Best Golf Courses in Delaware: A Golfer's Guide to the First State
Delaware may be small in size, but it offers an impressive variety of golf experiences for players of all skill levels. From challenging championship layouts to scenic coastal courses, the First State punches well above its weight in the golfing world. Whether you're a local looking for a new challenge or a visitor planning a golf getaway, Delaware's top courses provide memorable rounds in diverse settings. In this guide, we'll explore the best golf courses in Delaware, highlighting their unique features, accessibility, and what makes each one special.
Baywood Greens
Often called the "Augusta of the North," Baywood Greens in Long Neck is renowned for its spectacular landscaping with over 200,000 flowers, plants, and trees. This visually stunning course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience with water features on 27 holes. The back nine is particularly memorable, with the signature island green on the par-3 14th hole testing even the most skilled players.
- Access: Public
- USGA Course Rating: 73.8
- Slope Rating: 138
- Green Fee: $109 (peak season)
White Clay Creek Country Club at Delaware Park
Designed by Arthur Hills, White Clay Creek Country Club offers a scenic and challenging layout that winds through the natural landscape of Delaware Park. The course features strategically placed bunkers, multiple water hazards, and undulating greens that test golfers of all skill levels. With five sets of tees, players can adjust the difficulty to match their abilities while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
- Access: Public
- USGA Course Rating: 72.6
- Slope Rating: 134
- Green Fee: $55 (weekday)
Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club
Bear Trap Dunes in Ocean View offers 27 holes of championship golf across three distinct nine-hole courses: Grizzly, Kodiak, and Black Bear. Designed by Rick Jacobson, this links-style course features windswept dunes, strategic bunkering, and challenging green complexes. The natural setting includes native wetlands and grasses that add both beauty and difficulty to your round.
- Access: Public
- USGA Course Rating: 73.2
- Slope Rating: 136
- Green Fee: $59 (standard rate)
Heritage Shores Golf Club
Heritage Shores in Bridgeville is an Arthur Hills-designed championship course that offers a fair yet challenging test of golf. The layout features generous landing areas, strategic water hazards on 14 holes, and immaculately maintained greens. The course is known for its excellent conditioning year-round and player-friendly design that accommodates golfers of all skill levels.
- Access: Public
- USGA Course Rating: 72.3
- Slope Rating: 131
- Green Fee: $55 (weekday)
The Rookery South
The Rookery South in Milton offers an enjoyable and accessible golf experience for players of all abilities. This player-friendly course features wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that add interest without excessive penalty. Known for its excellent value and consistent conditions, The Rookery South provides a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Access: Public
- USGA Course Rating: 70.9
- Slope Rating: 125
- Green Fee: $45 (standard rate)
Deerfield Golf & Tennis Club
Deerfield Golf & Tennis Club in Newark offers a classic golf experience on a mature, well-maintained course. Originally designed by Rees Jones and renovated by his firm in 2005, this challenging layout features significant elevation changes, tree-lined fairways, and strategically placed bunkers. The signature 9th hole, a demanding uphill par-4, is considered one of the toughest holes in Delaware and provides a memorable test for golfers.
- Access: Public
- USGA Course Rating: 72.4
- Slope Rating: 133
- Green Fee: $35-45 (varies by season)
Frog Hollow Golf Club
Frog Hollow Golf Club in Middletown presents a challenging layout that rewards strategic play. The course features over 50 well-placed bunkers, water hazards on six holes, and native grasses that add both beauty and difficulty. Known for its fast, undulating greens and excellent conditioning, Frog Hollow offers a true test of golf that requires accuracy and course management rather than just distance off the tee.
- Access: Public
- USGA Course Rating: 71.8
- Slope Rating: 132
- Green Fee: $40 (standard rate)
The DuPont Country Club
The DuPont Country Club in Wilmington is home to three distinct 18-hole courses: the championship DuPont Course, the challenging Nemours Course, and the more forgiving Montchanin Course. With a rich history dating back to 1921, this prestigious club has hosted multiple LPGA tournaments and offers classic, traditional layouts with tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and well-protected greens that reward precision over power.
- Access: Private (limited public access)
- USGA Course Rating: 73.1 (DuPont Course)
- Slope Rating: 139 (DuPont Course)
Bayside Resort Golf Club
Bayside Resort Golf Club in Selbyville is Delaware's only Jack Nicklaus Signature Course and offers a premier golf experience. This challenging layout features dramatic holes along the Assawoman Bay, multiple water features, and strategic bunkering that demands thoughtful shot selection. With five sets of tees stretching from 7,545 to 5,168 yards, Bayside accommodates players of all abilities while providing stunning views and impeccable conditioning.
- Access: Resort (public access available)
- USGA Course Rating: 75.9
- Slope Rating: 146
- Green Fee: $100-175 (varies by season)
Experience Delaware's Finest Golf Courses
Delaware may be small in size, but it offers an impressive variety of golf experiences that can satisfy players of all skill levels and preferences. From the coastal beauty of Bayside Resort and Bear Trap Dunes to the classic challenges of DuPont Country Club and Deerfield, the First State's best golf courses provide memorable rounds in diverse settings.
For the value-conscious golfer, courses like The Rookery South and Frog Hollow deliver excellent experiences at reasonable rates. Those seeking a premium experience will find that Baywood Greens and Bayside Resort offer stunning layouts and impeccable conditioning. Whether you're a Delaware resident or planning a golf trip to the region, these top courses showcase the quality and variety that make Delaware an underrated golf destination worth exploring.
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