Many people who visit and live on the Jersey Shore are into golf, and they want to know where to play. Here are some of our favorite courses, both public and private, and in no particular order:
Colts Neck Golf Club - Public
Situated in pristine and affluent Colts Neck, the club here is a semi-private facility with an 18-hole track played on a links-style layout. The front 9 takes you through gentle rolling land, while the back 9 sees golfers playing through a forest of tall trees. From the back tees, the course plays to 6,262 yards.
Spring Lake Golf Club - Private
The Spring Lake Golf Club was born out of America's Gilded Age when a bunch of rich industrialists formed what was known as the Spring Lake Beach Improvement Company with the idea of creating a seaside resort that included the golf club. This was in 1898, and a 9-hole course was created. Today, Spring Lake is an amazing 18-hole course measuring 6,364 yards that has played host to several NJSGA Opens, as well as senior championships. Spring Lake is a private equity course.
Spring Meadow Golf Course - Public
Located at Allaire State Park in Wall, Spring Meadow Golf Course is an inland course that has become one of the most popular layouts on the Jersey Shore. It's a public course with 18 holes that was first built in the 1920s, and an addition was made in the 1940s. This course is in excellent shape and will provide a good test, plus a lot of fun for those who play it.
Manasquan River Golf Club - Private
Located along the scenic Manasquan River, this course is a gem on the Shore. Originally built in 1922, the Manasquan River Club is located in gorgeous Brielle and boasts 1,800 feet of waterfront property. It was first designed by Robert White, and then the facility was restored by Ron Prichard.The two nines present distinct golf experiences. The front 9 is along the swampland and pastures of the river, while the second 9 goes through woodlands and ravines overlooking the river. The signature hole is No. 7, a par-5 measuring nearly 600 yards with a dramatic elevation change by the green.
Shark River Golf Course - Public
Another course that's been around for a long time, Shark River, was created by Joseph "Scotty" I'Anson in the early 1900s. This amazing course features tight, narrow fairways with deep bunkers. It plays to Par 71. The 4th holes is a drivable par 4 that brings plenty of excitement for golfers of all levels. It's not the longest track, measuring 6,194 yards from the tips. The facility is located in Neptune City and is open to the public.
Trump National Gold Club at Colts Neck - Private
An affluent course for an affluent neighborhood. Described as a "Luxurious Sanctuary", Trump National at Colts Neck was designed by former PGA player Jerry Pate under the direction of Tom Fazio II. It's an 18-hole championship course that plays to 7,157 yards with a rating of 75.0. In terms of a country club atmosphere and amenities, Trump National is where you'll find it, with a swimming center, tennis, as well as formal and casual dining in the 75,000 sq. ft clubhouse.
Toms River Country Club - Private
Toms River Country Club is in fantastic Toms River, right by the river. It's a 9-hole course (that plays as 18 with different tees) that will challenge all golfers. Toms River features a signature hole - the par-3 6th hole that requires hitting a green surrounded by water that is usually influenced by a two-club wind. The club also has six tennis courts (including 4 clay courts) for members, along with an Olympic-sized pool plus excellent dining facilities.
Woodlake Country Club - Semi-Private
Centrally located in Lakewood, NJ, it's a semi-private facility. The club features a par-72 championship course (designed by Larry Packard) with practice facilities and other amenities like swimming. It was created in 1972 and was a runner-up as Best Golf Course in Ocean and Monmouth Counties by readers of the "Asbury Park Press". There are four sets of tees, so it caters to all levels of golfers while remaining one of the more affordable membership options for a country club.
Remember to take a look at this extensive guide to perfect your golf swing in a matter of days instead of weeks or months.
