Jonathan’s Landing Golf Course announces permanent closing
The shutdown includes the golf course and clubhouse with pub and banquet venue near Magnolia, south of Dover, effective Dec. 31, 2025.
The president of Jonathan’s Landing Golf Course announced the closing of the business, effective Dec. 31, 2025.The property near Magnolia, south of Dover, included a clubhouse with a pub and banquet venue for weddings and parties.The company president said the decision was made “due to the financial realities” and the “significant effort required to alter its course.”
A golf course, pub and banquet venue in Kent County is closing after 30 years in business.
The president and executive trustee of Jonathan’s Landing Golf Course near Magnolia, south of Dover, announced the shutdown on the company’s website and Facebook page on Nov. 17 with an update Nov. 19.
“It is with sincere regret that we inform you that Jonathan’s Landing Golf Course will permanently close on Dec. 31, 2025,” said Bill Kriss. “After careful consideration, it has become clear that continuing operations in the current form is no longer sustainable. Due to the financial realities of Jonathan’s Landing and the significant effort required to alter its course, those responsible for the club have made the difficult decision to cease operations at the end of this year.”
Kriss said before making the decision, he brought in “one of the most respected golf course management consultants on the East Coast to take a thorough look at our operation and explore possible ways forward.”
“The report was comprehensive and thoughtful, offering a range of ideas to help strengthen the course’s financial position,” Kriss said. “But it also detailed the significant and ongoing investment required to maintain the level of quality our members and guests deserve.”
What happens next at the property hasn’t been decided.
“If a serious offer comes forward to purchase the property as a golf course, I will certainly consider it,” Kriss said.
The news caught some golfers off guard on Nov. 21.
“I just heard about it,” said Steve Owens of Dover, who’s played the course for about 15 years. “I’m surprised because this place always seems to be busy. It’s well maintained.”
Golfer Tim Pace of Magnolia called it a good course.
“I enjoy playing here,” he said. “I was kind of surprised.”
Kevin Smith of Felton has been golfing at Jonathan’s Landing for about 10 years. What was his reaction to the announcement?
“I wasn’t happy,” Smith said. “I love playing here.”
Chad Craft, general manager and PGA pro, said the closing includes the golf course, JB’s Pub and the clubhouse which hosted weddings, parties and banquets.
He declined to comment on the closing, but said the information on the website is accurate.
“Anyone that may have an event scheduled for 2026, or who has purchased an 2026 annual golf pass, has already been contacted directly,” the website said. “In addition, please be aware that all gift certificates and shop/credit book credits must be used by Dec. 31, 2025.”
History of Jonathan’s Landing Golf Course
Kriss’ father-in-law, John “Jack” Beiser, designed and built the course which opened in 1996.
“The clubhouse that once stood at Delaware Bay, completed his vision,” the website said.
Before he died in 2021, Beiser “enjoyed watching a recent resurgence at Jonathan’s Landing, and the renovations he was making at his beloved golf course. He was often found with a wide smile while sitting at a table in the café at Jonathan’s Landing, greeting the familiar faces of golfers and friends.”
“We are proud of what we’ve built and grateful for all of you who have been part of its story,” Kriss said. “We truly did the best we could.”
He thanked the staff, saying “their dedication, care and pride in the course have carried Jonathan’s Landing farther than it could have gone otherwise.”
“We are so grateful for all the years of golf, food and friendship that have taken place on our fairways and in our clubhouse,” Kriss said.
Reporter Ben Mace covers real estate and development news. Reach him at rmace@gannett.com.
