Whistling Straits Golf Course

Another bucket list course checked off. Played several rounds at this property & was not disappointed. The courses are great, especially the Straits. But if you are a high handicap[15+] player, you will find it more difficult to enjoy the course. I say this because although the scenery may catch your eye & distract you, it won't make the course any easier. This course is not only challenging to the advanced golfer, it is a bear to walk.[you have to] Although I am in pretty good shape, it takes its toll on you & ot will affect your level of play by the end of your round. I'd say this was the most difficult course I've walked/played - with 1 exception. Bethpage Black, was even harder because of the elevation changes. The hotel/town/facilities are all very good. From the course restaurants to the in hotel restaurants, some of which are top notch. Of course, it all comes with top tier prices, so if you are frugal, you might have a tough time at this great golfers sanctuary. Enjoy ! !

Special special place. Killer views, challenging golf, great challenge and rewarding experience. The highlight course by far.

Amazing course! We had an unfortunately windy day, but I am eternally grateful that I had the opportunity to play here. Matt and John were fantastic caddies.

World class golf course with a welcoming environment. Stepping up to the first tee you can see a plaque where the Ryder cup tee were. The caddie made it feel like anyone could play this course. Highly recommend

Amazing views and an incredible course. Sitting on the back patio and watching people play in 18 is something I recommend you put time aside for. There were some issues. I ended up chipping my 9 iron in the waste area just off of the fairway of hole 1, there were ant hills coming out of some of the greens, and we ended up playing in the dark for two holes because one group in front of us was taking photos at the tee box while their green was totally cleared. We were told that the Marshall would be on us if we fell behind, but we waited for 5-10 minutes every hole, and they never said anything to that group.

The entire operation is above expectations! Service at every point was outstanding, the courses where top notch and the accommodations are off the charts. Along with all that you have a par 3 course that is worth playing more than once and an 18 hole putting course. Golf from sun up to sun down!

We played the Irish course and it was fantastic. Easily one of the best courses in Wisconsin and every bit as good as the Straits course. The only difference is the Irish does not have any holes on the water. I loved the short Par 3s that were challenging even though you had a short iron in your hand for them. The par fives were excellent as well, making you decide whether you should take on risk and go for them or play it safe. Overall, loved the course.

Whistling Straits met the hype. The food was great (cheeseburger, club sandwich, and wings were delicious), workers kind, and most importantly the course and views were phenomenal. Each hole has fun nicknames and has its own unique features. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to see the bald eagle or sheep. I recommend playing at Twilight because of the reduced rates as well as the sunset views. One thing to note is that the round is going to take at least 5 hours. Not because of slow play but there is A LOT of walking.

WEDDING VENUE REVIEW: Wow, what a stunning golf course! While I didn't play, it was truly the perfect setting for a wedding I attended. The course is absolutely gorgeous - looks like Ireland! - and we had a breathtaking view of the final holes from the wedding tent. Service was immaculate: greeting us with champagne as we walked in, plenty of appetizers circulating, and a well-kept buffet with delicious foods. A highlight for my partner, who was in the Groom's party, was getting ready in the Champions Locker Room. Getting to see the lockers of famous golfers like Tiger Woods was a treasure! They had lovely string lights up everywhere, and the vintage building they had the bar and dance/band in was so classy and beautiful.

Amazing golf course Great views Pretty good conditions Caddies are very good and knowledgeable Price....ouch buckle up for a pricey day. So given that it's 30%more than a round at sand valley which is a great venue it makes it a tough pill to swallow. You do get a free brat !!!

I cannot say thank you to the amazing staff at Whistling Straits enough! I planned a group trip w/ 5 of my friends for my 40th birthday and the staff made it the best day possible, most notably, Becky who was running the beverage cart on the front. She wished me a happy birthday, complete w/ a cup she wrote on, gifted me a free drink and a snack. We were a little backed up and we chatted about everything from Wisconsin hospitality to southern cooking and even golf clothes. She was an absolute delight and made my trip worth even more than I could have hoped for. Thank you Becky and everyone at the course.

Let me begin by saying that Nathan was a delightful young man! He was so helpful and thoughtful and was just overall a pleasure to have his assistance there! The course is beyond spectacular! An absolute jewel! I highly recommend everyone and anyone who is an avid golfer to visit their course at least once in their lifetime. Truly one of the best golfing experiences I have had. I have already recommended it to several of my friends who are golfers and I encourage anyone else considering experiencing their golf course to do so!

The setting is beautiful. The staff is attentive. I was very disappointed in my "signature lamb". ..and that seemed to offend the staff. It was inedibly raw despite ordering medium. In the end it was too tough to cut, much less eat. The beet salad was very good. The others in our party seemed pleased with what the ordered.

Beautiful scenery. We played both Irish and Straits. Definitely play both if you have a chance! Irish course--do NOT take a trolley. The paths are not built to handle; lots of up and down terrain and very narrow paths. Also, both my husband's and my trolleys had worn out Velcro straps. With the terrain, the straps came loose and we were forever adjusting our clubs . If you do get a push cart, good luck--you'll want to walk on cart path to minimize frustrations but you'll still exhaust yourself. Either get a caddy or get a golf cart. I play up and I found some of the holes highly frustrating and unforgiving; the first hole required a long carry and the day went (downhill) from there. The push cart didn't help. The Straits was better for a beginner--having a caddy super helpful. Brent! Beautiful views of the lake the whole round. Have lunch on the terrace but only if you're not in a hurry. Food is delicious and beers on tap are cold. Underwhelmed by staff in pro shop and our lunch server. Guy disappeared on us twice including after taking our bill to cash out. (Manager tried to make excuse saying he's having hard time finding staff. Meanwhile three hostesses and servers milling around talking.) Pro shop staff not helpful if you ask about inventory. I was not impressed with the ladies selection. We did have a good dinner server the first time we ate. She was very helpful and on it.

The Straits is a bucket list course. Absolutely beautiful and one of my favorite Dye courses. You'll need to be in pretty good shape to walk the course as it's not flat like The Ocean Course in Kiawah. The pace of play is slow so we had an opportunity to take some great pics. We've played this course twice and both times we had fantastic caddies. The food after our rounds was very good and we had a great view of the course.

We had been by friends that we would love Whistling Straits and were not disappointed. We played the Straits and Irish and liked both very much. Most holes at the Straits is alongside Lake Michigan and the views are magnificent as was the condition of the courses. We had very good caddies. It is expensive to play but so are the rest of the courses on our bucket list. We stayed at the Carriage House in Kohler and it is a charming town. We ventured in Sheboygan for dinner and ice cream and it has a wonderful boardwalk along the river. Hope to return again.

Worth. The. Hype. Keep in mind that the course is walking only and very undulating. For all intents and purposes you need to be a billy goat to play here. The fact that your caddy will be carrying 2 bags AND loop 36 holes will make you feel like a complete wuss, so be prepared for that. The views are absolutely breathtaking. The course pristine. Greens were a bit slower than expected. To say that there are some dramatic elevation changes on each hole is an understatement. If you are a hack this course will eat you alive. If you are a decent player and use your head the course is fairly manageable. There were a few pins that seemed inaccessible but, if you hit to a fatter part of the green, the ball would funnel to the hole. Rely on your caddy's advice. They're pros. Be sure to tip them well. Without a doubt I'll be back.

A group of industry colleagues and I take a yearly golf trip. This year, Whistling Straits was the choice. With a group size of eight, we were able to schedule back to back tee times and split up in groups of four. On day one we played Irish, and on day two we played the signature Straits and Irish for a second time, but this time we played Irish with carts and no caddy. During our three day visit we played five full rounds. Rounds four and five were at the nearby Blackwolf Run. It was a crisp early May along Lake Michigan and we were dealing with gusty winds and temperatures of 45-50 degrees F. Long pants and a jacket were a must. For each round we had caddy's carrying our bags and giving us shot advice and reads. Our caddies Corey and Terrie were lifesavers and provided excellent shot advice, including helping us to stay out of trouble with the bunkers and water. THERE ARE BUNKERS EVERYWHERE! The courses were in great shape however the greens were noticeably faster on the Straits course. Around every corner you will find lush landscaping meticulously maintained and scenery meant for a post card. We made sure to take lots of photos. This Peter Dye designed masterpiece should be on the bucket list of golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Back at the pro shop they have all kinds of great logoed merchandise. All in all, I'd have to say this was one of the best golf trips I've taken to date. Our golf package also included a group lesson for our 8 man crew, as well as lodging and breakfast and the Inn on Woodlake in Kohler. There was a shuttle on call from early AM until late in the evening,

Unreal experience. My knees still hurt from walking 7 miles up 34 flights of stairs. Immaculate condition. Staff was awesome. What a test of golf. I used ever stick in my bag and my foot wedge:)) Tons of bunkers and still fair. The fairways were generous but old Pete Dye likes to play with your mind. What a world class operation and the caddy sure helped. Thanks Patrick. I have never been that sore from walking a course, felt like I was on the Batan death march. How does a caddy lug 2 sets of clubs that far? Food at clubhouse not too bad. The 19th hole was awesome, as you sit and watch people come up 9 and 18 and card an 8! Worth every penny and the prices for clothes were fair. I love this place. I'd say lots harder than Pinnehurst #2.

Who knew that Whistling Straits, home to PGA tournaments, is also open to the public? Yep, it sure is. We were welcomed as part of the Open Air Tours group of 200 convertible drivers and it was so much fun to visit. Theres a nice gift shop here, and thinking ahead, I purchased a few early holiday gifts for my dad. They were already promoting the 2020 Ryder Cup and it's never to early to get the word out! We traveled out behind the gorgeous club house to see patio seating for lunch and an outdoor wedding setting up with glorious displays and late arrangements honoring late summer. There were all kinds of golfers tackling the course and oh my gosh did it look challenging. We watched one golfer leaning so hard to get out of a sand trap he might has well have laid down. And in the distance was a pristine view of Lake Michigan. . The visit as part of the tour was a wonderful way to take in all that is fun in Wisconsin!

This golf course is amazing!! The views are awesome and the holes are really cool. It is a hard course even without the wind blowing but with the wind, I am sure it would be really tough. If you make it to the area and are a golf person, you have to check it out.

It's a steep price to pay, but the experience you get makes it worth it. The views and course are top notch! Highly recommend getting one of the available caddies. They are super knowledgeable and great companions for a challenging course.

As you will see from my posts - I love golf I have played some of The United States' top rated courses and this is right up there. Played in early May. 45-55 degrees, 20 mph winds off of the lake and very challenging. Based on my age and handicap, we chose to play the white tees at 6360 yards. Good choice. I was able to play fairly well and to really enjoy the round. Our caddie, Cole was exceptional. Our partners had a young man named Miles and, by the time we finished, we were calling him "Extra Miles". The fellows had a bit of a tough time controlling their ball. Miles too was very good - and patient. We played two consecutive days and that is a lot of walking, with or without carrying your own clubs. Spent a fair amount for two rounds, plus the caddie tip, but I am so glad that I was able to experience it. Highly recommended for any serious golfer.

I have experienced Whistling Straits in several ways over the last year. I was a volunteer at the 2015 PGA Championship, operating ShotLink lasers on-course during three days of the tournament. I was also able to play the Irish Course with my dad on 5/9/16, getting to experience one of Pete Dye's creations first-hand. The Straits Course, on which the PGA Championship is played, is set along the Lake Michigan shoreline near Sheboygan, Wis. It's annually ranked as one of the best courses in the world, and it's easy to see why. It has hosted three PGA Championships, and will host the Ryder Cup in 2020. While I have not played the course, I have seen how demanding and beautiful it is. Maybe someday I'll give it a go... The Irish Course is set further inland, but is not any less scenic than it's companion course. Elevation changes, huge (and numerous) bunkers and a creek that winds its way through the property give the Irish a distinct personality. Even with all the hazards and challenges, the Irish is accessible to higher handicappers (like me). We played from the white tees, which totaled right around 6,000 yards. This seemed appropriate for golfers of our skill level. We were also lucky enough to get perfect weather for golf that day, with sun, temperatures in the mid-50s and a very light wind. The Irish Course has several signature holes including No. 6, named Mulligan's Watch. This par 3 features an island green that's completely surrounded by sand. Another memorable par 3 is No. 13, appropriately named Blind Man's Bluff. From the tee, you can just barely see the flag, and the pin that it's attached to seems to be about 13 feet tall. You cannot see the green at all. You can take golf carts on the Irish (no carts are allowed on the Straits, and a caddie is required), which was both a plus and a minus. Carts are only allowed on cart paths, so situations where you'd have to take long walks to get from your cart to your ball occurred. However, having the cart was helpful for cutting down what would have been a five-mile walk. While the walk wouldn't have been a problem for me, my dad appreciated being able to sit and ride up to each shot. Another highlight of the round was seeing the famous Whistling Straits sheep, which are allowed to roam the property freely. We later found out that it was their first day back on-site for the 2016 season, so we were indeed lucky to catch a glimpse of the animals near the Hole 17 tee. After the round was complete, my dad and I headed to the Irish Pub, set on the upper floor of the clubhouse. Through the windows of the pub, you could see the No. 9 and No. 18 greens of the Straits. As for refreshments, we each enjoyed a Jigger Ale, a Scotch Ale that's only available at Kohler properties in Sheboygan and at the Old Course in St. Andrews, Scotland. The service was impeccable, and we had a fun and informative conversation with our bartender about the beer we were enjoying, as well as the golf course itself. The pub is a lovely setting for a post-round beverage and a great way to end your day at Whistling Straits. Playing a round at Whistling Straits needs to be a bucket list item for anyone passionate about golf. The Irish Course provides a challenge, yet is set up for golfers of any skill level to enjoy. The staff was extremely helpful and welcoming, which also helps ensure a memorable experience. If you find yourself in Wisconsin and are looking for the golfing experience of a lifetime, head to Whistling Straits. You won't be disappointed!

Stayed at Kohler for several nights and played a total of 6 rounds. Overall, Kohler and Whistling Straits are a good golf experiences. I love golf and have played courses all over the world. When I think of Whistling Straits it is difficult to consider it as amazing. Though a nice course, Whistling Straits isn't an amazing course. Having played ocean courses in N. America, Europe, and Asia Whistling Straits was neither stunning and memorable. 4 stars - 2 stars for the caddy program and caddies. REMEMBER: tip your caddy and tip above the recommended amount. Caddies are hard working and great people.

Links land. Not links golf. There is no point playing in an environment with wind that would make Scotland blush and having greens where an approach requires a lofty shot.

FOR GOLF ONLY - IRISH COURSE AT WHISTLING STRAITS Pete Dye, you glorious SOB. I have never seen a Pete Dye layout I haven't loved and the Irish Course is no exception. Ranked #35 in Golf Digest top 100 public Immaculate and for 250 without caddie it should be. I played the tips which backed up all the way to 7200 yards but it was actually a fairly playable 7200 with firm (not overly firm fairways) and wide fairways. Drive it straight and long here and you can score. The greens have a decent amount of break but always ran true and quick - I think about a 10.5 the day I played. On about 3 or 4 holes you can see the Lake and the Straits Course which is an absolutely beautiful site. Adding to the beauty of this course is the over 500 bunkers. I would estimate that about half of these don't come in play, or at least shouldn't come in play. Rumor has it that Dye gave the Straits course 1 extra bunker than the Irish Course. While difficult from tee to green it is playable as Dye always gives the golfer at least one side to miss on, whether fairway or green. A great experience, glad I ponied up the extra 100 plus for the caddie and tip so I could walk the course and really appreciate every nook and cranny of a Dye masterpiece. If you have the cash to spend and you really like golf - do it. I can't comment on the Straits course other than it looks like what I imagine heaven to look like. Note - when you make a tee time they need to hold it with a CC and they didn't have access to the holding CC to apply it to the fee (turned out to be a problem for me but I imagine most wont have the same issue, especially if staying at the American Club)

Incredible track. You have to bring your game. Phenomenal caddie Chris #26. Best I've had.

We went to Whistling Straits per another couple's recommendations to go there for lunch and relax/read a book on the patio even though we did not come to Kohler to play golf this time. We are so glad we did that!! The view of the golf course and lake Michigan was unbelievable!!!! I am a novice golfer and I truly did appreciate the golf course for its beauty and the challenges that I saw the other golfers faced playing on the course. I did enjoy their chicken wrap with homemade potato chips! My husband had the corned beef sandwich which he really enjoyed. After we ate, we just sat in our chairs facing the breathtaking view, sipping our ice teas, and enjoyed our books!

I had caddie #61 Matty he read putts like a champion. As I walked to my 340 yard drives in the middle of the fairway every hole, I took time to enjoy the views. Great place

Out of all the golf I've played, this is probably the nicest courses I've been to. It's SUPER hard, with the fog off the lake making for some interesting "blind" shots. The greens were fast and tricky, fairways and tee boxes were in great condition. Our caddie was amazing. Surprisingly, I didn't lose many balls, but I did shoot plenty over my handicap.Had a chicken sandwich and beer at the bar after the round with my foursome, and there were no complaints from anyone. The price is steep to play here, but in my opinion, completely worth it.

I went to eat there last Monday with a large group of people - I left my very expensive sunglasses on the table. I called the next morning and some girl (very rudely) took down my information and promised me that she would call me back ASAP - no call. I called again later on that evening and the same. A promised call back that of course never happened. I really do not understand. Is this how you treat guests who spend over a thousand dollars on dinner? I am confused and beyond irritated. At this point I am going to file a suit with the BBB. It is obvious that my sunglasses were taken by our server or someone there and they refuse to acknowledge their screw up. Beyond pissed, disappointing and surprised. I plan on reviewing them on every single platform that I can. 0 stars. Negative if I could.

I go here a couple of times a year -- I have only played it once -- but it is just a treat to see the place. The course is breath-taking and the club house is beautiful. I grew up in this area and it used to be a flat wasteland -- the transformation to make this into a links style course is hard to even comprehend. This is really something to see -- and a true experience to play. Best holes, 1-18 Best golf course.

No sand in many of the green side bunkers ruined my scorecard and the experience. For $500 I expect sand in the bunkers. Is that too much to ask?

Been her many times for golf, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Never been disappointed. For lunch try the corned beef sandwich or Dublin beef stew. Dinner is all good; you won't be disappointed. Also, be on the lookout for the sheep that may walk by the window of the restaurant; we've been lucky enough to see it 3-4 times. Truly a unique experience.

Stellar just stellar. If you like traveling around this great country of ours paying too much money to play golf, then you must make a trip up to Kohler for a weekend and play these wonderful courses. Please don't expect "any" nightlife. Golf, eat, massage, eat again, sleep and start is all over again the next day. Be aware, this place is a bit of a commute, even from Milwaukee. Play as many as you have time to play, but make sure you play the Straits.

I want to thank Stephanie of the pro shop for her excellent service to me. I stopped to buy golf shirts with friends on 5/27/16. When I used the fitting room, I dropped one of my earrings. I didn't realize it until getting back home to Milwaukee. I called and Stephanie picked up the call and immediately confirm to me she found my lost earring in the fitting room. She calmed me down by her elegant voice. She promised to send me by post. Then I received a pretty post card with her beautiful handwriting. The piece must have been stepped on, she even apologized. It's me that I should apologize to bother her with such a troublesome thing. I'm very touched by the friendly people at Kohler. I'll visit regularly now as I became your faithful fan because of the respect I felt through Stephanie's outstanding service. I'm sorry I waited till now to write this review. It's never too late.

My 3rd year in a row playing the straits course. Very disappointed in which I had to share a caddie for the first time with another player? The problem with this is I had to wait on many holes for caddie to bring me my clubs to play the shot? You would think for $550 you would get your own caddie? Hope the management can stop this practice soon?

The courses were beautiful. They are well maintained and and so challenging. I loved the golf. The people who take the reservations and work in the clubhouse cross the line from incompetent to stupid to flat out dishonest. I made reservations 5 months prior to playing. I get to the Straits course and they do not have a tee time for our group. The explanation from them was that somebody cancelled the tee time. No one did. Then they tried to double charge me for the caddies. I had paid for them as a part of a package. The guy insisted that I had to pay again. The courses are amazing but as a total golf experience Pinehurst beats Whistling Straits and it isnt even close. I will not be back.

I attended the 2010 PGA Championship on the final day - Sunday, August 15 and watched from the 1st, 8th, and 18th holes. Was 20 feet away from where Dustin Johnson hit into the crowd at the 18th hole and was 5 feet away from Martin Kaymer when he hit his 2nd shot on the 18th hole during the sudden death. Saw Bubba Watson hit a 366' drive. Overall a great experience, great weather, visually stunning, and world class golfing.

Beautiful property and gardens. Great view of the lake.

Made the trip out from Southern California, definitely the best golf experience of my life, can't recommend it any higher! The Straits is now my favorite course of all time and I've played a bunch of great courses. If you get the chance I highly suggest asking for Jake Alberte as your caddy. I requested to stick with him all four of my rounds. He adds course knowledge, club selection and putt reads I would've never been able to come up with on my own or with other caddies I saw. Super cool guy too! If you love golf I suggest you book this trip and Jake right away!

was there for practice rounds. my favorite spot was the chalet on 17 overlooking the lake. what a breathtaking view. grounds are amazing.

Took my fiance here to celebrate his birthday. He LOVED the course and is still talking about it a week later. The course was beautiful and the holes were challenging but still fun. We got a caddy and he was awesome- made the experience a lot more enjoyable. I do not golf, but I walked the course with the guys and it was beautiful enough to keep me occupied during the 5 hour game. Just spectacular.