Best Golf Courses in Virginia

Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that we may earn a commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. However, all our recommendations are 100% genuine and unbiased, and we have a strict editorial process to maintain high standards. Thank you for supporting us!



You're spoilt for choice in Virginia, with over 400 golf courses offering unique experiences. The Olde Farm and Kinloch Golf Club top the charts with a 5.5 rating, while Homestead's Cascades Course and Robert Trent Jones Golf Club follow closely. If you're a public golfer, The Club at Viniterra is a must-play, boasting a 4.91025 rating. Virginia Beach offers 39 courses with scenic oceanfront views, while the Mountain Region's Omni Homestead Resort features dramatic elevation changes. From challenging course designs to luxurious amenities, you'll find the perfect course to suit your style. Discover more about Virginia's best golf courses and find your next tee time.

Key Takeaways

  • The Olde Farm and Kinloch Golf Club are top-rated with a 5.5 rating, offering exceptional playing experiences for golfers of all skill levels.
  • The Club at Viniterra in New Kent is the top-ranked public golf course in Virginia, with a rating of 4.91025 based on golfers' reviews.
  • Kinloch Golf Club in Manakin-Sabot is renowned for its challenging layout and impeccable conditioning, offering exclusive events and fine dining.
  • The Highland Course at Primland is known for its austere green contours and bunkering, challenging even the most seasoned golfers in the Washington D.C. area.
  • Virginia Beach offers 39 golf courses that cater to a wide range of skill levels and preferences, with many featuring scenic coastal views.

Top-Rated Golf Courses Overall

When it comes to exceptional golfing experiences in Virginia, you'll find that several courses consistently rise to the top of the rankings.

These top-rated golf courses in Virginia offer unparalleled playing experiences that cater to golfers of all skill levels.

At the pinnacle of excellence are The Olde Farm and Kinloch Golf Club, both boasting a 5.5 rating.

These courses in Virginia are renowned for their immaculate conditioning, challenging layouts, and exceptional service.

Homestead (Cascades), Robert Trent Jones, and Ballyhack follow closely, each with a 4.5 rating.

These best golf courses in Virginia have earned their stripes through their well-manicured greens, strategic hole placements, and picturesque surroundings.

What sets these courses apart is their attention to detail and dedication to providing an unforgettable golfing experience.

From the moment you step onto the first tee, you'll be treated to a world-class golfing environment that will leave you wanting more.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, these top-rated golf courses in Virginia are a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.

Best Public Golf Courses

As you search for the best public golf courses in Virginia, you'll find a range of top-rated options that offer exceptional playing experiences at affordable prices.

The top-ranked public golf course in Virginia is The Club at Viniterra in New Kent, with a rating of 4.91025 based on golfers' reviews.

Coming in second is The Virginian Golf Club in Bristol, with a rating of 4.5598.

If you're looking for a Pete Dye-designed course, the Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech in Radford ranks 12th among public golf courses in the state, with a rating of 4.2.

Other notable options include Kingsmill Resort: The River Course in Williamsburg, ranking 13th with a rating of 4.2, and Spring Creek Golf Club in Gordonsville, ranking 14th with a rating of 4.1.

These courses offer a mix of challenging layouts, scenic views, and excellent conditioning, making them must-plays for any Virginia golf enthusiast.

Private Golf Courses in Virginia

exclusive greens in virginia

As you explore private golf courses in Virginia, you'll discover exclusive club experiences that offer a level of luxury and sophistication.

These private courses are designed to challenge even the most skilled players, with intricate layouts and strategically placed obstacles.

You'll find that each private course has its own unique character, shaped by the vision of its architects and the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Exclusive Club Experiences

Virginia's private golf courses offer you an exclusive club experience, replete with meticulously manicured greens, luxurious amenities, and personalized service that caters to discerning golf enthusiasts.

These elite clubs provide a unique opportunity to indulge in a sophisticated golfing lifestyle.

Kinloch Golf Club: Located in Manakin-Sabot, this club is renowned for its challenging layout and impeccable conditioning. As a member, you'll enjoy access to exclusive events, fine dining, and expert instruction.

Olde Farm: Situated in Bristol, this private club boasts a stunning course designed by Bobby Weed. Members relish the tranquil atmosphere, exceptional service, and world-class amenities, including a lavish clubhouse and exquisite dining.

Other premier private clubs: These include The Virginian, The Federal Club, and Spring Creek Golf Club, each offering a distinct blend of championship golf, luxurious amenities, and personalized service.

Challenging Course Designs

You'll face a new level of challenge at Virginia's private golf courses, where cleverly designed layouts test your skills and strategy.

Kinloch Golf Club, for instance, features double fairways that offer options and alternate routes, making it a unique and challenging course.

The Olde Farm, on the other hand, demands strategic navigation with its lay-of-the-land design, semi-blind shots, and open greens.

At Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, you'll encounter over 100 white sand bunkers and scenic shoreline play along Lake Manassas, making it a challenging yet picturesque experience.

The Highland Course at Primland takes it up a notch with austere green contours and bunkering, as well as holes routed along ridges, over chasms, and down valleys.

Finally, Ballyhack Golf Club requires precise shots and strategic thinking to navigate its vast landing areas, joined fairways, center bunkers, and double greens.

These challenging course designs will push you to master your game and think critically about every shot.

Golf Courses Near Washington D.C

Within a short drive from the nation's capital, four exceptional golf courses stand out near Washington D.C., each boasting unique features that cater to diverse skill levels and preferences.

As you explore these courses, you'll discover that each one offers an unforgettable golfing experience.

The Highland Course at Primland: Known for its austere green contours and bunkering, this course will challenge even the most seasoned golfers. With holes routed along ridges, over chasms, and down valleys, you'll need to bring your A-game.

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Club: With over 100 glistening white sand bunkers, this course is a must-play for anyone looking to test their skills. Its 4.5-star rating is a reflection of its exceptional design and maintenance.

The 1757 Golf Club: As a public course, this links-style layout offers wide fairways and undulating greens that are perfect for golfers of all levels. With a 4.1-star rating, it's a great option for those looking for a fun and challenging round.

Each of these courses offers a unique experience that will leave you wanting more. So why wait? Book your tee time and start exploring the best golf courses near Washington D.C. today!

Virginia Beach Golf Courses

play golf by ocean

As you explore Virginia Beach's golf courses, you'll find that many offer an unparalleled oceanfront golfing experience, with challenging course designs that test your skills against the coastal breeze.

You'll also be treated to scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean, which provide a serene backdrop to your game.

With courses like The Federal Club and Olde Mill Resort leading the way, you'll want to experience the unique combination of challenge and beauty that Virginia Beach golf has to offer.

Oceanfront Golfing Experience

Virginia Beach offers golf enthusiasts an unparalleled oceanfront golfing experience, boasting 39 courses that cater to a wide range of skill levels and preferences.

You'll find courses with scenic views, challenging holes, and exceptional amenities to enhance your game.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, Virginia Beach has something for everyone.

The Federal Club: Known for its challenging holes and picturesque views, this course is a must-play for any golfer.

Olde Mill Resort: With its rolling hills and scenic vistas, this course offers a unique and enjoyable oceanfront golfing experience.

Spring Creek Golf Club: This course features beautifully manicured greens and a challenging layout that will test your skills.

With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find an oceanfront golf course in Virginia Beach that suits your style and skill level.

Explore these exceptional courses:

From the moment you tee off, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and a golfing experience you'll never forget.

Challenging Course Designs

You'll face a range of challenging course designs at Virginia Beach golf courses, where clever architects have crafted holes that demand precision, strategy, and skill to navigate.

Take, for instance, the Cascades course, known for its thick rough and undulating greens that require a keen eye for distance and direction. At the same time, courses like The Club at Viniterra feature holes that require precise shots to navigate narrow valleys, while The Olde Farm's lay-of-the-land design demands strategic play and adaptability.

Moreover, courses like The Highland Course at Primland boast austere green contours and bunkering, with holes routed along ridges, over chasms, and down valleys, pushing you to think critically about your shots.

Ballyhack Golf Club, meanwhile, tests your accuracy with vast landing areas, joined fairways, and center bunkers, while Spring Creek Golf Club's bunkering, reminiscent of Bethpage Black, demands careful navigation to avoid hazards.

With each course presenting a unique challenge, you'll need to bring your A-game to master these Virginia Beach golf courses.

Scenic Coastal Views

Beyond the challenging course designs, the scenic coastal views at Virginia Beach golf courses offer a visually stunning experience, with many holes routed along the Atlantic shoreline, providing breathtaking vistas of the ocean and surrounding landscape.

As you play, you'll be treated to unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean, which will leave you in awe.

Creek Golf Course: Located in the heart of Virginia Beach, this course features holes that wind through a picturesque creek, offering serene views of the surrounding wetlands and ocean.

Ocean View Golf Course: With several holes routed along the Atlantic shoreline, this course provides stunning views of the ocean and surrounding coastline.

Seaside Golf Course: This links-style course features rolling hills, sandy dunes, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a must-play for any golfer.

As you navigate these courses, you'll be struck by the natural beauty of Virginia Beach's coastal landscape. The scenic views will challenge your focus, but they'll also leave you with unforgettable memories of your golfing experience.

Mountain Golf Courses in Virginia

Amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains, golf enthusiasts will discover two premier mountain golf courses in Virginia that offer unique and challenging experiences.

You'll find the Omni Homestead Resort: Cascades Course in Hot Springs, Virginia, boasting a highly-rated course design that takes you through a narrow valley floor with dramatic elevation changes. With a rating of 4.3 and 87 panelists rating the course, it's no wonder it has hosted eight USGA championships, including a U.S. Women's Open.

If you're looking for something even more exceptional, head to the Highland Course at Primland in Meadows of Dan, Virginia. This top-ranked course features austere green contours and bunkering, with holes routed along ridges, over chasms, and down valleys. With a rating of 4.4 and 93 panelists rating the course, it's easy to see why it's considered one of the best golf courses in Virginia.

Both courses offer an unforgettable experience, and when you're not on the green, you can indulge in the luxurious amenities and activities offered by the Primland Resort.

Best Golf Courses for Beginners

golf courses for beginners

When looking to improve your skills without intimidation, Virginia's top-ranked golf courses offer a range of options specifically designed for beginners, providing a supportive environment to hone your game.

Kinloch Golf Club, ranked #1 in Virginia, offers a gentle slope rating of 135 and a course rating of 74.4, making it a suitable course for beginners.

The Highland Course at Primland Resort, ranked #4 in Virginia, features a more forgiving layout with wider fairways and larger greens, ideal for beginners looking to improve their game.

Spring Creek Golf Club, ranked #5 in Virginia, has a slope rating of 126 and a course rating of 72.2, making it a challenging yet manageable course for beginners.

Additionally, Ballyhack Golf Club offers a 'Golf Academy' program specifically designed for beginners, which includes private lessons and on-course instruction. The Olde Farm also has a gentle slope rating of 134 and a course rating of 73.4, making it a great option for beginners looking to play a top-ranked course with a more forgiving layout.

These courses provide a perfect blend of challenge and support, allowing you to improve your skills and build confidence on the course.

Challenging Golf Courses in Virginia

You'll face a true test of skill and strategy on Virginia's most challenging golf courses, where cleverly designed layouts and demanding features push even experienced golfers to their limits.

At The Highland Course at Primland Resort, ranked #4 in Virginia, you'll encounter austere green contours and bunkering that require precise shots and strategic play. Similarly, Ballyhack Golf Club, ranked #5, demands strategic play and accurate shots to navigate its vast landing areas, joined fairways, and center bunkers.

For a truly punishing experience, head to Spring Creek Golf Club, ranked #14, where deep, penalizing bunkers and undulating greens will test your accuracy and course management skills.

The Olde Farm, ranked #2, presents a lay-of-the-land design with semi-blind shots and open greens, requiring you to think strategically and make precise shots.

Finally, Kinloch Golf Club, ranked #1, offers multiple double fairways, posing options and alternate routes that demand informed decisions and precise execution.

Are you up for the challenge?

Golf Courses With Scenic Views

links with breathtaking panoramas

Virginia's golf courses offer more than just a challenging game, as many of them boast breathtaking scenic views that enhance the overall golfing experience. As you tee off, you'll be treated to vistas that will leave you in awe.

The Highland Course at Primland Resort is ranked #4 in the state, and offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains that will distract you from your game (in a good way).

The Omni Homestead Resort: Cascades Course has eight USGA championships under its belt, and features scenic views of the Allegheny Mountains that will make you feel like a pro.

The Olde Farm's lay-of-the-land design provides semi-blind shots and open greens, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the surrounding countryside.

These courses prove that golf in Virginia is about more than just sinking putts – it's about immersing yourself in nature's beauty. So, grab your clubs and get ready to take in the views while you take on the challenge.

Luxury Golf Resorts in Virginia

Among Virginia's premier destinations, The Homestead stands out as a luxury golf resort that offers an unparalleled golfing experience, blending world-class amenities with challenging play on its esteemed Cascades Course.

As you step onto the course, you'll be treated to a game reminiscent of Scotland's Gleneagles, thanks to the Golden Age architects who designed it.

The resort's luxury accommodations and amenities make it a top destination for golfers seeking a high-end experience.

The Cascades Course has hosted eight USGA championships, including a U.S. Women's Open, and is ranked among the top courses in the state.

You'll face austere green contours and bunkering, with holes routed along ridges, over chasms, and down valleys, providing a challenging and scenic game.

As a member of the prestigious Preferred Hotels & Resorts and Forbes Travel Guide, The Homestead guarantees a luxurious and world-class golfing experience.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to elevate your game, The Homestead Resort is the epitome of luxury golfing in Virginia.

Hidden Gem Golf Courses

secrets of undiscovered links

What sets these hidden gem golf courses apart from their more well-known counterparts is their unique blend of challenging play and understated elegance. As you explore these lesser-known courses, you'll discover a world of golfing delights that will test your skills and leave you wanting more.

Cutalong at Lake Anna : Inspired by Golden Age architects, this course features holes designed by Tom Clark in collaboration with journalist Ron Whitten, offering a fresh take on classic golf architecture.

Spring Creek Golf Club: With a rating of 4.91025, this highly-rated course in Gordonsville features bunkering reminiscent of Bethpage Black and is a must-play for golf enthusiasts in Virginia.

Birdwood Golf Course: Located at Boars Head Resort in Charlottesville, this course offers a walkable routing across interesting and varied land, making it a great option for those looking for a unique golfing experience.

These hidden gem golf courses offer a level of sophistication and challenge that's hard to find elsewhere. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just looking to try something new, these courses are sure to impress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Golf Courses in Virginia Offer Rental Clubs for Visitors?

When you visit Virginia's golf courses, you'll likely find rental clubs available, but be prepared to pay rental fees, which vary by course, and expect club quality to range from decent to excellent, depending on the course's standards.

Can I Book Tee Times Online for Virginia Golf Courses?

Imagine stepping onto the lush green fairway, club in hand, ready to tee off. You can book tee times online for many Virginia golf courses using a Course Finder or Tee Sheet, allowing you to plan your perfect round.

Are There Golf Courses in Virginia That Allow Walking?

You'll find many Virginia golf courses allowing walking, with varying walking rates and some offering caddy services to enhance your experience; research courses beforehand to determine their specific policies and fees.

Do Virginia Golf Courses Have Dress Code Policies?

You'll find that 70% of golfers consider dress code policies crucial for maintaining Golf Etiquette. In Virginia, many Country Clubs enforce dress code policies, so you should check beforehand to avoid any awkward situations on the course.

Are Golf Lessons Available for Kids in Virginia?

You'll find various youth development programs in Virginia offering golf lessons for kids, including summer camps, clinics, and private instruction, providing a solid foundation for young golfers to develop their skills and passion for the game.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your Virginia golfing adventure, remember that the state boasts over 280 courses, with more than 20% of them earning a 4-star rating or higher.

That's a staggering 56 courses where you can tee off amidst stunning scenery and challenging play.

Whether you're a beginner or seasoned pro, Virginia's diverse golfing landscape has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.

Leave a Comment