The Vineyards Golf Club

The Vineyards Golf Club sits in Riverhead on Long Island's North Fork, a region better known for its wine country than its golf courses. Designed by Buddy Johnson and opened in the late 1990s, the course occupies gently rolling terrain characteristic of eastern Long Island's agricultural landscape. The routing takes advantage of modest elevation changes and incorporates natural features typical of the area, including stands of mature trees and open fairway corridors that echo the vineyard rows found throughout the surrounding countryside. Johnson, a regional architect with several courses across the Northeast, created a layout that balances accessibility for everyday play with enough strategic interest to engage better players. The design emphasizes playability from multiple tee sets while incorporating water hazards and bunkering that require thoughtful course management. The property's relatively open character allows wind to factor into club selection, particularly during the spring and fall seasons. The Vineyards functions primarily as a daily-fee facility serving both local residents and visitors exploring Long Island's North Fork wine trail. The course has become a popular option for golfers combining rounds with visits to nearby wineries and farm stands. Its location roughly 90 minutes from New York City makes it accessible for day trips, though it maintains a quieter, more rural atmosphere than courses closer to the metropolitan area. The clubhouse reflects the region's agricultural heritage with straightforward amenities focused on the golf experience.