Reflection Bay Golf Club
Henderson, Nevada
A Jack Nicklaus design at Lake Las Vegas in Henderson, Reflection Bay offers a resort golf experience with water features and mountain views east of the Strip. The 7,261-yard layout wraps around the lake with dramatic desert terrain, bold Nicklaus bunkering, and a memorable par-3 over the lake to an island green.
History & Heritage
Reflection Bay opened in 1998 as the only Jack Nicklaus Signature Design course in Nevada, built as the centerpiece of the Lake Las Vegas resort community — a 320-acre private lake about 20 miles east of the Strip. The course hosted the Wendy\'s 3-Tour Challenge from 1998 to 2007, bringing together PGA Tour, LPGA, and Champions Tour players.
Five holes run along a mile and a half of Lake Las Vegas shoreline, with the par-3 17th featuring a near-island green jutting into the lake. Nicklaus reportedly birdied a hole during the ceremonial first round in 1998.
Signature Holes
The marquee hole — a near-island green jutting into Lake Las Vegas, often compared to TPC Sawgrass\'s 17th. Wind off the lake makes club selection critical. One of the most dramatic par 3s in the Las Vegas market.
A daring risk-reward hole with a desert-framed tee shot followed by an aggressive second over a ravine to a beautifully positioned green. The classic Nicklaus two-shot decision.
What to Expect
Five holes along the Lake Las Vegas shoreline create a unique water-and-desert combination unlike anything else near Vegas. The routing uses natural elevation changes well, balancing uphill and downhill shots. Desert terrain frames the holes while the lake provides a dramatic backdrop.
Nicklaus\'s signature bunkering guards greens throughout. The lakeside holes are visually stunning but wind off the water adds a challenge not found on most desert courses.
Playing Tips
Wind off the lake is a constant factor on the shoreline holes. Club up or down accordingly — don\'t trust your usual distances.
Nicklaus bunkering punishes misses. Favor the center of greens, especially on the lakeside par 3s.
Desert elevation and dry air add distance. Factor this into every club selection.
Highlights
- ✓ Jack Nicklaus lakeside design at Lake Las Vegas
- ✓ Memorable island-green par 3 over the lake
- ✓ Desert resort experience east of the Strip
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the only Nicklaus course in Nevada?
What is the island green hole?
Has it hosted professional events?
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