Cheers to Fall Golf

For anyone who loves the game of golf, there’s something about fall that makes it extra special. The cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, and crisp autumn air all combine to create the perfect atmosphere for a memorable round. Recently, my wife and I decided to embrace this autumn magic with a long weekend escape from Long Island to Kennebunkport, Maine. Along with our sister-in-law and brother-in-law, we set out to explore the charming seaside town and, of course, squeeze in some golf as well.

The journey to Kennebunkport is part of the adventure, and for this trip, we decided to skip the typical long drive around New York City and take a more scenic route. On Friday afternoon, we packed up the car and headed east toward Orient Point, where we caught the ferry to New London, Connecticut. There’s truly something peaceful about gliding across the Long Island Sound through the cool fall breeze.

Once we docked in New London, it was time to hit the road. The drive through Connecticut and up through New England offered the perfect backdrop of autumn colors. By the time we reached Kennebunkport, the trees were glowing with shades of red, orange, and yellow, welcoming us to this postcard-perfect coastal town.

Fall Golf at Deep Brook Golf Course

Saturday morning greeted us with a crisp, cloudless sky—perfect conditions for golf. Our first stop: Deep Brook Golf Course. Tucked away from the touristy areas, Deep Brook offers a peaceful 9-hole escape into Maine’s rugged landscape. The course is set amid rolling hills and dense forests, and in the fall, the setting becomes a painter’s palette of colors.

For my brother-in-law and I, the course was both challenging and serene. Deep Brook's well-maintained greens kept us on our toes, but the scenery was so captivating that even a bad shot didn’t feel too frustrating. There’s something about fall golf that slows you down, makes you breathe in the surroundings, and appreciate each moment.

As we wrapped up our round, I couldn’t help but feel that Deep Brook was one of those courses that remains a hidden gem—especially in the fall. The peaceful setting, paired with the beauty of the changing leaves, made it a memorable start to our golf weekend.

Cape Arundel Golf Club: A Historic Round

Of course, no golf trip to Kennebunkport is complete without a visit to the legendary Cape Arundel Golf Club. Known for its ties to U.S. presidents and famous visitors, this historic course dates back to 1896 and has a reputation that precedes it. But beyond its legacy, Cape Arundel is just a great course to play—especially in the fall.

Following our round at Deep Brook, we headed over to Cape Arundel. The course is known for its traditional design, with wide-open fairways and challenging greens. But what really struck me was how the course integrates with the natural landscape. The Kennebunk River winds its way through several holes, adding an element of challenge and beauty.

In the fall, the course’s views are breathtaking, with the river and marshes blending seamlessly into the fiery colors of autumn. The sense of history that permeates Cape Arundel made every shot feel significant. It’s no wonder that the Bush family—longtime Kennebunkport residents—loved playing here.

Playing golf at Cape Arundel is like stepping back in time while still being rooted in the present. It’s the kind of course that demands focus but rewards those who take the time to appreciate its subtleties. And in fall, with the foliage as your backdrop, it was easy to see why this course has been beloved for generations.

As we packed up to head back to Long Island, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment. Fall golf in Maine is more than just a round—it’s an experience that taps into everything that makes the season so special. The vibrant foliage, the cool, crisp air, and the laid-back vibe of Kennebunkport create the perfect atmosphere for a fall golf weekend.

For anyone considering a fall golf trip, I can’t recommend Kennebunkport enough. Between the scenic beauty of Deep Brook, the history of Cape Arundel, and the charm of the town itself, it’s a destination that offers something for everyone—whether you’re on the course or off.

Fall golf has a magic all its own, and this weekend trip to Maine only deepened my love for the game and the season. Until next year, Kennebunkport.