Harbor Shores, a Lake Michigan shoreline golf destination in Benton Harbor featuring a Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf course, has introduced its newest attraction – the Wee Course. This short pitch-and-putt course, designed by Hall of Famer and 2014-2015 KitchenAid Senior PGA Champion Colin Montgomerie, is available for limited preview play, with kids playing for free and a focus on youth programming.
“I’m thrilled to be part of this special project with Harbor Shores, a place and community I hold close to my heart,” said Montgomerie. “The Wee Course is more than just a golf amenity – it’s a gathering place for every generation. Having seen how short courses bring people together around the world, especially in Scotland, I know this course will create the same sense of community here.
“With nine holes that can be played in under an hour, resort guests, families, and youth will find it a fun, affordable way to spend time outdoors, away from screens, while learning the values and etiquette that make golf so special. It’s an investment in both the game and the community that will pay dividends for generations.”
Montgomerie designed the five-acre, nine-hole Wee Course with fun in mind. The total yardage ranges from 275 yards to 500 yards. It features short yardage holes from 20 yards up to 80 yards or less, with green complexes modeled after the nine most iconic holes of the Nicklaus layout. This includes the 7th hole that features a miniature version of Nicklaus’s famous 10th green, the site of one of the wildest putts ever made by the Golden Bear.
The Wee Course features a combination of two sets of tee markers, allowing the option to play 18 holes. The longer tees (blue) feature more angles and challenging pitch shots or choose the forward tees (white) for shorter pitch shots, perfect for kids and beginners. Golfers can also use a putter from the forward tees on every hole, creating some exciting shots over slopes and hills on their way to the flag. Playing a combination of both sets of tees can also offer a fun golfing option.
This is an exciting new chapter for Harbor Shores and its continued commitment to the community, according to Joshua Doxtator, PGA General Manager for Harbor Shores.
Growing the Game, One Swing at a Time
“Growing the game is at the heart of what we do and making the game affordable and accessible for all is the real vision behind the Wee Course,” said Doxtator. “The excitement and anticipation in the community has been electric. From novice to skilled players, the Wee Course provides entertainment value never seen before in SW Michigan. Colin has been exceptional to work with, and his understanding of community impact has been designed into the entire project.”
The new 18-hole Highlands Greens Putting Course also complements the Wee Course. Inspired by similar attractions at St. Andrews and Pinehurst, this 15,000 square foot putting attraction and Wee Course will have lighting, music, and food and beverage with Monty’s Place, where fire pits and casual seating for up to 60 make it a great community gathering space.
The Wee Course Designed for Fun, Built for Everyone
The Wee Course pricing start at $30 for nine holes, $40 for 18 holes and $50 for all-day access, which includes the putting course. Kids under 12 with an adult will be complimentary, and juniors ages 13-17 are $20 with an adult. Season passes will also be available.
Jeff Fettig, former chairman and CEO of Whirlpool Corporation and a leading contributor through the Fettig Family Foundation, as well as the visionary behind this Harbor Shores expansion, believes this amenity will have a major impact on the youth in the community.
“The opening of the Wee Course is another milestone in our mission to make Harbor Shores a true catalyst for community growth,” said Fettig. “This project is about more than golf—it’s about inspiring the next generation. With support for programs like First Tee Benton Harbor and the Boys and Girls Clubs, First Robotics, as well as our three local public-school foundations, we’re creating a place where area youth can learn, grow, and experience the game in a fun and accessible way. The design, with multiple tee options and lighting for evening play, ensures this course will be a gathering place for families, friends, resort guests, and the entire community. We couldn’t be more excited about the impact it will have, both today and in seeding the future.”
Doxtator has seen firsthand the incredible support from the community and is excited to share the Wee Course with both golf enthusiasts and non-players.
“Our ability to continue to grow the game has expanded tenfold. Through innovative programming and special events like putting leagues, junior leagues, mixed and late-night leagues, the Wee Course will have something to offer everyone.”
This new golf amenity is just one of many exciting developments in the community, including an outdoor park along the canal on Riverview Drive and the continued expansion of walking and bike trails.
Photo: Wee Course (Harbor Shores)
