
Kingsmill River Course – PGA-Worthy Golf in Historic Williamsburg
Set against the serene backdrop of the James River, the Kingsmill River Course at Kingsmill Resort is one of the most iconic and challenging golf experiences in Virginia. With a legacy of hosting PGA and LPGA Tour events for nearly three decades, this Pete Dye-designed gem combines tournament-grade play with scenic riverfront beauty.
Whether you’re a scratch golfer chasing the ghost of tour champions or a vacationing player seeking a memorable round in Williamsburg, the River Course offers world-class golf with Southern charm.
Championship Pedigree with Scenic Prestige
The Kingsmill River Course is more than just a golf course—it’s a piece of golf history. This 18-hole, par-71 championship layout has welcomed golf’s greatest names including Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Annika Sörenstam, and Karrie Webb. From 1981 to 2002, it hosted the PGA Tour’s Michelob Championship, and from 2003 to 2021 it was home to the LPGA Kingsmill Championship.
Few public-access courses in the country have this pedigree—and you can play it.
Renovated Pete Dye Design with Playability for All
Originally designed by Pete Dye, the course has undergone extensive renovations to modernize play while retaining its classic character. Recent updates include:
Re-contoured greens for more nuanced approach shots
Expanded teeing areas to accommodate all skill levels
Reshaped fairways that enhance strategic shot-making
Restored bunkers with challenging lips and deep faces
From its dramatic river views to its signature par-3 17th hole perched along the water, the River Course showcases Dye’s brilliant course architecture and punishing creativity, balanced by player-friendly options from forward tees.
Course Details at a Glance
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Designer | Pete Dye |
Yardage | 6,831 yards from the tips, five sets of tees |
Signature Holes | Hole 17 (riverside par 3), Hole 18 (scenic closing hole) |
Tour Events Hosted | PGA Tour (Michelob Championship), LPGA Tour (Kingsmill Championship) |
Resort Access | Kingsmill Resort – with lodging, dining, spa, and recreation onsite |
Why Play the Kingsmill River Course?
The River Course combines historic ambiance, tournament tradition, and breathtaking design. Highlights include:
Scenic riverfront holes with unobstructed James River views
Tour-tested layout that challenges pros and entertains amateurs
Perfect location in Williamsburg, near Colonial attractions and vacation lodging
Luxury amenities available through Kingsmill Resort, including spa, restaurants, and condos
Whether you’re planning a solo round, couples’ getaway, or group golf trip, the River Course is the crown jewel of any Williamsburg golf vacation.
Kingsmill’s “Big Break” Stay and Play Package
Looking for a complete Williamsburg golf vacation? The Kingsmill “Big Break” Stay and Play Package—offered exclusively by Virginia Golf Vacations—has everything you need for an unforgettable golf getaway.
Here’s what’s included:
Rounds of Golf: Play one or more rounds on Kingsmill’s River or Plantation Course, plus golf at other popular Williamsburg area courses like Golden Horseshoe’s Gold Course, Williamsburg National, Royal New Kent, and more.
Stay Onsite: Relax in spacious multi-room condo lodging with a full kitchen, living room, and access to resort dining at Elements 1010 or the James River Landing Grill.
Want to Upgrade? Ask about Private Vacation Home Lodging, available only through Virginia Golf Vacations for that extra touch of comfort and privacy.
Why It’s Popular: This package combines the best of both worlds—onsite comfort at Kingsmill Resort and access to the top courses in Williamsburg. It’s no wonder it’s one of our most booked golf trips year after year.
Call 1-877-806-8163 or visit Virginia Golf Vacations to customize your golf getaway.
Course Details: Par 71 | Course Architect: Pete Dye
Championship | Member | |
---|---|---|
Yardage | 6831 | 6326 |
Course Rating | 73.1 | 67.4 |
Slope | 137 | 126 |