Georgia is home to some of the finest public golf courses in the country, offering a diverse range of scenic and challenging options for golfers of all levels.
The five best public courses are Sea Island Resort’s Seaside Course, Reynolds Lake Oconee’s Great Waters, Bear’s Best, University of Georgia Golf Course, and The Frog Golf Club.
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what makes each of these courses stand out.
Sea Island Resort (Seaside Course) – St. Simons Island
The Seaside Course at Sea Island Resort, located on Georgia’s picturesque Golden Isles, is widely regarded as one of the top public golf courses in the state.
It offers a memorable experience for golfers of all levels, blending challenging play with breathtaking coastal scenery.
Its reputation is bolstered by its role as a frequent host of PGA Tour events, drawing both amateurs and professionals to test their skills.
Overview of the Course
Situated on St. Simons Island, the Seaside Course is a links-style course designed to challenge even the most skilled golfers.
Its layout weaves through the island’s coastal marshlands, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and abundant natural beauty.
With a par-70 layout, the course stretches over 7,000 yards and features a mix of demanding holes, requiring precision shot-making and smart course management.
Seaside is one of three 18-hole courses at Sea Island Resort, but it stands out for its history and the level of play it supports.
It is regularly used for PGA Tour events, including the RSM Classic, meaning the course is maintained to professional standards.
Whether you're a beginner looking to enjoy the coastal views or an experienced player seeking a challenge, Seaside offers a unique and rewarding golfing experience.
What Makes It Special
The Seaside Course is not just another pretty location—its strategic design and high-profile history set it apart.
The scenic marsh views are a key attraction, with almost every hole providing vistas of the surrounding waters, making it one of the most visually striking courses in Georgia.
The ocean breezes and salt marshlands create a sense of tranquility, but don't be fooled: the course requires sharp precision.
The layout, designed by Harry S. Colt and Charles Alison and later updated by Tom Fazio, is known for its challenging conditions.
Wind is a constant factor, often shifting throughout the day, which makes each round unique.
Hazards, including bunkers and marshlands, are strategically placed to challenge decision-making.
Golfers will find the course rewards accuracy over brute strength, with narrow fairways and small, undulating greens that require careful attention.
Beyond the technical aspects, Seaside’s place in golf history makes it special.
It’s a frequent stop on the PGA Tour, and many iconic players have competed here, adding a sense of prestige to the experience.
Tips for Golfers
Playing the Seaside Course demands careful consideration of the conditions and course design.
Wind is one of the most challenging factors, as its coastal location means it can pick up unpredictably throughout your round.
It’s advisable to keep an eye on the weather forecast before your tee time and be prepared for gusty conditions.
Golfers who thrive on precision will find Seaside particularly rewarding.
The narrow fairways require straight shots, and it’s crucial to prioritize accuracy over distance.
Power hitters may be tempted to take risks, but the course’s layout favors smart, controlled shots.
If you’re unfamiliar with links-style courses, it’s a good idea to take a more conservative approach, especially when navigating the small greens and tricky bunkers.
Also, keep in mind that the marshland and water features play a significant role on the course.
Bring extra golf balls, especially if you're prone to hitting errant shots.
Many holes require precision with long irons and wedges, and you’ll want to avoid costly mistakes around the marshes and bunkers.
Green Fees & Booking Information
Sea Island’s Seaside Course offers a premium golfing experience, and the green fees reflect that.
Prices vary depending on the season, with higher rates typically during peak golfing months in the fall and spring.
Expect to pay a premium rate for a round during high season, generally ranging from $350 to $500 per round.
During the off-season, rates may drop, offering a more affordable opportunity to play this prestigious course, with fees closer to $250.
When planning your trip, it’s advisable to book your tee times well in advance, especially if you’re aiming to play during peak months or weekends.
Sea Island is a popular destination for golfers, and slots fill up quickly, particularly for the Seaside Course, which attracts both locals and visitors.
The resort itself offers a variety of packages, including stay-and-play deals that can help you save on green fees if you’re planning an extended visit.
Reynolds Lake Oconee (Great Waters) – Greensboro
Great Waters at Reynolds Lake Oconee is one of Georgia’s premier public golf courses, designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus.
Set against the backdrop of the stunning Lake Oconee, this course offers both a scenic and challenging experience that attracts golfers from all over the country.
With its water-heavy design and impeccable greens, it’s a must-play for anyone visiting Georgia.
Overview of the Course
Great Waters is a signature Jack Nicklaus-designed course, located within the larger Reynolds Lake Oconee resort in Greensboro, Georgia.
The course stretches along the shores of Lake Oconee, with many of the holes featuring water hazards that define its layout.
The par-72 course plays over 7,400 yards from the back tees, with several tee options available to accommodate different skill levels.
The course is designed to incorporate Lake Oconee's natural beauty, with backdrops of sparkling water, tree-lined fairways, and panoramic views.
Nearly half of the holes are directly bordered by the lake, making water management an essential part of a successful round.
The design seamlessly blends challenge and playability, offering a test for skilled golfers while still providing an enjoyable experience for those seeking a more relaxed round.
What Makes It Special
Great Waters stands out for its masterful combination of aesthetic beauty and strategic design.
Jack Nicklaus is known for his ability to create courses that reward thoughtful play, and Great Waters is no exception.
The course's use of Lake Oconee, combined with its well-placed bunkers and undulating greens, makes every hole unique and memorable.
The lakeside setting is one of the most scenic in Georgia, with stunning views on nearly every hole.
The back nine, in particular, is famous for its picturesque layout, as it wraps around the shoreline and offers dramatic water views that can both inspire and intimidate.
It's no surprise that Great Waters is consistently ranked among the top public-access courses in the Southeast by various golf publications.
While many courses focus on either challenge or beauty, Great Waters excels at both.
Nicklaus’s design ensures that even the most seasoned golfers will face plenty of tests, especially when it comes to managing the water hazards that come into play on almost every hole.
Despite this, the course remains approachable for mid- to high-handicap players, thanks to multiple tee options and the large, forgiving fairways that offer some margin for error.
Tips for Golfers
If you’re planning to play Great Waters, there are a few key tips to keep in mind for a successful round.
First and foremost, water management is critical.
Many holes feature Lake Oconee as a significant hazard, and knowing when to take a conservative approach versus going for a riskier shot is crucial.
Club selection, particularly with approach shots into greens surrounded by water, can make or break your round.
Don’t hesitate to lay up if you’re unsure about carrying a hazard.
Due to its lakeside location, Great Waters is best played during the spring and fall months.
During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its best, with vibrant greenery and crystal-clear lake views.
The summer can bring humid, hot conditions, which might make the round more physically demanding, while winter months can be cooler but still playable.
The course is known for its well-maintained greens, so expect a quick pace of play on the putting surfaces.
It’s important to familiarize yourself with the green speed during your warm-up to avoid three-putting on the fast, undulating greens.
Green Fees & Booking Information
Green fees for Great Waters vary depending on the season and time of day, with rates typically ranging from $180 to $250 per round.
Peak times, such as weekends and during the spring and fall months, tend to be on the higher end of this range, while off-peak times during the summer and winter may offer slightly reduced rates.
If you're planning a trip to Great Waters, it’s advisable to book your tee times in advance, especially if you're visiting during the busy spring or fall seasons.
As part of the larger Reynolds Lake Oconee resort, Great Waters is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and tee times can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends.
Out-of-state golfers can also benefit from stay-and-play packages offered by the resort, which often include discounts on green fees and accommodations.
Bear’s Best – Suwanee
Bear’s Best in Suwanee, Georgia, offers golfers a unique experience by combining Jack Nicklaus’s favorite holes from various courses around the world into one remarkable layout.
Conveniently located near Atlanta, this course allows golfers to enjoy a world-class round without venturing far from the city.
Overview of the Course
Bear’s Best is a distinctive compilation of 18 holes, each modeled after signature holes from Nicklaus-designed courses in the U.S., Mexico, and Scotland.
The course features a diverse range of terrains and styles, offering a tour through some of Nicklaus’s most iconic designs in a single round.
From lush, tree-lined fairways to desert-style holes, each section of the course presents new challenges and demands different skills.
The course spans 7,125 yards from the back tees and plays to a par 72.
With its variety of holes, Bear’s Best offers something for everyone, from links-style play reminiscent of Scotland to target golf inspired by Mexico’s desert courses.
Despite the varying designs, the course maintains a consistent level of difficulty and quality, making it a standout choice for both locals and visitors.
What Makes It Special
Bear’s Best is special because it provides a global golfing experience in one round.
Each hole is a faithful replica of a hole from one of Nicklaus’s favorite designs, meaning golfers can experience diverse playing conditions and styles without needing to travel the world.
This variety is a big draw for players who appreciate a different challenge on every hole.
Additionally, the course prides itself on its premium playing conditions.
The greens are meticulously maintained, and the fairways are always in excellent shape, providing a top-tier experience.
The diversity in design, combined with its well-maintained layout, makes it a favorite for golfers who enjoy variety and consistency in quality.
The course’s proximity to Atlanta adds to its appeal, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors looking for a top-notch round without having to travel far.
Tips for Golfers
To play Bear’s Best effectively, it’s important to prepare for the diversity in hole designs.
With links-style holes, desert-themed sections, and lush parkland settings, golfers need to adjust their strategy depending on the layout.
This variety keeps the round interesting but also requires adaptability.
For instance, on links-style holes, golfers might need to use the wind and focus on shot control, while desert-style holes call for accuracy and careful target selection.
This course is best suited for players who enjoy a change of pace throughout the round.
The different styles ensure that you’re never playing the same type of hole twice in a row, which can be exciting but also mentally demanding.
Being able to adjust your game plan from hole to hole is key to scoring well at Bear’s Best.
For an optimal experience, golfers should familiarize themselves with the course layout ahead of time.
Knowing which holes require a more conservative approach and which ones invite aggressive play will help you manage your round effectively.
Also, pay attention to the condition of the greens, which are often fast and challenging, requiring precision on approach shots and putts.
Green Fees & Booking Information
Green fees at Bear’s Best vary throughout the year, with prices generally ranging between $75 and $120 per round, depending on the season and time of day.
During peak golfing months in spring and fall, expect to pay on the higher end of this range, while summer and winter may offer reduced rates.
Weekday rounds are usually more affordable than weekends, and golfers can often find better deals if they book well in advance.
University of Georgia Golf Course – Athens
The University of Georgia Golf Course in Athens is a Robert Trent Jones Sr. design and serves as the home course for the UGA Bulldogs golf team.
Recognized as one of the top university courses in the Southeast, it offers golfers an opportunity to play on a championship-level course without the high cost associated with many premium venues.
Overview of the Course
The University of Georgia Golf Course was designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. and is widely respected for its challenging layout and beautiful setting.
The course spans 7,240 yards from the back tees and plays as a par 71.
It offers a combination of hilly terrain and well-manicured greens, providing a stiff test for golfers of all skill levels.
This course isn't just for the UGA golf team; it's also open to the public, making it accessible to both students and visitors.
With its tree-lined fairways, elevation changes, and undulating greens, the course offers a scenic yet challenging round.
It's a true test of skill, particularly for those who appreciate a tough, well-designed course.
What Makes It Special
One of the standout features of the University of Georgia Golf Course is its hilly terrain, which adds to the challenge and makes shot-making critical.
The elevation changes require careful club selection and thoughtful course management, especially on approach shots into the greens.
Despite its difficulties, the course is approachable for golfers at all levels due to its multiple tee boxes, making it a favorite for local golfers as well as those traveling through Athens.
What also sets this course apart is its affordability.
Despite being a championship-level course, the University of Georgia Golf Course offers reasonably priced green fees, making it a great value.
The course is meticulously maintained, ensuring that the greens are fast and true, while the fairways are always in excellent shape.
It’s rare to find a course of this caliber that’s so budget-friendly, making it a gem for both students and visitors.
Tips for Golfers
For budget-conscious golfers looking for a high-quality round without breaking the bank, this course is ideal.
Its affordable rates, combined with its excellent condition, make it one of the best public golf values in the Southeast.
It’s also perfect for golfers who enjoy walking the course, as its layout is walkable for those who prefer to forgo a cart and get some exercise.
The hilly terrain can be challenging on foot, but it adds to the overall experience, particularly for golfers who appreciate a good workout during their round.
The greens are fast and require careful reading to avoid costly mistakes.
Golfers should take the time to study the breaks and slopes on the putting surfaces, as three-putting is a common risk here.
On some of the longer holes, especially those with uphill approaches, playing a little more conservatively and focusing on precision rather than power can help avoid trouble.
Green Fees & Booking Information
The University of Georgia Golf Course offers some of the most affordable green fees in the region, especially for the quality of play it provides.
For students, rates are particularly low, often ranging from $20 to $30 for a round. For the general public, fees typically fall between $50 and $70, depending on the day and time.
Walk-ins are welcome at this course, though it's always advisable to call ahead or book a tee time online, especially during peak times like weekends or around university events.
Weekday mornings are often less crowded, making them the best time to enjoy a quieter round.
Additionally, twilight rates can provide an even more affordable option for those looking to play in the late afternoon.
The Frog Golf Club – Villa Rica
The Frog Golf Club, located in Villa Rica just outside of Atlanta, is a championship course designed by the renowned Tom Fazio.
Known for its beautiful, natural setting and challenging layout, this course offers a peaceful retreat for golfers looking to enjoy a high-quality round away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Overview of the Course
The Frog Golf Club is nestled in serene woodlands, offering a tranquil environment for golfers of all skill levels.
Tom Fazio’s design integrates the natural landscape beautifully, featuring rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that make every hole an interesting test.
Stretching over 7,000 yards from the back tees, The Frog is a par-72 course that demands both power and precision.
One of the key features of The Frog is its layout, which balances long, open fairways with tighter, more technical holes.
The course is renowned for being meticulously maintained, with lush fairways and fast, undulating greens that challenge even the most seasoned players.
Despite its difficulty, the course is approachable for mid-handicap golfers, with several tee options allowing players to choose the level of difficulty they’re comfortable with.
What Makes It Special
What makes The Frog Golf Club stand out is its combination of a peaceful, natural setting and a challenging, well-thought-out design.
The course is set in a wooded area, far from urban noise, allowing golfers to enjoy a quiet, scenic round.
Fazio’s design maximizes this sense of tranquility while still offering a course that is exciting and mentally stimulating to play.
The mix of long fairways and tricky greens is one of the course’s defining features.
Many holes encourage aggressive driving, but the real test comes with the approaches and putting.
The greens are known for their speed and subtle breaks, requiring careful reads and confident strokes.
For golfers who enjoy a blend of wide-open spaces and more technical, strategic play, The Frog offers an excellent balance.
Another reason The Frog is special is its reputation for excellent maintenance.
The course is kept in top condition year-round, ensuring a premium experience for all players.
This attention to detail, combined with the beautiful setting, makes it one of the most enjoyable and relaxing courses to play in Georgia.
Tips for Golfers
The Frog is an ideal course for golfers seeking both a challenge and a relaxing environment.
For the best experience, consider playing early in the morning or in the late afternoon when the course is at its most peaceful.
These times often provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing the tranquility and allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty of the setting.
When playing The Frog, it’s important to be strategic with your club selection, especially on the approach shots into the greens.
The fairways are generous on many holes, but the challenge comes with navigating the fast, undulating greens.
Pay close attention to your short game, as missed greens can lead to tricky recovery shots from bunkers or rough.
Additionally, players should be mindful of the water hazards that come into play on several holes, particularly on the back nine.
Walking the course can be an enjoyable experience due to the scenic setting, but note that it’s a long course with some hilly terrain, so a cart may be preferable for some players, especially during warmer months.
Green Fees & Booking Information
Green fees at The Frog Golf Club are very reasonable for the quality of the course.
Rates generally range from $65 to $100 depending on the time of day and season, with weekend rates being higher.
For those looking to save, twilight rates are an excellent option, offering a reduced fee for playing later in the afternoon.
These twilight rounds also allow golfers to enjoy the course at its quietest, with the added bonus of finishing your round as the sun sets over the picturesque woodlands.
To get the best value for your money, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially for weekend rounds or peak season.
The Frog is a popular destination for golfers from Atlanta and the surrounding areas, and tee times can fill up quickly.
Booking during weekdays or opting for an early or late round can also help you secure a more affordable rate while still enjoying the full experience of the course.
Additional Resources
When planning your golf trip to Georgia, it’s important to be fully prepared, not only for the varying course conditions but also to ensure that your experience is enjoyable for you and others on the course.
Below are some key insights on what to pack and how to follow proper golfing etiquette on public courses in Georgia.
What to Pack for a Georgia Golf Trip
Golfing in Georgia offers a wide variety of terrain and weather, ranging from coastal marshes to wooded courses.
Preparing for these diverse conditions is crucial to ensuring you have everything you need for a successful and enjoyable round.
One of the most important items to bring is extra golf balls, especially if you’re playing on courses with water hazards, such as Sea Island’s Seaside Course or Reynolds Lake Oconee’s Great Waters.
Water comes into play frequently on these courses, and even experienced golfers may lose a ball or two.
If you're planning to play a coastal course, such as the Seaside Course at Sea Island, make sure to pack wind-resistant gear.
Coastal breezes can be strong and unpredictable, and having a light windbreaker or layers will help you stay comfortable without hindering your swing.
For courses located inland, like The Frog or Bear’s Best, the temperatures can vary depending on the season, so packing breathable, moisture-wicking clothing for the warmer months and layered clothing for cooler mornings and evenings is recommended.
Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the Georgia sun can be intense, particularly during summer months.
A hydration bottle is also a good idea, especially if you plan on walking any of the courses, as the hilly terrains can be physically demanding.
Lastly, if you plan to walk rather than use a cart, comfortable golf shoes with good support are essential.
Many Georgia courses have elevation changes and long distances between holes, so comfortable footwear will make your round much more enjoyable.
Golfing Etiquette on Public Courses
Following proper golfing etiquette is crucial to having an enjoyable experience for yourself and others on the course, especially when playing at public courses that can sometimes be busier than private clubs.
One key element is pace of play. Keeping a steady pace ensures that everyone has a good experience, especially on popular public courses that see a lot of traffic.
To maintain a reasonable pace, be mindful of how long you spend looking for lost balls or setting up your shots.
If your group is slower than the one behind, allow faster players to play through.
On courses like Bear’s Best, which can see heavy weekend play, it’s courteous to keep the game moving, so everyone can enjoy their round without delays.
Another aspect of etiquette is respecting course conditions. Public courses, while well-maintained, often see more wear and tear than private courses.
Be diligent about repairing divots, raking bunkers, and fixing ball marks on the greens.
This keeps the course in good condition for the next group of players and ensures that your actions don’t negatively affect someone else’s round.
Interacting with course staff is another important aspect of good etiquette.
Whether you're checking in at the pro shop, asking a marshal for assistance, or interacting with cart attendants, it's always good to be courteous and polite.
These interactions contribute to the overall experience, and fostering a good relationship with the staff can sometimes lead to helpful tips or advice about the course.
Finally, be mindful of the noise and distractions you create on the course.
Try to remain quiet and still while others in your group or nearby groups are taking their shots.
Respect for other golfers' space and concentration goes a long way in making sure everyone has an enjoyable day on the course.
Conclusion
Georgia offers some of the best public golf courses in the country, with a wide variety of challenges and stunning landscapes.
Whether you prefer coastal views or wooded fairways, there’s a course to suit every golfer’s preference.
With the right preparation and a focus on etiquette, your golfing experience in Georgia will be both enjoyable and memorable.
