Coasting Through

Winter Golf Getaway In Currituck

So maybe old man winter has bullied you into packing away your clubs. Or perhaps it would be attitude–altering to manage one last golf outing. Or maybe getting the entire family out of town for a peaceful vacation seems like the right thing to do. 

Regardless of your motive or means, the Outer Banks of North Carolina is precisely where you need to head, whether it's a guy thing or a relaxing getaway with family and friends. While not as widely renowned for its links as some of its coastal brethren, there are excellent courses to test your skills and provide some fun. 

Currituck County encompasses the northernmost area of the Outer Banks and is less than a day's drive from virtually any major city on the eastern seaboard. It's also one of the less–developed choices with a small–town feel where multi–tasking means choosing between which course to play, how long to linger on a deserted beach and where to chow down on fresh seafood. The area also offers a range of lodging options, from quaint inns to spacious oceanside homes with room for the whole gang. 

When it comes to the links, think quality not quantity, and, interestingly, bentgrass greens instead of Bermuda – which makes putting a pleasure. On Currituck's mainland, just over the bridge from the main island, Kilmarlic Golf Club flows through maritime forest and wetlands in a harmonious blend of nature and golf created by Tom Steele. Twice the host of the North Carolina Open, the club also can house you in its own "golf cottage." 

In the same neighborhood are the Carolina Club (Russell Breeden/Bob Moore) and the Pointe (Russell Breeden). Both are extremely playable for virtually any level of player, though the par–3s at Carolina are guaranteed to get your attention with three topping 200 yards and one perched menacingly on an island. The Pointe is wide–open but known for its slick greens, a 619–yard finishing hole and, as one local puts it, being a good "gambling" course – assuming a wager keeps things interesting for your group. 

Across the sound, head north through Duck toward picturesque Corolla (pronounce it "core–ah–la" and they'll think you're a native), and take on the Currituck Club. Carved out by designer Rees Jones along the Currituck Sound, this rambling layout draws rave reviews from players and high rankings from influential golf pubs. And be sure to slide south for a true Scottish links–style adventure at Nags Head Golf Links where Bob Moore's handiwork takes you along the rugged shoreline where prickly growth awaits wayward shots tortured by sea breezes. 

Ah yes, the wind. Like any seaside golf worth its salt, the wind is the primary defense. But just accept it – even enjoy the challenge. After all, it's one of the key elements that make golf special along North Carolina's Outer Banks. 

By Gary Carter 

added: December 21, 2010

updated: December 29, 2010