Golf is not just another game on Cape Cod. It’s a major industry and one of the largest revenue producing businesses from its loyal customer base of locals and tourists.
In 2023 the Cape Cod tourism industry generated more than $251 million in total revenues, with the golf component claiming about $170 million, roughly 65 percent of the tourism pie.
That’s a lot of golf balls, hotel/motel room nights, meals and green fees.
With 42 golf courses routed up, down and across the 65-mile-long peninsula, some golf aficionados affectionately call this Cape Cod neighborhood the “Golf Coast.”
Settled in 1639, Yarmouth opened Bass River Golf Course in 1900, which on July 2 celebrated its 125th anniversary with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a day filled with fun, festivities and golf including a two-person Scramble tournament, prizes, 125th anniversary merchandise, best dressed contest, food, drinks and putting contest.
“This is a special day and special year for the Town of Yarmouth and Bass River Golf Course,” said Head Golf Professional Dennis Hoye, host of the celebration. “2025 marks the 125th anniversary of Bass River Golf Course, which was redesigned in 1914 by world-renowned golf architect Donald Ross. The town is exceptionally proud of the success that Bass River has had in bringing tourists coming to Cape Cod wanting to play golf here year after year. And we expect that tradition to continue
In 1914, Donald Ross redesigned and expanded the original Bass River layout that features wide fairways, small greens and scenic views of Bass River. The course offers multiple sets of tees stretching out to 6,138 yards from the tips. The signature hole is No. 15, a 169-yard par 3 that plays across a slightly elevated green.
The Town of Yarmouth also owns Bayberry Hills and The Links and according to Hoye, last year over 92,000 rounds were played among the three town-owned and managed properties. This year another record will be set since the tee sheet sends Read Moreout over 300 golfers almost every day. More