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Welcome to the prestigious Cape Fear Country Club, nestled in the charming coastal city of Wilmington, North Carolina. Established in 1896, this distinguished private club has been a beacon of Southern hospitality and a haven for avid golfers, social enthusiasts, and those seeking a refined escape. Boasting a rich history and a meticulously manicured landscape, Cape Fear Country Club offers more than just a round of golf.

With its elegant facilities, including a championship golf course, tennis courts, and a luxurious clubhouse, members and guests alike are invited to experience a distinctive blend of tradition, camaraderie, and timeless relaxation against the backdrop of the picturesque Cape Fear River. Join us as we celebrate the essence of Southern living and hospitality at Cape Fear Country Club, where excellence meets charm in every aspect.

Cape Fear Country Club History and Founding

Cape Fear Country Club, founded in 1896, stands as a testament to Wilmington’s rich history and commitment to preserving the traditions of Southern charm. The club originated as the Wilmington Golf Club, evolving over the years into the esteemed institution it is today. Renowned architect Donald Ross, a legendary figure in golf course design, lent his expertise to shape the club’s golf course.

Donald Ross, who designed some of the most iconic golf courses in the United States, including Pinehurst No. 2, left an indelible mark on Cape Fear Country Club. The golf course, with its strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and thoughtfully placed hazards, reflects Ross’s signature style, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golf enthusiasts.

Throughout its storied history, Cape Fear Country Club has been a gathering place for the community’s elite, fostering a sense of camaraderie and tradition. The clubhouse, a stately structure that exudes classic Southern elegance, has been a hub for social events, fine dining, and leisure activities for generations.

Cape Fear Country Club continues to honor its legacy while embracing modern amenities and services. Members and guests alike can relish in the timeless allure of the club’s facilities, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Cape Fear River. With a commitment to excellence and a nod to its illustrious past, Cape Fear Country Club remains a premier destination for those seeking the epitome of Southern hospitality and recreational enjoyment.

Famous Golf Tournament held at Cape Fear Country Club

The most famous golf tournament held at the Cape Fear Country Club in Wilmington, NC is the Azalea Open Invitational. It was held annually from 1945 to 1971, with the exception of 1948.

The tournament was originally known as the Wilmington Open, but it was renamed the Azalea Open in 1949. It was played at the Mobile Country Club in Mobile, Alabama in its first year, but it was moved to Cape Fear Country Club in Wilmington, North Carolina for all subsequent years.

The Azalea Open was a PGA Tour event from 1949 to 1970. It was held in November, and it was a popular tune-up event for the Masters Tournament, which was held in April the following year.

The Azalea Open was won by some of the biggest names in golf, including Arnold Palmer, Ben Hogan, Billy Casper, and Jerry Barber. Palmer won the tournament in 1957, and he nearly won it again in 1958. However, he lost to Doug Sanders in an 18-hole playoff after Palmer called a penalty stroke on himself.

The Azalea Open was discontinued in 1971. The Heritage Tournament, which was held in South Carolina, debuted in 1969 and soon displaced it on the PGA Tour schedule.

The Cape Fear Country Club is a private golf club that was founded in 1896. It is the oldest private country club in North Carolina. The golf course is an 18-hole original Donald Ross-designed course. The club has also hosted a number of other golf tournaments, including the North Carolina Open and the Carolinas Amateur.

Cape Fear Country Club Membership Costs and Dues

Unfortunately, Cape Fear Country Club in Wilmington, NC does not publicly disclose its membership costs and dues. However, here are some insights and estimates based on publicly available information:

Estimated Costs:

Initiation Fee: Based on comparison with other private golf clubs in the area, the estimated initiation fee for a full golf membership at Cape Fear Country Club is likely to be between $50,000 and $100,000. Social memberships may have a lower initiation fee, around $10,000 to $20,000. Junior golf memberships may be even lower, ranging from $5,000 to $10,000.
Monthly Dues: Monthly dues are also expected to be high, potentially between $1,000 and $2,000 for full golf memberships. Social memberships may have dues between $500 and $1,000, while junior golf memberships may be around $250 to $500 per month.

Rumored Costs:

There are some rumors circulating online about the membership costs at Cape Fear Country Club. These rumors suggest that the initiation fees and monthly dues are even higher than the estimates above:

Initiation Fee: Rumors suggest that the initiation fee for a full golf membership could be as high as $125,000, with social memberships potentially costing between $15,000 and $25,000. Junior golf memberships may have initiation fees between $7,500 and $12,500.
Monthly Dues: Monthly dues are also rumored to be significantly higher, with full golf memberships potentially costing up to $2,500 per month. Social memberships may have dues between $750 and $1,250, while junior golf memberships may be around $375 to $625 per month.

Cape Fear Country Club Amenities

Cape Fear Country Club typically offers a range of amenities to cater to the diverse interests of its members. Common amenities at such clubs often include:

Championship Golf Course: Many country clubs, including Cape Fear Country Club, feature an 18-hole championship golf course designed to provide a challenging and enjoyable experience for golf enthusiasts.
Clubhouse: The clubhouse is a focal point for social activities, dining, and events. It often includes dining facilities, banquet halls, and spaces for member gatherings.
Tennis Facilities: Country clubs frequently provide tennis courts for members interested in the sport. These may include both clay and hard courts.
Swimming Pool: A swimming pool is a popular amenity, especially in warmer climates, offering a refreshing escape for members.
Fitness Center: Modern country clubs often include fitness facilities with state-of-the-art equipment for members looking to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
Dining Options: Country clubs typically offer various dining options, ranging from casual to fine dining, providing members with a variety of culinary experiences.
Social Events: Country clubs often organize social events and activities, such as themed parties, holiday celebrations, and special events, fostering a sense of community among members.
Pro Shop: For golf enthusiasts, a pro shop on-site can provide equipment, apparel, and accessories.

Cape Fear Country Club Event Information and Dining Options

Cape Fear Country Club likely hosts a variety of events and celebrations throughout the year to engage and entertain its members. While the specific events may vary, here are some common types of celebrations that many country clubs, including Cape Fear Country Club, might organize:

Holiday Parties: Celebrations for major holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Thanksgiving, and Independence Day often include special events, dinners, or themed parties.
Golf Tournaments: Members may participate in or attend various golf tournaments held at the club, ranging from friendly competitions to more formal events.
Themed Dinners: The club may host themed dinners or culinary events, featuring special menus, wine pairings, or guest chefs.
Member Mixers: Social events like mixers allow members to connect with one another, fostering a sense of community within the club.
Seasonal Celebrations: Clubs often organize events to mark the changing seasons, such as spring brunches, summer barbecues, and fall festivals.
Charity Events: Many country clubs engage in philanthropy by hosting charity events, fundraising dinners, or golf tournaments to support local causes.
Family-oriented Activities: Family-focused events like picnics, family brunches, or children’s parties contribute to a family-friendly atmosphere.
Weddings and Receptions: The club may serve as a venue for members’ weddings and receptions, providing a picturesque setting for these special occasions.
Cultural Events: Some clubs organize cultural events, such as art exhibitions, musical performances, or guest speaker series.

Private country clubs typically offer a range of dining options to cater to the diverse preferences of their members. Here are common dining options you might find at a country club:

Formal Dining Room: Country clubs often have a formal dining room that provides an elegant setting for fine dining experiences. Members can enjoy gourmet meals in a refined atmosphere.
Casual Dining: Many clubs offer more relaxed and casual dining options, such as a grill, pub-style area, or terrace. This is ideal for members seeking a more laid-back atmosphere.
Specialty Cuisine Nights: Some clubs host themed nights or specialty cuisine events where members can enjoy unique dishes, international cuisines, or chef’s specials.
Private Dining Rooms: Country clubs may have private dining rooms available for members who wish to host intimate gatherings, celebrations, or business meetings.
Outdoor Dining: Clubs with scenic views often provide outdoor dining areas or patios where members can enjoy meals while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Social Events with Dining: Many events, including holiday parties, themed dinners, and celebrations, often include a dining component. Members can enjoy special menus during these occasions.

Cape Fear Country Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

The dress code and guest policy at country clubs, including Cape Fear Country Club, are typically designed to maintain a certain level of decorum and uphold the club’s atmosphere. While specific details can vary, here’s a general overview of what you might expect:

Dress Code: Country clubs often have a dress code to ensure that members and guests maintain a neat and appropriate appearance. Common elements of a country club dress code may include:

Golf Attire: On the golf course, specific golf attire may be required. This often includes collared shirts, tailored shorts or slacks, and golf shoes. Denim and athletic wear may be restricted.
Casual Dining: Casual dining areas may allow neat and casual attire, but beachwear, torn jeans, and overly casual clothing may be discouraged.
Formal Dining: Formal dining areas usually have a more refined dress code. Members and guests may be expected to wear business casual or formal attire, with men often required to wear collared shirts and women encouraged to wear appropriate dresses or blouses.
Swimming Pool: If the club has a swimming pool, there may be specific rules about swimwear and appropriate cover-ups in other areas of the club.

Guest Policy: Country clubs typically have policies regarding guests, and these policies can vary. Some common aspects include:

Member Sponsorship: Guests are often required to be sponsored by a member of the club. This member may need to accompany the guest during their visit.
Limitations on Frequency: There may be restrictions on how often a particular guest can visit the club within a specified timeframe.
Registration: Guests may need to register upon arrival, and some clubs may charge a guest fee for facility usage.
Compliance with Rules: Guests are usually expected to comply with the club’s rules and etiquette, including dress code regulations.

Cape Fear Country Club stands as a beacon of Southern charm, offering a rich tapestry of history, elegant amenities, and a commitment to providing a refined yet welcoming environment for its members. From the meticulously designed golf course by the legendary architect Donald Ross to the sophisticated clubhouse that serves as a hub for social gatherings, the club embodies the essence of Southern hospitality.

With a commitment to tradition and a nod to modern amenities, Cape Fear Country Club invites members to indulge in a lifestyle that seamlessly blends leisure, camaraderie, and the scenic beauty of the Cape Fear River. As a distinguished institution in Wilmington, North Carolina, the club continues to write its own chapter in the story of Southern living, offering a haven where excellence and charm converge in every aspect.

Cape Fear Country Club Wilmington NC | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting