Massachusetts’ country club scene is a magnet for the ultra-wealthy, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, exclusivity, and world-class amenities. From historic institutions with storied pasts to modern enclaves catering to the elite, these clubs represent the pinnacle of opulence. Below, we dive into the top 35 most exclusive and expensive country clubs in the Bay State, each epitomizing the lavish lifestyle sought by the affluent.
35. Walpole Country Club
Walpole Country Club is a private 18-hole club in Walpole known for its championship golf course and active membership. Founded in 1927, it has a long history and has hosted many state golf tournaments. Membership here isn’t just about golf – it’s a full lifestyle club with a busy calendar of men’s, women’s, and junior events.
Though it may appear unassuming, Walpole CC is quite exclusive. The club is member-run and prides itself on excellent conditions and a welcoming but elite environment for members. Recent demand for private clubs has soared, and Walpole’s initiation fees and dues have climbed accordingly. While perhaps less famous than some Boston-area clubs, Walpole Country Club’s steep cost of entry and limited membership slots reflect its place among the priciest clubs in the state.
34. Blue Hill Country Club
Blue Hill Country Club, located in Canton, Massachusetts, is a distinguished private club with a history dating back to its founding in 1925. The centerpiece of the club is its 18-hole championship golf course, designed by the legendary Donald Ross. The course is renowned for its classic New England design, featuring a challenging yet fair layout that makes strategic use of the natural contours of the land, including notable elevation changes. Its meticulously maintained fairways and complex greens, characteristic of Ross’s work, provide a demanding and enjoyable test for golfers of all skill levels, set against the backdrop of the scenic Blue Hill Reservation.
Beyond its acclaimed golf course, Blue Hill Country Club offers a comprehensive array of amenities designed to provide a rich and engaging experience for its members. The elegant clubhouse serves as a central hub for social activities, featuring various dining options, from casual to formal, and spaces for events and gatherings. In addition to golf, members can enjoy extensive racquet facilities, including tennis and paddle tennis courts, as well as a swimming pool. The club prides itself on its commitment to exceptional service, a strong sense of community, and a diverse calendar of social events, ensuring a well-rounded and premier experience for its members.
33. Haverhill Country Club
Haverhill Country Club, located in Haverhill, Massachusetts, is a venerable private club with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1925. The club’s centerpiece is its 18-hole championship golf course, masterfully designed by the renowned Wayne Stiles. This classic New England course is celebrated for its challenging yet fair layout, featuring well-conditioned fairways and pristine greens that seamlessly integrate with the natural landscape of the Merrimack Valley. It offers a strategic test for golfers of all skill levels, providing an enjoyable and often scenic round of golf.
Beyond its acclaimed golf course, Haverhill Country Club provides a comprehensive array of amenities designed to offer a premium recreational and social experience for its members. The club boasts a picturesque clubhouse with various dining options, including a Fireside Grill and a 19th Hole Pub, as well as a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the golf course. Members can also enjoy a junior Olympic-size swimming pool and a vibrant social calendar with numerous events and gatherings, fostering a strong sense of community and providing a welcoming environment for families and individuals.
32. Hatherly Country Club
Hatherly Country Club, located in North Scituate, Massachusetts, is a historic private club with a stunning coastal setting, established in 1921. Its 18-hole golf course is a classic design by Donald Ross, which was completed in 1923. The course is uniquely situated along the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking ocean views and a distinct links-style feel, particularly when the ocean breezes come into play. It’s renowned for its strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and a layout that challenges golfers with both its beauty and its subtle complexities, providing a truly memorable and classic New England coastal golfing experience.
Beyond its magnificent golf course, Hatherly Country Club offers a range of amenities that capitalize on its seaside location and cater to a family-oriented membership. The clubhouse provides a welcoming atmosphere with dining options that often feature views of the ocean, perfect for social gatherings and events. The club prides itself on its relaxed yet refined ambiance, its strong sense of community, and its commitment to providing an exceptional experience that blends the traditions of a classic country club with the charm of coastal living
31. The Kittansett Club
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Buzzards Bay in Marion, Massachusetts, The Kittansett Club stands as a venerable institution embodying a rich history and timeless elegance. This exclusive private golf club, founded in 1922, boasts a breathtaking seaside setting and a meticulously designed course that has garnered acclaim from golf enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
The Kittansett Club seamlessly blends classic New England charm with a commitment to providing a premier golfing experience, inviting members to indulge in the tranquility of its scenic surroundings and the challenge of its renowned golf course. With a storied legacy and a commitment to excellence, The Kittansett Club remains a distinguished destination for those seeking refined leisure and a sense of community in the heart of Marion, Massachusetts.
30. Worcester Country Club
Worcester Country Club, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, holds a distinguished place in American golf history, having been founded in 1913. Its 18-hole golf course is a classic Donald Ross design, renowned for its strategic layout, challenging greens, and the meticulous way it flows over the natural contours of the New England landscape. The club is perhaps most famous for being the site of the inaugural Ryder Cup matches in 1927, a landmark event in professional golf, and it has also hosted the 1925 U.S. Open and the 1960 U.S. Women’s Open, solidifying its reputation as a championship-caliber venue that has stood the test of time.
Beyond its historically significant golf course, Worcester Country Club provides a comprehensive suite of amenities to its members. The elegant clubhouse offers various dining options, from casual to formal, and serves as a vibrant hub for social gatherings and events. In addition to golf, members can enjoy extensive racquet facilities, including tennis and paddle tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The club prides itself on its rich traditions, commitment to exceptional service, and a strong sense of community, ensuring a premier and engaging experience for its members.
29. Framingham Country Club
Framingham Country Club, located in Framingham, Massachusetts, is a private club with a long-standing tradition, having been established in 1898. The centerpiece of the club is its 18-hole golf course, which was redesigned by the renowned Donald Ross in 1922, a testament to its classic design and enduring appeal. The course is known for its strategic layout, featuring undulating terrain, well-placed bunkers, and greens that present subtle yet challenging contours, demanding thoughtful shot-making and course management. It offers a fair and enjoyable test for golfers of all skill levels, set within a mature New England landscape.
Beyond its acclaimed golf course, Framingham Country Club offers a wide array of amenities that cater to a comprehensive country club experience. The elegant clubhouse serves as a central hub for social activities, providing various dining options, from casual to formal, and spaces for events and gatherings. In addition to golf, members can enjoy extensive racquet facilities, including tennis and paddle tennis courts, as well as a swimming pool. The club prides itself on its welcoming atmosphere, strong sense of community, and a diverse calendar of social events, ensuring a well-rounded and engaging experience for its members.
28. Wellesley Country Club
Wellesley Country Club, located in Wellesley, Massachusetts, is a prestigious private club with a storied history, having been established in 1910. The club’s centerpiece is its immaculately maintained 18-hole golf course, which was redesigned by the renowned Donald Ross in 1929. The course is a classic example of Ross’s strategic brilliance, featuring rolling terrain, challenging green complexes with subtle contours, and well-placed bunkering that demands thoughtful shot-making. It provides a demanding yet exceptionally enjoyable test for golfers of all skill levels, integrating seamlessly with the beautiful New England landscape and offering a picturesque setting for a round of golf.
Beyond its acclaimed golf course, Wellesley Country Club offers a comprehensive array of amenities designed to provide a rich and engaging experience for its members. The elegant clubhouse serves as a central hub for social activities, featuring various dining options, from casual to formal, and spaces for events and gatherings. In addition to golf, members can enjoy extensive racquet facilities, including tennis and paddle tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a modern fitness center. The club is known for its commitment to exceptional service, a strong sense of community, and a diverse calendar of social events, making it a highly sought-after destination for families and individuals seeking a premier club experience.
27. Brookmeadow Country Club
Brookmeadow Country Club, located in Canton, Massachusetts, is a public golf course known for offering an accessible and enjoyable golfing experience to a wide range of players. While not a private club, it provides a well-maintained 18-hole course that caters to both casual golfers and those looking for a more challenging round. The course features a diverse layout with a mix of open and tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and greens that can be tricky, demanding accuracy and thoughtful shot placement. Its design integrates with the natural contours of the landscape, offering a pleasant and often scenic walk or ride.
Beyond the golf course, Brookmeadow Country Club offers a variety of amenities typical of a public facility. It includes a pro shop stocked with golf essentials and a restaurant or grille room that provides a comfortable setting for a meal or drinks after a round. The club often hosts golf leagues, outings, and functions, making it a popular spot for community events and social gatherings. Its public access nature makes it a welcoming option for individuals, groups, and families seeking a quality golf experience without the commitment of a private membership.
26. Wampatuck Country Club
Wampatuck Country Club, located in Canton, Massachusetts, is a private club with a long-standing history, having been founded in 1923. The club’s centerpiece is its 18-hole golf course, designed by the prolific New England architect Wayne Stiles. The course is known for its classic, traditional New England design, featuring tree-lined fairways, well-placed bunkering, and greens that present subtle challenges, demanding accuracy and thoughtful play. It offers a fair and enjoyable test for golfers of all skill levels, integrating seamlessly with the natural landscape of its suburban setting and providing a pleasant round of golf.
Beyond its golf course, Wampatuck Country Club offers a range of amenities aimed at fostering a community atmosphere for its members. The clubhouse provides dining facilities and spaces for social gatherings and events. In addition to golf, members can enjoy tennis courts and a swimming pool, offering recreational options for families and individuals. The club prides itself on its welcoming environment and its commitment to providing a balanced experience of sports, social activities, and relaxation for its membership.
25. Edgartown Golf Club
Edgartown Golf Club, located in Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, is a private, semi-private, and public club offering a unique blend of accessibility and a high-quality golfing experience on the island. Opened in 1926, the course features 9 holes with multiple tee boxes that allow for playing an 18-hole round with varied perspectives and challenges. While not a full 18-hole championship layout in the traditional sense, the course is known for its excellent conditioning, strategic bunkering, and well-maintained greens. Its design gracefully incorporates the island’s natural contours and prevailing winds, providing an enjoyable yet challenging round for golfers of all skill levels, often with glimpses of the island’s charming landscapes.
Beyond its golf course, Edgartown Golf Club offers a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere that captures the essence of Martha’s Vineyard. The clubhouse provides a comfortable setting for dining and socializing, offering both casual fare and a place for members and guests to relax after their round. The club is well-regarded for its friendly service and its commitment to providing an accessible golf option on an island known for its exclusive private clubs. It serves as a popular destination for both island residents and visitors seeking a quality golf experience in a laid-back, beautiful setting.
24. Milton Hoosic Club
Milton Hoosic Club, located in Milton, Massachusetts, is a private social and athletic club with a long and storied history dating back to its founding in 1891. While it offers a range of facilities, the club is perhaps best known for its golf course. The 9-hole course provides a charming and accessible golfing experience, often lauded for its well-maintained conditions and strategic design that offers a surprising challenge given its compact nature. It’s a popular choice for members looking for a quicker round or honing their short game, and its classic New England layout fits seamlessly into the suburban landscape.
Beyond golf, Milton Hoosic Club is recognized for its diverse array of recreational and social amenities, catering to a wide spectrum of member interests. The clubhouse serves as a central hub for social gatherings and dining. Members can enjoy extensive racquet facilities, including tennis and paddle tennis courts, which are very active programs within the club. Additionally, there’s a swimming pool and various social events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community and providing a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike.
23. Blue Hill Country Club
Blue Hill Country Club, located in the affluent suburb of Canton, offers both rich history and high-end facilities. Founded in 1925 originally as a club for those excluded elsewhere, Blue Hill has grown into a premier 27-hole country club set on 210 wooded acres. It’s known for an excellent championship course (which once hosted the 1956 PGA Championship and LPGA Tour events). The club’s heritage includes being a welcoming home for members of all backgrounds – it was one of the first top clubs open to Jewish members in an era when others were not.
Today, Blue Hill is family-oriented and upscale, with a resort-style pool and a grand clubhouse. The club did face financial challenges and even partnered with a private club investment firm to secure its future, but it remains exclusive and pricey. Membership comes with high dues and fees, though the club has worked to balance costs with value. With its storied course and amenities, Blue Hill continues to rank among Massachusetts’ expensive country clubs, serving a community that values tradition and top-notch service.
22. Ipswich Country Club logo
Ipswich Country Club, located in Ipswich, Massachusetts, is a private golf and social club known for its championship course and extensive amenities. Originally opened in 1989 and designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course is characterized by its dramatic mounding, strategic bunkering, and large, undulating greens that provide a challenging yet fair test for golfers of all skill levels. The course winds through a beautiful New England landscape, incorporating natural wetlands and mature trees, creating a scenic and memorable golfing experience. It is consistently maintained to a high standard, offering excellent playing conditions throughout the season.
Beyond its acclaimed golf course, Ipswich Country Club offers a wide array of facilities designed to provide a comprehensive country club experience. The elegant clubhouse serves as a central hub, featuring multiple dining options, social spaces, and a pro shop. Members also have access to an impressive sports complex, which includes a swimming pool, a modern fitness center, and tennis courts. The club often hosts various social events and activities, fostering a strong sense of community among its members and providing a well-rounded recreational and social environment for families.
21. Eastward Ho! Country Club
Eastward Ho! Country Club, located in Chatham, Massachusetts, is a singularly unique and revered private club offering one of the most distinctive golfing experiences in the United States. Established in 1922, its 18-hole golf course was masterfully designed by Herbert Fowler, a celebrated English architect, who leveraged the dramatic, windswept coastal terrain of Pleasant Bay to create a links-style masterpiece. The course is characterized by its dramatic elevation changes, challenging blind shots, rugged natural bunkering, and firm, fast-playing conditions that are heavily influenced by the ever-present ocean winds. Its unparalleled beauty and strategic demands, often requiring creative shot-making, make it a true purist’s golf course and consistently rank it among the top courses in the country.
Beyond its extraordinary golf course, Eastward Ho! Country Club provides an intimate and exclusive club experience befitting its stunning location. The clubhouse, perched atop a bluff overlooking Pleasant Bay, offers breathtaking panoramic views and features refined dining options, social spaces, and a pro shop. The club maintains a strong focus on the golf experience, emphasizing the classic aspects of the game and fostering a deep appreciation for its unique design and natural surroundings. It remains a highly sought-after destination for those who cherish a challenging, traditional links-style course in an iconic Cape Cod setting.
20. Belmont Country Club
Belmont Country Club, in the upscale suburb of Belmont just outside Boston, has been a standard for luxury for over a century. Established in 1918, this club has “set the bar for private country clubs in the Metro Boston area,” offering a top-notch golf course and lavish amenities. The rolling Donald Ross-designed course is meticulously maintained, and the club’s facilities cater to families and business elites alike.
Belmont is invitation-only and highly exclusive, often requiring substantial fees and social connections to join. It’s a place where old Boston wealth and new affluent members mingle, enjoying fine dining, tennis, swimming, and of course championship-caliber golf. With years-long waitlists and high membership dues, Belmont Country Club firmly earns its spot among the most expensive clubs in Massachusetts.
19. Longmeadow Country Club
Longmeadow Country Club, situated in Longmeadow, Massachusetts, is a venerable private club with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1922. The centerpiece of the club is its classic 18-hole golf course, a masterful design by the legendary Donald Ross. Known for its strategic layout, the course features rolling fairways, meticulously manicured greens with subtle contours, and well-placed bunkers that demand thoughtful shot-making. It has a notable tournament history, having hosted the 1995 U.S. Women’s Open, a testament to its championship quality and its ability to challenge the game’s elite. The course consistently receives high praise for its classic design and immaculate conditioning, offering a timeless golfing experience.
Beyond its acclaimed golf course, Longmeadow Country Club offers a wide array of amenities, creating a comprehensive and family-friendly environment for its members. The elegant clubhouse provides various dining options, from casual to formal, and serves as a vibrant hub for social events and gatherings. In addition to golf, members can enjoy extensive racquet facilities, including tennis and paddle tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a modern fitness center. The club prides itself on its strong sense of community, exceptional service, and a diverse calendar of social activities, ensuring a well-rounded and engaging experience for members of all ages.
18. Brae Burn Country Club
Brae Burn Country Club, in West Newton, is one of Massachusetts’ most storied private clubs. Founded in 1897, Brae Burn has over a century of history and was a pioneering club in American golf – it hosted the U.S. Open in 1919 and other national championships. The club features 27 holes of golf (an 18-hole Donald Ross course and an additional 9-hole course), making it a paradise for serious golfers.
Brae Burn’s membership is exclusive and traditionally has included many of Boston’s prominent families. The club has a grand clubhouse atop a hill and offers full family amenities (pool, tennis, dining). To join Brae Burn, one typically needs to be recommended and go through a rigorous selection process – it’s not just about paying the fee, but also about being a good social fit. That said, the fees are substantial: initiation and dues are among the higher end in the region. Brae Burn prides itself on a “quality experience” for members, and that comes with a price, solidifying its place among the most expensive and esteemed country clubs in Massachusetts.
17. Winchester Country Club
Winchester Country Club is a distinguished private club located in the wealthy town of Winchester, just north of Boston. Established in the early 1900s, it has long been a bastion of Boston Brahmin society and has a gorgeous Donald Ross-designed course. In recent years, demand to join Winchester CC has surged – what was once a club seeking members turned into one with full rolls and waitlists, especially after golf’s post-2020 boom.
The club offers an elegant clubhouse, multiple dining options, and family recreational facilities, but golf is the centerpiece. Winchester’s course is tree-lined and impeccably kept, having hosted numerous state championships. To join, one typically needs personal connections and deep pockets, as the initiation fee is very high (comparable to other big-name clubs). Despite its understated profile (it doesn’t seek publicity), Winchester CC’s combination of an exclusive membership, historic prestige, and high costs firmly places it among the most expensive clubs in Massachusetts.
16. Concord Country Club
Concord Country Club, located in Concord, Massachusetts, is a distinguished private club steeped in history, having been established in 1895. While its origins are rooted in a broader social and recreational purpose, it is primarily recognized for its classic 18-hole golf course. The current layout largely reflects the work of William S. Flynn, a highly respected golf course architect, who redesigned the course in the 1920s. Flynn’s design is known for its naturalistic style, seamlessly integrating with the rolling New England terrain, featuring strategic bunkering, and greens that present subtle yet significant challenges, demanding thoughtful play from golfers of all skill levels. The course provides a challenging and enjoyable round in a picturesque setting, upholding its reputation as a premier golfing destination in the region.
Beyond its acclaimed golf course, Concord Country Club offers a wide array of amenities, fostering a vibrant and family-friendly environment for its members. The elegant clubhouse serves as a central hub for social activities, providing various dining options, from casual to formal, and spaces for events and gatherings. In addition to golf, members can enjoy a comprehensive racquets program, including tennis and paddle tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The club is dedicated to providing exceptional service and a strong sense of community, ensuring a well-rounded and engaging experience for its members across generations.
15. Charles River Country Club
Charles River Country Club, located in Newton, Massachusetts, is a highly acclaimed private club with a distinguished history, renowned primarily for its exceptional golf course. Established in 1921, the course was designed by the legendary Donald Ross, and it remains a superb example of his architectural genius, consistently ranked among the top courses in Massachusetts. The layout is characterized by its strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and a challenging yet fair design that demands precise shot-making and thoughtful course management. The club has a rich tournament history, having hosted several significant events, including the 1968 U.S. Women’s Open and the 2003 U.S. Amateur, underscoring its championship pedigree.
Beyond its world-class golf, Charles River Country Club offers a comprehensive range of amenities, providing a vibrant and inclusive environment for its members. The elegant clubhouse serves as a central hub, offering various dining options, social spaces, and well-appointed locker rooms. In addition to golf, members can enjoy a robust racquet sports program with tennis and paddle tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The club is known for its commitment to excellent service, a strong sense of community, and a calendar full of social events, making it a highly desirable destination for families and individuals seeking a premier club experience.
14. Vesper Country Club
Vesper Country Club, located in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts, is a historic private club with a rich legacy dating back to its founding in 1895, making it one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States. Its championship golf course is a classic Donald Ross design, laid out in 1909, and remains largely true to his original vision. The course is uniquely situated on a peninsula bordered by the Merrimack River, offering picturesque water views on many holes. It’s renowned for its traditional New England character, featuring rolling terrain, well-placed bunkers, and challenging greens that demand precision and strategic play, making it a true test of golf for players of all skill levels.
Beyond its storied golf course, Vesper Country Club provides a comprehensive array of amenities that cater to a wide range of interests, fostering a strong sense of community among its members. The elegant clubhouse offers various dining experiences, social spaces, and a pro shop. In addition to golf, members can enjoy a robust racquets program with tennis and paddle tennis courts, as well as a swimming pool and boating access on the Merrimack River. The club’s commitment to both its historical heritage and modern member services ensures a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for families and individuals alike.
13. Nantucket Golf Club
Nantucket Golf Club is an exclusive private golf club located on the idyllic island of Nantucket, Massachusetts, offering a quintessential high-end golf experience. Established in 1998 and designed by the renowned team of Rees Jones and Ron Forse, the course is seamlessly integrated into the island’s unique heathland and links-style terrain. It is celebrated for its pristine conditions, strategic bunkering, and firm, fast-playing surfaces that mimic traditional Scottish and Irish courses. The design takes full advantage of Nantucket’s natural contours and prevailing winds, providing a challenging yet exceptionally scenic round of golf with views of the island’s natural beauty.
Beyond its acclaimed golf course, Nantucket Golf Club provides a comprehensive suite of luxury amenities tailored to its discerning membership. The elegant clubhouse offers exquisite dining, sophisticated social spaces, and a pro shop with exclusive merchandise. The club also boasts extensive practice facilities, including a spacious driving range and dedicated short-game areas, all maintained to the same impeccable standards as the course itself. With its discreet atmosphere, unparalleled service, and focus on delivering a pure golf experience in a breathtaking island setting, Nantucket Golf Club stands as one of the most prestigious and sought-after private clubs in the Northeast.
12. Hyannisport Club
Located on picturesque Cape Cod, Hyannisport Club is a seaside sanctuary known for its stunning views of Nantucket Sound. This private club keeps a small, invitation-only membership, making it extremely exclusive. Hyannisport is steeped in history – it’s famously associated with the Kennedy family and often regarded as their home course.
The golf course, a classic Donald Ross design, isn’t long but is challenging due to coastal winds and lightning-fast greens, adding to its allure. Very few people get the honor of playing here, as Hyannisport intentionally limits access, reinforcing its elite reputation (and lofty membership cost) among Massachusetts clubs.
11. GreatHorse
GreatHorse is a prestigious private golf club located in Hampden, Massachusetts, set amidst the picturesque rolling hills of Western Massachusetts. Opened in 2015, it is a relatively new but exceptionally well-regarded course designed by Brian Silva, the same architect behind Cape Cod National. The course is known for its dramatic elevation changes, expansive fairways, and challenging green complexes, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the distant Berkshire Mountains. GreatHorse prides itself on its immaculate conditioning and strategic design, providing a demanding yet highly enjoyable experience for golfers of all abilities, often praised for its creative use of the natural topography.
Beyond the championship golf course, GreatHorse offers an array of luxurious amenities to its members, creating a comprehensive lifestyle experience. The grand clubhouse features multiple dining venues, including a fine dining restaurant, casual grill room, and outdoor patios, all offering spectacular views. The club also boasts an impressive aquatic center with multiple pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts, and paddle tennis courts. With its focus on exceptional service, world-class facilities, and a vibrant social calendar, GreatHorse aims to provide a premier private club experience in a stunning natural setting.
10. Cape Cod National Golf Club
Cape Cod National Golf Club, located in Brewster, Massachusetts, is an exclusive private golf club renowned for its challenging yet beautiful championship course. Opened in 1998, the course was designed by Brian Silva, a well-regarded architect known for his traditional, New England-style designs. It is celebrated for its natural beauty, seamlessly integrating with the rugged, rolling terrain of Cape Cod, featuring pristine fescue-lined fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and strategic bunkering. The layout offers a stimulating test for golfers of all skill levels, demanding precise shot-making and strategic thinking, and often offering glimpses of the surrounding cranberry bogs and natural woodlands.
Beyond its highly acclaimed golf course, Cape Cod National Golf Club provides an intimate and upscale experience for its members. The clubhouse, designed in a classic Cape Cod architectural style, offers a refined setting for dining and socializing, complete with a pro shop and excellent locker room facilities. The club prides itself on its focus on the pure golf experience, providing exceptional course conditions and a relaxed, yet sophisticated atmosphere. It is considered one of the premier golf destinations on Cape Cod, appealing to those who appreciate a challenging course in a tranquil and picturesque setting.
9. Salem Country Club
Salem Country Club, located in Peabody, Massachusetts, is a revered private club with a deep-rooted history stretching back to its founding in 1895. While initially conceived as a place for social gatherings and outdoor pursuits, it is perhaps most renowned for its championship golf course, designed by the legendary Donald Ross. Opened in 1925, the course is a classic example of Ross’s strategic brilliance, featuring undulating fairways, challenging greens with subtle breaks, and well-placed bunkers that demand thoughtful play. The club has a prestigious pedigree, having hosted numerous significant golf tournaments, including the 1932 U.S. Women’s Amateur, the 1954 U.S. Women’s Open, the 1977 U.S. Senior Open, and the 2017 U.S. Senior Open, cementing its reputation as a true test of golf.
Beyond its world-class golf course, Salem Country Club offers a comprehensive range of amenities designed to provide a rich and engaging experience for its members. The elegant clubhouse serves as a central hub for dining, social events, and relaxation. In addition to golf, members can enjoy a robust racquet sports program with tennis and paddle tennis courts, as well as swimming facilities. The club maintains a commitment to preserving its storied past while offering modern conveniences, ensuring a welcoming and active community for generations of families.
8. Sankaty Head Golf Club
Sankaty Head Golf Club offers a truly unique exclusive experience – it’s perched on the far eastern edge of Nantucket Island, surrounded by ocean views and anchored by the iconic Sankaty Head Lighthouse. This club is one of the easternmost golf courses in the U.S., sitting out by Siasconset with windswept fairways and a vintage charm. Sankaty Head is private; it includes not just golf but also tennis and beach facilities for its members, making it a full summer retreat.
Membership is extremely limited – Nantucket’s island community is small, and Sankaty is one of only two golf clubs on the island (the other being the ultra-high-end Nantucket Golf Club). As such, demand is high and membership fees are exorbitant. Despite its exclusivity, Sankaty has a quaint tradition: it operates a famous caddie camp for youth each summer, underscoring its old-school vibe. Non-members can only get a peek by playing in the offseason, when the club briefly opens to the public. In season, Sankaty Head is the playground of a select few who don’t mind paying top dollar for the privilege of golf by the lighthouse in perfect seclusion.
7. Oyster Harbors Club
Oyster Harbors Club is an exclusive, private golf club located on beautiful Osterville in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, offering a serene and luxurious escape. Established in 1926, the club’s centerpiece is its championship 18-hole golf course, meticulously designed by the renowned architect Donald Ross. The course is celebrated for its classic New England design, featuring narrow, tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and typically fast, undulating greens that demand precision and strategic play. Its proximity to the Nantucket Sound imbues the course with a unique coastal feel, with ocean breezes often playing a role in the challenge, and providing glimpses of the surrounding water.
Beyond its exceptional golf course, Oyster Harbors Club provides a full suite of upscale amenities catering to its discerning membership. The elegant clubhouse offers exquisite dining experiences, social spaces, and a pro shop. In addition to golf, members can enjoy tennis facilities, a swimming pool, and access to private beaches, allowing for a diverse range of recreational activities. The club is known for its intimate and sophisticated atmosphere, fostering a strong sense of community among its members while offering unparalleled service and a quintessential Cape Cod private club experience.
6. Myopia Hunt Club
Myopia Hunt Club is one of the most storied and secretive clubs in the country, let alone Massachusetts. Founded in 1882 in Winchester, it began as a fox-hunting club and later added one of America’s oldest golf courses. The course hosted four U.S. Opens in the early 1900s and remains largely untouched from that era. There are also polo fields and riding rings still in active use, maintaining the club’s traditional equestrian culture.
Membership is nearly impossible to attain without lineage or deep social ties. The club is famously insular—so much so that it’s earned the nickname “Mysterious Myopia.” Even if you’re wealthy, don’t expect to join without a legacy or personal recommendation from a member. The initiation fee and dues are significant, but the real barrier is access. For those who do get in, Myopia offers a rare world of privacy, heritage, and elite standing that few clubs in the U.S. can match.
5. TPC Boston
TPC Boston, located in Norton, Massachusetts, is a premier private golf club and a key component of the PGA Tour’s Tournament Players Club network. Established in 2002, the course was originally designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer. However, it underwent a significant redesign in 2007 by Gil Hanse, with PGA Tour player Brad Faxon consulting, to better integrate with the natural New England landscape and enhance its strategic challenges. This redesign earned it “Best Private Remodel of 2007” by Golf Digest. The par-72 (formerly par-73) course is recognized for its immaculate conditioning and ability to test the world’s best golfers, while offering five sets of tees to accommodate players of all skill levels.
Beyond its championship-caliber golf course, TPC Boston provides a luxurious and comprehensive club experience. The New England-style clubhouse offers various dining options, a pro shop, and well-appointed locker rooms. The club also boasts an extensive practice facility, including two levels of grass tees, a short game area, and putting greens, all designed to mimic tournament conditions. TPC Boston has a rich history of hosting professional golf events, including being a rotating venue for The Northern Trust (a FedExCup Playoff event) and previously the Dell Technologies Championship. In a significant recent development, TPC Boston also became the host of the LPGA’s new, high-purse FM Global Championship, further solidifying its status as a major professional golf venue in the Northeast.
4. Dedham Country & Polo Club
Dedham Country & Polo Club, located in Dedham, Massachusetts, is a historic private club with roots dating back to 1887 when it was founded as the Dedham Polo Club. Over the years, it evolved and merged with the Norfolk Country Club in 1910, eventually establishing its current name and expansive offerings. The club’s golf course is a significant highlight, originally featuring a nine-hole layout by Donald Ross in 1915, but most notably shaped into its full 18-hole design by the renowned architect Seth Raynor in 1925. This makes it the only Seth Raynor-designed course in Massachusetts, a distinction that golf enthusiasts highly value. The course itself is known for its challenging, undulating terrain and features Raynor’s signature template holes, offering a strategic and engaging round of golf despite its modest yardage.
Beyond its acclaimed golf course, Dedham Country & Polo Club prides itself on being a comprehensive, family-centered club with a wide array of amenities. The 167-acre campus provides extensive recreational opportunities, including one of the largest racquets programs in Massachusetts, encompassing tennis and paddle tennis. Members also have access to swimming facilities, trap shooting, and ice skating, depending on the season. The elegant clubhouse serves as a central hub for social events and dining, reinforcing the club’s commitment to fostering a vibrant community and providing a premier experience for its members.
3. Vineyard Golf Club
Vineyard Golf Club is an exclusive private golf course located on the picturesque island of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. Opened in 2002, it quickly distinguished itself by becoming the country’s first and preeminent fully organic golf course, meaning it operates without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or herbicides. This commitment to environmental stewardship reflects the island’s strong community values and desire to protect its natural resources, particularly its aquifer. The course winds through 235 acres of naturally rolling land, with a design by renowned architects Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner that seamlessly blends into the bucolic setting, featuring classic design elements that offer varied and engaging challenges for golfers of all skill levels.
Beyond its innovative organic approach, Vineyard Golf Club is designed as a walking course, enhancing the traditional golf experience, and offers an exceptional caddie program. The layout presents numerous strategic choices and risk/reward decisions, with diverse green sizes and shapes demanding a wide array of short game shots. The club is known for its firm and fast fairways, revetted bunkers, and subtly contoured greens, evoking a distinctive style of heathland golf. Its secluded location also provides essential privacy, notably attracting high-profile guests, including former President Barack Obama, who has frequently played the course during his Martha’s Vineyard vacations.
2. Weston Golf Club
Weston Golf Club, located in Weston, Massachusetts, boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1894, making it one of the oldest private clubs in the state. The centerpiece of the club is its 18-hole, par-72 golf course, originally designed by the renowned architect Donald Ross. Over the decades, the course has seen some modifications, with later additions by Geoffrey Cornish and recent master planning by Andy Staples, aiming to honor its original design while incorporating modern enhancements. The course is known for its challenging yet enjoyable layout, requiring a blend of precision and touch, and features well-maintained fairways and subtly contoured putting surfaces. Notably, the course occasionally requires golfers to play across public roads, adding a unique and somewhat rare element to the experience.
Beyond golf, Weston Golf Club offers a comprehensive array of amenities, reflecting its commitment to being a family-centered sporting community. The 124-acre campus includes a clubhouse that serves as a social hub for members, providing dining and event spaces. Members can also enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as tennis, paddle tennis, and bowling, with dedicated facilities and programs for each. The club emphasizes a welcoming atmosphere and a strong sense of community, with a focus on providing exceptional facilities and social activities for generations of families to enjoy
1. The Country Club (Brookline)
The Country Club in Brookline is not only Massachusetts’ most expensive and exclusive—it’s one of the most prestigious clubs in the world. Founded in 1882, it was a founding member of the USGA and has hosted multiple U.S. Opens, most recently in 2022. The course is a masterclass in traditional New England golf, and the clubhouse exudes old-money charm. This is the pinnacle of American private club prestige.
Membership is extremely rare and extremely guarded. Even notable figures like Tom Brady and Governor Deval Patrick were reportedly made to wait—and in some cases, denied. There’s no public initiation fee, but estimates suggest it’s well into six figures, and the selection process is more social than financial. TCC, as it’s known locally, is where Boston’s most powerful quietly gather. No club in Massachusetts—and few in the country—match its combination of history, price, prestige, and exclusivity.
These clubs represent the epitome of luxury and exclusivity in Massachusetts’ country club scene. Each offers a unique blend of world-class golf, opulent amenities, and a commitment to privacy, catering to the elite who seek the finest in leisure and lifestyle.