The Best Golf Courses in New York

New York isn’t just known for its iconic skyline and vibrant city life – it’s also a golfer’s paradise, home to some of the best courses in the U.S. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend enthusiast, New York has something special to offer.

With everything from coastal links with a breeze to picturesque mountain courses, there’s no shortage of variety to keep your game exciting.

And if you’re looking for golf lessons in New York to improve your skills while tackling these amazing courses, platforms like Skillest can help you connect with top coaches for personalized lessons.

Golf in New York has a rich history that dates back to the late 1800s. Legendary architects like A.W. Tillinghast and Donald Ross shaped the state’s golf landscape, leaving behind courses that are as much a part of golfing history as they are a challenge to play.

Alongside these historic gems, modern courses take full advantage of New York’s natural beauty, offering designs that push your skills while making the most of the surroundings.

Without further ado, here are some of the best golf courses in New York State.

Top Golf Courses on Long Island

Long Island is a goldmine for golf lovers, offering some of the best courses in New York. From stunning landscapes to meticulously designed layouts, it’s a must-visit for anyone who truly enjoys the game.

The courses blend history, tradition, and top-tier design, challenging players of all skill levels. It’s not just about playing golf – it’s about experiencing the sport at its finest.

Shinnecock Hills Golf Club

Shinnecock Hills is a historic gem in Long Island’s golfing scene. Founded in 1891, it’s one of the oldest golf clubs in the U.S. and regularly ranks among New York’s top courses.

Designed by Willie Davis and later refined by C.B. Macdonald and William Flynn, Shinnecock Hills integrates the natural landscape with strategic challenges.

Its rolling hills and windswept grasses mimic the classic links style, requiring precision and creativity from players.

Hosting several U.S. Open Championships, Shinnecock Hills has tested the world’s best golfers and consistently ranks among the best courses in New York, making it a bucket-list course for many.

But don’t be intimidated – playing here is all about thinking strategically, adapting to changing conditions, and executing your shots with confidence.

It’s a fantastic course to help you sharpen your skills and enjoy the game even more.

National Golf Links of America

Just next door to Shinnecock Hills is the National Golf Links of America, another legendary course that ranks among New York’s finest.

Designed by C.B. Macdonald, this course is inspired by classic British links, featuring iconic hole designs from across the Atlantic. With wide fairways, tricky hazards, and rolling greens, each hole offers a unique challenge — from the “Sahara” bunker to the “Alps” blind approach.

Playing at the National is an experience in itself, testing not just your physical skills but your mental game as well.

It’s the perfect place to hone your strategy and master different shots, making it an unforgettable stop for golfers who want to practice drills and elevate their game.

Bethpage State Park (Black)

Bethpage Black, located in Farmingdale, is famous for being one of the toughest public golf courses in the U.S. Designed by A.W. Tillinghast, this course is a true test of skill and strategy.

After hosting the U.S. Open, it earned a reputation as a challenge for golfers eager to push their limits.

Known for its narrow fairways, thick rough, and well-guarded greens, Bethpage Black is not for the faint of heart. A sign at the first tee even warns, “The Black Course is an extremely difficult course which we recommend only for highly skilled golfers.”

If you’re looking to improve, Bethpage Black offers the ultimate challenge. It pushes you to perfect your drives, dial in your iron play, and sharpen your short game.

Mastering its challenges is a real accomplishment – not only will you boost your confidence, but you’ll also leave with sharpened skills that will take your game to the next level.

Bethpage Black is widely regarded as the most difficult golf course in New York, and conquering it is a true badge of honor.

Premier Golf Courses in Upstate and Western New York

While Long Island often steals the spotlight, Upstate and Western New York have an impressive golf course lineup that deserves attention.

These areas offer scenic beauty, diverse layouts, and plenty of challenges for golfers looking to mix things up. From championship venues to hidden gems, there’s something for everyone wanting to explore more of the state’s golfing scene.

Oak Hill Country Club: East

The East Course at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester is a legendary spot, having hosted some major championships, including the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup.

Designed by Donald Ross, this classic parkland course is all about precision and strategy. The mature trees, tricky greens, and well-placed bunkers will keep you on your toes.

Every hole offers its own challenge, so be prepared for a test of your decision-making and shot execution. Oak Hill is known for being tough but fair, and it’s a favorite for pros and amateurs.

If you’re lucky enough to play here, you’ll get to test your game on a course steeped in tradition. Oak Hill will help you identify areas of your game that could use a little polishing – shaping shots around obstacles or tackling those fast, undulating greens.

It’s a great place to challenge yourself and see how your skills measure up against championship-level standards.

The Country Club of Buffalo

Located near Lake Erie, The Country Club of Buffalo is one of Western New York’s hidden treasures.

Originally designed by Donald Ross and later updated by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., this course blends classic and modern design features. The rolling terrain, strategic bunkering, and well-contoured greens create a challenging yet enjoyable round.

The beautiful setting only adds to the experience, making it as much a visual treat as a golfing challenge. This course rewards precision and thoughtful shot-making over raw power.

If you want to improve your game, The Country Club of Buffalo is a great place to do it. The course is full of variety, pushing you to use every club in your bag and adapt to different situations.

It’s a perfect spot for working on your course management and refining your overall game strategy. 

Iconic Golf Courses Near New York City

If you’re based in or visiting New York City, you don’t have to venture far to play some truly exceptional golf courses.

Just a short drive away, you’ll find courses that offer top-notch golfing experiences, making it easy to enjoy quality play without straying too far from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Winged Foot Golf Club (West)

Winged Foot Golf Club’s West Course, located in Mamaroneck just outside Manhattan, has been a favorite challenge for golfers for almost 100 years.

Designed by A.W. Tillinghast, this course is famous for its tricky greens and demanding fairways. It’s hosted multiple U.S. Opens, including some unforgettable ones in 2006 and 2020. 

Winged Foot requires real precision and strategic thinking, with hazards that will quickly penalize any stray shots. You must stay focused and keep your cool to navigate it successfully!

For many golfers, playing at Winged Foot is a dream come true. The course’s reputation and proximity to New York City make it a prestigious yet accessible option.

Tackling its challenges is a great way to improve your game, as it forces you to work on your swing and learn how to handle tougher conditions, giving you a real competitive edge.

Sleepy Hollow Country Club

Sleepy Hollow Country Club, perched above the Hudson River in Briarcliff Manor, offers a golf experience that blends breathtaking views with a challenging course layout. Originally designed by C.B.

Macdonald and later refined by A.W. Tillinghast and Gil Hanse, this course is a true gem of classic design.

The dramatic elevation changes, well-placed bunkers, and contoured greens keep you on your toes. Plus, the iconic “Headless Horseman” bridge brings a bit of local folklore into your round – which is super fun. 

Sleepy Hollow is a fantastic place to focus on all aspects of your game. The diverse terrain requires you to adjust your strategy and use various shots, making it perfect for honing your skills with the help of an online golf coach. 

And with one of New York’s most stunning golf settings as your backdrop, it’s hard not to feel inspired as you work to improve your game.

Public vs. Private Golf Courses in New York

New York’s golf scene has something for everyone, whether you prefer public or private courses. Knowing what each offers is good so you can pick what fits your style and needs.

Public courses, like Bethpage Black, allow you to play on a championship-level course without a membership. They’re usually more affordable and easier to access, so you can get in a great round without all the formality.

Bethpage Black, for example, gives you a taste of top-tier golf, and it’s priced fairly for what you’re getting.

Private clubs, though, are all about that exclusive vibe. You’ll get access to beautifully maintained courses and top-notch facilities. Being a member usually means perks like practice areas, professional coaching, and invitations to special events.

It’s about the experience; many golfers love the community and networking opportunities private clubs offer.

Whether you stick with public or go for private, the goal is to find places that challenge you and help you improve. Mixing up your courses – public and private – allows you to experience different styles and conditions, making your game more well-rounded.

Plus, New York has some of the best-maintained courses in the country, no matter what kind you choose.

Tips for Planning a Golf Trip in New York

Planning a golf trip in New York?

Here are some tips to make sure everything goes smoothly:

1. Book Tee Times Early: Popular courses can get busy, so booking your tee times well in advance is a good idea. This will help avoid any last-minute stress and ensure you get the desired spots.
2. Mix Up the Course Styles: Try playing different types of courses, like links, parkland, and coastal. This variety makes your trip more interesting and helps you become a more versatile golfer.
3. Consider Adding Coaching: Take a lesson while you’re on your trip! A quick session with a coach can help you work on specific aspects of your game and give you tips you can put into practice right away.
4. Plan for Travel Time: Be mindful of travel times between courses. If you’re playing multiple rounds, make sure to account for how long it’ll take to get from one course to the next.
5. Explore Local Amenities: Don’t just stick to the golf courses. Check out nearby accommodations and dining options. New York has so much to offer beyond golf, so take some time to explore and enjoy the local culture.
6. Stay Close to the Action: Many great public courses are within 1-2 hours of NYC, so you can stay in the city and still have access to top-notch golf without traveling far.

Conclusion: Why New York Offers Some of the Best Golf Courses

Golfing in New York isn’t just about hitting the ball – it’s about growth. The variety of course styles and terrains helps you develop adaptability and strategic thinking, pushing you to improve your game with every round.

From the iconic Shinnecock Hills and the demanding Bethpage Black to the stunning views at Sleepy Hollow, each course offers a unique challenge that’ll inspire you to elevate your game.

And here’s the best part: incorporating coaching into your golf journey can make a difference. Learning from expert coaches through Skillest is a great way to unlock your potential and refine your skills, whether playing a casual round or competing at a higher level.

Get started with Skillest today. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the hardest golf course in New York?

Bethpage Black, located in Farmingdale, is widely regarded as the toughest golf course in New York. With its challenging layout and demanding conditions, it’s a real test for golfers of all levels.

Despite the difficulty, it’s also one of the best values in golf—especially for NY state residents, who pay just $70-80 for a round on weekdays and weekends.

Where is Tiger Woods’ favorite golf course?

While not in New York, Tiger Woods has mentioned that his favorite golf course is the Old Course at St Andrews in Scotland. Known for its history and challenging layout, it’s clear that Tiger values courses that test both skill and strategy.

What is the ranking of the Country Club of Buffalo?

The Country Club of Buffalo is ranked 27th among New York’s top golf courses, up from its previous ranking of 30th. This private club remains a standout in the state’s golfing scene.

What is the most famous PGA course?

While not in New York, Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia is the most famous PGA course in the U.S. It’s home to the Masters every year, making it one of the most iconic and prestigious golf courses in the world.

Many of New York’s top courses strive to match the standard set by Augusta.