Golf at the Jersey Shore
Great courses just minutes from the beach. Play a round between beach days.
Featured Courses
Atlantic City Country Club
Northfield
Historic course dating to 1897, one of the oldest in America. Hosted early USGA events including the 1906 US Amateur. Classic links-style layout with open fairways and challenging greens.
Stockton Seaview Hotel & Golf Club
Galloway
Two championship courses at a historic resort. The Bay Course hosts the LPGA ShopRite Classic annually. The Pines Course offers a more forested experience. Full resort amenities available.
Blue Heron Pines Golf Club
Galloway
Acclaimed public course set in the Pine Barrens. Known for excellent conditions and scenic setting. Features challenging water hazards and strategically placed bunkers throughout.
Cape May National Golf Club
Cape May
Beautiful course at the southern tip of New Jersey, adjacent to a bird sanctuary. Wildlife sightings are common - eagles, herons, and various shorebirds. Challenging coastal winds add to the experience.
All Golf Courses
Atlantic City Country Club
Northfield • 18 holes
Historic course dating to 1897, one of the oldest in America. Hosted early USGA events including the 1906 US Amateur. Classic links-style layout with open fairways and challenging greens.
Stockton Seaview Hotel & Golf Club
Galloway • 36 holes
Two championship courses at a historic resort. The Bay Course hosts the LPGA ShopRite Classic annually. The Pines Course offers a more forested experience. Full resort amenities available.
Ballamor Golf Club
Egg Harbor Township • 18 holes
Well-regarded public course with a challenging layout. Features Bermuda grass fairways and bent grass greens. Good value option near Atlantic City with multiple tee positions for all skill levels.
Blue Heron Pines Golf Club
Galloway • 18 holes
Acclaimed public course set in the Pine Barrens. Known for excellent conditions and scenic setting. Features challenging water hazards and strategically placed bunkers throughout.
Cape May National Golf Club
Cape May • 18 holes
Beautiful course at the southern tip of New Jersey, adjacent to a bird sanctuary. Wildlife sightings are common - eagles, herons, and various shorebirds. Challenging coastal winds add to the experience.
Shore Gate Golf Club
Ocean View • 18 holes
Excellent public option in Cape May County. Well-maintained with good pace of play. Features rolling terrain with strategic bunkering. Friendly atmosphere and good value.
Sand Barrens Golf Club
Swainton • 27 holes
27 holes in three distinct 9-hole layouts. Set in pine and oak forest with sandy waste areas reminiscent of Pine Valley. Challenging but playable for all skill levels.
McCullough's Emerald Golf Links
Egg Harbor Township • 18 holes
Irish links-style public course with wide fairways and large undulating greens. Great for beginners and seniors. Known for friendly service and relaxed atmosphere.
Which Course Is Right for You?
With a dozen courses within 30 minutes of the beach, choosing the right one matters. Here's how to match your game to the course.
The Bucket List Golfer
You want the marquee experience—courses with history, prestige, and bragging rights.
We recommend: Stockton Seaview (Bay Course)
Home of the ShopRite LPGA Classic since 1986. Walking the same fairways as the pros is worth the premium. The Bay Course is the championship layout—stunning views, immaculate conditioning, and a proper resort experience. Book at least 2 weeks ahead for peak summer weekends.
Budget
$150-200 peak season
Alternative
Atlantic City Country Club—opened in 1897, one of the oldest courses in America. Less famous but equally historic.
The Value Seeker
You want quality golf without the resort markup. Every dollar saved goes toward more beach time.
We recommend: Mays Landing Golf Club
Solid 18 holes for under $60 on weekdays. Nothing fancy, but well-maintained and rarely crowded. Perfect for getting in a quick round without breaking the bank. Twilight rates drop to $35-40.
Budget
$45-60 weekday
Alternative
Twisted Dune in Egg Harbor—slightly more expensive but exceptional links-style experience for the price.
The Links Purist
You want wind, sand, and that Scottish coastal feel. Bump-and-run, creative shots, and firm conditions.
We recommend: Twisted Dune Golf Club
The closest you'll get to Scotland without a passport. Architect Archie Struthers modeled it after Irish links courses. Expect pot bunkers, fescue rough, and wind that demands a knockdown shot. Not manicured—it's supposed to play firm and fast.
Budget
$85-120
Alternative
Sand Barrens in Swainton—another links-style track with waste bunkers and strategic bunkering.
The Family Golfer
You're golfing with kids or beginners. Pace of play matters, and you need a forgiving layout.
We recommend: Cape May National
Beautiful course adjacent to a nature preserve. Wide fairways, reasonable length, and a relaxed atmosphere. Staff is friendly to beginners. The wildlife (herons, osprey) keeps non-golfers entertained. On-site restaurant makes it a full family outing.
Budget
$70-95
Alternative
Shore Gate in Ocean View—family-owned, unpretentious, and welcoming to all skill levels.
The Low Handicapper
You want a challenge. Length, hazards, and a course that punishes mistakes.
We recommend: Blue Heron Pines
Former PGA Tour Q-School site. Tight tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and lightning-fast greens. The back nine is brutal—water on multiple holes, forced carries, and demanding approach shots. Bring your A-game.
Budget
$90-130
Alternative
Ballamor Golf Club—another championship-level track that will test every club in your bag.
Mastering Coastal Golf
Shore golf plays differently than inland courses. Here's what the ocean throws at you—and how to handle it.
Wind
Expect 10-20 mph winds most days, with gusts higher. Coastal courses are exposed—there's no protection.
Strategy
- •Club up 1-2 clubs into the wind. A 150-yard shot might need a 6-iron instead of 8.
- •Ball flight matters: Low knockdown shots cut through wind. High fades get knocked offline.
- •Tee the ball lower on drives. High launch = more drift.
- •Greens approach: Aim for the middle and let the wind do work. Fighting it leads to trouble.
Insider tip: Morning tee times (before 9am) often have calmer winds. By noon, the sea breeze kicks up and doesn't stop.
Firm & Fast Conditions
Sandy soil drains quickly. Fairways play firm, especially in summer. Shots release and roll much farther than you expect.
Strategy
- •Take one less club than normal—the roll adds 10-20 yards.
- •Landing spots matter more than carry distance. Visualize where the ball will end up after it bounces.
- •Bump-and-run around greens works better than high flops on tight lies.
- •Putting breaks more—firm greens are fast greens.
Insider tip: After rain, conditions soften dramatically. If you like target golf with less roll, book for the day after a storm.
Fescue & Waste Areas
Links-style courses use fescue rough and sandy waste bunkers instead of manicured rough. Miss the fairway and you're in trouble.
Strategy
- •Take your medicine. Punch out sideways instead of hero shots through 6-inch fescue.
- •Waste bunkers have no rake requirement. Lies are unpredictable—sometimes perfect, sometimes buried.
- •The rough gets thicker as summer progresses. Early season is more forgiving.
- •Ball spotting is hard in fescue. Watch your shot carefully and use a colored ball.
Insider tip: Twisted Dune and Sand Barrens have the most fescue. Bring extra balls.
Humidity & Heat
July and August are brutal. 85°F with 80% humidity drains energy fast. Hydration and pacing matter.
Strategy
- •Bring twice as much water as you think you need. Dehydration kills your swing before you realize it.
- •Wear moisture-wicking fabrics. Cotton holds sweat and chafes.
- •Take your time. Summer rounds are slower—don't fight it.
- •Cart not walking in peak summer unless you're very fit. Save energy for the back nine.
Insider tip: Twilight rounds in summer are magical—cooler temps, golden light, and you finish at sunset. Worth the later start.
Planning Your Golf + Beach Day
Combining golf with a shore vacation takes some logistics. Here's how to maximize both.
The Early Bird
Golf 7am-11am → Beach noon-6pm
Book the first tee time available. You'll play in cooler conditions with emptier courses. Finish by 11, shower at the course, grab lunch, and you're at the beach before the crowds settle in.
Pro tips
- • Pack your beach bag the night before—towels, sunscreen, cooler ready to grab.
- • Course clubhouses have locker rooms. Quick shower and change takes 10 minutes.
- • Don't linger at the 19th hole. Get to the beach while parking is available.
Best for: Golfers who don't want to miss peak beach hours. Families with beach-loving partners.
The Twilight Saver
Beach 9am-2pm → Golf 3pm-sunset
Hit the beach while it's prime, then take advantage of twilight rates when the sun gets too intense. Most courses discount 30-40% after 2-3pm, and you'll play into golden hour.
Pro tips
- • Bring golf clothes to the beach. Change in the car or at the course.
- • Eat a real lunch before teeing off. You won't finish until 7-8pm.
- • Cart GPS helps—fading light makes reading the course harder.
Best for: Budget-conscious golfers. Those who want to avoid midday sun.
The Dedicated Golf Day
36 holes: AM round + PM round
Take one full day away from the beach for serious golf. Play one course in the morning, lunch at the turn, different course in the afternoon. Maximize your rounds while the rest of the family does their thing.
Pro tips
- • Book both tee times 2+ weeks ahead. Coordinating two courses requires planning.
- • Stockton Seaview lets you play both the Bay and Pines courses same day at a discount.
- • Bring snacks for the car between courses. You'll need energy.
Best for: Dedicated golfers on a beach trip with non-golfing family. Golf groups.
The Rainy Day Pivot
Beach rained out → Golf backup
Overcast or drizzly days that aren't beach-worthy are perfect for golf. Courses empty out when it looks like rain, greens soften, and you'll often have the place to yourself.
Pro tips
- • Call courses morning-of for availability. Cancellations open premium tee times.
- • Light rain is fine—courses stay open. Heavy storms shut things down.
- • Pack rain gear in the car "just in case" so you're ready to pivot.
Best for: Flexible vacationers. Anyone who wants to avoid wasting a cloudy day.
Golf by Season
Spring (April-May)
Courses greening up, fewer crowds, mild temperatures. Some wet conditions early.
Pricing: Shoulder season rates—10-20% below peak.
Best time for links courses. Firm conditions haven't set in yet, so ball stops where it lands. Book weekends ahead—locals emerge after winter.
Watch for: April can be unpredictable. Morning fog delays tee times occasionally.
Summer (June-August)
Peak season. Hot, humid, crowded. Courses in best shape but firm and fast.
Pricing: Highest rates. Weekends are premium.
Early morning or twilight only. Midday rounds are brutal. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for popular courses. Hydrate aggressively.
Watch for: Afternoon thunderstorms roll through 2-3 times per week. Lightning delays are common.
Fall (September-October)
The sweet spot. Warm but not hot, crowds thin, courses still pristine.
Pricing: Shoulder rates return mid-September. Great deals on weekdays.
Locals' favorite time to play. Conditions are perfect—firm fairways, holding greens. Fewer families means faster pace of play.
Watch for: Daylight shrinks. Twilight rounds start earlier each week. Book accordingly.
Winter (November-March)
Many courses stay open (weather permitting). Conditions vary wildly.
Pricing: Deep discounts—50% off or more. Some courses offer winter memberships.
Call morning-of to confirm conditions. Frost delays are common. Bring layers—it's cold but playable on sunny days.
Watch for: Cart-path-only rules protect wet fairways. Be prepared to walk.
Golf + Beach Tips
Morning Round
Tee off early, be at the beach by noon. Best of both worlds.
Twilight Rates
Save 30-40% with afternoon tee times. Beach morning, golf afternoon.
Wind Factor
Coastal courses get ocean breezes. Bring layers and extra clubs.
Rainy Day Plan
Golf makes a great backup when weather isn't beach-perfect.
Book Ahead
Popular courses fill up. Book 5-7 days ahead for weekend tee times.
Stay & Play
Stockton Seaview offers resort packages with discounted golf.
Golf Accessories
Stock up on gloves, balls, and accessories for your shore golf trip. Humid coastal conditions mean you'll want extras.
Golf Glove
Quality leather glove for better grip. Bring extras for humid shore days.
Golf Balls (Dozen)
Bring extra balls for windy coastal courses.
Golf Hat / Visor
Sun protection essential for exposed coastal courses.
Golf Towel
Microfiber towel for cleaning clubs. Humidity makes grips slippery.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change. Full disclosure
Green Fee Comparison
| Course | Type | Weekday | Weekend | Twilight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic City Country Club | semi-private | $75-95 | $95-125 | $50-65 |
| Stockton Seaview Hotel & Golf Club | resort | $89-129 | $109-159 | $59-79 |
| Ballamor Golf Club | public | $49-69 | $59-79 | $35-45 |
| Blue Heron Pines Golf Club | public | $55-85 | $75-105 | $45-55 |
| Cape May National Golf Club | public | $59-89 | $79-119 | $45-59 |
| Shore Gate Golf Club | public | $49-75 | $65-95 | $39-49 |
| Sand Barrens Golf Club | public | $59-79 | $79-99 | $45-55 |
| McCullough's Emerald Golf Links | public | $45-65 | $55-75 | $35-45 |
* Prices vary by season. Call courses for current rates.
Courses by County
Atlantic County
- Atlantic City Country Club - Northfield
- Stockton Seaview Hotel & Golf Club - Galloway
- Ballamor Golf Club - Egg Harbor Township
- Blue Heron Pines Golf Club - Galloway
- McCullough's Emerald Golf Links - Egg Harbor Township
Cape May County
- Cape May National Golf Club - Cape May
- Shore Gate Golf Club - Ocean View
- Sand Barrens Golf Club - Swainton
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best golf courses near Atlantic City?
Stockton Seaview (home of the LPGA ShopRite Classic) and Atlantic City Country Club (historic 1897 course) are the top choices. Blue Heron Pines and Ballamor offer excellent public options.
Are there golf courses in Cape May?
Yes! Cape May National is a beautiful course adjacent to a bird sanctuary. Shore Gate in Ocean View and Sand Barrens in Swainton are also great options in Cape May County.
What is the average cost to golf at the Jersey Shore?
Public course green fees range from $45-95 on weekdays and $60-125 on weekends. Twilight rates (after 2-3pm) can save 30-40%. Resort courses like Seaview are at the higher end.
Can I golf and beach in the same day?
Absolutely! Many golfers tee off early and are at the beach by noon. Alternatively, hit the beach in the morning and take advantage of twilight rates in the afternoon.
Tee Times & Course Updates
Join 10,000+ golfers for course conditions, seasonal rates, and tips for playing the Jersey Shore's best public and semi-private courses.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Explore Nearby Towns
Find accommodations and activities near the courses.
Browse Towns