Best Golf Courses in New Brunswick & Atlantic Canada

When it comes to golfing in Canada, Atlantic Canada offers a unique blend of picturesque landscapes, challenging layouts, and friendly hospitality, making it a sought-after destination for golf enthusiasts. New Brunswick, in particular, boasts some of the best golf courses in the region, combining coastal views, rolling terrain, and meticulously maintained fairways. Whether you’re a local looking to explore more of your home turf or a traveler planning a golf trip, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the best golf courses in New Brunswick and the wider Atlantic Canada area.

Why Choose New Brunswick for Your Golf Trip?

New Brunswick offers a golfing experience like no other. Its diverse terrain ranges from seaside links-style courses to lush parkland designs that weave through woodlands and wetlands. The province’s moderate climate allows for a golf season that extends from late spring well into fall — perfect for those chasing ideal playing conditions.

Beyond the courses themselves, New Brunswick and Atlantic Canada provide a welcoming atmosphere enriched with cultural heritage, vibrant communities, and culinary delights. Combining quality golf with scenic travel, this region promises an unforgettable experience on and off the links.

Top Golf Courses in New Brunswick: In-Depth Reviews & Highlights

1. Belliveau Golf Club — Fredericton

Belliveau Golf Club is a hidden gem nestled in the outskirts of Fredericton. Known for its top-notch course conditions and friendly local atmosphere, Belliveau presents a fantastic mix of challenges for golfers of all skill levels.

• Course Layout: The 18-hole course stretches 6,700 yards from the back tees and features gently rolling fairways lined by mature trees, strategically placed bunkers, and tricky water hazards. Its design promotes thoughtful shot-making and rewards accuracy.
• Signature Hole: The par-4 15th hole is revered for its risk-reward design, with a narrow fairway guarded by ponds and a sharply contoured green.
• Facilities: The clubhouse offers modern amenities, a pro shop with expert staff, and a cozy lounge serving local fare.
• Why Play Here: Belliveau’s well-kept course and tranquil setting make it ideal for players seeking a challenging yet accessible round.

2. The Algonquin Golf Club — St. Andrews

Established in 1896, The Algonquin Golf Club is one of Canada’s oldest golf courses and a treasure trove for history buffs and golf purists alike. This classic parkland course offers both tradition and natural beauty.

• Course Highlights: Tight fairways, heavily wooded areas, and fast greens require precision from tee to green. At 6,600 yards, it is a test of strategy and finesse rather than raw power.
• Notable Hole: The par-5 9th incorporates a dramatic elevation drop and a carry over water, making for an exhilarating tee shot.
• Special Features: The clubhouse reflects the club’s storied past and provides panoramic views of the course and surrounding landscape.
• Unique Appeal: If you’re interested in playing where Canadian golf history has unfolded, The Algonquin is a must-visit.

3. Riverside Golf Club — Rothesay

Riverside Golf Club is frequently praised as one of the best golf courses in New Brunswick. It’s celebrated for its challenging layout and spectacular river views, offering a memorable round amid natural beauty.

• Design: This 18-hole championship course stretches over 7,000 yards and features a mix of narrow, tree-lined fairways and open vistas. The course incorporates the Kennebecasis River, creating unique water features around several holes.
• Key Hole: The par-3 14th requires a tee shot over the river to a well-guarded green, demanding accuracy and nerve.
• Amenities: Riverside boasts comprehensive practice facilities, a full-service pro shop, and a modern clubhouse with dining options.
• Ideal Player: Seasoned golfers looking for a demanding yet rewarding course will find Riverside an excellent challenge.

4. Fundy National Park Golf Course — Alma

If you want to combine golf with natural wonders, Fundy National Park is the place to go. Located near the Bay of Fundy, this scenic course offers jaw-dropping coastal views alongside quality golf.

• Course Overview: This par-72 layout measures approximately 6,700 yards and is carved through the park’s forestry and rugged terrain. The course features seaside breezes and elevation changes that influence shot strategy.
• Highlight Holes: The 7th hole, a downhill par-4, offers exceptional views of the Bay of Fundy, while the gently sloping greens throughout the course keep the round engaging.
• Additional Attractions: After your round, explore the park’s famous tidal flats, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
• Best For: Nature lovers and golfers eager to combine outdoor adventures with golfing.

Best Golf Courses in Atlantic Canada Beyond New Brunswick

While New Brunswick has plenty to offer, Atlantic Canada as a whole is a renowned golf destination with notable courses in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island (PEI), and Newfoundland.

1. Cabot Links & Cabot Cliffs — Inverness, Nova Scotia

Frequently ranked among the top courses in Canada and worldwide, Cabot Links and its sister course, Cabot Cliffs, are must-play destinations.

• Cabot Links presents a traditional links-style course set amid windswept dunes along the Cape Breton coastline. With wide fairways and undulating greens, it’s accessible yet challenging.
• Cabot Cliffs has quickly gained acclaim for its dramatic cliffside holes and spectacular views, often cited as one of the best new courses globally.
• Experience Tip: Spend a few days playing both courses for an unmatched golf vacation that blends world-class design with rugged coastal beauty.

2. Belvedere Golf Club — Charlottetown, PEI

Belvedere combines classic parkland scenery with stunning views of the Charlottetown Harbour and surrounding countryside.

• Course Design: This layout features wide fairways lined with mature hardwoods, numerous hazards, and large, contoured greens. It measures just over 7,000 yards from the tips.
• Local Flavor: Enjoy PEI’s famed hospitality and combine your golf trip with seafood dining and exploring vibrant Charlottetown.
• Why Visit: Perfect for golfers seeking scenic beauty and a warm welcome paired with solid course architecture.

3. The Wilds at Salmonier River — Newfoundland

Situated in Newfoundland’s rugged landscape, The Wilds offers an intimate golf experience framed by St. John’s natural splendor.

• Playing Characteristics: A shorter course but packed with doglegs and elevation changes, The Wilds is ideal for players who enjoy strategic golf through forested settings.
• Proximity: Visitors can quickly access St. John’s city attractions while escaping to this peaceful golf getaway.
• Bonus: The course’s proximity to outdoor experiences like hiking and whale watching adds extra appeal.

Travel Tips for Golfing in New Brunswick & Atlantic Canada

When to Go

The best golf season in New Brunswick generally spans from late May to early October. Summer months bring warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, but spring and early fall offer fewer crowds and vivid foliage. Atlantic Canada’s cooler Atlantic winds make summer particularly pleasant for on-course activity.

What to Pack

Given the regional climate variability, packing versatile golf apparel is key:

• Layered clothing and moisture-wicking fabrics for changing weather
• Rain gear and waterproof shoes — Atlantic Canada’s coastal courses often face wet conditions
• Sun protection — wide-brimmed hats and SPF sunscreen
• Bug repellent for courses near wooded or marshy areas

Booking Tee Times and Accommodations

• Reservations: Many top courses, especially Cabot Links and Riverside Golf Club, recommend booking tee times in advance during peak seasons.
• Stay Options: Choose from charming local inns, resorts with golf packages, or cozy bed and breakfasts. Coastal towns often offer proximity to both golf and sightseeing options.
• Golf Packages: Consider bundled deals that include multiple rounds and local experiences to maximize value.

Golfing Tips for Atlantic Canada Courses

• Prepare for Wind: Coastal courses like Cabot Links and Fundy National Park often experience strong breezes. Practice adjusting trajectories and club selection to compensate.
• Course Management: Many Atlantic Canadian courses feature narrow fairways and natural hazards. Emphasize accuracy over power and think strategically about shot placement.
• Respect the Terrain: Preserve the pristine nature of these courses by adhering to cart rules and repairing divots and ball marks.
• Practice Short Game: The fast greens and challenging pin positions mean putting and chipping skills make a big difference.

Exploring More Than Golf: Atlantic Canadian Attractions

A golf trip to New Brunswick or Atlantic Canada is not complete without exploring the region’s other attractions:

• Bay of Fundy Tidal Experience: Witness the world’s highest tides at Hopewell Rocks or Fundy National Park.
• Historic Sites: Discover old fishing villages, lighthouses, and Indigenous cultural centers.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy freshly caught seafood, including lobster, scallops, and mussels, often prepared with local herbs and flavors.
• Outdoor Activities: Hiking, whale watching, kayaking, and cycling complement any golf itinerary.

Conclusion: Plan Your Atlantic Canada Golf Adventure Today

New Brunswick and Atlantic Canada hold a treasure trove of premium golf courses set in some of Canada’s most stunning landscapes. From the historic Algonquin Golf Club to the breathtaking Cabot Cliffs, every golfer can find something to love. Combined with rich local culture, friendly communities, and incomparable natural beauty, this region beckons as a premier golf destination.

Whether you’re seeking a challenging round, a relaxing golf holiday, or a blend of both, exploring the best golf courses in New Brunswick and Atlantic Canada promises an unforgettable journey. Start planning your trip today, and discover why so many golfers return year after year to this underrated golfing paradise.