Best Golf Courses in South Jersey

Did you know Stephen Kay, a famous golf course architect, has worked on over 200 courses in the U.S.? Four of the top 10 courses in South Jersey were designed by him. This shows the high quality of golf experiences in this area.

South Jersey’s golf scene is full of challenging fairways and beautiful greens. You can play on courses with stunning ocean views or those set in the woods. Each offers a unique golfing adventure.

The region is home to top-rated clubs like RiverWinds, Scotland Run, and Valleybrook. These places offer great playing conditions and competitive prices. Whether you’re an expert or just play on weekends, you’ll find exciting holes and challenges everywhere.

In 2023, golf fans reviewed 123 New Jersey courses, sharing 9,014 reviews. The green fees for the best public courses in South Jersey range from $35 to $95. On average, the top 20 courses cost $58.75. This makes high-quality golf affordable for many players.

Key Takeaways

• Stephen Kay designed 4 of the top 10 courses in South Jersey
• South Jersey offers diverse golfing experiences from ocean views to woodland layouts
• Top-rated clubs include RiverWinds, Scotland Run, and Valleybrook
• 123 New Jersey golf courses were reviewed in 2023
• Average green fees for top public courses range from $35 to $95
• The average green fee for the top 20 public courses is $58.75

Exploring South Jersey’s Golfing Paradise

South Jersey is a golfer’s paradise with many courses to choose from. You can find courses for all skill levels and budgets. The area’s beautiful views and well-kept greens make it a dream destination for golfers.

Cape May is a highlight in South Jersey, with seven excellent golf courses. Ocean City Golf Course is great for beginners, with most holes under 150 yards. The Pines at Clermont Golf Club offers a quick 9-hole game with a mix of par-4 and par-3 holes.

Avalon Golf Club provides a challenging 18-hole game. The historic Shore Club, established in 1918, now has an 18-hole course and a 300-yard driving range. Cape May National Golf Club, surrounded by a bird sanctuary, is considered the state’s best course.

Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg offers six unique courses. Twisted Dune Golf Club in Egg Harbor Township is among New Jersey’s best public courses. Seaview Golf Club in Galloway has two courses, each with its own unique features and challenges.

South Jersey has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for affordable rates or stunning views. Make sure to book your tee times early, especially during busy seasons, to secure your spot.

Atlantic City Country Club

Atlantic City Country Club is a top spot for golf in South Jersey. It has a challenging course that’s 6,577 yards long. The course has a slope of 132 and a rating of 72.1. You’ll enjoy the well-kept greens and stunning views.

The club has a rich history. Golf legends have played here. It’s a place where precision and strategy are crucial for success, making it fun for all skill levels.

Atlantic City Country Club has different membership options. You can choose from full golf memberships, social memberships, or corporate packages. Each option has its own benefits and prices.

The club offers more than just golf. You can use the clubhouse, practice areas, and enjoy dining. The pro shop has high-quality gear, and lessons are available to improve your game.

Non-members can play too. Daily rates and tee times are available. Booking ahead, especially in busy seasons, is a good idea. Come see what Atlantic City Country Club has to offer.

Ballamor Golf Club

Ballamor Golf Club in South Jersey offers a top-notch golfing experience. It spans 350 acres and welcomes daily players. The course was designed by Ault, Clark & Associates, making it a challenge for all skill levels.

The course has unique features that make it stand out. It has hills and varied hole lengths. Par threes range from 160 to 223 yards, and par fives from 522 to 625 yards. Hole five is one of the longest in New Jersey, over 625 yards.

Ballamor’s greens are large with many contours. This allows for different hole locations and strategic play. The wide fairways are lined with big bunkers, adding beauty and challenge. Some shots to the greens are blind, requiring precise aiming and local knowledge.

Guests at Ballamor can use the practice facilities and clubhouse. The course has GPS carts and a well-stocked pro shop. Tee times are available from sunrise to sunset, making it easy to play when you want.

Shore Gate Golf Club

Shore Gate Golf Club is a top choice for golfers in South Jersey. It’s an 18-hole course in Ocean View, Dennis Township. The course is challenging but rewarding for all skill levels. It’s surrounded by beautiful laurels, oaks, and pines.

It’s ranked as one of the “Top Ten Public Golf Courses in America.” Golf Digest gives it 4.5 out of 5 stars. The course is 6,794 yards long, with a slope rating of 132 and a course rating of 74.9.

The facilities at Shore Gate are excellent. They offer a “12 after 12” program for afternoon players. You’ll find great practice areas and a fully-stocked pro shop.

The views at Shore Gate are stunning. Each hole offers a unique view of the natural beauty. It’s like playing in Greenville, South Carolina’s top golf courses. Whether it’s sunrise or sunset, the views make your game even better.

McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links

McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links in South Jersey offers a unique golfing experience. It’s a 6,535-yard, par-71 course that opened in 2002. Architect Stephan Kay was inspired by European courses, making it challenging for all players.

The course has dramatic elevation changes, especially at the 11th and 12th holes. On clear days, you can see the Atlantic City skyline from these spots. Water plays a role on five holes, adding to the challenge.

The 10th and 12th holes are considered the toughest. The 10th is a 437-yard par 4 with a tricky green. The 12th offers beautiful views and a test of skill.

Egg Harbor Township residents get discounts by showing their driver’s license. The course offers deals for buying multiple rounds. Its affordable prices have made it very popular, breaking records.

After golf, check out the Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House. It has gastropub food, craft beers, and an outdoor deck. For a fancy meal, try The Library III in the clubhouse, known for its steaks and crab cakes.

Sand Barrens Golf Club

Sand Barrens Golf Club is a top spot for golf in South Jersey. It has 27 holes and three nines named after Civil War generals. These are Ulysses S. Grant, George Meade, and William Tecumseh Sherman.

Dana Fry and Jason Straka redesigned the course. Now, it feels like Pine Valley and Augusta National. Highlights include Grant’s No. 3, a par 3 like Pine Valley’s No. 10, and Sherman’s par four 8th, with water and bunkers.

The club has won many awards. It’s ranked #3 in New Jersey by Golf Week and has 4 Stars from Golf Digest. The rates and tee times show its quality:

The club welcomes guests but suggests booking tee times early. It offers golf carts, practice areas, and a pro shop. These amenities make your game better.

Twisted Dune: A Links-Style Masterpiece

Twisted Dune is a top public golf course in New Jersey. It’s in Egg Harbor Township and has a Scottish-inspired layout. This makes it a unique place to play golf.

Course Layout and Design

The course has deep ravines, grassy hills, and rolling fairways. It’s lined with massive dunes covered in fescue. These dunes make the course both challenging and beautiful.

The designers moved over 2 million cubic yards of earth to create this masterpiece.

Stunning Ocean Views

Golfers at Twisted Dune see amazing scenic views during their game. The high tees and greens give a view of the Atlantic Ocean. This makes Twisted Dune a top spot for golf lovers in South Jersey.

Challenging Terrain Features

The course’s terrain is tough for all golfers. Its links-style layout, with bunkers and undulating greens, requires skill and strategy. New Jersey has over 200 golf courses, but Twisted Dune’s challenges make it stand out.

Seaview Golf Club: Two Distinct Experiences

Seaview Golf Club in Galloway, NJ, offers two unique courses: the Bay and the Pines. The Bay Course was designed by Donald Ross and Hugh Wilson in 1914. It spans 6,366 yards with a slope of 124 from the Blues. Golfweek ranked it ninth best public course in New Jersey.

The Bay Course features classic traits like blind shots and intricate green complexes. The Pines Course, crafted by William Flynn in 1929, hosted the 1942 PGA Championship. Both courses have Bent Grass fairways and greens, offering challenging yet enjoyable experiences for all skill levels.

Seaview Golf Club’s amenities include a clubhouse, meeting facilities, and a spa. The club’s pricing and membership details cater to various preferences:

Golfers love Seaview for its well-maintained fairways, friendly staff, and scenic views. With a 4.2 out of 5 rating from hundreds of reviews, Seaview Golf Club is a top choice in South Jersey.

The Bay Course at Seaview: Coastal Charm

The Bay Course at Seaview is set on 670 scenic acres by Reed’s Bay in New Jersey. It’s a Donald Ross design, covering just over 6,100 yards. This makes it an executive-style course with classic mounding, pot bunkers, and small greens.

Historical Significance

In 1942, the Bay Course hosted the PGA Championship. Sam Snead won his first of seven Major Championships there. This victory started Snead’s legendary career and made the course famous in golf history.

LPGA Tournament Host

Today, the Bay Course is still a top tournament venue. It hosts the ShopRite LPGA Classic every year. This event brings together the world’s best female golfers, showing the course’s challenge.

Unique Golfing Challenges

Despite being shorter, the Bay Course is full of challenges. Its coastal location means wind is a big factor. The small greens require precise approach shots. The course values accuracy over distance, making it fun for all skill levels.

The Bay Course at Seaview has great rates and flexible tee times. Book your round to enjoy this coastal gem. It has challenged golf legends and still delights players today.

The Pines Course at Seaview: Woodland Wonder

The Pines Course at Seaview is set in New Jersey’s lush woodlands. It offers a unique golfing experience. The course has tree-lined fairways, sharp doglegs, and challenging bunkers.

The course features massive sloping greens, adding complexity to your game. It has strategically placed hazards and natural terrain. These elements blend well with the woodland setting.

Golf lovers will enjoy the varied landscapes of the Pines Course. It offers a mix of challenge and beauty, making each round unforgettable.

Visitors can easily access the Pines Course. It welcomes golfers of all skill levels. You’ll find yourself in a golfing paradise.

The 16th hole is famous in golf history. Sam Snead made a 60-foot chip-in there in 1942. This moment won him his first of seven major titles. It makes playing the Pines Course a journey through golfing legend.

RiverWinds Golf and Tennis Club

RiverWinds Golf and Tennis Club is a top spot for golf in South Jersey. It was designed by Ed Shearon and shaped by Pete Fazio. The course is 7,086 yards long with a par of 72. Golf Week named it one of the “Best Places to Play” in New Jersey.

Course Highlights

The course has tough holes that challenge golfers. Hole 5 is the toughest, a demanding par 4. The 18th hole is famous for its green surrounded by water, offering beautiful views and a strategic play.

There are different tee options for all skill levels:

Amenities and Facilities

Some say there’s no water station, but the facilities are mostly praised. The course is in great shape, with well-kept fairways and greens. The views of the city skyline and Linc stadium make the game even more enjoyable.

Membership Benefits

Being a member at RiverWinds is rewarding. The staff is very friendly, earning a 4.8 out of 5 rating. The golf season runs from March to November, giving players plenty of time to play.

Upstate New York is known for great golf, but RiverWinds is a top choice in South Jersey.

Scotland Run Golf Club: A Hidden Gem

Scotland Run Golf Club is a hidden gem in Williamstown, South Jersey. It offers a mix of challenging holes and beautiful views. It’s a top spot for golf lovers.

The club’s facilities are well-kept, making your game unforgettable. Its design includes bunkers and greens that test your skills. Each hole rewards accurate shots.

Scotland Run is known for hosting big groups and corporate events. It’s not just for golf. The club is great for all kinds of gatherings. This makes it popular with many visitors.

Scotland Run has great rates for golf. Weekday rounds start at $75, and weekends are $95. Twilight rates are just $55, perfect for saving money.

Booking in advance is smart to get your preferred tee time. The club’s booking system is easy to use. It makes starting your golf day at Scotland Run smooth.

Pine Valley Golf Club: World-Renowned Excellence

Pine Valley Golf Club is a top spot in South Jersey for golf lovers. It’s ranked as the #1 golf course globally. It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves golf, with its tough layout and rich history.

Exclusive Access and Reputation

Pine Valley’s guest policies are very strict. The club is like a small town with only 20 residents. Its exclusivity makes it a dream destination for golfers everywhere. The club’s rates are not shared publicly, showing its private nature.

Course Design and Challenges

The course has many standout holes. Robert Trent Jones said ten holes are classics. The fifth hole, a 219-yard uphill par-three over water, is one of the toughest.

The course requires precision. Every tee shot needs a forced carry, testing your strategy. The fairways start wide but get narrower near the greens. The greens are tricky, with complex designs and subtle slopes.

Historical Significance

Pine Valley was founded in 1913. George Arthur Crump bought 184 acres for $50 per acre. Today, it covers 623 acres, with the course on 195 acres. The club’s founders, Philadelphia’s elite, each paid $100 to start.

Pine Valley has hosted two Walker Cup Matches, nearly 50 years apart. Its unique golfing experience and history attract golf fans worldwide, making it a top golfing destination.

Valleybrook Country Club: Family-Friendly Golfing

Valleybrook Country Club is a top choice for family golf in South Jersey. It was voted the best public golf course by Courier Post readers. This Blackwood gem mixes challenge and fun for all skill levels.

The course has a mix of flat and hilly areas, with lush greens and tight fairways. Water hazards appear nine times, making the game exciting. You’ll enjoy stunning views and beautiful scenery as you play.

Valleybrook is committed to a great golfing experience. It offers many amenities, like practice facilities and a pro shop. These help make your visit better.

To book or for tee times, call (856) 227-3171 or visit valleybrookgolf.com. Valleybrook Country Club is at 200 Golf View Dr., Blackwood, NJ 08012. It’s easy to get to and promises a memorable golfing experience.

Pinelands Golf Course: Natural Beauty

Pinelands Golf Course is in the heart of South Jersey. It offers a mix of challenging play and beautiful views. The 18-hole championship course uses the area’s unique landscape for a peaceful and scenic setting.

The course has well-kept fairways and greens that go through pine forests. Golfers will find natural obstacles and bunkers that make the game more interesting. The varied terrain makes the game fun for everyone, no matter their skill level.

Pinelands Golf Course is known for its good prices. It welcomes both locals and visitors. There are membership options for individuals, families, and seniors. Members get perks like early tee times and discounts at the pro shop.

The course is dedicated to keeping the Pinelands beautiful. It uses eco-friendly practices. This not only improves the golfing experience but also supports environmentally friendly golf course management.

Merchantville Country Club: Rich Traditions

Nestled in Cherry Hill, NJ, Merchantville Country Club is a gem in South Jersey’s golf scene. It’s a private club with a Par 36 course for all skill levels. Since the early 1900s, it has mixed tradition with modern comforts.

The course layout is a challenge for everyone. You’ll face hazards that require careful planning and precision. The greens are perfect for practicing your short game, adding to the fun.

Booking tee times is easy, making planning your game day simple. The club keeps the course in top shape for a great experience. Whether you’re improving your game or just want to relax, Merchantville has you covered.

Merchantville Country Club values quality and offers great rates. It has flexible membership options for different lifestyles and golfing interests. Joining means becoming part of a community that values golf’s heritage and its future.

Moorestown Field Club: Classic Elegance

In the heart of Moorestown, NJ, the Moorestown Field Club is a mix of classic charm and modern golfing features. It invites you to enjoy its well-kept course and rich history.

Course Features

The Moorestown Field Club’s golf course has unique features for all skill levels. Its well-groomed fairways and greens offer a beautiful setting. The course uses the natural terrain, making your game memorable.

Club History

Founded in the early 20th century, Moorestown Field Club has a rich history. It’s an important part of the local community, hosting many tournaments and events. Its timeless appeal and dedication to excellence have made it a favorite in South Jersey.

Membership Options

Moorestown Field Club has various membership options. Whether you want full golf privileges or social memberships, there’s something for everyone. Members get access to the course, clubhouse, and special events.

Moorestown Field Club is known for its classic design and modern amenities. It’s a top choice among golf courses in the area. Its focus on a great golfing experience makes it an important spot for golf lovers in South Jersey.

Frog Rock Golf & Country Club: Unique Golfing Experience

Frog Rock Golf & Country Club is in Hammonton, NJ. It offers a unique golfing adventure. The course has distinctive holes that challenge and reward you.

The views at Frog Rock are breathtaking. Each hole offers a new view of the area. This makes your game visually stunning.

Frog Rock’s facilities are excellent for all golfers. The grounds and practice areas help you improve your game. After playing, you can relax at the clubhouse, like the lively golf community in.

To book or ask questions, call Frog Rock Golf & Country Club at (609) 561-5504. Its charm and quality make it a hidden gem in South Jersey.

Wedgwood Country Club: Pristine Greens

Wedgwood Country Club in Turnersville, NJ, is known for its stunning greens. The course is designed to challenge golfers of every skill level. The front nine has wide fairways for your tee shots. The back nine, however, is lined with trees, requiring precision.

Holes 10, 11, 17, and 18 are particularly challenging. They have out-of-bounds areas on the left side. These holes add excitement and test your skills.

The club’s facilities make your game even better. Relax at the clubhouse or practice at the driving range after your game.

Don’t forget to book your tee times early, especially during busy times. Wedgwood Country Club offers great prices and flexible times to fit your schedule.

Westwood Golf Club: Accessible Excellence

Westwood Golf Club in West Deptford, NJ, offers a great golf experience at a good price. The course has well-designed holes that challenge your skills. It’s perfect for both new and experienced golfers.

The club welcomes guests, letting you enjoy member perks. You can easily book tee times online or by phone. The rates are also very competitive in South Jersey.

The 7th hole is a par-3 that tests your precision with water guarding the green. The 18th hole is a par-5 that invites bold play. These holes make Westwood a top choice for golf in South Jersey.