November Update: Major Course and Resort Improvements Underway at Lakewood Shores

Golden light, crisp turf — The Gailes is ready for its next chapter.

The Gailes is clearing the way — back to its bold, links-style roots.

Fall colors meet classic links — The Gailes is getting back to its roots.

The Gailes in fall — crisp air, bold bunkers, and classic links vibes.

The Gailes — open, bold, and built for pure links-style play.

As the fall season winds down, we’re taking full advantage of the offseason to continue improving every corner of Lakewood Shores. One of the biggest projects underway right now is extensive clearing work on The Gailes — including the removal of trees, brush, and overgrowth that have built up over time.

This effort is a major step in restoring The Gailes to its original, authentic links-style design, bringing back the open sightlines, rugged character, and true Scottish feel that have always set this course apart. When The Gailes first opened, its look and playability reflected the great seaside links of the U.K. and Ireland. Over the years, as nature filled in around the fairways, that distinct links identity became less pronounced. This project is about returning the course to its roots — and giving golfers the same experience that made The Gailes famous in the first place.

It’s also another example of owner Kevin Aldridge’s ongoing investment and commitment to the resort, ensuring that Lakewood Shores remains a premier destination for golfers across Michigan and beyond. Every decision being made — from major renovations to small details — is focused on quality, playability, and the overall guest experience.

In addition to the work on The Gailes, several other financial and facility improvements are in motion, including:

• Upgrading our fleet of golf carts to provide a smoother, more reliable experience on every round.

• New equipment investments to support course conditioning and long-term maintenance.

• Hotel lodging updates, with rooms undergoing thoughtful maintenance and updates to keep them comfortable and inviting.

• New Clubhouse coming, designed to create a welcoming social atmosphere with a new fireplace, expanded bar area, and inviting space to relax, grab a drink, and enjoy time with friends after a day on the course.

Looking ahead to spring, we’ll also be renovating another 20 bunkers on The Gailes, part of our ongoing plan to enhance playability and ensure consistency across all holes.

At Lakewood Shores, we take great pride in continually investing in our courses, facilities, and guest experience. Every improvement is guided by a simple goal — to make Lakewood Shores a place where golfers not only play great courses but also feel part of something special.

Stay tuned for more updates as these projects continue to take shape. We can’t wait for you to see the results when the 2026 season begins.