Long Beach Island (LBI), renowned for its stunning beaches and quaint seaside living, offers more than just sun and sand. For golf enthusiasts, LBI serves as a gateway to some of the most enjoyable and diverse golfing experiences in New Jersey. Whether you're a seasoned golfer looking for a challenge or a newcomer eager to hit the fairways, LBI’s nearby golf courses cater to all levels of skill and interest. In this guide, we'll explore the best golf courses near LBI, each offering unique layouts, breathtaking landscapes, and varying degrees of difficulty to satisfy every golfer's appetite.
Spotlight on LBI National
History and Ownership Changes
LBI National stands as a testament to golfing excellence near Long Beach Island. Originally opened in June 2000 as Sea Oaks, this championship layout was crafted by the mid-western architect Ray Hearn. After closing its doors in March 2021, the course remained shuttered for over a year. The rebirth of this golfing venue came in June 2022 when it was acquired by Accountable Equity, known for their ownership of Renault Winery and Vineyard National at Egg Harbor City. This new chapter promises significant improvements and a revival of its former glory.
Course Features and Design
The course itself is a marvel of design, particularly notable for its back 9 holes. The layout peaks with the signature 16th hole—a reachable par 5 framed by water that requires a left-to-right tee ball leaving the golfer with a long iron or fairway wood to a green heavily guarded by water. This hole epitomizes the 'hero shot' and is a favorite among players seeking thrill and challenge. The other holes, such as 10, 11, 13, and 18, blend fun and strategic play, while 12, 14, and 17 offer a championship-level challenge that seasoned golfers will appreciate.
Current Condition and Future Expectations
While the conditioning at LBI National is still evolving, the potential under the new ownership is vast. The hope is that with careful stewardship, the course will not only return to its pristine condition but will also exceed past expectations. The commitment shown by Accountable Equity suggests that LBI National will soon become the premier golf destination for both locals and visitors to the island.
Ocean Acres: The Convenient Choice
Location and Accessibility
Ocean Acres stands out as the most accessible course for those staying on Long Beach Island. Its proximity makes it an ideal choice for golfers who prefer a short drive. Just a stone's throw from LBI, this course allows you to spend more time playing and less time traveling, maximizing your leisure time on your vacation.
Course Overview
Though not a championship layout, Ocean Acres provides a welcoming atmosphere that caters especially well to beginners and those looking for a relaxed round. The course condition might not rival the more prestigious clubs in the area, but its friendly, unfussy environment makes it a great option for families and casual players. The course layout is forgiving, encouraging those new to the game or looking to improve without the pressure of more demanding courses.
Discovering Ballamor
Ownership and Reputation
Ballamor, owned by the esteemed Ottinger Group, is highly respected within the golf community. This club is known for hosting multiple NJSGA (New Jersey State Golf Association) and GAP (Golf Association of Philadelphia) championship qualifiers, indicating the high standards maintained here. The Ottinger Group's commitment to excellence ensures that Ballamor remains a top choice for serious golfers.
Course Highlights
The conditions at Ballamor are exemplary, particularly noted for having the purest putting surfaces in the area. This makes it a preferred venue for golfers who value precision and well-maintained greens. The layout is both challenging and fair, offering a rewarding experience for all skill levels. Regulars and newcomers alike rave about the quality of the course and the enjoyable playing experience it offers.
Mccullough's Emerald Links: A Touch of the British Isles
Unique Design Features
Mccullough's Emerald Links offers a distinctive golfing experience inspired by the classic links of Ireland and Scotland. Designed by the renowned local architect Stephen Kay, the course features 17 replica holes from iconic courses across the British Isles. This unique aspect not only adds a touch of authenticity but also challenges players to adapt to styles and strategies typical of overseas links.
Playing Experience
The course is known for its dynamic layout with 'half-pars'—drivable par 4s and two-shot par 5s, alongside challenging 200+ yard par 3s, creating a volatile scoring experience that can be both thrilling and rewarding. The wide-open drives and strategic hole designs encourage aggressive play, making it possible for golfers at all levels to score well and enjoy the round. The pace of play is typically brisk, making it a perfect choice for a fun and fast afternoon of golf with friends.
Challenge Yourself at Twisted Dunes
Course Characteristics
Twisted Dunes is the 'double black diamond' of South Jersey's golf offerings, known for its unique and challenging features. The course is characterized by large sand dunes that frame each hole, reminiscent of Nebraska-style golf but unique to the South Jersey landscape. The absence of trees and the constant wind add to the challenge, requiring golfers to use strategic thinking and precision with every shot.
Playing Experience
Spanning 7,240 yards from the tips, Twisted Dunes presents a formidable challenge even to the scratch golfer. Its design tests all aspects of a golfer’s game, from long-range driving to precise putting, making every hole an adventure. Despite its difficulty, the course is also known for offering excellent value, with reasonable peak-season pricing that makes it accessible to a wider range of golf enthusiasts.
Value for Money
The affordability of Twisted Dunes, coupled with the high quality of play it offers, makes it a favorite among those seeking a championship test without the championship price tag. It's a course where you might want to bring an extra sleeve of balls, but the experience will be worth every shot.
Vineyard National: More Than Just Golf
Dual Attraction
Vineyard National is uniquely positioned within the scenic Renault Winery, offering more than just a round of golf. This course not only challenges golfers but also invites them to experience the culture of a working winery. After a game, players can explore the winery, engage in a wine tasting, or even participate in one of the venue's frequent events, such as live music performances or weddings.
Course Review
With a slope rating of 137, Vineyard National is deceptively challenging, offering a layout that is forgiving enough for all skill levels to enjoy. The fairways are generally wide, and the greens are kept in good condition, making for an enjoyable play. However, some parts of the course may show signs of wear, reflecting in the course's competitive pricing. This accessibility makes Vineyard National an attractive option for those who want a complete leisure experience without the high costs associated with more elite courses.
Post-Golf Amenities
The experience at Vineyard National extends beyond the golf course. The winery’s indoor bar is a cozy spot to unwind, featuring a full liquor license, a solid selection of food, and occasional live bands. It's the perfect place to relax after your round, whether you're discussing your birdies and bogeys or simply enjoying the company of fellow golf enthusiasts.
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POSTED BY:
Drew Guarino
609-467-4061
2001 Long Beach Blvd.
Ship Bottom, NJ 08008
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