Bay Harbor Golf Club

Woke up on day two to sunny skies and crisp lake air, grabbed the sticks, and headed to Bay Harbor Golf Club — home to three distinct nine-hole courses: The Links, The Quarry, and The Preserve. I played the Links–Quarry loop, a wild pairing that felt like two different worlds glued together by views and vibes.

🏌🏻‍♂️The Range

The arrival was effortless. The clubhouse is right where you want it to be — easy to find, with the bag drop front and center. The staff had me set up in minutes, and the pro shop check-in was quick and smooth — walk in, grab what you need, and you’re back out the door without missing a beat. Within minutes of checking in, I was hitting range balls. The range itself is dialed in: spacious, with a fun practice green and a solid chipping area to get the short game warmed up. Met a friendly local member while loosening up — small talk about golf in Northern Michigan and the usual “how’s the swing today?” chatter. A good start to the day.

⛳️The Round

Then came the pairing. I got matched up with a trio from a nine-man golf outing — a group that brought the party with them. Fireball shots from the first tee, a bit of hippie lettuce making the rounds, and swings that got more “creative” as the holes rolled on. My kind of crew. We laughed, we hacked, we hit bombs (some intentional), and we soaked in one of the most scenic rounds in the state.

The Links plays like Michigan’s version of seaside golf — open, dramatic, and unapologetically windy. It’s the kind of course where the views can make you forget the double bogey you just penciled in. Big fairways, bigger skies, and the constant whisper of Lake Michigan as your backdrop.

The Quarry, on the other hand, feels like a completely different golf planet. It’s rugged, tree-lined, and carved through rock and elevation — moody in all the best ways. Shot-making is key here, though “spray and pray” works too if you’re lucky. It’s a test, but one that rewards creativity (or chaos, depending on how brave you feel with the driver).

Together, the Links and Quarry make for a beautiful, bipolar round of golf — a course that goes from open coastlines to rocky canyon vibes without missing a step. It’s the kind of day you finish with a smile, a story or two, and maybe an empty flask.

👕Pro Shop

Well stocked shop with all the essentials - balls, ball markers, tees, flasks, hats, polos, you name they had it. Lots of famous golf brands including Johnnie O, Adidas, Footjoy, and Peter Millar. I’m a fan of collecting balls, ball markers, and yardage books - they had all three! Plenty of hats, shoes, plus clubs and putters if you forgot yours. 

Final Thoughts

I had plans to come back on Saturday, June 21, to take on The Preserve–Quarry loop, but Mother Nature had other plans. Storms rolled in with thunder, lightning, and a “no thanks” vibe from the golf gods. I’ve heard The Preserve is the quietest of the trio — tree-lined, scenic, and the most peaceful of the bunch. A contrast to the drama of the Quarry and the raw beauty of the Links.

If you’re anywhere near Petoskey, Bay Harbor is a must-play. Bring a camera, a few extra golf balls, and a crew that knows how to have a good time. I’ll be back to settle the score with The Preserve.

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