Long Island has long been a golfer's paradise, with its rich history and prestigious courses drawing players from around the world. There are close to 130 golf courses and clubs in our region, more than 60 of which welcome public players. As the 2025 Ryder Cup approaches, the island is once again set to take center stage in the world of golf, at the notorious Bethpage Black Course. With the onset of spring, now is the perfect time to explore the island’s unforgettable golf courses. For the full list of Long Island golf courses, visit our golf page.
Insider Tip: Scroll to the bottom to learn about several upcoming golf events on LI where you can watch the pros compete!
Bethpage State Park Golf Course (Farmingdale)
No visit to Long Island is complete without a round at Bethpage State Park, home to five public 18-hole courses. The famous Bethpage Black Course, known for its challenging layout and iconic history, is a must-play for anyone looking to test their skills. Designed by A.W. Tillinghast, the course has hosted numerous major tournaments, including the 2019 PGA Championship, and will be the site of the 2025 Ryder Cup. Whether you choose the challenging Bethpage Black or one of the other courses–Blue, Green, Red, Yellow–you’re in for a world-class experience.
Montauk Downs Golf Course (Montauk)
All the way at “The End of The World” in Montauk, Montauk Downs offers golf with a view. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, the beachfront course presents a challenge with ever-changing wind conditions off the ocean. Despite its remote location on the eastern-most point of Long Island, Montauk Downs hosted over 50,000 rounds in 2024. It’s open year-round, offering a fresh challenge every time you visit.
Insider Tip: Montauk Downs Golf Course was named Top 20 Best Municipal Course in the U.S. by Golf.com
Sunken Meadow State Park Golf Course (Fort Salonga)
On LI’s north shore, Sunken Meadow State Park features three scenic courses designed by Alfred Tull. These courses blend seamlessly with the hilly woodlands, offering golfers a relaxing yet challenging round. Whether you opt for a quick 9-hold game or a full 18, Sunken Meadow provides a peaceful experience for all skill levels.
Timber Point Golf Course (Great River)
Timber Point Golf Club is a 27-hole regulation length course designed by Colt and Allison. Located where the Connetquot River meets the Great South Bay, the course plays over a variety of terrain and treats golfers with magnificent south shore vistas.
Spy Ring Golf Club (Setauket)
Opened in 2023, Spy Ring Golf Club in Setauket is a modern 9-hole course designed for fast and efficient gameplay. The course is set on historic grounds once known as Heatherwood Golf Club and has been reimagined with resort-style amenities. It’s named after the town’s Culper Spy Ring, a group of patriots who played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War. This course offers a unique experience with a nod to history, all while delivering top-tier golf.
Insider’s Tip: Learn more about the Culper Spy Ring, HERE.
The Woods at Cherry Creek (Riverhead)
For golfers seeking a challenge, The Woods at Cherry Creek in riverhead offers a beautiful but demanding round. With tree-lined fairways, winding doglegs, and stunning water views, this par 71 course provides one of the most diverse and challenging golfing experiences on Long Island. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to test their skills while enjoying the East End.
PGA Tour Superstore (Commack)
For those looking to shop or improve their game, the PGA Tour Superstore in Commack is a must-visit. With over 39,000 square feet of space, the store features everything a golfer could need, from equipment to apparel. It also offers two club-fitting bays, practice areas, and simulators. Prep for your next round!
The Future of Long Island Golf
The upcoming Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in 2025 will mark a historic moment for Long Island, as it becomes the site of one of the most prestigious international golf competitions in the world. The excitement surrounding this event is already building, with a projected 250,000 people in attendance, and the course has already undergone renovations to enhance spectator experience, ensuring that the Ryder Cup will be an unforgettable event!
Looking ahead to 2026, Shinnecock Hills Golf Club (Private) will host the U.S. Open for the sixth time, following the 2018 championship. And in 2036, the course will make history by hosting both the U.S. Open and the U.S. Women’s Open in back-to-back weeks.
