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Fall Golf at Huron Shores Port Sanilac

Quiet Fairways and Coastal Views: Fall Golf at Huron Shores

By the time October arrives, golf in the Thumb Coast of Michigan enters its finest stretch of the year. The summer humidity breaks, the air turns crisp, and the leaves begin their shift across the landscape. Yet for many players, heading to popular resort corridors means heavy fairway traffic, five-hour rounds, and packed parking lots.

On Michigan's sunrise coast, autumn golf takes on an entirely different rhythm. Located just three miles north of Port Sanilac along scenic highway M-25, Huron Shores Golf Club offers an open, peaceful alternative: an 18-hole layout where you can enjoy sweeping Lake Huron horizons, vibrant fall colors, and fairways you largely have to yourself.

Space to Play at Your Own Pace

The biggest luxury of late-season golf along Lake Huron is breathing room. As summer beach travel winds down, the Thumbcoast returns to a calm, steady pace.

At Huron Shores, that means tee sheets open up, allowing for an unhurried round from start to finish:

  • No pressure from behind: With generous spacing between groups, you never feel pushed to hurry through a shot or rush a short putt.
  • No waiting on tee boxes: Clear fairways ahead allow for smooth, uninterrupted rhythm through both nines, letting an 18-hole round move naturally in under four hours.
  • Spontaneous tee times: Whether you want to take advantage of an unexpectedly warm Tuesday afternoon or head up for a quiet weekend morning, booking a tee time is simple and stress-free.

A Front-Row Seat to Shoreline Autumn

While inland courses offer foliage, Huron Shores pairs rich forest color with the open horizon of Lake Huron.

Dating back to 1925, the course is defined by mature, century-old hardwoods. In October, massive oaks, maples, and birch trees frame the fairways in deep shades of gold, amber, and crimson. As you navigate the natural rolling elevation changes, clear sightlines open up across M-25 to the deep blue expanse of the lake.

The low autumn sun reflecting off the water provides clean lighting across the greens, and the cool coastal breeze brings a brisk, refreshing quality to every hole.

Classic Design in Late-Season Form

Playing Huron Shores in cool weather showcases the practical strengths of its classic design:

  • Generous landing areas: Wide corridors keep the game enjoyable, giving drives room to roll on firm late-season turf without punishing good tee shots.
  • Firm, true conditions: Autumn air helps greens stay crisp and predictable, allowing players to dial in approach distances and read breaks cleanly.
  • Walking-friendly layout: With gentle, natural contours and cooler temperatures typically in the 50s and 60s, walking the course with a light bag or pushcart is comfortable and rewarding.

Unwind Overlooking the Lake

A quiet round deserves a relaxed finish. The clubhouse at Huron Shores sits in an elevated position overlooking the course and the water, providing a comfortable setting to warm up, grab a hot meal or cold drink, and reflect on the round. Whether you are enjoying a weekend lunch or catching their popular Friday lake perch dinner, the casual atmosphere makes it easy to unwind as the afternoon light settles over the water.

If you are looking to trade crowded tee times for open fairways and classic coastal scenery, plan a fall day trip to Huron Shores Golf Club in Port Sanilac.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is fall a great time to visit Huron Shores Golf Club?

Fall brings lighter player traffic and open tee sheets, giving golfers a quiet, relaxed round without long waits. Paired with peak autumn foliage and crisp Lake Huron views, it is one of the most scenic times of the year to play.

How does the weather off Lake Huron affect late-season play?

Temperatures along the shoreline are often brisk and comfortable, usually hovering between 50 and 65 degrees. A light breeze off the lake is common, making layers—such as a windbreaker or vest—the best choice for morning and afternoon rounds.

Is Huron Shores open to the public during the autumn months?

Yes. Huron Shores Golf Club is fully open to public play throughout the fall season, offering both 9-hole and 18-hole rates as long as weather permits.

How far is Huron Shores Golf Club from major cities?

The course is located approximately 90 minutes north of Metro Detroit and roughly 75 miles from Flint, making it an easy day trip via I-94 or M-53 out to scenic M-25.

About the Course:

Huron Shores Golf Club is an 18-hole, public golf course established in 1925, located three miles north of Port Sanilac, Michigan. Autumn offers the ideal learning conditions at the course due to reduced player traffic, generous fairway landing zones, and comfortable temperatures ranging from the 50s to 60s. The facility features mature hardwood tree lines displaying fall foliage, views of Lake Huron, and an on-site clubhouse restaurant, making it a low-pressure environment for novice golfers to practice.

Book your next fall tee time now

Read More: Blog: 5 Tips for Navigating the Toughest Holes at Huron Shores: https://huronshoresgolfclub.com/5-tips-for-navigating-the-toughest-holes-at-huron-shores/

Huron Shores Score Card

5 Ways to Not Blow Your Scorecard at Huron Shores Golf Club

Golf is seeing a massive comeback. 

According to the National Golf Foundation, on-course play hit a record 29.1 million people this year. While the media focuses on the pros, the real growth is coming from the 14 million casual players who just want a good round and a cold beverage. Oh, and maybe a burger!

Whether you're in a Tuesday night league or a weekend outing, golf can be a glorious day or a grind. To help you keep your cool (and your skins cash), we’ve put together a few tips for the everyday player.

John’s 5 Tips for Better Golf

You don't need a $600 driver to play better golf. You just need to stop making "unforced errors."

1. Play Your Real Numbers. Most guys club themselves based on the one 7-iron they flushed in 2021. Play your average distance. If you hit your 7-iron 155 yards on a perfect day but usually carry it 140, pull the 6. It’s better to be on the front edge of the green than in the woods because you over-clubbed.
"Too many golfers believe that the greatest way to get better is to hit the ball farther and harder... Consistency, not distance, is the secret to excellent golf." — Konnectgolf PGA Professional Staff

2. Aim for the Middle

"Pin seeking" is for people with sponsors. Professionals like Tiger Woods have long admitted that aiming away from flags and toward the "meat" of the green is the secret to winning. A two-putt par beats a "hero shot" that ends up in the water every time. Focus on just getting on safely.

3. Find a Routine

Nerves make you rush, especially in front of a crowd. A pre-shot routine acts as a mental anchor. Take a breath, pick a target, and swing. A consistent cadence—from your practice waggle to your backswing—helps you tune out the guys chirping from the carts and steadies your tempo.

4. Lay Up on Par-5s

Stop trying to reach in two with your 3-wood—that’s the hardest club in the bag to hit consistently. Pros often prefer to "lay up to a number." If you hit a safe iron to a comfortable 80-yard wedge distance, you’re looking at a par or birdie. If you top that wood into the tall grass, you’re looking at a 7.

5. Keep it Moving

"Ready golf" is the only way to play. If you're ready and it's safe, hit. Nobody wants to be stuck behind a group that treats every three-footer like it's for the Masters green jacket. Keeping the pace helps everyone stay in rhythm and keeps the energy high for the 19th hole.Golf moves faster when you aren't overthinking it—a philosophy that’s baked into our DNA.

For more than 100 years, these fairways have stayed true to their roots, offering the same authentic, welcoming golf experience that started back in 1925."

Huron Shores isn't some new-money plastic course. We were founded in October 1925 by five local guys who bought 65 acres of farmland for $5,000. For more than 100 years, this has been a public spot where "there’s never a stranger in the group."

You're playing the same dirt that local legends like Tom Wargo grew up on. Wargo, a farm boy from nearby Marlette, didn’t even start golf until he was 25—then went on to win the PGA Senior Championship. It’s proof that this game is more about grit than fancy gear.

Book your next tee time now.

Blog: 5 Tips for Navigating the Toughest Holes at Huron Shores:

Click for Tips
Burgers golf water view

From Fairways to Flatbreads: Waterfront Dining at Huron Shores

Whether you just walked off the 18th green or you’re just looking for the best seat in Port Sanilac to watch the sun dip below the horizon, the Huron Shores Grill is officially your 2026 dining destination.

While we’ve always been known for the "Card-Wrecker" 13th hole, we’re becoming just as famous for what’s coming out of our kitchen. We’ve revamped our approach to waterfront dining, blending the relaxed, "Up North" vibe our golfers love with a menu that rivals any high-end bistro in the Thumb.

Waterfront Dining for the Public

A common misconception is that you need a tee time to get a table. Huron Shores Grill is 100% open to the public. Our patio offers one of the most panoramic views of Lake Huron in the area, making it the perfect spot for a midweek lunch, a celebratory family dinner, or a relaxed Sunday brunch.

The 2026 Menu Highlights

Our menu focuses on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and "comfort food."

  • The Signature Perch: Our Friday Night Fish Fry is a local legend for a reason. Fresh, lightly breaded Lake Perch served with all the classic fixings.
  • Artisanal Burgers & Wraps: From our half-pound Steak Burgers to the savory Summertime Chicken on ciabatta, we’ve moved far beyond standard "turn" food.
  • Weekend Breakfast: Fuel up with our "3 BY 4" breakfast or a custom Omelet, served Saturday and Sunday mornings from 9 AM to Noon.
  • Full Bar & Special Events: From craft drafts to specialty cocktails, our bar is fully stocked. Plus, stay tuned for upcoming wine pairing dinners and seasonal tastings!

Waterfront Dining At Huron Shores

We pride ourselves on offering resort-quality food at hometown prices. Here is how a standard "Lake Dinner" (typically Fish or a Premium Burger) compares to other local waterfront options:

When it comes to waterfront dining within 15 miles of Port Sanilac, you usually have to choose between a great view and a reasonable bill. At Huron Shores, we’ve made sure you get both.

While nearby high-end nautical restaurants and boutique resort bistros often start their entrées at $25 to $35, our menu remains rooted in local value. You can enjoy a signature steak burger or a gourmet wrap for under $15, and even our legendary Friday Night Fish dinners consistently beat the market average for fresh-caught Lake Perch.

“At Huron Shores, you aren't paying a ‘tourist tax’ for the view,” says Owner John Kane. ”Whether you're fueling up for a round or bringing the family for a sunset dinner, you get resort-quality flavors at hometown prices!”

Huron Shores Restaurant is Open! Try these favorites

The Sunrise Starter: More Than a Pre-Round Bite

Breakfast at the course is no longer an afterthought; it’s a weekend destination. You don’t need a tee time to enjoy the most peaceful hour in Port Sanilac—just a hearty appetite and a love for the morning air.

  • The "Morning Mist" Vibe: Settle onto the patio and watch the dew lift off the fairways. It is a tranquil, scenic experience that beats any indoor diner.
  • The "3 BY 4" Challenge: Our flagship breakfast spread—3 eggs, 4 pieces of meat, hashbrowns, toast, and a pancake or biscuits and gravy—is built for the most serious appetites.
  • Weekend Hours: Join us every Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to Noon for the best start on the "Sunrise Side."
Breakfast putting green huron shores golf port sanilac

Two Speeds: The "Quick-Turn" vs. The "Long Lunch"

Our all-day menu is engineered to match your pace, whether you are chasing a low score or just chasing the sun.

  • Engineered for the Cart: For golfers on the move, our Breakfast Burritos and Crunch Wraps are designed for one-handed portability without sacrificing flavor.
  • Savored on the Patio: For those looking to "stay a while," our Summertime Chicken Ciabatta and Mushroom Swiss Burgers are perfect for a slow lunch paired with a Lake Huron breeze.
  • Craft & Chill: Pair any meal with a $6 craft draft beer for the ultimate resort-quality experience at hometown prices.

The "Social Hub" After 4 p.m.

As the shadows lengthen, the Grill transitions from a daytime eatery to the community’s favorite evening social spot.

  • The Bar Scene: It’s more than just a place for a drink; it’s where the 13th hole stories are told and local news is shared in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
  • "Chef’s Choice" Specials: We frequently feature rotating additions and off-menu creations, giving our regulars a fresh reason to visit every single week.
  • A Sunset Tradition: Grab a seat on the patio to watch the sky change colors over the 9th green—the perfect end to any day in Port Sanilac.

"We wanted to create a space where the food was as much of a draw as the golf. Seeing neighbors come in just for the '3 BY 4' breakfast or our Friday Fish Fry—people who have never even picked up a club—that’s when we knew we’d hit our mark." — John Kane, Huron Shores Management

The atmosphere is "Up North" relaxed. It’s the kind of place where the staff remembers your name and the Perch is always fresh. Locals have long called it the "best-kept secret in the Thumb," but with the expanded menu featuring artisanal ciabattas and signature crunch wraps, the secret is officially out.

Call ahead for carryout orders: (810) 622-9961

Fuel for the Fairway (and Beyond)

Location: 1441 N. Lakeshore Rd, Port Sanilac, MI 48469

Breakfast Hours: Sat & Sun, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Regular Hours: Open to the Public Daily (Check seasonal hours)

Weekly Specials:

  • Famous Friday Night Fish Fry: Lightly breaded Lake Perch & Cod (Market Price).
  • The "3 BY 4" Weekend Challenge: 3 eggs, 4 meats, hashbrowns, toast, and biscuits & gravy for just $12.

Menu Samples:

  • Summertime Chicken Ciabatta: Grilled chicken, Swiss, bacon, and honey dijon.
  • Mushroom Swiss Burger: Sautéed mushrooms and onions on a premium steak burger.
  • Breakfast Crunch Wrap: Eggs, meat, cheese, and hashbrowns served flat-grilled.
Ariel View Pond Huron Shores Golf Public Golf

Planning the Ultimate Golf Outing

The Ultimate Guide to Hosting Your Golf Outing at Huron Shores

Are you planning a corporate retreat, a high-impact charity fundraiser, or a long-overdue family reunion? At Huron Shores Golf Club in Port Sanilac, we specialize in turning group events into legendary experiences. With our historic 1925 course layout and lakeside charm, we provide the perfect backdrop for every occasion.

Types of Outings We Host

No matter the size or purpose of your group, we have the facilities to accommodate:

  • Charity & Fundraising Outings: Maximize your donations with a high-draw event. We assist with hole-sponsor signs, contest setups, and banquet scoring.
  • Corporate & Business Retreats: Trade the boardroom for the fairway. Perfect for team building, client appreciation, or networking.
  • Family Reunions & Milestone Birthdays: A relaxed way to bring generations together.
  • School & Alumni Events: Celebrate school spirit with a competitive round and a post-game meal at the Grill.
  • Class Reunions: Reconnect with old friends on the course where many local memories were made.
  • Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties: Kick off the wedding festivities with a round of 18 and drinks on our scenic patio.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Booking an Outing

Planning an outing can feel overwhelming, but our team at Huron Shores has streamlined the process into five simple steps.

Step 1: Define Your Goals & Date

First, determine the "why" behind your event. Is it for charity, competition, or pure leisure?

  • Pro Tip: For the best availability in the 2026 season, we recommend booking at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for weekend dates.

Step 2: Choose Your Format

Most outings choose a Scramble format, which keeps play moving and allows golfers of all skill levels to contribute. We also offer:

  • Shotgun Starts: Everyone starts at the same time on different holes—ideal for larger groups.
  • Tee Time Starts: Best for smaller, more casual groups.

Step 3: Select Your Food & Beverage Package

An outing isn't complete without the 19th hole. The Huron Shores Grill offers everything from:

  • Boxed Lunches: Ready on the carts for a quick turn.
  • Outdoor Patio BBQ: Burgers and brats for a casual vibe.
  • Plated Banquets: Including our famous Friday Night Fish Fry style perch and walleye.

Step 4: Customize Your Contests

Add excitement to the day with course contests. We can set up markers for:

  • Closest to the Pin
  • Longest Drive (Men’s & Women’s)
  • Longest Putt
  • Hole-in-One Challenges

Step 5: Finalize & Play

Two weeks before your event, we’ll finalize your player count and pairings. On the day of the event, our staff handles the bag drop, cart staging, and personalized scorecards so you can focus on your guests.

Why Choose Huron Shores for Your Group?

  • The View: Scenic waterfront breezes and views of Lake Huron.
  • The History: A classic 1925 design that offers a unique character modern courses lack.
  • The Convenience: Only 3 miles from Port Sanilac Harbor with Stay & Play options like The Loft and MiCasa Stays for out-of-town guests.

Ready to Start Planning?

Don't wait until the schedule is full! Our 2026 outing dates are filling up fast. Call us at 810-622-9961 to schedule your party or event. See you soon!!

Call Us Today!
18 Holes Huron Shores Golf Water View

Things to Do (After Golf) in Sanilac County

Where the Shores Meet the Fairways

If you’re cruising up the scenic M-25 highway this summer, you’ll quickly realize that Port Sanilac is the "Sunrise Side’s" best-kept secret. While the village is famous for its towering lighthouse and historic harbor, the ultimate day trip experience isn’t complete without heading just three miles north to Huron Shores Golf Club.

Established in 1925, this historic course offers a "classic Michigan" feel that perfectly mirrors the charm of the village. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a traveler looking for a scenic lunch spot, Huron Shores is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sanilac County.

A Morning on the Greens

Start your day with a round on our 18-hole regulation course. Known for its challenging yet fun layout, the course is famous for its breathtaking scenery and Lake Huron breezes. It’s the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of the Thumb before the afternoon sun hits its peak. 

Don't worry if you didn't pack your gear—our pro shop is ready to get you on the tee and all ages are welcome.

Lunch with a View

After your round, or even if you’ve never picked up a club, head to the Huron Shores Grill. Completely open to the public, our convenient restaurant offers one of the few spots along the M-25 corridor where you can enjoy a meal with views of the fairways and the lake beyond. 

If your trip lands on a Friday, you’re in luck—our Friday Night Fish Fry featuring fresh fried perch is a local legend and the perfect way to fuel up for a walk down to the Port Sanilac harbor.

Stay & Play: Lodging Near Huron Shores

Make your visit to the "Sunrise Side" a multi-day getaway. Whether you prefer a historic bedside view of the lighthouse or a modern lakefront rental, Port Sanilac offers charming accommodations just minutes from the first tee.

Experience the best of Michigan’s "Sunrise Side" with our premier Stay & Play options. By prioritizing our on-course and lakefront partners, you can wake up just steps from the first tee or the shores of Lake Huron.

Contact the Pro Shop at (810) 622-9961 to start planning your custom Stay & Play package.

Our Favorite Port Sanilac Stays

On-Course & Lakefront Rentals 

The Loft at Huron Shores (On-Course Luxury) Enjoy premier on-course accommodations with stunning views and immediate access to the fairways. This modern, stylish loft is the ultimate choice for golf groups and travelers who want to stay exactly where they play.

  • Distance to Course: 0 Minutes
  • Vibe: Modern, exclusive, and convenient. Ideal for those who want a "resort-style" experience where the fairways are your front yard.

MiCasa Stays (Lakefront Luxury) Experience high-end rental properties designed for comfort and style. These luxury homes offer a private, upscale retreat along the beautiful Lake Huron shoreline, perfect for those seeking a coastal golf getaway. 

  • Distance: 0.5 – 3 Miles. Depending on the specific property, these rentals are situated along the Lake Huron shoreline between the course and the village.
  • Vibe: High-end, coastal, and private. Perfect for travelers seeking a "home-away-from-home" feel with luxury amenities and sunrise water views.

"Incredibly Cute" Log Cabin (Rustic Village Charm) Experience a cozy, authentic getaway in this beautifully restored log cabin located right in the heart of Port Sanilac. Just minutes from the first tee at Huron Shores. After your round, relax on the porch and enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere.

  • Distance: ~3.5 Miles (approx. 7 minutes) from the course.
  • Vibe: Cozy, romantic, and uniquely historic.

 

Wipp Inn (Local, Authentic) Conveniently located between Lexington and Port Sanilac directly on Lake Huron. Located in Applegate, Mich. just 4 miles south of Port Sanilac. Located on Lake Huron, just 4 miles south of Port Sanilac. 

  • Distance: 4 Miles (7 minutes) South of Port Sanilac.
  • Vibe: Authentic, nostalgic, and low-key traditional lake-life experience.

Bellaire Motel (Classic Lodge-style Comfort) Designed for larger groups or family gatherings. Enjoy a sprawling, natural setting with plenty of space to unwind after a day on the fairways.

  • Distance: ~4.5 Miles (8 minutes) South of Port Sanilac.
  • Vibe: Classic lodge-style comfort designed for larger groups. Enjoy a sprawling, natural setting with plenty of space to unwind.

The Lilly Pad The "Family Basecamp" | Lexington’s LillyPad

  • Distance: 7 Miles (10 minutes) South of the course.
  • Vibe: Pet-friendly motel offering spacious rooms and wooded trails. Enjoy fire pits and easy public beach access just across the road.

Great Lakes Resort The "Beachfront Hideaway" | Great Lakes Resort

A secluded beachfront resort in Lexington. Private access, family-friendly suites, and a 3-night minimum for the ultimate lakeside immersion.

  • Distance: 7.5 Miles (11 minutes) South of the course.
  • Vibe: Perfect for families seeking high-energy lakeside fun.

Other Local Options

In addition to our featured partners, several private luxurious rentals are available on the course and along the waterfront, offering flexible options for larger groups or families.

The Raymond House Inn. Located in the heart of the village, this beautifully restored Victorian inn offers a glimpse into Port Sanilac’s rich history. It is the perfect choice for couples looking for a romantic golf weekend.

  • Distance to Course: 5 Minutes
  • Vibe: Antique elegance and gourmet breakfast.

The Harborview Cottage & Suites. If you want to be steps away from the Port Sanilac Marina and the breaking waves of Lake Huron, these suites offer prime real estate. Great for small groups or families visiting for a summer tournament.

  • Distance to Course: 6 Minutes
  • Vibe: Coastal, convenient, and close to downtown shops.

The Cadillac House (Inn & Tavern). This is the premier boutique lodging experience in the heart of Port Sanilac. Originally built in 1860 and meticulously restored, it features 12 luxury guest rooms with modern amenities, an upscale tavern, and a historic atmosphere that perfectly complements a day on a 1925 golf course. 

  • Distance to Course: 3.2 miles from the golf club (about a 5-6 minute drive).
  • Vibe: Historic and sophisticated "Inn" experience.

Town & Country Lodge 

Located conveniently on the M-25 corridor, this is the classic "golfer's motel." It is known for being clean, quiet, and exceptionally friendly. It offers a more casual, traditional motel layout that is perfect for golf groups who want a comfortable place to rest between morning and afternoon tee times.

  • Distance to Course: Approximately 2.8 miles (about a 4-5 minute drive).
  • Vibe: Casual, park-at-your-door access.

Whole House Rentals (Airbnb & VRBO). Port Sanilac features numerous private lakefront homes available for short-term rental. These are ideal for larger golf groups or families planning a week-long stay during the peak of the season.

Beyond the Greens: Exploring Port Sanilac

While the fairways of Huron Shores offer some of the best views in the Thumb, the adventure doesn't stop at the 18th green. Port Sanilac is a gateway to the natural beauty of Lake Huron and the rugged landscapes of Sanilac County. Use our guide to plan your perfect outdoor weekend.

From the course, it’s a quick five-minute drive back to the village to tour the Port Sanilac Lighthouse, explore the local maritime museum, or enjoy the beaches. Combining the historic elegance of Huron Shores with the nautical charm of the harbor is how you truly master the Port Sanilac summer experience.

On the Water: Lake Huron & The Harbor

Just three miles south of the course, the Port Sanilac Harbor is your home base for Great Lakes recreation.

On the Trails: Hiking & Coastal Walks

For those who prefer to explore on foot, the area offers peaceful trails that showcase the local flora and fauna.

The Shipwreck Coast: Diving & Maritime History

The Sanilac Shores Underwater Preserve protects a collection of historic shipwrecks just offshore.

  • Diving: Clear waters make this a premier destination for Great Lakes divers looking to explore history on the lake floor.
  • Maritime Museum: Visit the Loop-Harrison House and Museum to see artifacts recovered from the deep.

Planning a weekend for your group or league? Let us help you coordinate the ultimate golf retreat. With on-course luxury rentals and local historic inns just minutes away, Huron Shores is the premier destination for your next golf adventure.

Contact the Pro Shop at 810-622-9961 to start planning your custom Stay & Play package.

Call Us Today!

Lodging & Stay and Play

  • Where can I stay for a golf trip?
    Choose from The Loft at Huron Shores (On-Course Luxury) or MiCasa Stays (Lakefront Luxury) Distance: 0.5 – 3 Miles. Depending on the specific property, these rentals are situated along the Lake Huron shoreline between the course and the village.
  • Does Huron Shores offer Stay & Play packages?
    Yes. We partner with local inns, motels, and luxury rental owners to offer packages combining 18 holes of regulation golf with premium local accommodations.
  • How far is lodging from the course?
    Most options are within 3 miles. The Loft is 0 minutes away, while MiCasa and Wipp Inn are 3-5 miles (6-10 minutes) away.
  • What are the best outdoor activities nearby?
    Beyond golf, you can visit the Port Sanilac Lighthouse, kayak Lake Huron, hike Sanilac County Parks, or explore shipwrecks at the Sanilac Shores Underwater Preserve.
  • Can I kayak near the golf club?
    Yes. Port Sanilac Harbor is just 3 miles south and features public launch sites for kayaks and paddleboards along the scenic Lake Huron coastline.
Tips-for-Navigating-the-Toughest-Holes-at-Huron-Shores

5 Tips for Navigating the Toughest Holes at Huron Shores

Huron Shores Golf Club is a "classic" for a reason. Built in 1925, this Jeff Gorney-designed gem proves that a course doesn't need to be 7,000 yards long to test your mettle. With tight fairways, strategic water hazards, and Lake Huron breezes, Huron Shores rewards precision over power.

A Word on Playability

While the course offers plenty of challenges for the low-handicapper, it was designed with the total golfer in mind.

"One of the best things about Huron Shores is its universal appeal," says Owner John Kane. "We’ve worked hard to maintain a layout that challenges the seasoned stick while remaining incredibly playable for seniors and juniors. Whether you're 8 or 80, the course offers a fair test that keeps the game fun, which is exactly what golf should be."

When to Play & What to Watch For

To get the most out of your round, timing is everything.

  • The Best Time to Play: Morning tee times are legendary here. As the sun rises over Lake Huron, the wind is usually at its calmest, allowing you to attack the pins before the afternoon "lake effect" breeze begins to swirl.
  • Course Landmarks: Use our century-old hardwoods as your guides. On several blind shots, aiming for the lone centennial maple at the end of the fairways will keep you in the short grass.
  • Tricky Transitions: Watch the "creek crossings" on the front and back nine. These natural tributaries of the lake can be deceptive; always check your yardage to the hazard, as the lush grass can hide the water's edge until you’re right on top of it.

Strategy for the "Card-Wrecker" Holes

1. Respect the Handicap: Conquer Hole #3

Statistically the hardest hole on the course (Handicap 1), the par-4 3rd hole is a true test of accuracy.. At over 500 yards from the back tees, it requires three smart shots to reach the green.

  • The Tip: Don't try to "kill" your tee shot to get close. Lay up to a comfortable wedge distance. The creek is wide and lays at the foot of a steep incline where you cannot see the pin.

2. Manage the "River" Crossings

One of the unique features at Huron Shores is the presence of small creeks cutting across the fairways.

  • The Tip: This is not the course to leave your 3-wood or hybrid in the bag. Many holes require you to lay up short of the water rather than forcing a long carry. Check your yardage to the hazards before you pull the driver; playing for position is the only way to stay dry.

3. Surviving the Par 3 9th hole

The iconic 9th hole is one of the toughest challenges on the front nine. It demands a straight drive and a precise approach to a green that can be temperamental depending on the wind coming off the lake.

  • The Tip: Aim for the back of the green. The 9th is often where "hero shots" go to die. Too short you may roll off the front of the green and have a tough uphill lie; too far and you ball will end up on M25 highway. Taking an extra club to the top tee box will help account for the breeze, and will help ensure you don't fall short into the front-side trouble.

4. Don’t Let the Par 3s Fool You

While the yardage on holes like #9 and #7 might look short on the scorecard, they are designed to be "card wreckers."

  • The Tip: These short holes are all about club selection. Look at the treetops, not just the flag, to gauge the true wind direction before you swing.

5. Play the "Course Within the Course"

Huron Shores is known for its "tight" layout. Large, mature trees line many of the fairways, meaning a drive that is just slightly off-line can leave you with no shot at the green.

  • The Tip: Focus on finding the "fat" part of the fairway. At Huron Shores, a 200-yard shot in the short grass is infinitely better than a 280-yard drive in the timber.

Whether you are looking to test your skills against our historic 1925 hazards or simply want to enjoy a relaxing afternoon with a Lake Huron breeze at your back, Huron Shores Golf Club is the ultimate destination on the "Sunrise Side."

Experience a course where history meets playability, and every round ends with a great meal at the Grill. Don't let another perfect Michigan summer day pass you by—the fairways are calling.

Ready to take on the challenge? 

Or call the Pro Shop at (810) 622-9961 to reserve your spot.

Call Us Today!

Huron Shores Quick Facts

  • Is the course difficult?
    It’s "somewhat challenging" (126 slope). While the 5,428-yardage is manageable, tight fairways and water hazards reward strategy over power.
  • What is the hardest hole? Hole #13.
    Absolutely. Owner John Kane designed the experience for all ages. With Black, Blue, and Red tees, the course is fair for juniors, seniors, and high-handicappers alike.
  • Is it beginner and senior-friendly?
    Yes, league players at Huron Shores are required to use a cart during league play.
  • Can I walk the course?
    Yes! Huron Shores is a premier walking course. The 1925 layout follows the natural Port Sanilac landscape, making it perfect for a bag or push-cart. Power carts are also available.
  • What are the easiest holes and top amenities?
    Look to Hole #4 and #11 for your best birdie chances. Off the course, enjoy the Huron Shores Grill (open to the public), full bar, and our dedicated chipping and putting greens.
perch dinner Friday Fish Fry water view huron shores port saniliac

Restaurant Details

Give us a call at 810-622-9961, to book your dinning event.  We feature inside and outside options for your event. We look forward to helping make your event a special memory for you and your family and friends.

Putting driving Huron Shores Golf Public Golf

Duffer’s League Play Begins Friday, May 15th

League Play Friday Mornings, May 16th – September 4th, for the 2026 golf season.

Sign-in begins at 8 AM, Shotgun Start at 8:30AM

Open to all who want to play!! Must confirm attendance by Wednesday of each week for scheduling of tee times.

 

Please Contact Brad Yocca at (248) 210-3064 or via email at byocca@sbcglobal.net with any questions.