For golfers seeking top-notch public courses near New York City, several options offer exceptional play, stunning views, and accessibility.
Here are the five best public golf courses near NYC: Bethpage Black, Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point, Marine Park Golf Course, Harbor Links, and Skyway Golf Course.
Keep reading for a detailed explanation of what each course offers and how to make the most of your golfing experience.
Bethpage Black (Farmingdale, NY)
Bethpage Black, located in Farmingdale, NY, is renowned as one of the most challenging and prestigious public golf courses in the United States.
Designed by the legendary A.W. Tillinghast, this course has a storied history, including hosting multiple U.S. Open tournaments, making it a must-play for serious golfers.
Course Overview
Bethpage Black is an architectural masterpiece crafted by A.W. Tillinghast in 1936.
It is part of Bethpage State Park, which features five 18-hole regulation golf courses, each offering unique challenges and experiences.
Bethpage Black stands out for its rigorous design and has been the stage for major golf events, including the U.S. Open in 2002 and 2009.
Its reputation for difficulty and historical significance attracts golfers from around the world.
Key Features
Bethpage Black is characterized by its narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and undulating greens, demanding precision and strategy from players.
The course's layout is both beautiful and intimidating, with natural terrain that has been expertly utilized to create a challenging yet fair test of golf.
In addition to Bethpage Black, Bethpage State Park offers four other courses: the Red, Blue, Yellow, and Green courses, each providing a different level of difficulty and unique playing experience.
Green Fees and Booking
The green fees for Bethpage Black vary depending on residency and the time of play.
For New York State residents, fees range from approximately $65 to $75, while non-residents can expect to pay between $130 and $150.
Booking a tee time at Bethpage Black requires planning, especially for non-residents.
Reservations can be made up to seven days in advance for residents and 48 hours in advance for non-residents.
Booking during peak times, such as weekends and holidays, can be particularly competitive, so early booking is advisable.
Accessibility and Location
Bethpage Black is conveniently located about an hour's drive from New York City, making it accessible for a day trip.
The best route from NYC typically involves taking the Long Island Expressway (I-495) east, then transitioning to the Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway (NY-135) south, and finally following signs to Bethpage State Park.
Public transportation options include the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to the Farmingdale station, followed by a short taxi or rideshare to the park.
Ample parking is available at the park, ensuring a smooth arrival for those driving.
Who Should Play Here?
Bethpage Black is best suited for experienced golfers due to its demanding nature.
The course's difficulty level is high, with challenging bunkers, narrow fairways, and complex greens that require advanced skills and strategic play.
Golfers looking to test their abilities and experience a world-class course will find Bethpage Black to be an ideal challenge.
It is highly recommended for those with a low handicap who are seeking a rigorous and rewarding golf experience.
Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point (Bronx, NY)
Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point, located in the Bronx, NY, offers golfers a unique and challenging experience with spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.
Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this links-style course stands out as NYC's only tournament-quality public golf course, making it a premier destination for golf enthusiasts.
Course Overview
The Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point was designed by renowned golfer and architect Jack Nicklaus, who brought his expertise and vision to create a world-class links-style course.
The course opened in 2015 and quickly gained a reputation for its quality and challenging layout.
Unlike traditional parkland courses, Ferry Point features wide-open fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and natural fescue grasses, giving it the look and feel of a coastal links course.
Key Features
One of the most striking features of Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point is its breathtaking views.
The course offers panoramic vistas of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and the Whitestone and Throgs Neck bridges, providing a picturesque backdrop for every round.
The layout includes notable holes such as the par-3 12th, which plays directly towards the skyline, creating a visually stunning and memorable experience.
The design emphasizes strategic play, with wind conditions often influencing club selection and shot strategy.
Green Fees and Booking
Green fees for Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point are around $185 for non-residents.
While this price point reflects the premium nature of the course, discounts are occasionally available for city residents and through special promotions.
Booking a tee time can be competitive, especially during peak seasons and weekends. It is advisable to book well in advance to secure a preferred time.
The course's online booking system is user-friendly and provides real-time availability, making the reservation process straightforward.
Accessibility and Location
Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point is conveniently located just 27 minutes from the center of New York City, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.
The best driving route from Manhattan involves taking the FDR Drive north to the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, followed by the Bruckner Expressway (I-278) to the course.
Public transportation options include taking the subway to the Bronx and then a short taxi or rideshare ride to the course.
Parking is plentiful and conveniently located near the clubhouse, ensuring a hassle-free arrival.
Who Should Play Here?
Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point caters to a wide range of golfers, from seasoned players to those looking to enjoy a high-quality course with stunning views.
The layout's challenge comes from its links-style design, which requires thoughtful strategy and adaptation to wind conditions.
Golfers of all skill levels will appreciate the meticulous maintenance and design, although those with more experience will find the course particularly rewarding.
Whether seeking a serious round of golf or simply wanting to enjoy a scenic and memorable experience, Ferry Point provides an exceptional golfing opportunity.
Marine Park Golf Course (Brooklyn, NY)
Marine Park Golf Course, situated in Brooklyn, NY, offers golfers a challenging and scenic experience with its championship design by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Known as NYC’s longest public golf course, it provides an enjoyable and demanding round for players of all skill levels.
Course Overview
Marine Park Golf Course was designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., a name synonymous with excellence in golf course architecture.
Established in the mid-1960s, the course has built a reputation for being the longest public golf course in New York City, stretching over 7,000 yards.
This length, combined with its well-thought-out design, makes it a formidable challenge for even the most experienced golfers.
Key Features
The course is noted for its panoramic water views, providing a serene and picturesque setting for a round of golf.
The greens are maintained to country club standards, ensuring a high-quality playing surface year-round. The layout includes a variety of holes that test different aspects of a golfer's game.
Notable holes include the long par-5 5th, which requires precision and strategic play to navigate its hazards, and the challenging par-3 12th, which features a water carry and a well-protected green.
Green Fees and Booking
Green fees at Marine Park Golf Course are quite reasonable, with 18-hole rounds costing around $51.
Prices can vary slightly depending on the time of day and day of the week, with peak times generally seeing higher fees.
Booking a tee time can be done online through the course’s website or via phone.
To avoid the busiest times and ensure a smoother experience, it is advisable to book early, particularly for weekend rounds.
Accessibility and Location
Marine Park Golf Course is conveniently located about 30 minutes from the center of New York City, making it accessible for a quick escape to the greens.
The most straightforward route involves taking the Belt Parkway to Exit 11N for Flatbush Avenue and following signs to the course.
Public transportation options include taking the B or Q subway lines to the Kings Highway station, followed by a short bus or taxi ride.
The course offers ample parking, making it easy for those driving to find a spot.
Who Should Play Here?
Marine Park Golf Course is suitable for golfers of all skill levels, offering both challenges and opportunities for enjoyment.
Beginners will appreciate the well-maintained fairways and greens, while experienced players will find the length and strategic elements of the course to be a rewarding test of their skills.
The course’s design ensures that every round is unique, providing a fulfilling experience for regular visitors and newcomers alike.
Whether you are looking to hone your game or simply enjoy a day of golf in a beautiful setting, Marine Park Golf Course has something to offer.
Harbor Links (Port Washington, NY)
Harbor Links in Port Washington, NY, is a premier public golf destination known for its scenic beauty and environmentally friendly design.
Created by architect Michael Hurdzan, this facility offers both an 18-hole championship course and a nine-hole executive course, catering to golfers of all levels.
Course Overview
Designed by Michael Hurdzan, Harbor Links stands out for its commitment to environmental sustainability and its breathtaking natural landscape.
The 18-hole championship course features a variety of terrains and challenges, while the nine-hole executive course provides a quicker, yet still rewarding, golfing experience.
Since its opening in 1998, Harbor Links has garnered acclaim for its innovative design and dedication to preserving the local ecosystem.
Key Features
One of Harbor Links' most appealing aspects is its scenic beauty.
The course is set against a backdrop of rolling hills, wetlands, and native vegetation, providing a picturesque and serene golfing environment.
Harbor Links is also recognized for its environmental certification, having earned Audubon International’s Signature Sanctuary status.
This commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the course, from its use of natural water features to the preservation of local wildlife habitats.
The layout includes key holes such as the par-5 7th, which requires a strategic approach to navigate its water hazards, and the par-3 16th, which offers stunning views and a challenging tee shot over a natural area.
Green Fees and Booking
Green fees at Harbor Links are structured to accommodate both residents and non-residents, with prices ranging from $46 to $71 depending on the day and time.
Residents of North Hempstead receive discounted rates, making it an attractive option for locals.
Booking a tee time can be done online through the Harbor Links website or by phone.
To ensure availability, especially during peak times such as weekends and holidays, it is recommended to book well in advance.
Accessibility and Location
Harbor Links is conveniently located about 45 minutes from New York City, making it accessible for a day trip.
The best route from NYC involves taking the Long Island Expressway (I-495) east to Exit 36, followed by a short drive on Searingtown Road and West Shore Road.
Public transportation options include taking the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Port Washington station, followed by a short taxi or rideshare ride to the course.
Ample parking is available on-site, ensuring a hassle-free arrival for those driving.
Who Should Play Here?
Harbor Links caters to a diverse range of golfers.
The 18-hole championship course is suitable for intermediate to advanced players looking for a challenging and strategic round of golf.
The nine-hole executive course, on the other hand, is ideal for beginners, those with limited time, or players looking to hone their short game skills.
The course's design and layout provide a fulfilling experience for all, whether you are seeking a rigorous test of your abilities or a leisurely game in a beautiful setting.
The commitment to environmental sustainability also adds an extra layer of appeal for those who appreciate nature and eco-friendly practices.
Skyway Golf Course (Jersey City, NJ)
Skyway Golf Course, located in Jersey City, NJ, offers a unique and challenging golfing experience with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline.
Designed by Roy Case, this nine-hole links-style course is built on a former urban landfill, providing both a fascinating historical context and a testament to innovative land reclamation.
Course Overview
Skyway Golf Course was designed by architect Roy Case and opened in 2015.
The course occupies a site that was once an urban landfill, transformed into a beautiful and functional green space.
This nine-hole links-style course is known for its strategic design, integrating natural features such as fescue-lined fairways and dunes, which create a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience.
The course's reclamation project serves as a model for sustainable development, turning a previously unusable area into a recreational asset for the community.
Key Features
Skyway Golf Course is distinguished by its fescue-lined fairways and natural dunes, offering a true links-style golfing experience.
The course layout emphasizes strategic play, with hazards and natural elements requiring thoughtful shot selection.
One of the most striking features of Skyway is its panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, providing a stunning backdrop for each hole.
The course's design takes full advantage of the surrounding scenery, making it a visually impressive and memorable place to play.
Green Fees and Booking
Green fees at Skyway Golf Course vary based on residency status.
Residents of Jersey City and Hudson County typically enjoy discounted rates, with prices ranging from $45 to $65.
Non-residents can expect to pay between $55 and $76, depending on the time of day and week.
Booking a tee time at Skyway is straightforward, with reservations available online through the course's website or by phone.
To avoid crowds, it is advisable to book early, especially on weekends and holidays when the course is most popular.
Accessibility and Location
Skyway Golf Course is easily accessible from New York City, making it a convenient option for golfers looking to escape the city for a quick round.
The course is approximately 26 minutes from the center of NYC, with the most efficient route involving taking the Holland Tunnel into Jersey City, followed by local roads to the course.
Public transportation options include taking the PATH train to Journal Square, then a short taxi or rideshare ride to the course.
Parking is available on-site, ensuring a hassle-free arrival for those driving.
Who Should Play Here?
Skyway Golf Course is ideal for golfers looking for a quick yet challenging round of golf.
Its nine-hole layout makes it perfect for those with limited time, while the strategic design and natural features provide a satisfying challenge for all skill levels.
Beginners will find the course approachable, while experienced golfers will appreciate the thoughtful design and opportunities for strategic play.
The course's stunning views and unique setting also make it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a scenic and memorable golfing experience.
Conclusion
These five public golf courses near New York City offer a range of experiences, from the challenging Bethpage Black to the scenic Harbor Links.
Each course provides unique features, stunning views, and accessibility for golfers of all levels.
Explore these courses to enjoy some of the best public golfing options available near NYC.
