Best Golf Courses in New York

July 21, 2020

From state to downtown, there are countless great golf courses in New York State. New York offers a variety of public and municipal golf courses, along with semi-private clubs, resorts, and more, all with a wide variety of challenges and scenery depending on where in the state you plan to play. Here we've collected just six of the dozens of excellent golf courses in New York that we think are worth swinging through on your next trip to the Empire State.

Montauk Downs State Park

Montauk Downs is a picturesque state park where a rewarding round takes place, with an added challenge posed by the ocean and the sea breeze. Located on the southern fork of Long Island, the scenery and location are excellent, giving you the chance to encounter wildlife and beautiful views at almost every turn. In addition, the raised greens and layout can create many tricky situations if you're not careful with your shots.

Mark Twain Golf Course

Mark Twain Golf Course dates back to 1937 and is a classic public course that also offers a relaxing round and a good mix of challenges. Just a shade less than 7,000 feet from the blue tees, Mark Twain isn't one of New York's longest golf courses you'll play, but it does an excellent test of your irons and approach shots. And the multi-level greens ensure that you also take your "A" game with you when putting.

Willow Creek Golf & Country Club

Willow Creek Golf & Country Club at Mount Sinai is another great long island course on the north coast of Suffolk. With a great look and nearly 100 bunkers, Willow Creek is sure to keep you entertained all round. Water hazards can also be found on 12 of the holes, making this a New York golf course where you need to plan every shot carefully.

Ravenwood Golf Club

The Ravenwood Golf Club, located in the western lake district of western New York, offers a challenge that you can sneak up on during your round. The front nine eases you into the experience, with the gently undulating terrain and expert layout providing excellent flow from one hole to another. Once you've made the turn, the back contains nine different par-3 holes and water hazards worth a second look before selecting your shot.

Atunyote Golf Club in Turning Stone

One of the gems of Vernon, New York, the Atunyote Golf Club in Turning Stone is a favorite of Tom Fazio, a golfer inspired by the one and only Augusta National. Stunning views and pristine conditions will help distract you from some of the challenges ahead, including well-placed bunkers, water hazards and greens that can roll quite fast depending on the day you play.

Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course

Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course, built in 2010, is one of the newer golf courses in New York and is often recognized as one of the best. Native grasses and mature trees provide golfers with a peaceful environment during their round, and with five sets of tee boxes, each golfer can enjoy the beauty and challenges this unique layout has to offer.