Beaver Island Golf Course

Called to schedule a tee time after 430pm. Employee said no need to, you can walk right on... get there and they have tournaments... so can't get out..

It seemed there was a disconnect between the starter’s instructions and the mowing schedule. He claimed he couldn't delay a booking for just one person, which didn't make sense given that there were only eight cars in the parking lot, and the front nine was wide open. It appears many players prefer the back nine because it’s shorter and easier to navigate. At better-managed courses like Sheridan or Glen Oak, they avoid sending groups out on the back nine while players are making the turn, respecting golf etiquette. Unfortunately, it appears that Beaver Island lacks this understanding. If you hire a starter, they should understand basic golf principles and be able to communicate effectively with the mowing crew. I have played this course for 30 years, and in the past, starters would manage the flow of play. There used to be rangers who helped mitigate slow play and allowed faster groups to pass. If groups can start on the back at 8 AM, one has to wonder why there’s even a starter present. It might be worth considering reversing the nines to encourage people to start on the front again. It’s unfortunate because the course is in decent condition for this time of year, even if it’s not a country club or a top-tier course like Beth Page Black. Starting groups on the back nine sends the message that there are no rules or etiquette being observed. This seems to cater to golfers who are indifferent to pace of play or disrespectful to those trying to finish their round. If you’re not a skilled golfer and prefer to drink and neglect your responsibilities on the course, Beaver Island may be the place for you.

I won't be returning to this course. I played here in June, and the recent reviews have confirmed my choice to avoid it in the future. The fairways were poorly maintained, resembling rough more than actual fairways, and every tee box and green was in terrible shape. It honestly looked like someone had taken a pitchfork to every green. I paid for 18 holes but was instructed to begin on the back nine. When my partner and I finished the back, we were told we couldn't play the front nine because a league was starting, which was a sign of poor management on their part, especially since we had paid and started our round an hour before the league began. I had to fight hard to get a refund. I’ll be taking my business elsewhere.

I allowed a group of four to walk onto the back nine while another group of four was finishing up on hole nine. This is the worst course management I've ever experienced. They've really made a day of 18 holes much longer than it should be. I will not be recommending or playing this course again.

Loved it