Sleepy Hole Golf Course

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Sleepy Hole Golf Course – Championship Golf Along the Nansemond River

Sleepy Hole Golf Course, located in Suffolk, Virginia, is a par-72 championship course that offers stunning riverside golf with a legacy of professional play. Known for its scenic location along the Nansemond River and its role as a former LPGA Tour host site, this 18-hole course combines natural beauty, thoughtful design, and challenging shot-making.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual golfer planning a Virginia golf vacation, Sleepy Hole provides a rewarding round filled with historic charm and modern playability.

A Legacy of Championship Golf

Originally designed by architect Russell Breeden and opened in 1972, Sleepy Hole Golf Course quickly became one of Virginia’s premier public golf facilities. It has hosted:

  • 8 LPGA Tour events

  • Multiple Virginia State Amateur and USGA qualifiers

  • Countless regional and collegiate tournaments

In 2003, the course underwent a full renovation led by Tom Clark of Ault, Clark & Associates, bringing improved playability and updated aesthetics while honoring the original design. These enhancements have kept Sleepy Hole relevant and rewarding for today’s golfer.

Scenic & Strategic Course Layout

The course plays just over 7,000 yards from the back tees and features five sets of tees to accommodate all skill levels. Set against the backdrop of the mile-wide Nansemond River, the course is as scenic as it is strategic.

Golfers can expect:

  • Wide, tree-lined fairways

  • Bentgrass greens known for consistency and speed

  • Well-placed bunkers

  • Water hazards on five holes

  • A 300-yard practice range for warm-up and instruction

The legendary 18th hole, widely considered one of the most difficult finishing holes in Hampton Roads, is a par 4 that hugs the river and demands accuracy off the tee and into the green. It’s a dramatic ending to a memorable round.

Renovated and Ready for Today’s Golfer

Sleepy Hole has recently undergone significant renovations to elevate turf conditions, improve irrigation, and enhance greenside aesthetics. Visitors now enjoy:

  • Reconditioned greens and tee boxes

  • Improved bunker drainage

  • Enhanced fairway definition and rough shaping

These changes make the course more enjoyable while preserving its historic character and competitive edge.

A Riverside Setting Worth the Trip

The Nansemond River plays a central role in the course’s atmosphere. Multiple holes offer panoramic river views, and breezes off the water add both beauty and challenge. Whether you’re teeing off on a crisp fall morning or playing during a summer golf weekend, Sleepy Hole offers a tranquil escape from city noise with plenty of photographic moments.

Located in Suffolk, Sleepy Hole Golf Course is within easy reach of Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, and Richmond, making it a convenient addition to any Virginia golf package.

Ideal for Golf Packages and Groups

Virginia Golf Vacations can help incorporate Sleepy Hole into a custom stay-and-play package. The course is a great pairing with regional favorites like:

  • Cypress Point Country Club

  • Kiln Creek Golf Club

  • Heron Ridge

Packages include weekday access, multi-course itineraries, and optional accommodations in Suffolk, Chesapeake, or Virginia Beach.


Plan Your Round at Sleepy Hole Golf Course

With a tournament-tested design, scenic riverside location, and a recently enhanced course layout, Sleepy Hole Golf Course is a must-play destination for anyone seeking championship-caliber public golf in Coastal Virginia.

Contact Virginia Golf Vacations today to add this iconic course to your Virginia golf itinerary.

Course Details: Par 72 | Course Architect: Tom Clark
ChampionshipMember
Yardage70076103
Course Rating74.469.3
Slope138130