Should Whistling Straits Be on Your Golf Bucket List?

Hey there, fellow golf enthusiasts! So, do you have a Golfer-Do list? You know, that glorious collection of dream courses you’d love to play before you hang up those spikes for good? As a spry 65-year-young golfer myself, the term "bucket list" just doesn’t sit well with me—too morbid, if you ask me! Instead, let’s embrace the spirit of adventure and call it the Golfer-Do list. So, should Whistling Straits (also known as Destination Kohler) make it onto your list? Let’s dive into it!

The Layout of Whistling Straits

First things first—Whistling Straits is more than just one course; it’s a golf complex nestled along the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Just a hop, skip, and jump from Milwaukee or Green Bay, you’ll find two main courses here: the famous Straits and the lesser-known Irish course. While Pebble Beach and St. Andrews usually steal the spotlight due to their rich histories, Whistling Straits offers a vibe and challenge that’s hard to resist. It’s a solid contender if you’re eyeing some top-tier golf experiences!

The Golfing Experience

Let’s cut to the chase—does Whistling Straits deliver on the golfing experience? Absolutely! The Straits course is the one you’ve likely heard about, having hosted big-time events like the Ryder Cup and several PGA Championships. It’s got an amazing layout that not only tests your skills but also dials up the fun factor. Now, don’t sleep on the Irish course either—it’s got its quirks and challenges that make it a must-play as well. You’ll definitely want to channel your inner pro and try to find DJ’s infamous bunker!

Assessing Value: What’s It Gonna Cost?

Everyone’s got a different take on what’s worth it in golf, right? For some, it’s all about the greens fee; for others, it’s about the overall experience. You might be wondering: “Okay, but what’s it going to cost me?” Currently, a round on the Straits course will set you back around $735, or $455 if you’re looking to play later in the day. The pricing for the Irish course is a bit friendlier at $395, and the courses over at Blackwolf Run have their own price tags too. Just be sure to factor in caddie fees and, if you’re lucky, some food and drinks to complete the experience.

The Package Deal vs. A La Carte Options

If you’re making the trek to Whistling Straits, you’ll want to snag the best deal possible. There are some great packages available, but if you’re more of a free spirit, you can easily book tee times individually. We opted for a package deal called the "To Dye Four," which offers a full golf experience. Imagine three nights at the Inn on Woodlake and playing all four courses, plus a bonus round at The Baths. Sounds like a dream, right? Check this out: that package includes caddie fees, a buffet breakfast, and a golf clinic to help sharpen your skills.

What’s New at Kohler

One of the best things about planning a trip to Whistling Straits is the wide variety of amenities that Kohler offers. Their packages don’t just limit you to rounds of golf; they throw in some serious perks too, like limited replays and access to the Kohler Golf Academy. We had a blast with a two-hour golf clinic featuring some solid tips on everything from your full swing to how to handle sand traps—trust me, you want to nail those shots at Kohler!

More Than Just Golf

If you’ve got some downtime between rounds, don’t worry; Kohler has your back. You can explore their amazing fitness center or pamper yourself with a trip to the Kohler Waters Spa (who doesn’t love a good spa day?). And be sure to grab a bite at the clubhouse! The fish tacos are definitely the talk of the town.

Logistics Made Easy

One of the beauties of Kohler is how well they manage guest logistics. From shuttling you between hotels and courses to handling your clubs delicately, they’ve got it figured out. We booked our trip well in advance (around January was good for us), but they offer tee time flexibility, especially if you can be spontaneous with your plans.

Is It Worth the Hype?

Okay, here’s the million-dollar question: is playing at Whistling Straits worth it? In my humble opinion, if you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime golf trip, Pebble Beach and St. Andrews should probably top your list. However, Whistling Straits is a seriously awesome alternative. It’s easily accessible and features spectacular golf—a great second-tier option. Plus, with its complementary replays, you can maximize your time on the green.

The Final Verdict

So, to wrap it all up: if you’ve already crossed Pebble Beach and St. Andrews off your Golfer-Do list, then Whistling Straits should absolutely be on your radar. You won’t just play a round—you’ll create lasting memories, enjoy stunning views, and experience top-notch service. Plus, with its challenges and charm, it’s sure to keep you coming back for more.

Alright, golf pals, get ready to start planning your next big golfing adventure! 🏌️‍♂️