New Hampshire is home to several outstanding golf courses, offering a mix of challenging layouts, scenic views, and top-tier amenities.
The five best courses in the state are Baker Hill Golf Club, The Golf Club of New England, Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club, Omni Mount Washington Resort – Mount Washington Course, and Breakfast Hill Golf Club.
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what makes each one stand out.
Baker Hill Golf Club (Newbury, NH)
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Newbury, Baker Hill Golf Club is a premier private golf destination offering a meticulously crafted course, an exclusive membership experience, and stunning views of Lake Sunapee.
Designed by renowned architect Rees Jones, this 18-hole layout blends challenge and playability, making it a top choice for serious golfers seeking a refined yet rewarding test of skill.
Recognized as New Hampshire’s top-ranked course by Golf Digest, Baker Hill provides an unforgettable golf experience in a serene and scenic setting.
What Makes Baker Hill Special?
Baker Hill stands out not only for its championship-caliber design but also for its ability to cater to a wide range of players.
The course stretches from 4,300 to 7,200 yards, offering multiple tee options that accommodate golfers of varying skill levels.
Each hole is carefully sculpted into the rolling terrain, creating natural elevation changes that challenge shot-making while enhancing the overall aesthetic.
The thoughtfully designed layout ensures that no two holes feel alike.
Golfers will encounter a mix of tight fairways, strategic bunkering, and well-protected greens, requiring precise shot placement and course management.
The signature holes take full advantage of the expansive lake and mountain views, delivering a visually stunning round that demands both strategy and execution.
Why Golfers Love It
Baker Hill consistently ranks among the best private courses in the Northeast, largely due to its immaculate conditioning and expertly crafted design.
The Golf Digest recognition further solidifies its status as New Hampshire’s top course, attracting avid players who appreciate a high-quality golf experience.
One of the club’s defining traits is its ability to challenge low-handicap players while remaining enjoyable for mid-to-high handicappers.
With multiple tee options, players can tailor the course’s difficulty to match their skill level, ensuring a round that is both engaging and rewarding.
Beyond the golf itself, Baker Hill offers an atmosphere of quiet exclusivity.
The private nature of the club means no overcrowding, no rushed rounds, and no distractions, allowing members to fully immerse themselves in the game.
Membership and Amenities
Baker Hill is a members-only club, ensuring an exclusive and well-maintained experience for those who join.
Membership provides access to club events, tournaments, and high-quality dining options, fostering a strong community among passionate golfers.
Located just a two-hour drive from Boston, Baker Hill is easily accessible for golfers who want a private retreat away from the city.
The club’s location above Lake Sunapee adds to its appeal, offering a stunning New England backdrop that enhances both the golf and the overall experience.
For those seeking a private golf club with a challenging course, breathtaking scenery, and a true sense of exclusivity, Baker Hill Golf Club remains one of New Hampshire’s premier golf destinations.
The Golf Club of New England (Stratham, NH)
The Golf Club of New England in Stratham is a true championship test, featuring one of Arnold Palmer’s most demanding designs.
With its expansive 7,673-yard layout, this private course is built for serious golfers who appreciate a strategic and highly challenging round.
Nestled within 450 acres of scenic farmland, the course integrates natural stone walls, towering oak trees, and meandering streams, creating both a visually stunning and technically demanding experience.
What Makes It Stand Out?
Designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, this course is regarded as one of his most challenging layouts.
It demands precision on every shot, rewarding those who can navigate its narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens.
The course’s natural integration with the existing landscape creates a layout that feels organic yet meticulously planned.
Unlike more forgiving designs, The Golf Club of New England prioritizes shot-making and smart course management.
The tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and carefully placed hazards force players to think through every hole.
Aggressive play is often punished, making patience and precision critical.
The setting itself adds to the appeal.
Situated on 450 acres of rolling countryside, the course features New England’s classic stone walls, dense hardwoods, and tranquil water features that not only enhance the challenge but also elevate the overall aesthetic.
Key Course Features
The Golf Club of New England is one of the longest and toughest courses in New Hampshire, with the black tees stretching to a daunting 7,673 yards (par 72).
The course rating of 79.0 further emphasizes the difficulty, making it a stern test even for accomplished players.
With multiple tee boxes, players can adjust the level of difficulty, but even the forward tees present a rigorous challenge.
The greens are fast, undulating, and well-guarded, requiring an excellent short game to score well.
The fairways offer little forgiveness, and poor positioning off the tee often leads to difficult recovery shots.
Golfers must also contend with elevated greens, strategically placed hazards, and deep rough that can quickly turn a solid round into a struggle.
The variety in hole designs keeps the round engaging, with no two holes playing alike.
Amenities That Enhance the Experience
As a private club, The Golf Club of New England offers an exclusive and meticulously maintained golf environment.
The course is never overcrowded, allowing members to enjoy a focused, uninterrupted round.
The practice facilities are top-tier, featuring a spacious driving range with pristine turf conditions, ensuring players can warm up properly before tackling the demanding layout.
While the club primarily caters to serious golfers, the quiet, secluded setting and unparalleled course conditions make it a desirable location for those who appreciate a high-quality, pure golf experience.
The Golf Club of New England is a must-play for golfers seeking one of the toughest and most rewarding rounds in the region.
Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club (New Durham, NH)
Set in the heart of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club offers an exclusive golfing experience that blends pristine course conditions with breathtaking natural beauty.
Designed by Clive Clark, this private club is known for its meticulously maintained fairways, scenic mountain views, and strategic layout that challenges players while remaining accessible to a range of skill levels.
With an emphasis on both course quality and a refined membership experience, Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club stands out as one of the top golfing destinations in New Hampshire.
A Lakes Region Golfing Paradise
Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club is a masterpiece of design, carefully sculpted to embrace the surrounding lakes, forests, and rolling hills.
The course layout offers a balanced mix of wide-open fairways, tree-lined holes, and strategically placed bunkers, ensuring a dynamic playing experience.
While the course presents a fair challenge, it remains enjoyable for golfers of varying abilities, thanks to multiple tee options that adjust the level of difficulty.
One of the defining characteristics of this Clive Clark-designed course is its flawless conditioning.
The greens are smooth and fast, and the fairways are always in top shape, making for a premium golf experience every time you play.
Unlike courses that rely solely on length or difficulty, Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club emphasizes strategy, risk-reward shot-making, and thoughtful course management, making each round engaging and rewarding.
Why It’s a Must-Play Course
Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club is consistently ranked among the best courses in New Hampshire, a testament to both its exceptional course design and stunning setting.
The natural beauty of the Lakes Region is woven into every hole, offering unmatched scenic vistas that enhance the overall experience.
Golfers will find themselves playing alongside dense forests, dramatic elevation changes, and panoramic lake views, creating a setting that is as visually stunning as it is enjoyable to play.
What makes this course particularly appealing is its perfect balance of challenge and playability.
It caters to both seasoned players and mid-handicap golfers, ensuring that each round is both competitive and fun.
The thoughtful hole layouts demand strategy and precision, but they also allow for some forgiveness, keeping the course accessible for a wide range of players.
Exclusive Membership Perks
As a private club, Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club provides a first-class golf experience, with an emphasis on exclusivity, personalized service, and member camaraderie.
Membership includes access to premium dining and social events, creating a close-knit golfing community that extends beyond the course.
The club’s hospitality and attention to detail further elevate the experience, making it more than just a golf course—it’s a place where members feel at home.
For those seeking a high-end, meticulously maintained private course in one of New Hampshire’s most beautiful regions, Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club delivers an exceptional and memorable golf experience.
Whether you're drawn to its flawless fairways, strategic layout, or picturesque setting, this course offers everything a golfer could want in a top-tier private club.
Omni Mount Washington Resort – Mount Washington Course (Bretton Woods, NH)
Located at the base of the stunning Presidential Mountain Range, the Mount Washington Course at Omni Mount Washington Resort is a classic New England golf experience with a rich history and breathtaking scenery.
Designed by Donald Ross, one of golf’s most legendary architects, this public course seamlessly blends traditional course design with modern playability.
Whether you're a local golfer or a visitor seeking a scenic round, this course offers a memorable mix of challenge, accessibility, and resort-level amenities.
A Historic Course with Breathtaking Views
Originally designed in 1915 by Donald Ross, the Mount Washington Course has been carefully restored to honor Ross’s original vision while incorporating modern updates that enhance playability.
The 18-hole layout takes full advantage of the natural terrain, featuring gently rolling fairways, well-placed bunkers, and subtly contoured greens that require thoughtful shot selection.
One of the defining features of this course is its spectacular mountain backdrop.
Golfers are treated to unparalleled views of Mount Washington and the surrounding peaks, creating a picturesque atmosphere that is unmatched in New England.
The contrast between the lush fairways and the rugged mountain landscape makes every round both visually and strategically engaging.
Why It Appeals to All Golfers
One of the biggest advantages of the Mount Washington Course is that it is open to the public, making it an excellent choice for both locals and visitors.
Unlike many top-ranked courses in New Hampshire, which require private membership, this course welcomes all players, allowing more golfers to experience its historic charm and scenic beauty.
While the course offers challenging holes that will test experienced players, it also features forgiving fairways and a variety of tee options, making it accessible to golfers of all skill levels.
The layout stays true to Ross’s philosophy, where strategy and shot placement matter more than pure distance, ensuring that both low-handicap and casual golfers can enjoy a fair yet engaging round.
Resort-Style Amenities
As part of the Omni Mount Washington Resort, golfers have access to a full suite of luxury amenities that elevate the experience beyond just a round of golf.
Those looking for a weekend getaway can take advantage of on-site lodging options, ranging from luxurious suites to cozy accommodations with mountain views.
After a round, players can unwind at one of the resort’s fine dining restaurants or casual eateries, offering everything from upscale cuisine to relaxed après-golf options.
Beyond golf, visitors can explore other recreational activities such as spa services, hiking trails, and seasonal outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for golfers traveling with family or non-golfing companions.
For golfers looking for a historic, beautifully maintained, and publicly accessible course in one of New England’s most breathtaking settings, the Mount Washington Course at Omni Mount Washington Resort is a must-play.
Whether you're visiting for the golf, the scenery, or the full resort experience, this course delivers a perfect combination of history, playability, and luxury.
Breakfast Hill Golf Club (Greenland, NH)
For golfers seeking a top-tier public course with excellent value, Breakfast Hill Golf Club in Greenland, NH, is one of the best choices in the state.
Designed by Brian Silva, this par-71 layout stretches 6,500 yards and delivers an engaging mix of strategic shot-making, natural terrain, and diverse hole designs.
Recognized as one of America’s best daily fee golf facilities, Breakfast Hill consistently provides superb course conditions while remaining affordable and accessible for golfers of all skill levels.
A Top Public Golf Course in New Hampshire
Breakfast Hill’s Brian Silva-designed course offers a layout that rewards precision over power, making it enjoyable for both high-handicap and low-handicap golfers.
The natural terrain plays a key role, with tree-lined fairways, gentle elevation changes, and well-placed hazards keeping every hole interesting.
The design also includes doglegs, forced carries, and strategically placed bunkers, ensuring that each hole presents a fresh challenge.
At 6,500 yards, the course isn’t overly long, but it requires accurate shot placement and a smart approach to each hole.
Golfers will find that course management is critical, as some holes demand positioning off the tee rather than just distance.
With multiple tee options, players of all skill levels can find a comfortable challenge that suits their game.
What Makes It Stand Out?
Breakfast Hill Golf Club has earned a strong reputation as one of the best public golf courses in New Hampshire due to its consistent course conditions and exceptional value.
Unlike many daily-fee courses that struggle to maintain premium playing conditions, Breakfast Hill is always well-manicured, offering smooth greens, well-kept fairways, and playable rough.
One of its biggest draws is its affordability without sacrificing quality.
While many top courses in New Hampshire require expensive memberships, Breakfast Hill delivers a private club feel at a reasonable price, making it a favorite among local and visiting golfers alike.
Whether you’re looking for a competitive round or a casual game with friends, it offers one of the best public golf experiences in the state.
Additional Amenities
Beyond the course, Breakfast Hill provides several amenities that enhance the overall golfing experience.
The practice facilities allow golfers to warm up before a round or work on their game, with a driving range, short game area, and putting green available for use.
A well-stocked pro shop ensures that players have access to high-quality golf gear, apparel, and accessories, whether they need a last-minute purchase before a round or are looking to upgrade their equipment.
For those wanting to unwind after their round, the club’s dining options offer a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a meal or drinks while taking in the scenic surroundings.
The combination of a great course, solid amenities, and affordable rates makes Breakfast Hill Golf Club a must-visit for any golfer in New Hampshire looking for a high-quality public course.
How to Choose the Right Course for You
With five outstanding golf courses in New Hampshire, choosing the right one depends on your golfing preferences, skill level, and desired experience.
Whether you’re looking for an exclusive private club, a scenic resort getaway, or an affordable public course, there’s an option that fits your needs.
Here’s how to determine which course is the best match for you.
For a High-End Private Golf Experience
If you value exclusivity, pristine course conditions, and a private club atmosphere, Baker Hill Golf Club, The Golf Club of New England, and Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club offer some of the best private golf experiences in the state.
- Baker Hill Golf Club provides a well-balanced test of golf with stunning views of Lake Sunapee and an immaculately maintained course.
- The Golf Club of New England is the most challenging of the three, designed by Arnold Palmer with a demanding 7,673-yard layout that rewards precision and patience.
- Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club combines exclusive membership perks with a strategic course design that remains enjoyable for a wide range of golfers.
For a Golf Getaway with Resort Perks
For those looking for a destination golf experience with resort-level amenities, Omni Mount Washington Course is the best choice.
- As part of the Omni Mount Washington Resort, this public course offers luxury lodging, fine dining, and recreational activities, making it a perfect spot for a weekend getaway.
- The Donald Ross-designed layout is both challenging and playable, with breathtaking mountain views adding to the experience.
- Ideal for golfers traveling with family or those who enjoy pairing golf with spa treatments, hiking, or other resort activities.
For an Excellent Public Golf Experience at a Great Value
If you’re looking for a well-maintained public course that offers great golf at an affordable price, Breakfast Hill Golf Club is the best option.
- Known for its excellent course conditions, strategic hole designs, and reasonable greens fees, Breakfast Hill provides a high-end feel without the membership costs.
- The 6,500-yard layout is challenging yet manageable for golfers of all skill levels, making it an ideal choice for casual players and serious golfers alike.
- Offers great practice facilities and a solid pro shop, making it an all-around strong choice for public golf in New Hampshire.
For a Challenge
If you’re looking for a true test of skill, The Golf Club of New England is the toughest course in the state.
- The 7,673-yard, par-72 layout is one of the longest and most challenging in New England, featuring tight fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens.
- Designed by Arnold Palmer, the course punishes aggressive play and rewards precision, making it best suited for low-handicap golfers looking to test their game.
- A private club with pristine conditions, ensuring a quiet, focused golf experience.
For Scenic Views
If you want a golf course that delivers stunning natural beauty, three stand out: Baker Hill Golf Club, Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club, and Omni Mount Washington Course.
- Baker Hill Golf Club offers panoramic views of Lake Sunapee, with rolling terrain and a peaceful New England setting.
- Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club showcases the beauty of the Lakes Region, with lush fairways set against mountain and lake views.
- Omni Mount Washington Course provides unmatched views of the Presidential Mountain Range, making it one of the most scenic courses in the region.
Conclusion
New Hampshire offers a diverse selection of top-tier golf courses, from exclusive private clubs to scenic public layouts.
Whether you're seeking a championship-level challenge, a resort getaway, or an affordable yet well-maintained course, there's an option to match every golfer’s preference.
No matter which course you choose, you're guaranteed a memorable round in one of the most picturesque golf settings in New England.
