
Nansemond River Golf Club – A Scenic, Strategic Challenge Near Virginia Beach
Located in Suffolk, Virginia, Nansemond River Golf Club is a hidden gem nestled along the scenic tidal marshlands of the Nansemond River. Once a historic refuge for pirates and privateers, this region now offers golfers a thrilling blend of coastal beauty and smart design that makes for a truly memorable round.
Less than an hour from both Virginia Beach and Williamsburg, this course is a standout addition to any Virginia Golf Vacation itinerary—especially for players looking to discover a lesser-known but unforgettable destination.
Tidal Marsh Views & Championship-Caliber Design
Built into the coastal terrain, Nansemond River Golf Club winds through natural tidal creeks, marshland vistas, and groves of native trees, offering strategic variety and visual splendor. The course balances natural beauty with challenge, keeping players on their toes from the first hole to the last.
Signature holes and standout features include:
The par-5 13th, offering two separate green options—a rare design twist that rewards smart play and forces strategic decisions.
The par-4 17th hole, where a precise approach to an island green creates one of the most thrilling finishes in the region.
Multiple elevated tee shots, marsh carries, and doglegs that test shot shaping and club selection.
The bentgrass greens are consistently maintained to offer true rolls, and fairways provide generous landing areas with ample room for recovery. The result is a playable course for all skill levels, while still delivering enough bite to challenge low handicappers.
A Hidden Gem Worth Pursuing
Nansemond River Golf Club is considered one of the best-kept secrets in Virginia public golf, offering the kind of unhurried pace, peaceful setting, and authentic Southern charm that many travelers crave. Unlike some resort courses, you won’t find crowded tee sheets or over-commercialized distractions here—just pure golf in a pristine natural setting.
The course’s layout allows for fast but enjoyable rounds, making it ideal for both single-day visits or multi-course vacations built around Virginia Beach or Williamsburg.
History & Atmosphere
The Nansemond River region is rich with history—from pirate lore to colonial trade routes. Today, its scenic marshlands serve as a backdrop for a more peaceful adventure: golf.
While the course doesn’t try to recreate history theatrically, the natural waterways, elevated views, and secluded feel give players a sense of discovery and a strong connection to the land’s past.
Location & Access
Nansemond River Golf Club is:
50 minutes from Williamsburg
45 minutes from Virginia Beach
Easily accessible via US-58 and I-664
This convenient location makes it a perfect pairing with other Tidewater region courses in your Virginia Golf Vacations package, including:
Sleepy Hole Golf Course
Riverfront Golf Course
Cypress Point Country Club
Custom Golf Packages Available
When booked through Virginia Golf Vacations, travelers can include Nansemond River Golf Club in custom stay-and-play golf packages featuring:
Multi-course tee time coordination
Lodging options in Suffolk, Chesapeake, or near the beach
Weekday rates, group discounts, and concierge planning
Whether you’re traveling with a group, planning a solo trip, or adding a round to a beach vacation, Nansemond River delivers value, beauty, and variety.
Plan Your Visit to Nansemond River Golf Club
With its strategic layout, waterfront setting, and memorable holes, Nansemond River Golf Club is a course you’ll want to play again and again. It’s not just a round—it’s a riverfront golf adventure just waiting to be discovered.
Contact Virginia Golf Vacations today to include Nansemond River in your next Virginia golf getaway.
Course Details: Par 72 | Course Architect: Tom Steele
Championship | Member | |
---|---|---|
Yardage | 7241 | 6259 |
Course Rating | 75.3 | 70.3 |
Slope | 141 | 130 |