Sandy Pond Golf Course, a Riverhead fixture for more than half a century, has steadily evolved over the past few years into a broader, family-friendly destination while maintaining the relaxed charm that longtime players appreciate. After being purchased in early 2023 by Brian Stark and Earl Truland, the nine-hole par-3 course on Roanoke Avenue reopened as Sandy Pond Links, with a focus on accessibility, affordability, and reinvestment in a beloved community space.
Early improvements concentrated on restoring the course itself. Greens were expanded back to their original size, contours were refined, and overall conditioning was upgraded. The removal of long-standing storage buildings dramatically changed the site’s visibility, reopening sightlines from the road and reconnecting the course to its surroundings. The existing clubhouse was refreshed with simple updates, creating a more welcoming place for golfers without altering the course’s easygoing feel.
That vision expanded further in fall 2024 with the opening of Sandy Falls Mini Golf, an 18-hole miniature golf course designed to complement the par-3 layout and broaden the site’s appeal. Built with natural materials and subtle East End touches, Sandy Falls avoids the flashy obstacles typical of mini golf courses, instead offering waterfalls, streams, and landscaped features that create a calm, playful environment for all ages. The addition was created with families in mind, offering a clean, safe, and affordable place to spend time together.
Since opening, Sandy Falls Mini Golf has become a popular spot for birthday parties, school team outings, and family gatherings. A shared outdoor waiting and hangout area includes picnic tables, Adirondack chairs, and lawn games, making the property enjoyable even beyond the course itself. Sandy Pond Links has also embraced events of various sizes, reinforcing its role as a community gathering place rather than just a place to play a round of golf.
Looking ahead, plans are in place for continued growth, including food trucks on select weekends and a new clubhouse anticipated in 2026 with expanded seating and food service options. Nearly three years after its reintroduction, Sandy Pond Links stands as an example of how a longtime local attraction can evolve thoughtfully—welcoming new audiences while staying rooted in Riverhead’s sense of place.
#SandyPondLinks #SandyFallsMiniGolf #RiverheadNY #NorthForkFun