History of the Course, abridged from gearhartgolflinks.com
Legend has it that Gearhart Golf Links began life in about 1888, starting out as a few holes of true links golf amongst the seaside meadows that characterize the North Oregon coast. Golf, somewhat new to the U.S., came to Gearhart by way of visitors to the bustling resort who had experienced the game in Europe and found Gearhart's meadows the perfect setting. By 1892, golf was a regular pastime for guests of the Hotel Gearhart on the 3-hole course just across the street.
In 1901, at the hands of Marshall Kinney, Gearhart was officially opened as a 9-hole course. In 1913–1915, Gearhart grew to 18 holes and began a long heritage as one of the state's premiere golf venues. Between 1926 and 1935 the course underwent a series of changes, including a redesign by Chandler Egan resulting in the layout that remains relatively unchanged today.
Gearhart Golf Links began as a classic example of early links golf. For over a century it has stood as a landmark of the game's origins in Oregon and the western United States. Today, Gearhart Golf Links stands ready to challenge golfers of all skill levels without detracting from the enjoyment of success. With classic styling and rugged windswept features, it remains Oregon's premier link to a rich golf history.