
Riverfront Golf Course – A Scenic Tom Doak Design in Hampton Roads
Riverfront Golf Course, located in Suffolk, Virginia, is one of the region’s most acclaimed public courses—offering a magnificent waterfront golf experience that showcases the design brilliance of Tom Doak, one of golf architecture’s most respected names.
With its natural flow through tidal marshlands, rolling farmland, and riverfront acreage, Riverfront offers a round that’s equal parts strategic and scenic. It’s a must-play for golfers visiting Hampton Roads, Virginia Beach, or Williamsburg on a Virginia golf vacation.
Designed by Tom Doak – Strategically Beautiful
Known for designing minimalist, old-school layouts like Pacific Dunes and Streamsong Blue, Tom Doak brought his philosophy to Riverfront with spectacular results. The course blends classic design principles with modern playability, delivering a layout that rewards thoughtful golf while remaining welcoming to a wide range of skill levels.
Key features of the layout include:
Tees typically set at ground level, preserving natural sightlines
Wide and friendly fairways with multiple angle-of-play options
Large chipping areas and run-off zones around greens
Deep bunkers and undulating putting surfaces that demand precise shot-making
Riverfront is designed to let the land dictate the strategy—encouraging players to shape shots and embrace the course’s natural rhythm.
A True Waterfront Experience
True to its name, Riverfront Golf Course winds through picturesque tidal marshes, ancient oak trees, and coastal farmland, creating a round filled with visual drama and tranquil views. Several holes play directly alongside the Nansemond River, offering panoramic water vistas and breezy shot conditions.
The course’s setting has made it a favorite among photographers, travel writers, and golfers looking to experience the natural charm of coastal Virginia.
Accolades & Recognition
Riverfront has received numerous awards and accolades, including:
4½ stars by Golf Digest
Featured in “40 Best Daily Fee Courses in America” by Golf & Travel Magazine
Consistently ranked among the top public courses in Hampton Roads
These honors speak to the course’s commitment to excellent conditioning, customer service, and world-class design.
Course Experience for All Skill Levels
The course plays to just over 7,000 yards from the tips, but offers multiple tee options to suit golfers of all ages and abilities. Players can expect:
A fair test with plenty of room off the tee
Demanding approaches into fast, sloping greens
Water hazards and marsh carry on several holes
A variety of hole shapes to keep every round interesting
Golfers love the finishing stretch, with closing holes that play along the water and require strategic decision-making.
Ideal for Virginia Golf Packages
Located in Suffolk, Riverfront Golf Course is easily accessible from Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Newport News, and Chesapeake, making it a fantastic addition to any Virginia Golf Vacations itinerary.
Booking through Virginia Golf Vacations provides access to:
Custom golf packages including Riverfront and nearby courses
Weekday tee times and group rates
Lodging options near Virginia Beach or Williamsburg
Pair Riverfront with courses like Kiln Creek, Cypress Point, or Sleepy Hole for a well-rounded Tidewater golf trip.
Plan Your Round at Riverfront Golf Course
With its award-winning design, natural waterfront setting, and reputation for excellence, Riverfront Golf Course stands as one of Virginia’s most scenic and satisfying public golf experiences.
Contact Virginia Golf Vacations today to include Riverfront in your next golf getaway and discover why it’s a favorite among coastal Virginia golfers.
Course Details: Par 71 | Course Architect: Tom Doak
Championship | Member | |
---|---|---|
Yardage | 6735 | 5891 |
Course Rating | 72.5 | 68 |
Slope | 129 | 119 |