If you’re looking for one of the best public golf experiences on Cape Cod, The Captains Golf Course in Brewster delivers twice the fun with two distinct 18-hole layouts: Port and Starboard. Whether you prefer tight, strategic fairways or more open, scorable holes, The Captains offers a well-maintained, classic New England golf experience that’s both playable and challenging in all the right ways.
Port Course (6,675 yards, Par 72) – Tighter fairways, more elevation changes, and a premium on accuracy. This is the shot-maker’s course, where missing the fairway can mean tree trouble and tough angles into the green.
Starboard Course (6,776 yards, Par 72) – More open fairways, bigger greens, and plenty of scoring chances. But don’t get too comfortable—there are well-placed bunkers and tricky pin placements that will test your approach game.
One of the most memorable holes is the par-3 17th on the Port Course, where you’ll need to carry a deep greenside bunker and stick the landing—or risk a tough up-and-down.
Golfers rave about the course conditions here, and for good reason. The greens are quick but fair, the fairways are lush, and the bunkers are well-maintained. If you’re tired of playing municipal courses with patchy rough and inconsistent greens, The Captains is a breath of fresh Cape Cod air.
• Full driving range and short game area (though the range is a short drive from the clubhouse).
• A well-stocked pro shop with everything you need.
• Freeman’s Grill—a great spot for a post-round meal or drink.
With two great courses, pristine conditions, and a welcoming atmosphere, The Captains Golf Course is one of the best public golf destinations in Massachusetts. Whether you’re a casual golfer looking for an enjoyable round or a competitive player wanting a real test, this course delivers.
• Course Layout: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – Two great layouts that cater to different styles of play.
• Course Conditions: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Always in excellent shape, especially for a public course.
• Amenities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – Great facilities, but the driving range is a bit out of the way.
• Overall Experience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – A top-tier public golf experience that keeps golfers coming back.
If you’re planning a Cape Cod golf trip, The Captains Golf Course belongs on your must-play list.
The Captains Golf Course in Brewster, Massachusetts, offers two distinct 18-hole layouts—Port and Starboard—each presenting unique challenges to golfers of varying skill levels.
Slope & Rating: From the back tees, the Port Course measures 6,675 yards with a course rating of 73.1 and a slope rating of 135.
For Beginners: The higher slope rating indicates a challenging layout, which may be demanding for beginners. However, forward tees provide a more manageable experience, allowing newer golfers to enjoy the course while still facing a fair test.
For Experienced Golfers: Seasoned players will appreciate the strategic demands of the Port Course. The combination of length and course rating requires precise shot-making and thoughtful course management to score well.
Slope & Rating: The Starboard Course stretches to 6,776 yards from the back tees, with a course rating of 73.1 and a slope rating of 131.
For Beginners: Slightly more forgiving than the Port Course, the Starboard’s lower slope rating suggests a moderate challenge. Beginners can navigate this course with confidence, especially when utilizing the appropriate tee boxes.
For Experienced Golfers: The Starboard Course offers ample opportunities for skilled golfers to showcase their abilities. Its design encourages strategic play, rewarding accuracy and thoughtful shot selection.
Both courses at The Captains Golf Course provide engaging and challenging experiences. The Port Course’s higher slope rating indicates a more demanding layout, ideal for golfers seeking a rigorous test. Conversely, the Starboard Course offers a slightly more accessible challenge, suitable for a broader range of players. Regardless of choice, golfers can expect well-maintained fairways, strategic hazards, and an enjoyable round on Cape Cod.
• Port Course: 8/10
• Starboard Course: 7.5/10
These ratings reflect the courses’ respective challenges, considering their slope and course ratings, as well as overall playability.
