New Jersey's Best Golf Clubs

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Key Takeaways

New Jersey is home to some of the most prestigious and historic golf courses in the country, including Baltusrol and Pine Valley Golf Club.
The state boasts 10 layouts ranked among the top 200 in the Americas 100 Greatest rankings, showcasing its rich golf heritage.
Top-rated private golf clubs like Ridgewood Country Club and Plainfield Country Club offer exclusive memberships and world-class amenities.

Public golf courses like Ballyowen Golf Club and The Architects Golf Club provide affordable rates and challenging layouts.
Scenic courses with ocean views, such as Atlantic City Country Club and Cape May National Golf Club, offer breathtaking views and dramatic elevation changes.

Exploring New Jersey's Golf Heritage

As you venture into the world of golf in New Jersey, you'll discover a rich heritage that has been carefully crafted by some of the sport's most legendary architects.

The state's golf history is deeply rooted, with courses like Plainfield Country Club, designed by Donald Ross, showcasing impeccable maintenance and stunning design. You'll find a unique blend of penal, heroic, and strategic design styles, thanks to the contributions of classic architects.

New Jersey is home to some of the most prestigious and historic golf courses in the country, including Baltusrol, which has hosted numerous major championships and iconic golf moments.

Pine Valley Golf Club, consistently ranked No. 1, is the gold standard by architectural purists and often considered one of the best courses in the world.

With 10 layouts ranked among the top 200 in the Americas 100 Greatest rankings, you'll have plenty of opportunities to experience the best of New Jersey golf.

From breathtaking views to renowned architects, the state's golf heritage is sure to impress.

Top-Rated Private Golf Clubs

When you're ready to experience the best of New Jersey's golf heritage, you'll want to explore the state's top-rated private golf clubs, where exclusive memberships and world-class courses await. These clubs offer a level of luxury and exclusivity that's hard to find elsewhere. Here are a few of the top-rated private golf clubs in New Jersey:

Club	Ranking	Features
Pine Valley	#1	Regarded as the gold standard, often considered one of the best golf courses in the world
Ridgewood Country Club	#7	Historic grounds, challenging course, hosted US Amateur and Barclays
Plainfield Country Club	–	Hosted US Women's Open and PGA Championship, membership of around 400 members

From Pine Valley's world-renowned course to Ridgewood Country Club's historic grounds, these clubs offer an unparalleled golfing experience. And with Plainfield Country Club's impressive tournament history, you'll feel like a pro teeing off on their challenging course. With exclusive memberships and world-class amenities, these top-rated private golf clubs are the epitome of luxury golfing in New Jersey.

Public Courses With a Twist

You'll find an invigorating change of pace at New Jersey's public golf courses, which offer unique features and amenities that set them apart from the private clubs.

As a golfer, you'll appreciate the top public courses that provide an exceptional experience. Ballyowen Golf Club, consistently ranked as the top public course in New Jersey by Golf Digest, offers a links-style layout and picturesque views.

The Architects Golf Club, ranked #4, features a challenging layout with holes inspired by famous courses around the world. Twisted Dune, ranked #5, boasts a links-style design with dramatic elevation changes and undulating greens.

These best public courses in New Jersey offer more than just a round of golf. You'll find affordable rates, driving ranges, and pro shops at courses like Galloping Hill and Ash Brook.

Plus, some courses, like Hominy Hill and Shark River, have been recognized for their environmental sustainability efforts.

Book your tee time and experience the unique twist that New Jersey's public golf courses have to offer.

Scenic Courses With Ocean Views

As you step onto the scenic courses with ocean views, you'll be greeted by the salty sea air and the sound of waves crashing against the shore.

You'll face challenging holes that require precision shots over sandy beaches and marshy areas, all while taking in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

From elevated tees to oceanfront greens, these courses offer a unique and exhilarating golfing experience that will leave you wanting more.

Coastal Holes and Breezes

Six premier golf courses along New Jersey's coastline offer breathtaking ocean views, dramatic elevation changes, and challenging holes that will test your skills and leave you in awe of their natural beauty.

As you tee off, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean at courses like Atlantic City Country Club, Twisted Dune Golf Club, and the Links at Brigantine Beach.

At Harbor Pines Golf Club, you'll play directly towards the Atlantic Ocean on the 17th hole, while Cape May National Golf Club affords scenic views of the surrounding wetlands and Cape May Peninsula.

Sea View Bay Course, ranked #3 among New Jersey's best public golf courses, offers scenic ocean views that will leave you breathless.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or an amateur, these courses will challenge and delight you with their unique coastal features. With each shot, you'll experience the thrill of playing alongside the Atlantic Ocean, making your game a truly unforgettable experience.

Oceanfront Greens and Fairways

Ocean views are a rare feature among New Jersey's top-ranked golf courses, but several premier clubs along the coastline offer breathtaking scenic vistas that make for an unforgettable golfing experience. As you tee off at one of these coastal clubs, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Here are some of the top oceanfront courses in New Jersey:

Course	Location	Notable Holes
Atlantic City Country Club	Northfield	5th, 14th
Bayonne Country Club	Bayonne	Links-style layout
The Links at Brigantine Beach	Brigantine	10th
Cape May National Golf Club	Cape May Court House	1st, 10th

Bayonne Country Club, ranked #3 among New Jersey's exclusive golf courses, stands out for its breathtaking ocean views and true links-style layout. While none of the top-ranked exclusive or public golf courses in New Jersey feature oceanfront greens, Bayonne Country Club's scenic layout provides a unique and desirable destination for golfers seeking an oceanfront experience.

Sea-Side Challenges Await

Golfers seeking an oceanfront experience will find scenic courses with breathtaking views along New Jersey's coastline, where the scenic beauty of the Atlantic Ocean provides a unique challenge to their game.

You'll be treated to stunning ocean views at Atlantic City Country Club, where several holes, including the par-3 5th, play directly towards the Atlantic Ocean.

At Galloway National Golf Club, designed by Rees Jones, you'll find holes like the 10th, which plays along a scenic ridge overlooking the marshes and ocean.

The Vineyards at Renault Winery offers ocean views on holes like the 14th, which plays towards the vineyards with the Atlantic Ocean in the distance.

Seaview, A Dolce Hotel, boasts two 18-hole courses, the Bay Course and the Pines Course, both with stunning ocean views.

Twisted Dune Golf Club's links-style course features holes like the 15th, with dramatic elevation changes and ocean views.

Each course offers a unique oceanfront experience that will test your skills and leave you in awe of the Atlantic's beauty.

Challenging Play for Experts

For expert golfers seeking to test their mettle, the Garden State offers a plethora of challenging courses that demand precision, strategy, and skill to navigate their complex layouts and hazards.

You'll find yourself put to the test at Ridgewood Country Club, a northern New Jersey classic that boasts a superb variety of holes, including the famous 4th and 12th holes. These holes require precise shots and strategic play to navigate its tight green-to-tee routing and relatively modest topography. With a 75.5 course rating and 144 slope rating, Ridgewood is one of the toughest public courses in the state.

You'll also face challenging layouts at Plainfield Country Club, which features some of Donald Ross's finest holes, including the 1st and 7th holes, demanding strategic play and precise shots.

Other courses, like Baltusrol Golf Club and Somerset Hills Country Club, offer central hazards, diverse layouts, and natural water features that will push your skills to the limit.

Family-Friendly Golfing Experiences

Beyond the challenging play that tests expert skills, New Jersey's golf courses also cater to families, offering a range of experiences that welcome golfers of all ages and skill levels.

You'll find that many top-ranked courses in the state prioritize family-friendly atmospheres and junior golf development.

Baltusrol Golf Club, ranked among the top 200 in the Americas, offers a family-friendly atmosphere and junior golf programs.

Plainfield Country Club, designed by Donald Ross, features a family-friendly layout with shorter holes and a junior golf program.

Arcola Country Club, known for its firm-and-fast conditions, offers a family-friendly environment with a focus on junior golf development and family tee times.

The Architects Golf Club, ranked #4 among the best public golf courses in New Jersey, provides a family-friendly atmosphere with a dedicated short-game practice area and junior golf camps during the summer.

These courses, and several others like them, understand the importance of introducing junior golfers to the game and providing a supportive environment for families to learn and grow together.

Hidden Gems in the State

Tucked away in various corners of the state, you'll discover hidden gems like Mountain Ridge Country Club, Hidden Creek Golf Club, and Spooky Brook Golf Course, each offering a unique and challenging golfing experience in New Jersey.

At Mountain Ridge, you'll face tight fairways and small greens that demand accurate shots. Hidden Creek's links-style layout features undulating fairways and greens, providing a one-of-a-kind experience. Spooky Brook, with its 4.6-star rating, boasts well-manicured fairways and challenging hole layouts that make it a must-play.

Another hidden gem is Arcola Country Club in Paramus, renowned for its exceptional playing surfaces with firm-and-fast conditions and putting surfaces that roll above 14 on the Stimpmeter. This exclusive course offers a unique charm and exceptional playing experience, earning it the #6 spot in New Jersey.

Metedeconk National Golf Club in Jackson has also undergone recent bunker renovations, opening up views on some holes and providing a more challenging and scenic experience. These hidden gems are waiting to be discovered, offering an unforgettable golfing experience in the Garden State.

Golf Courses With Rich History

Steeped in tradition and boasting world-class designs, New Jersey's golf courses with rich history offer you a chance to walk in the footsteps of legendary golfers and experience the evolution of the game. You'll have the opportunity to play on courses designed by the greatest architects, including A.W. Tillinghast, who called New Jersey home and left an indelible mark on the state's golf landscape.

Some of the most notable courses with rich history include:

Somerset Hills Country Club, an authentic A.W. Tillinghast design that has remained largely unchanged since its opening in 1918.

Baltusrol Golf Club, which has hosted numerous major championships, including the US Open, PGA Championship, and Women's US Open.

Plainfield Country Club, a Donald Ross masterpiece that has hosted the US Women's Open and consistently ranks among the top 100 courses in the country.

Ridgewood Country Club, which has hosted the Ryder Cup and other tournaments, offering a challenging course that has been well-maintained over the years.

Each of these courses provides a unique glimpse into the history of golf, and playing on them is a must for any serious golfer looking to experience the best of New Jersey's golf heritage.

Modern Designs and Facilities

New Jersey's modern golf courses offer you a chance to experience the latest in golf design and luxury amenities, blending seamlessly into the state's rich golf heritage. You'll find courses that boast modern links-style layouts, luxurious amenities, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Here's a snapshot of some of the top modern designs and facilities in New Jersey:

Course	Designer	Notable Features
Hidden Creek Golf Course	Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw	Modern links-style layout, undulating fairways and greens
Trump National Bedminster (New Course)		36,000-square-foot clubhouse, luxurious amenities
The Ridge at Back Brook	Tom Fazio	Modern take on traditional design, strategically placed bunkers and undulating greens
Hamilton Farm Golf Club	Rick Jacobson	Modern, links-style layout, wide fairways and undulating greens, state-of-the-art practice facility

From the undulating fairways and greens of Hidden Creek to the luxurious amenities of Trump National Bedminster, these modern designs and facilities offer a unique and unforgettable golfing experience. Whether you're looking for a challenging links-style layout or a luxurious retreat, New Jersey's modern golf courses have something for everyone.

Best Golf Clubs in North Jersey

As you explore the best golf clubs in North Jersey, you'll discover a trifecta of exceptional experiences: the tranquil Northern Valley courses, the challenging Bergen County hotspots, and the awe-inspiring skyline views that await you.

You'll have the chance to tee off at some of the state's most prestigious clubs, each offering a unique blend of history, scenery, and playability.

From historic country clubs to modern masterpieces, you're about to uncover the cream of the crop in North Jersey's golf scene.

Northern Valley Courses

When you venture into North Jersey's picturesque landscape, you'll discover a collection of world-class golf clubs that have been meticulously crafted to challenge and inspire.

The Northern Valley region is particularly renowned for its exceptional courses, boasting some of the most prestigious clubs in the state.

Ridgewood Country Club: This Paramus-based club has hosted several major tournaments, including the 2018 U.S. Amateur Championship and the 2022 Northern Trust PGA Tour event.

Baltusrol Golf Club: With two championship courses, Baltusrol is a standout in Springfield. The Upper Course has been ranked as high as 23rd on Golf Digest's America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses list, while the Lower Course has hosted seven major championships, including the 2016 PGA Championship.

Arcola Country Club: This hidden gem in Paramus has been ranked as one of the top 10 golf courses in New Jersey by Golfweek Magazine, offering a unique charm and exceptional playing experience.

The Golf Course at Mountain Ridge: After undergoing significant renovations, including the rebuilding of all 18 greens and the installation of a new irrigation system, this West Caldwell course is better than ever.

Each of these courses offers a unique and unforgettable golfing experience, making the Northern Valley a golfer's paradise.

Bergen County Hotspots

Beyond the esteemed courses of the Northern Valley, Bergen County beckons with its own array of exceptional golf clubs, boasting world-class designs, challenging play, and breathtaking views. As you explore this golfing hotspot in North Jersey, you'll discover a range of options to suit your skills and style.

Standout clubs that deserve your attention include:

Golf Club	Course Details	Rating/Slope
Valley Brook GC	18 holes, 72.5 rating, 131 slope	Challenging play for all skill levels
Edgewood CC	6,800 yards, par-72, 74.4 rating, 137 slope	Tillinghast design with scenic views
Hackensack GC	6,500 yards, par-71, 72.4 rating, 134 slope	Host to major tournaments, including the NJSGA Amateur Championship

From the historic Ridgewood Country Club to the hidden gem of Arcola Country Club, Bergen County is a golfer's paradise. With its diverse range of courses, you're sure to find the perfect spot to hone your skills and enjoy a day on the links. So why wait? Tee off in Bergen County and experience some of the best golfing North Jersey has to offer.

Skyline Views Await

With the majestic Manhattan skyline serving as a dramatic backdrop, North Jersey's premier golf clubs offer an unforgettable playing experience that combines challenging play with breathtaking views.

As you tee off, you'll be treated to stunning skyline views at some of the state's top-ranked courses.

Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, ranked #8, offers awe-inspiring Manhattan skyline views.

The Montclair Golf Club in West Orange features a challenging 18-hole course designed by Donald Ross.

The Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield has two 18-hole courses, including the famous Lower Course, which has hosted seven USGA championships.

The Fiddler's Elbow Country Club in Bedminster features two 18-hole courses, including the Forest Course, which has been ranked as one of the top 10 courses in the state.

These courses offer a unique blend of challenging play and scenic views that will elevate your game and leave you in awe.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, North Jersey's premier golf clubs are a must-play destination.

South Jersey's Must-Visit Courses

South Jersey is a golfer's paradise, boasting a collection of must-visit courses that offer a unique blend of challenge, beauty, and history. If you're looking to test your skills, you won't want to miss these top courses.

Course	Location	Features
Atlantic City Country Club	Northfield	Challenging 18-hole course, scenic views of wetlands
Galloway National	Galloway Township	Undulating greens, strategically placed bunkers
Harbor Pines Golf Club	Egg Harbor Township	18-hole layout, water hazards, bunkers
The Ridge at Backbrook	Westfield	Dramatic elevation changes, tree-lined fairways

From the historic Atlantic City Country Club to the challenging Galloway National, each course offers a unique experience. You'll find scenic views, strategically placed obstacles, and layouts that will put your skills to the test. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, South Jersey's must-visit courses are sure to provide a memorable round of golf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Bayonne Residents Play Bayonne Golf Club?

You're wondering if Bayonne residents can play at Bayonne Golf Club. The answer is yes, but you'll need to meet their Membership Requirements, which may include residency verification. As a local, you'll enjoy Local Perks like priority tee times and exclusive events.

How Many Golf Courses Are in Bergen County Nj?

"You're seeking a slice of golfing history in Bergen County, NJ, where 63 courses await, offering varying degrees of course accessibility, with 14 public options and 49 private ones, catering to diverse skill levels and preferences."

How Many Golf Courses Are There in New Jersey?

You're looking to explore New Jersey's golf scene, which boasts an impressive 600+ courses, offering a rich golf history and incredible course variety, catering to golfers of all skill levels and preferences.

Does Ballyowen Have Caddies?

You think you're too cool for a cart, huh? Well, let's talk caddies. Ballyowen's got a twist: they offer forecaddies for pace of play, ball marks, and bunker raking, but not traditional bag-carrying caddies, respecting golf traditions and caddie etiquette.

Conclusion

As you step off the final green, the Garden State's golfing allure still lingers, beckoning you to return.

Like a siren's call, the promise of pristine fairways, challenging play, and breathtaking views whispers in your ear, drawing you back to New Jersey's best golf clubs.

With each swing, the state's rich golf heritage comes alive, weaving a tapestry of memories that will leave you hooked.

Tee up, and let the Jersey golf magic begin!