A golfer’s very first drive on their very first hole happens nearly every day at Island Lake Golf Course. The nearly 30-year-old golf happening in Shoreview, is a mecca for a golfer’s inaugural drive, putt, or lesson.

When Dave and Shelley Pieper opened Island Lake in 1995, it was with the vision that the Shoreview community needed a place for families to enjoy the sport of golf. A nine-hole Par 3, an 18-hole mini golf layout, and a spacious driving range came together and has thrived ever since.

Over the past 28 years, the Piepers have continued to invest in Island Lake. The result is a golf venue in which you can feel the adrenaline of both new and seasoned players who’ve found a well-conditioned golf home away from home.

9-Hole Course

The golfers whose first round has taken place at Island Lake Golf Course totals are too numerous to count. The idea of introducing young and old to the game at this 1,400-yard layout was just what the Piepers had in mind when they opened their golf facility 28 years ago.

With red, white, and blue tees, golfers can choose the Par 3 distance they desire. Upon teeing off on the Par 3, 149-yard first hole, golfers discover a nine-hole experience that is scenic, fair, and challenging.

Adding a bit of spice to your round is the ninth hole, Island Lake’s only Par 4. If all goes according to the Pieper plan, you’ll be hooked on this legendary sport by the time you return to the clubhouse.

Golf Lessons

Often the best time for golf lessons is during one’s initial exposure to the sport. With a blank slate and no preconceived notions, a golf professional can instill a lasting foundation into your swing, short game, and putting.

Ryan McCormick and Warren Bailey are on hand to listen to your golf hopes, dreams, and goals. They’d like nothing better than to provide you with the fundamentals that you can count on for years down the road.

Both professionals believe in catering to the individual golfer, rather than a one size fits all approach. McCormick and Bailey enjoy a busy lesson calendar that is a testament to their Island Lake success stories.

Junior Golfers

In 2023, Island Lake is proud to have over 200 kids participating in their Junior Program. Island Lake’s low key, attentive, and enjoyable junior program is a great way for your child to be introduced to the game.

The most popular junior offering is a Wednesday program that includes nine holes of golf, 18 holes of mini golf, and lunch. The Island Lake Golf Course team prepares fresh sandwiches for the kids. There is also the option of adding an individual lesson to this program.

Mini Golf and Glow Golf

The Loon’s Nest, Island Lake’s totally refurbished 18-hole mini golf layout, is a rousing favorite for kids, families, and couples. The Loon’s Nest is open day and night. It’s also a great diversion during the lunch hour.

On Friday evenings once the sun goes down, Island Lake lights up with Glow Golf. The nine- hole course is lit with LED flags on the tee boxes, fairways, and greens. If you’ve never played with a Glow golf ball, you’ll love making this golf-after-dark experience a new Friday evening tradition.

Home On The Range

There are good driving ranges and bad driving ranges. The not so nice ones feature barren hitting areas, no targets, and rock-hard golf balls.

Island Lake takes pride in their driving range. Golfers hit off grass, aim at multiple targets, and you’ll be hitting Calloway and Wilson golf balls. There is even a goalpost for you to split the uprights, as well as a trampoline to deliver nothing but good bounces.

If you’re wondering about the person keeping Island Lake’s golf course, driving range, and Loon’s Nest in tip-top shape, look no further than their long-time Superintendent. Rich Anderson’s Midas Touch for stellar course conditions plays a major role in Island Lake’s long run of success.

Great Golf Merchandise

The Island Lake pro shop has most, if not all, of your golfing needs covered. You’ll find Zero Friction golf bags and gloves, London Optics sunglasses, and Golf Pride grips.

Apparel ranges from Greg Norman shirts, Asic Golf Shoes, and Nexbelt belts. For those seeking the latest in golf fitness and training, the Scottie Scheffler-endorsed Golfforever warm up aid is in stock.

State Fair Special

Our golf season is flying by, and there is no time like now to visit Island Lake Golf Course. During the State Fair, Island Lake is offering a $3 off special on golf, mini golf, and lessons. Just mention the Tee Times Magazine article for your discount. So, whether you’re a new golfer or one who has been playing for years, take the turn off Lexington Avenue toward Target, and experience Shoreview’s best kept golf secret for nearly 30 years.