Harbor Links

By Terrence Jordan

Bon Voyage. The name of the first hole at Harbor Links Golf Course conjures up images of tear-streaked faces of loved ones, waving to a departing ocean vessel. The sad connotation this term usually carries doesn’t apply to this scenic Port Washington course, however. Taken quite literally, “bon voyage” means “good voyage.” And that’s certainly what a romp through Harbor Links is.

The 18-hole championship layout at Harbor Links is a sight to see. Designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, one would never believe that Harbor Links was once nothing more than an old sand mine. Known for his environmentally-friendly designs, Dr. Hurdzan has molded Harbor Links into a sanctuary for both golfers and wildlife. In fact, Harbor Links is one of fewer than three dozen golf courses in the world to be awarded Audubon International Signature Status. The dearth of courses that have achieved this status is a testament to the few that have passed the rigorous requirements. The prerequisites for membership in this exclusive club include being able to create and implement a plan for wildlife conservation, habitat advancement, water quality monitoring and management, water conservation, energy efficiency, pest management, and waste management. The fruit of the Town of North Hempstead’s environmental efforts can be seen all around the course. From the insect-tolerant grasses that reduce the need for harmful pesticides to the habitat boxes for birds and the extension and preservation of wetlands grasses, Harbor Links is a golf course that does things the right way. It even has Tess, a border collie, to keep geese safe and out of each golfer’s way.

For those who expect Harbor Links to be filled with water hazards, think again. Only a few holes bring water into play, although there may be enough on “Oasis,” the 17th, to last a lifetime. The hole’s island green is as dangerous a target as any this side of the 17th at the TPC at Sawgrass, and its length (201 yards from the white tees) demands a perfectly-struck shot. Most people think that the only way to make a snowman out of water is to freeze it, but hitting golf balls into it produces the same effect, and it often happens at the 17th. The rest of the holes at Harbor Links feature a refreshing variety of shotmaking options. From the double fairways of “Imagination” and “Risk Reward” (#5 and #6, respectively) to the triplet bunkers that guard the front edge of the green on “Arizona” (#12), each hole presents a new scenario and a bounty of options at the golfer’s disposal. A word of advice, though. Go for the green in two on the par-5 16th, aptly named “Never Lay Up.” After that, anything goes.

Harbor Links complements its wonderful 18-hole course with a 9-hole executive course. The executive course is a collection of shorter holes that provides a more relaxing round than its more challenging sister course. Each course offers numerous discounts and specials for weekday and twilight rounds, as well as discounts to juniors and seniors. Golfers may want to head to the driving range before their round, where they can purchase buckets of balls, or even the key to the ball machine (only recommended for those who want to play a LOT of golf!). The range’s 40 stalls provide ample room for the large volume of golfers who play Harbor Links each year, and the range is also the site of one of Long Island’s most extensive teaching programs. Featuring workshops and schools geared specifically for female, senior, and junior golfers, as well as workshops for bunker play, putting, the full swing, and the short game, Harbor Links gives all kinds of golfers all kinds of options. Individual lessons are also available, as are extended camps for juniors.
The instructional program at Harbor Links is led by Head PGA Teaching Professional Bob Miller. Miller has become one of Long Island’s most respected teachers in the past two decades, working at Engineer’s Country Club for six years before spending 11 years at The Muttontown Club. Now in his second year at Harbor Links, Miller is joined by Forrest Hamlin, Guna Kunjin, and James Hong, three very capable and affable teaching professionals.

Harbor Links is operated by the Arnold Palmer Golf Management team, which makes sure that each piece of Harbor Links is as pristine as the environmentally sensitive areas it protects. Along with a fully-stocked pro shop and one of the best miniature golf courses on Long Island, Harbor Links now features a brand new clubhouse. In planning for years, the clubhouse finally opened this spring to rave reviews. Harbor Links also offers professional service for golf outings and tournaments, and is a memorable place to hold a banquet or wedding.
Since its unveiling in 1998, Harbor Links has matured as a golf course, and has become one of the best all-around golf facilities on Long Island. Its proximity to the sea means it is well-below the elevation of most of Long Island’s other courses, but don’t be fooled. Just like its 14th hole, Harbor Links is a “Sunken Treasure.”