Located on Long Island’s South Fork, the Hamptons has long since been a playground for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and bond with the great outdoors. It’s known for its stunning beaches, quaint villages and towns, farmlands, and 18th century buildings and architecture. One of the biggest attractions of the Hamptons, though, is the many top golf courses available in the region.
If you’ve got an upcoming trip to the Hamptons booked and you want to ensure you get in a little golf time, here’s a look at some of the top golf courses that you will want to be sure to visit.
Atlantic Golf Course (East Hampton)
Located in Bridgehampton, this course provides absolutely stunning views of the surrounding forest and rolling hills, making it feel as though it is its own secluded destination. The course was built by Rees Jones and is most often described as “links-like”. There are constant breezes on the course, the lighting is always changing, and the rise and fall of the landscape all provide that extra level of challenge.
Shinnecock Hills (Southampton)
Sinnecock is well-known in the area of Southampton and you’ll need to know a member of this private club in order to golf here. The club was originally founded in 1891, making it one of the most historic golf clubs in the whole country. It’s actually the oldest incorporated golf club in the country, and just so happens to be one of five founding member clubs that made up the USGA. Golfing here means you are getting to see a part of golfing history right before your eyes.
Last year the club finished up a major restoration project, which tied together all the expansions made over time, and refreshed its look. The links themselves were revised four times before they reached their current layout. This course will host the U.S. Open Championships in 2018 and 2026.
Long Island National Golf Club (Riverhead)
Located on the eastern end of Long Island is the Long Island National Golf Club. This course was built in 1999 so it’s relatively new still, and is bordered by the sea, which brings in a fresh sea breeze at all times. The open savannah landscape helps to add to the challenge and beauty of this course. It has been designed for the avid golfer who doesn’t mind a challenge. At the same time, those with high handicaps will find the course to be quite “forgiving”.
Montauk Downs State Park Golf Course (Montauk)
This 18-hole course features a Robert Trent Jones design and is surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. Also found on the premises is a driving range, a swimming pool, a wading pool for the kids, six tennis courts, a clubhouse, and a catering facility.
Nearby Options
While not located directly in the Hamptons, there are also a number of nearby options. If you are driving to and from the Hamptons, it may be worth your time to check out the courses that are operated by Hampton Golf Course Management. The Hampshire C.C. in Mamaroneck, NY and Edgewood Country Club in River Vale, NJ, both of which are run by the company, are absolutely stunning and challenging all at the same time.
