Bellaire sits in one of the best golf regions in the Midwest. Golf Digest counts around 18 courses within 15 miles of town, most of them open to the public. Here's how they break down.
In Bellaire: Shanty Creek Resorts
Shanty Creek has five 18-hole courses, 90 holes in all:
- Cedar River (Tom Weiskopf), the flagship
- The Legend (Arnold Palmer), with Lake Bellaire views
- Hawk's Eye (John Robinson), with water on half the holes
- Schuss Mountain (Warner Bowen), through pines and wetlands
- Summit (William Diddel), the original, shorter course
Read our full Shanty Creek golf guide.
Nearby courses
| Course | Area | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort | Kewadin, on the west side of Torch Lake | A resort with multiple courses, including Sundance and Torch |
| Antrim Dells Golf Club | Ellsworth area | A longtime favorite of Michigan golfers |
| Elk Rapids Golf Club | Elk Rapids | 18 holes. Check public access before you go |
Course access, rates and tee-time policies change, so confirm details on each course's website.
Worth the drive
Bellaire is also within day-trip range of some of Michigan's best-known golf destinations:
- Boyne Resorts, around Boyne Falls and Harbor Springs, about 30 to 60 miles north
- Courses around Traverse City, about 37 miles southwest
- Courses around Charlevoix and Petoskey, about 27 to 50 miles north
See day trips from Bellaire for distances.
Tips
- Base in Bellaire and you can mix Shanty Creek's courses with a day trip or two.
- Book summer weekend tee times early, especially July and August.
- Play in September for firm conditions and easier tee times.
- Planning a group trip? See how to plan a golf trip to Bellaire.
Where to stay
Our homes put you minutes from all five Shanty Creek courses, with room for golf groups of up to 16 in one house.
Overlook Bellaire
A 2021 modern home on 10 private acres above Bellaire, looking out over Intermediate Lake. Sauna, cold plunge, hot tub and a game room.
Check dates and book direct →
Alm Haus
A renovated Northwoods chalet 5 minutes from Schuss Mountain, with a hot tub under the pines, triple-queen bunk room, game room and stargazing dome.
Check dates and book direct →
Northwoods Treehaus
A 1960s A-frame in the pines at Schuss Mountain Resort, with three kings, a stone fireplace, a bunk room with arcade and a treetop hot tub.
Check dates and book direct →Frequently asked questions
How many golf courses are near Bellaire, Michigan?
Around 18 within 15 miles, including Shanty Creek's five 18-hole courses.
What is the best golf course near Bellaire?
Shanty Creek's Cedar River, designed by Tom Weiskopf, is the best known, with The Legend by Arnold Palmer close behind.
Sources
Course counts from Golf Digest's Bellaire course guide. Course details from Shanty Creek Resorts and published course directories. Checked October 2026.