Best Golf Courses in New Jersey: Tee Off in the Garden State

New Jersey is home to over 200 golf courses, showcasing a diverse range of top fairways. This statistic underscores the Garden State’s rich golfing landscape. It offers everything from prestigious private clubs to stunning public layouts, making it a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts.

Planning a golf getaway or looking to challenge yourself on new greens? New Jersey has options for everyone. Green fees range from $20 to $150 for 18 holes, accommodating various budgets. The state’s courses feature both classic and modern designs, each presenting unique challenges and standout holes.

New Jersey’s golf offerings are as diverse as they are impressive. Courses like the historic Atlantic City Country Club and the vineyard views at Renault Winery’s course stand out. You’ll tee off on courses that have hosted major championships and walk in the footsteps of golfing legends. Booking information for many courses is readily available, making planning your next golf outing in the Garden State straightforward.

Key Takeaways

• New Jersey boasts over 200 golf courses statewide
• Green fees range from $20 to $150 for 18 holes
• The state offers a mix of prestigious private clubs and top-rated public courses
• Many courses feature designs by renowned golf architects
• New Jersey’s golf scene caters to various skill levels and preferences
• Several courses offer unique views and landscapes, from vineyards to skylines

The Golfing Legacy of New Jersey

New Jersey’s golfing scene is a treasure trove of rich heritage and modern marvels. With over 275 golf courses, it offers a perfect blend of classic designs and innovative layouts. The state’s golfing legacy is built on a foundation of excellence, providing unique features and benefits for golf enthusiasts of all levels.

New Jersey’s Rich Golfing Heritage

The Garden State’s golf history is as impressive as its courses. Pine Valley, consistently ranked as New Jersey’s top golf course by Golf Digest, has been challenging players for decades. In 1954, golf legend Arnold Palmer showcased his skills here, shooting an impressive 68. Ridgewood Country Club made history by hosting the 1935 Ryder Cup, cementing New Jersey’s place in international golf.

Influence of Classic Golf Course Architects

New Jersey’s golf landscape bears the mark of renowned architects. Robert von Hagge’s challenging design at Crystal Springs Golf Club features rolling mounds along fairways and greens. This course, opened in 1992, quickly gained recognition as one of the “Top 25 New Golf Courses in America” by Golf Digest Magazine. It continues to rank among Golf Digest’s “Top 10 Public Golf Courses” in New Jersey, offering golfers exceptional playing conditions and stunning views.

Modern Marvels in New Jersey Golf

Today, New Jersey golf offers more than just great courses. The USGA Museum and Arnold Palmer Center for Golf History in Clementon houses over 100 years of golfing artifacts, providing a fascinating journey through the sport’s evolution. For those seeking a comprehensive golf experience, Crystal Springs Golf & Spa Resort in Hamburg boasts six championship courses, combining top-notch golf with luxurious amenities and guest access to world-class facilities.

Pine Valley Golf Club: The Crown Jewel

Pine Valley Golf Club is the pinnacle of New Jersey’s golfing excellence. Founded in 1919, it has consistently ranked among the world’s top courses, setting the benchmark for design. The layout, designed by George Crump and Harry Colt, stretches over 7,181 yards of challenging terrain.

The course features rolling, sandy landscapes that test golfers of every skill level. Each hole presents unique challenges, from daunting hazards to intricate green complexes. These require precision and strategy to navigate. Shots demand both power and finesse, ensuring every round is unforgettable.

Although a private club, Pine Valley offers limited public play. The high greens fees reflect its esteemed status. Booking a tee time here is a rare privilege, often requiring early planning and connections.

Pine Valley’s status as a golfer’s paradise is well-earned. Its design and challenges set it apart, making it the gold standard for courses. Whether you’re admiring it from afar or playing a round, Pine Valley Golf Club stands as a cornerstone of golf architecture and a jewel of the Garden State.

Baltusrol Golf Club: A Historic Double Delight

Baltusrol Golf Club, located in northern New Jersey, is renowned for its two private courses. These courses, designed by A.W. Tillinghast, have significantly influenced golf history. The Upper and Lower courses have hosted numerous major tournaments, offering unique challenges to golfers.

Lower Course Highlights

The Lower Course, revamped by Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner, features innovative bunker designs and captivating greens. Golfers will be drawn to the central hazards on the 2nd and 17th holes. The diagonal bunker on the 5th fairway adds a strategic twist to the game.

Upper Course Challenges

The Upper Course, equally remarkable, complements the Lower Course with its distinct challenges. It provides a comprehensive golfing experience. The club’s facilities support both courses, ensuring top-tier amenities for all players.

Major Championships Hosted

Baltusrol’s status as a premier golf venue is evident through its hosting of major tournaments. Jack Nicklaus won two U.S. Opens here, including a historic victory in 1967. For those aspiring to follow in the footsteps of golf legends, securing tee time bookings is competitive.

Despite being a private club, Baltusrol is advancing diversity and inclusion. Members like Steven Mills, a retired NBA executive, have been welcomed. The club’s blend of historical significance and contemporary efforts is reflected in its prestigious pricing and rates.

Somerset Hills Country Club: A Tillinghast Masterpiece

Somerset Hills Country Club is a masterpiece by A.W. Tillinghast, renowned for his golf course design. Established in 1916, this par 71 course stretches over 6,659 yards, boasting a challenging slope rating of 132. Its unique layout and breathtaking views make it a top choice for avid golfers.

The course’s design reflects Tillinghast’s Scottish influence. The front nine, situated on a former racetrack, offers broad fairways. In contrast, the back nine winds through dense woods, presenting a variety of challenges. Each hole is named by Tillinghast himself, adding a personal touch to the game.

Several holes at Somerset Hills stand out. The par-3 12th, dubbed “Despair,” features a green surrounded by water. The 15th hole, “Happy Valley,” is celebrated as a top-tier hole. For a real challenge, try the 11th hole, “Perfection,” ranked as the 4th most difficult on the course.

The club’s guest policies are selective, highlighting its ranking as the 69th best course globally. When planning your visit, consider exploring other public golf courses in Miami for a varied golfing experience.

A 25-year restoration project has significantly enhanced Somerset Hills. Led by Renaissance Golf Design and green keeper Ryan Tuxhorn, the course has retained its classic appeal while adhering to modern standards. Despite setbacks like Hurricane Sandy in 2012, which destroyed 200 trees, the club has maintained its secluded, wooded character.

Plainfield Country Club: Donald Ross’s Garden State Gem

Plainfield Country Club, ranked 5th among New Jersey’s best golf courses, stands as a Donald Ross masterpiece. It combines historical charm with modern golfing excellence. This was achieved through a detailed restoration by Gil Hanse and his team.

The restoration project revitalized Ross’s original design. By removing excessive trees, Hanse improved strategic angles and views across the property. This effort has boosted the course’s challenges and standout holes, making it a top choice for golf lovers.

The layout features a mix of blind shots and demanding hazards, challenging golfers of all skill levels. The first nine holes offer stellar two-shotters, while the back nine showcases Ross’s diverse designs. Golf enthusiasts praise the 145-yard 11th hole as one of Ross’s best short par-3s.

Securing a spot at Plainfield is a rare privilege. While greens fees are not publicly shared, the opportunity to play here is highly valued. The chance to access top-tier New Jersey courses like Plainfield is as rare as winning the lottery!

Plainfield Country Club is renowned for more than its design. It has hosted prestigious USGA and PGA Tour events, with winners like Dustin Johnson and Jason Day. This competitive history enhances the allure of playing this Donald Ross masterpiece.

Crystal Springs Resort (Ballyowen)

Ballyowen Golf Club, a gem within Crystal Springs Resort, shines as a top public course in New Jersey. Its links-style design captivates with fescue-lined fairways and strategic bunkering. The course offers breathtaking views of the Kittatinny Mountains, making each round a unique experience.

Since its opening in June 1998, Ballyowen has been a golfer’s dream. It features 71 bunkers and water hazards on five holes, providing a challenging yet exciting game for all skill levels. Seasonal green fees and tee times vary, so advance planning is advisable.

The clubhouse, an English Farmhouse-style building, offers luxurious facilities. Below is a detailed breakdown of the course’s yardages and ratings:

Enhance your game with Ballyowen’s caddie services. A single bag caddie is $60, while a forecaddie is $30 per player. Caddies improve your game, offer health benefits from walking, and speed up play.

Crystal Springs Resort boasts six exceptional golf courses near NYC, each with its own unique challenge. From the family-friendly Minerals 9-hole course to the challenging Crystal Springs Golf Club, there’s something for everyone. The resort also features an 18-hole natural-grass putting course for a fun pre-game warm-up.

Neshanic Valley Golf Course

Neshanic Valley Golf Course stands out in New Jersey for its exceptional golfing experience. Since its opening in 2004, this 27-hole facility has captivated golfers across 350 acres. It boasts three distinct championship nines: Meadow, Lake, and Ridge. Each nine offers unique challenges and breathtaking scenery.

The course caters to all skill levels with yardages ranging from 5,050 to 7,108. Its superb condition and affordable rates make it a favorite for booking tee times. Golfers appreciate the quality and value here.

The layout at Neshanic Valley features memorable holes. The Ridge Course begins with a downhill dogleg right par 4. Similarly, the Lake Course’s first hole replicates this design. The Ridge Course ends with an uphill par 4 to the clubhouse, and the Lake Course concludes with a stunning 495-yard par 5.

For those aiming to improve their game, the par-32 Academy Course offers yardages from 1,420 to 2,019. The 12,000-square-foot clubhouse is equipped with a Pro Shop featuring top-brand equipment and apparel.

Neshanic Valley Golf Course has earned high praise, ranking as the #2 Best Public Course in New Jersey by Golfweek in 2024. Its outstanding value and varied layout make it a top choice for golf lovers in the Garden State.

Heron Glen Golf Course

Heron Glen Golf Course in Ringoes, New Jersey, offers a challenging and scenic golfing experience. Built in 2002 by Dan Schlegel, this public course features 7,065 yards of Bent Grass fairways over 18 holes. It has a par of 72, a rating of 74.1, and a slope of 137, making it suitable for golfers of all skill levels.

The course layout is a mix of demanding holes. The front nine stretches 3,609 yards, while the back nine covers 3,456 yards. Hole 2, a par 5 measuring 614 yards, is the longest on the course. For those seeking a par 3 challenge, Hole 14 offers a lengthy 238-yard tee shot.

Golfers highly praise Heron Glen for its excellent conditions and friendly staff. It has earned a 4.6 out of 5 rating from 710 reviews, with 94.9% of golfers recommending it. The layout, staff friendliness, and overall conditions consistently receive high marks.

For booking information and green fee details, visit the Heron Glen Golf Course website or call their pro shop. The course facilities include a driving range, putting green, and a well-stocked pro shop to enhance your golfing experience.

Twisted Dune Golf Club

Twisted Dune Golf Club in Egg Harbor, NJ, presents a distinctive links-style golfing experience. Established in 2001, this 7,200-yard layout features deep ravines, towering hills, and over 100 traps and bunkers. Its design pays homage to classic Scottish and Irish courses, offering a formidable challenge to golfers.

The course boasts generous fairways and fast greens. Golfers will encounter four par 5 holes over 500 yards, ten par 4 holes, and four par 3 holes. Hole 4, a par 5 at 517 yards, is the #1 handicap hole, requiring an uphill and into-the-wind shot.

Golfers highly regard Twisted Dune for its distinctive features. The signature 13th hole, a 166-yard par 3, features water hazards and challenging bunkers. Hole 14, a 354-yard par 4, is the second most challenging, demanding a forced carry over water and an uphill second shot.

When booking tee times, remember that proper golf attire is required. The course operates year-round, featuring practice facilities with two greens and a grass range. Despite its challenges, Twisted Dune’s fair design ensures an enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Seaview Golf Club (Bay Course)

Seaview Golf Club’s Bay Course presents a timeless golfing experience, rich with history. Hugh Wilson constructed it in 1914, with Donald Ross later refining it. This course, with its 6,366 yards and par of 71, tests golfers with its layout and scenic beauty.

The course features bent grass greens and fairways for smooth play. Its design includes blind shots and complex greens, showcasing classic architecture. With a slope of 124 from the blues, it suits various skill levels while remaining challenging.

Golfers highly rate the course’s layout, giving it 4.4 out of 5. The staff’s friendliness also scores 4.4, enhancing the experience. Although some mention bumpy greens, the course conditions generally receive a 4.1 rating.

Seaview offers competitive pricing, providing great value for the quality of play. Its historic features and views of Reed’s Bay and Atlantic City skyline enhance its charm. Now open to the public, Seaview Golf Club is among New Jersey’s top golf resorts.

Ranked ninth among public courses in New Jersey by Golfweek, the Bay Course at Seaview Golf Club draws golf enthusiasts. Its rich tournament history, including the ShopRite LPGA Classic, adds to its prestige. Seaview’s Bay Course promises a memorable golfing experience for all, from pros to casual players.

Ridgewood Country Club: A 27-Hole Wonder

In Paramus, New Jersey, lies Ridgewood Country Club, a masterpiece by A.W. Tillinghast. This golf haven features 27 holes across three nine-hole courses: East, Center, and West. Each course presents a unique challenge, highlighting Tillinghast’s expertise in design.

The club’s championship history is both extensive and illustrious. It has hosted major tournaments like the 2022 U.S. Amateur. For PGA Tour events, the club combines the toughest holes from all three nines. This approach ensures a rigorous test for top golfers.

Ridgewood’s amenities go beyond golf. The Norman Revival clubhouse adds historic elegance to your visit. Interestingly, Byron Nelson, a golf icon, once worked here. Tillinghast himself regarded Ridgewood as his favorite design.

Membership details at Ridgewood are highly coveted, reflecting its esteemed status. The club offers an unparalleled golfing experience. As you tackle the challenging greens and varied holes, you’ll grasp why Ridgewood is a celebrated 27-hole gem in the golfing world.

Bayonne Golf Club: Links-Style Golf in the Garden State

Bayonne Golf Club, nestled in New Jersey, offers a distinctive golfing experience. This 7,120-yard, par-71 links-style course covers nearly 140 acres of reclaimed landfill. Inspired by iconic UK and Irish venues, it boasts stunning views of New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline.

Eric Bergstol, the visionary behind this $130 million project, transformed the landscape with 7.5 million cubic yards of harbor material. The course features narrow fairway valleys, steep slopes with tall fescues, and deep bunkers. These elements combine to create a challenging yet rewarding round for golfers of all skill levels.

The clubhouse, perched atop the property, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. While the initiation fee of $200,000 might seem steep, the club offers 200 half-price rounds annually for Bayonne residents. This gesture aims to connect the course with the local community, though few have taken advantage of the offer since its 2006 opening.

Bergstol’s creation at Bayonne stands as his masterpiece, showcasing innovative design solutions on a small, irregularly shaped parcel. The course’s challenges include strategically placed bunkers and undulating greens that test even the most skilled players. For golf enthusiasts seeking a unique golfing experience, Bayonne Golf Club delivers with its stunning views and links-style play right in the Garden State.

Hollywood Golf Club: Walter Travis’s Inland Marvel

Step back in time at Hollywood Golf Club, a true gem among New Jersey’s golf courses. Established in 1915, this Walter Travis design showcases the brilliance of early 20th-century golf architecture. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic course design.

Iconic Par-3 Holes

Hollywood’s par-3 holes are nothing short of spectacular. The 4th and 12th holes, in particular, offer unique challenges that will test your skills. These holes feature Travis’s signature design elements, including strategically placed bunkers and undulating greens that demand precision and careful planning.

Challenging Bunker Complexes

The bunkers at Hollywood Golf Club are a defining feature of its design. Travis’s innovative approach to hazard placement creates a thought-provoking experience for golfers of all skill levels. You’ll find yourself carefully considering each shot, as the bunkers not only guard the greens but also influence your strategy from tee to green.

Green Complexes Worth Studying

Hollywood’s green complexes are a masterclass in golf course architecture. The 6th, 7th, 9th, and 16th holes showcase Travis’s design philosophy at its finest. These greens feature subtle contours and challenging pin positions that reward thoughtful approach shots and deft putting skills.

Recent restoration work has breathed new life into this historic course. Led by Brian Schneider of Renaissance Golf Design, the project has revived Travis’s original vision, enhancing the course’s strategic elements and challenging features. The restoration has solidified Hollywood Golf Club’s position as the 89th best course in the United States, according to Golf Digest’s Top 200 rankings.

Liberty National Golf Club: Skyline Views and Championship Play

Liberty National Golf Club, founded in 2006, provides a unique golfing experience. Its location in New York Harbor offers stunning Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty views. The course, crafted by Bob Cupp and Tom Kite, spans 7,387 yards and features a par 72 layout.

The club’s rich championship history is impressive. It has hosted The Barclays tournament several times and was the venue for the 2017 Presidents Cup. In 2023, it welcomed the LPGA for the Mizuho Americas Open. The course’s rating of 77.7 and slope of 155 ensures a challenging game.

Liberty National boasts exceptional facilities. The practice range uses Titleist Pro V1 range balls, ideal for refining your skills. The clubhouse provides complimentary yardage books and golf tees, enhancing the luxury of your visit. The course features bent grass fairways and greens, maintaining high standards despite its $250 million construction cost.

Whether you’re enjoying the views, testing your skills, or meeting celebrity members like Eli Manning or Justin Timberlake, Liberty National Golf Club offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a premier destination for golf enthusiasts in the Garden State.