​Golfweek just listed the best private golf courses for each state in the U.S. for 2026, and the South Shore is represented high on the list for Massachusetts.The pre-requisites in order to be included on the list are as follows: the course must be private and not accept daily-fee or resort play. An “m” next to its name means it’s a modern course, built in or after 1960, and a “c” denotes a classic course built before 1960.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWant to play the best private golf courses in each state, or just curious about what’s beyond those gates and hedges? Here are your options in Massachusetts.Vineyard Golf Club, located in Edgartown, Massachusetts on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, spans 235 acres and is comprised of a front nine and a back nine, creating a complete 18-hole course.”All skill levels are able to enjoy the course while the challenge in navigating the 112 bunkers around the course is preserved,” the Vineyard Golf Club website said. “Vineyard Golf Club is also one of the few 100% organic golf courses in America.”AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe greens on this course are diverse with varying shapes and sizes, challenging golfers to make different and interesting plays with its own costs and benefits.”This forward-looking approach to the agronomy of golf makes the Club stand out among its peers,” Vineyard said.The website said the only people eligible to apply are those nominated by existing club members.”If you would like to learn more about the club, please contact Elizabeth Rothwell, Sales & Marketing Manager erothwell@vineyardgolf.com,” it said.Vineyard is one of the several golf clubs on the island that has been frequented by former President Barack Obama, according to the Washington Examiner. That report also said the club has a $350,000 initiation fee.View of Squaw Island in Hyannisport looking looking west over Hyannisport Golf Club towards Osterville in Dec. 15, 2021 photo.Located in Barnstable’s Hyannis Port, the Hyannisport Club course is an invitation only course.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement”Welcome! Hyannisport Club is a private golf & tennis club located on picturesque Cape Cod with magnificent views of Nantucket Sound,” their website said. “Founded in 1897, it is enhanced by our premier classic Alexander Findlay/Donald Ross designed 18 hole golf course. Membership is by invitation only.”The Charles River Country Club was established in 1921 and its golf course was designed by the legendary golf architect Donald Ross.”The members play the course from the back tees at a par of 72 and a playing distance of 6,701 yards,” the country club website said. “The course rating is 73.4 with a slope rating of 143.”AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe club is also a returning entry to the list after missing Golfweek’s 2025 best private courses list. The club’s website recommended asking a member of the club about membership information.The Winchester Country Club was offi