Best Golf Courses in Austin, Texas

Austin stands out as the largest urban center in the U.S. without a “big four” sports team. This fact hasn’t hindered its growth into a golfer’s haven. Post-COVID, golf rounds have surged, and the private club scene is booming.

Austin’s golf scene is diverse, catering to all golfers. It offers everything from affordable municipal courses to exclusive private clubs. Whether you’re booking tee times at top-rated public courses or exploring membership at premier clubs, there’s something for everyone.

Green fees in Austin vary significantly, from budget-friendly to luxury resort rates. For example, the Fazio Foothills at Omni Barton Creek charges between $185-285. Meanwhile, some municipal courses provide more affordable options for casual players.

Key Takeaways

• Austin offers year-round golfing opportunities due to its favorable climate
• The city features a mix of public, private, and semi-private golf courses
• Golf rounds in Austin have increased significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic
• Private golf clubs in Austin are experiencing a notable boom
• Greens fees range from affordable municipal rates to luxury resort prices
• Austin’s golf scene includes historic courses and modern championship layouts

Austin: A Golfer’s Paradise in the Heart of Texas

Austin is a premier golf destination, known for its challenging courses and breathtaking landscapes. With over 800 golf courses in Texas, it’s a standout for its year-round play and unique Hill Country terrain.

Why Austin is a Top Destination for Golf Enthusiasts

Golf enthusiasts are drawn to Austin for its diverse course offerings. From the historic Austin Country Club, established in 1899, to the PGA Tour-designed Falconhead Golf Club, each course presents unique challenges and standout holes. The city’s golf culture is deeply influenced by the gentle spirit of local legend Harvey Penick.

Year-Round Golfing Opportunities in the Texas Capital

Austin’s mild climate ensures golfing is possible all year. This ideal weather, combined with the city’s varied courses, attracts players nationwide. Whether you’re aiming to test your skills on championship courses or enjoy scenic Hill Country layouts, Austin caters to every golfer’s preference.

While Austin offers fantastic golfing experiences, it’s important to note that Wales is also a golfing paradise with top-rated courses at affordable prices. However, for those in the Lone Star State, Austin remains an unmatched golf destination, blending Texas charm with world-class courses.

Best Public and Private Golf Courses in Austin, Texas

Austin’s golf scene is diverse, offering both public and private courses for every golfer. The city’s range of courses makes it a top destination for golf enthusiasts. Let’s look at some of the best public and private golf courses in Austin, Texas.

Top-Rated Public Courses for Every Budget

Austin is home to several top-notch public golf courses that don’t break the bank. Avery Ranch Golf Club, just 20 minutes northwest of downtown, features a challenging layout by Andy Raugust. Grey Rock Golf Club, in southwest Austin, offers a scenic view less than 20 minutes from the city.

Falconhead Golf Club, west of Austin, provides a Texas Hill Country experience with stunning views and a PGA TOUR-designed course. Wolfdancer Golf Club is renowned for its demanding layout, offering one of Texas’s toughest challenges.

Exclusive Private Clubs with Potential Membership Options

For a more exclusive experience, Austin’s private clubs offer exceptional amenities and benefits. The Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is a standout, featuring four championship courses by Tom Fazio, Arnold Palmer, and Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. After a $150 million renovation in 2019, the resort boasts world-class facilities and unmatched golfing experiences.

Membership at private clubs varies, often including access to multiple courses, practice facilities, and social events. Membership rates are not publicly disclosed, but resort rates at Omni Barton Creek range from $120 to $500, depending on the course and season. San Antonio’s golf scene also offers a wide range, making Texas a golfer’s dream destination.

Best Public Golf Courses in Austin, Texas

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Austin’s public golf scene is diverse, catering to every golfer’s needs. From budget-friendly municipal courses to upscale resort layouts, there’s a perfect spot for everyone. Let’s look at the top public golf courses in the Texas capital.

Avery Ranch Golf Club is a standout, nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country. Designed by Andy Raugust, a former Jack Nicklaus architect, it offers a challenging 7,121-yard layout. The club’s unique features include stunning sunsets and a design suitable for all skill levels.

For a taste of PGA Tour design, visit Falconhead Golf Club. This 7,302-yard course features scenic views and embodies the Texas spirit. Its guest policies are flexible, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a round.

Looking for an affordable option? Jimmy Clay Golf Course is an excellent choice. It’s part of a 36-hole complex, offering a relaxed atmosphere ideal for beginners and casual players. The course stretches over 6,918 yards, showcasing unique design elements by Joe Finger.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend golfer, Austin’s public courses have something for you. With welcoming guest policies and unique features, these courses invite you to experience the best of Texas golf.

Lions Municipal Golf Course

Lions Municipal Golf Course, affectionately known as “Muny” by the locals, stands out in Austin’s golfing landscape. Established in 1928, it marries challenge with accessibility, offering a unique experience. The course boasts lush greenery and tight fairways, providing scenic views that embody Texas golf.

The layout features 18 holes over 6001 yards with a par of 71. Golfers rate it 4.3 out of 5, appreciating its mix of straightforward and demanding holes. The bent grass fairways and greens enhance the course’s quality, garnering approval from 92% of players.

The course’s amenities meet diverse needs. Golfers will find a clubhouse, driving range, and ample parking. Muny is also a versatile venue for private events, offering club rentals for golfers at all levels.

As the top-ranked public golf course in Austin, Lions Municipal Golf Course captures the essence of the city’s golf culture. Its blend of history, design, and scenic views positions it as a premier destination for golfers in Texas.

Jimmy Clay Golf Course: Affordable Golf in a Relaxed Atmosphere

Since its opening in 1974 and renovation in 2007, Jimmy Clay Golf Course has been a staple for budget-conscious golfers in Austin. It’s an ideal spot for those new to golf or those looking for a casual game. The course’s laid-back vibe makes it perfect for a leisurely round.

Course Features and Amenities

The course features wide fairways and a layout that’s friendly to players of all skill levels. With green fees starting at $28, it’s an accessible option for golf lovers. You can book tee times in the afternoons and evenings, offering flexibility in planning your game.

Ideal for Beginners and Casual Rounds

Jimmy Clay’s atmosphere is perfect for beginners or those seeking a stress-free game. The course design welcomes players of all abilities, ensuring a enjoyable experience. For tee time bookings and more details, visit the course’s website.

It’s wise to book your tee times early, especially during busy times. With its affordable rates and inviting atmosphere, Jimmy Clay Golf Course is a prime choice for those looking for a relaxed game in Austin.

Avery Ranch Golf Club: A Premier Public Course

Avery Ranch Golf Club is a leading public course in Austin, Texas. It’s just 20 minutes northwest of downtown, covering 226 acres of beautiful landscape. This 7,126-yard course offers a top-tier daily fee golf experience for all skill levels.

Unique Design Features

Andy Raugust, a former Jack Nicklaus designer, crafted Avery Ranch’s distinctive layout. The back nine includes three par 3s, three par 4s, and three par 5s. With 60 soft sand bunkers and water hazards on nine holes, it’s a challenging course for golfers.

Challenging Layout for All Skill Levels

Avery Ranch accommodates golfers of all abilities with five tee box options. The yardage ranges from 4,924 yards for ladies to 7,121 yards for men, with varying slopes. The 18th hole, a long par four with a river and a rock-walled cliff, offers a dramatic finish.

For booking and green fee details, visit the Avery Ranch Golf Club website. Fees vary by day and time, so book ahead for your preferred tee time. The practice facilities include a large grass range, short game area with a sand bunker, and putting green. These are ideal for improving your skills before your round.

Falconhead Golf Club: PGA TOUR Design in the Hill Country

Falconhead Golf Club, situated in the Texas Hill Country west of Austin, offers a unique golfing experience. This PGA TOUR Signature Series course opened in 2003, bringing tour-quality challenges to public players. With its scenic views and varied terrain, Falconhead provides an unforgettable round for golfers of all skill levels.

Course Characteristics and Playability

Stretching over 7,300 yards from the back tees, Falconhead presents a true test of golf. The course features five sets of tees, catering to players of different abilities. Its course rating of 75 and slope of 129 from the tips indicate the challenges that await.

The 17th hole stands out as one of the most renowned in the Hill Country, adding to the course’s allure. Falconhead’s design incorporates the natural landscape, creating a layout that’s both beautiful and demanding.

Scenic Views and Texas Charm

Falconhead Golf Club captures the essence of Texas Hill Country golf. The course’s design takes full advantage of the rolling terrain, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Golfers can enjoy the natural beauty while tackling the course’s various challenges.

For those planning a visit to Orlando’s best public golf courses, Falconhead offers a comparable experience in the heart of Texas. The club’s commitment to quality is evident in its well-maintained fairways and greens.

For booking information and tee times, call 512-402-1558 or email lyzet.aguilar@averyranch.com. With 444 positive reviews, Falconhead Golf Club promises a memorable golfing experience in the Texas Hill Country.

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa: Multiple Championship Courses

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Austin, Texas, is a haven for golf enthusiasts. It boasts four championship courses over 4,000 acres, offering a variety of golfing experiences. The resort revitalized all courses in 2019, including a new hotel tower.

Overview of Fazio Foothills and Fazio Canyons

The Fazio Foothills course, crafted by Tom Fazio, features dramatic cliff-lined fairways and rolling terrain. Golf Magazine ranks it #3 among Texas’s top playable courses. The Fazio Canyons course, nestled in scenic canyons, offers a secluded play. Golf.com places it at the top of Texas Tour Venues That You Can Play.

Coore Crenshaw Cliffside: A Hidden Architectural Gem

Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore designed the Coore Crenshaw Cliffside course, focusing on strategy and precision. It provides a serene, club-like atmosphere with welcoming tee shots. The course’s standout holes are celebrated for their beauty by The Dallas Morning News.

Omni Barton Creek’s pricing and rates change with the course and season. Remember, it’s a members’ club, so you must stay at the resort or be with a member to play. Public golf courses in Broward County offer alternatives for easier access.

Butler Pitch & Putt: Downtown Austin’s Golfing Treasure

Since 1949, Butler Pitch & Putt has been a cornerstone of golfing in downtown Austin. This 9-hole, par-3 course is designed for quick, enjoyable rounds suitable for all skill levels. Renovated by Ben Crenshaw’s firm, it now features enhanced amenities and a modern look, yet retains its classic appeal.

Butler Pitch & Putt offers an accessible golfing experience at a budget-friendly price. Green fees are capped at $15, making it an attractive choice for both locals and tourists. Its central location ensures you can easily fit in a game or practice session, even on the busiest days.

Membership details are not provided, but the course’s benefits are evident. Players enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, breathtaking views of the Austin skyline, and the opportunity to hone their short game. It’s a perfect spot for both seasoned golfers and beginners, offering a unique mix of challenge and fun.