles

• Beginner: Willowick Park, Naval Station Norfolk Golf Course
• Intermediate: Willowick Park, Naval Station Norfolk Golf Course, Greenhawk Golf Club
• Advanced: The First Tee, Bay Point Golf Club, The Norfolk Country Club, Chesapeake Bay Golf Club

Seasonal Pricing Guide (General Estimates)

• Peak Season (June-August): $75 - $125
• Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): $60 - $90
• Off-Season (November-March): $30 - $60

Weather Contingencies

• Indoor Facilities: Several indoor golf simulators and driving ranges are available in Norfolk.
• Rainy Day Alternatives: Visit a local museum, aquarium, or shopping center.

Local Partnerships

• Stay-and-Play Deals: Check with local hotels for stay-and-play packages.
• Group Discounts: Contact courses directly for group discounts.

Accessibility Notes

• The First Tee: Offers excellent accessibility for golfers with disabilities.
• Bay Point Golf Club: Offers accessible tees and carts.
• Naval Station Norfolk Golf Course: Offers accessible tees and carts.

Disclaimer: Course conditions, prices, and availability are subject to change. Please check individual course websites for the most up-to-date information.

This guide is designed to be a living document. We'll be updating it regularly with new information and insights. Feel free to share your own experiences and recommendations! Happy golfing!