New York is home to a diverse range of golf courses, each offering its unique blend of challenge and beauty for players of all skill levels. From the iconic greens of the Hamptons to the picturesque landscapes of Upstate New York, there’s a course to suit every golfer’s taste. In 2021, golfers were continually impressed by many top-rated golf courses that showcased their excellent design, playing conditions, and overall experience.
Whether you’re looking for a friendly round at a public access course or seeking the exclusivity of a private golf club, New York state has it all. It is evident that golf enthusiasts can find exemplary courses spread throughout the state, many of which have graced the lists of best golf courses for years on end. Some popular options include Shinnecock Hills, Fishers Island, and Winged Foot, which consistently receive high praise for their layout and challenge as well as their rich golf history.
Key Takeaways
- New York boasts a wide variety of top-rated golf courses for players of all skill levels.
- The state offers a mix of both public access and exclusive private golf courses.
- Iconic courses such as Shinnecock Hills and Winged Foot remain sought-after destinations for avid golfers.
Top Rated Golf Courses
Shinnecock Hills
Shinnecock Hills, located in Southampton, New York, has consistently ranked as one of the top golf courses in the state. Known for its challenging layout and stunning views, this course has hosted multiple major championships and offers golfers a true test of their skills. The course design blends traditional elements with modern features, making it a popular choice among players of all skill levels.
National Golf Links
National Golf Links of America, also situated in Southampton, holds a high ranking among the best golf courses in New York. This classic layout, inspired by the great courses of the British Isles, offers golfers a unique experience with its challenging holes and strong winds. National Golf Links has received rave reviews from both golf professionals and amateur players within the golfing community.
Maidstone
Maidstone Club, an exclusive, private club located in East Hampton, New York, features some of the finest golf in the region. With a prestigious rating, Maidstone offers its members a challenging course set alongside picturesque beaches and stunning ocean views. Golfers who have had the privilege of playing at Maidstone consider it a top-tier golf experience.
Sebonack
Sebonack Golf Club, in Southampton, is a relatively new addition to the list of top-rated golf courses in New York. The course has quickly gained a strong reputation and has been included in various top 100 golf courses lists. Sebonack’s design combines elements from neighboring Shinnecock Hills and National Golf Links, offering a distinctive and enjoyable playing experience for golfers.
Bethpage Black
Bethpage Black, in Farmingdale, New York, is a public course that offers golfers a top-quality experience without the exclusivity often associated with premier golf courses. Known for its demanding layout and hosting major tournaments, Bethpage Black has continuously received praise from golfers and reviewers alike. This course is a must-play for anyone visiting the New York area.
Garden City
Garden City Golf Club, a timeless, private club in Garden City, New York, holds its place as one of the best golf courses in the state. The course is renowned for its strategic design, history, and impeccably maintained grounds. Golfers have sung the praises of Garden City for its challenging yet enjoyable layout that appeals to players of all skill levels.
Public Access Golf Courses
New York is home to numerous high-quality public golf courses that cater to golfers with different skill levels and preferences. In this section, we will discuss some of the top-rated public access golf courses in the state, as per the golfer’s choice and ratings index. These courses are known for their exceptional playing experience and are consistently ranked among the best places to play in the United States.
Bethpage State Park
Bethpage State Park is a renowned golf destination in Farmingdale, New York, known for its beautiful and challenging courses. The park features five public golf courses, with the Black Course being the crown jewel. Designed in the 1930s by A.W. Tillinghast, the Black Course has hosted major tournaments like the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship, earning it a special place in the hearts of golf enthusiasts.
Montauk Downs State Park
Located on the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk Downs State Park is a picturesque golf course that offers a challenging 18-hole layout for golfers. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this public access course is widely recognized for its beautiful landscape and high-quality playing conditions. With its relatively affordable green fees and stunning views, Montauk Down State Park is a must-visit destination for golfers in New York.
Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point
Presenting a visually striking landscape and a challenging course design, Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point is another popular public access golf course in New York City. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the course boasts stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. The course’s layout is challenging enough to test skilled golfers while still being accessible to players of all levels.
Turning Stone
Situated in upstate New York, Turning Stone Resort houses three championship golf courses that are open to the public. Known for their challenging designs and well-maintained greens, the Kaluhyat Golf Club and the Shenendoah Golf Club are two of the resort’s most notable courses. Designed by notable architects like Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Tom Fazio, these courses are perfect for golfers who are after a premium golfing experience in a beautiful natural setting.
In summary, New York offers a variety of top-notch public golf courses that cater to golfers with different skills and preferences. From the iconic Bethpage State Park to the scenic Montauk Downs State Park and the challenging layouts of Turning Stone, there’s no shortage of great places to play golf in the Empire State.
Private Golf Courses
Piping Rock
Piping Rock is a prestigious private golf course located on Long Island’s famed Gold Coast. Established in 1911, the course offers its members and their guests an exceptional golf experience. With reviews reflecting its standing in the golf community, Piping Rock holds a strong position among New York’s top private courses.
The layout and design of the course seamlessly blend with the natural landscape, providing golfers with picturesque views and challenging play. The history and tradition of Piping Rock make it the perfect course for avid golfers who appreciate both the sport’s rich legacy and a well-designed course.
National Golf Links of America
The National Golf Links of America is another renowned private golf course on Long Island. Designed by C.B. Macdonald in 1908, this course is often considered one of the finest examples of classic golf course architecture in the country. With consistently high rankings and rave reviews from golfers, National Golf Links stands out as a premier private golf course.
The course serves as a true testament to the sport’s history, showcasing strategic holes and unique design features characteristic of the early 20th century. Golfers visiting National Golf Links can expect a challenging and memorable experience that blends history, beauty, and exceptional golf.
Fishers Island
Fishers Island Club is an exclusive private golf course situated off the coast of Connecticut and New York. Accessible only by boat or private plane, Fishers Island provides golfers with a secluded, serene setting for their rounds. The club has consistently received high ratings and glowing reviews from its members and their guests.
Designed by Seth Raynor in 1926, the course features stunning coastal views and varied terrain that challenges golfers of all skill levels. Fishers Island has earned a reputation as one of the most picturesque and enjoyable courses on the East Coast, solidifying its position among New York’s best private golf offerings.
Winged Foot
Winged Foot Golf Club, located in Westchester County, is a prestigious private golf facility with a rich history. Home to two 18-hole courses – the East and West courses – Winged Foot has long been a favorite among experienced golfers. With numerous rankings and top reviews from the golf community, Winged Foot’s reputation precedes it.
The club has earned its place in golf history by hosting several major championships, including multiple U.S. Opens. Golfers visiting Winged Foot can expect immaculate course conditions, challenging layouts, and a sense of tradition that permeates the club, making it a must-play for those looking to experience the best that New York’s private golf courses have to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which NY golf courses are PGA Tour stops?
New York features some prestigious golf courses that host PGA Tour events. One notable course is the Bethpage State Park (Black Course) in Farmingdale, which has hosted several significant tournaments, including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship.
What are some highly-ranked courses in Upstate New York?
Upstate New York boasts several outstanding golf courses. One such highly-rated course is The Links at Greystone in Walworth. Another noteworthy course in the region is Seven Oaks Golf Club located in Hamilton.
Which courses nearby in New Jersey or Pennsylvania are worth visiting?
Golf enthusiasts can find several impressive courses in New Jersey and Pennsylvania as well. In New Jersey, the Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield offers a top-notch golfing experience. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania features the highly-acclaimed Oakmont Country Club near Pittsburgh. Both of these courses have hosted several major golf tournaments, making them worthwhile destinations for golf aficionados.
