Best Public Golf Courses in Delaware

Updated February 2024 to update booking information.

As you probably know by now, I haven’t spent as much time playing golf in the Northeast as I’d like.  It’s certainly a goal because the region is home to some of the nation’s most coveted and storied tracks. 

Of particular interest to some of our readers is public golf in Delaware.  The idea piqued my interest too.  Even though this is one of the smallest states in the Union, I was confident we had a few readers that called the Diamond State home.  I was right.  They were more than happy to tell me all about their golf. 

Their thoughts are summed up below.

If you’re looking for an exciting round of golf in Delaware, Bayside Resort Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, offers a stunning 7,525-yard layout along the scenic Assawoman Bay coastline. It’s no surprise that it has been ranked as the best public-access golf course in Delaware for 14 years and has consistently been in the top five public golf courses in the state.

The unique location alongside the bay and through pine forests creates a one-of-a-kind golfing experience that has garnered positive reviews and attracted golfers from the community.

Bayside Resort Golf Club provides a challenging yet enjoyable game for golfers of all skill levels. The course features a variety of holes that require strategic thinking and precision. The beautiful surroundings and well-maintained fairways and greens make it a must-play for anyone visiting Delaware.

Located in Selbyville, this golf club offers a picturesque setting that enhances the overall golfing event.

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Wilmington, Delaware, the White Clay Creek Country Club offers golfers a demanding and well-designed course with a target golf adventure featuring directional bunkering and forced carries on some holes. This club has garnered praise for its excellent service and outstanding course design, making it one of the best courses in Delaware.

The captivating scenery and well-maintained course make it a top choice for golf enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, White Clay Creek Country Club provides a great golfing event for players of all skill levels. The club’s attention to detail and the overall condition of the course add to its appeal.

Golfers can expect a delightful blend of natural beauty and meticulously crafted holes, creating an enjoyable and memorable round of golf. If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience in Delaware, the White Clay Creek Country Club is a must-visit. It’s no wonder it receives rave reviews and high ratings.

The scenic beauty and well-designed course of White Clay Creek Country Club make it a top choice for golf enthusiasts. Similarly, Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club offers a bold and fun course with a diverse mix of holes and luxurious amenities. Here’s what you can look forward to at Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club:

• The club, designed by Arthur Hills, is known for its award-winning facility, making it one of the best golf courses in Delaware.
• Golfers rave about the stunning view from the 5th hole on the Kodiak nine, adding to the allure of the course.
• Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club provides a unique golfing experience with a total of 27 holes to choose from, offering players a variety of courses to play.
• The course opened to much acclaim and has since been recognized for its well-maintained fairways and top-notch amenities.
• It’s no surprise that the club has received positive reviews and is a popular choice for golfers looking for a challenging and enjoyable round.

Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club truly stands out as a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts seeking a memorable and diverse golfing adventure in Delaware.

Tucked away in Newark, Delaware, Deerfield Golf Club beckons golf enthusiasts with its picturesque parkland layout and a range of amenities for a memorable golfing event. The traditional parkland layout features narrow fairways and demanding holes that bend left and right, offering an exciting game for players of all levels.

Deerfield Golf Club isn’t only renowned for its well-maintained course and friendly staff but also for its excellent customer service. The club goes beyond just golf, providing tennis courts and a clubhouse for various events and tournaments.

With accolades that include being one of the top five public golf courses in Delaware, Deerfield Golf Club’s 6405-yard, par 71 course is a must-visit. Additionally, the location in Newark, Delaware, ensures easy access from major cities and popular tourist destinations, with public transportation options available.

Whether you’re looking for a challenging round of golf, excellent facilities, or a picturesque setting, Deerfield Golf Club has it all.

When visiting Heritage Shores Golf Club, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a meticulously designed course by Arthur Hills, offering over 7,000 yards of undulating greens and top-notch facilities for an exceptional golfing experience.

Here are some cool things about Heritage Shores Golf Club:

• The course offers stunning views of the Assawoman Bay, creating a picturesque backdrop for your game.
• Plantation Lakes, a community designed by renowned golf architect Lester George, is adjacent to the club, making it a perfect destination for golf enthusiasts.
• The club’s Hollow Golf offers a diverse range of golf equipment and apparel in its pro shops, ensuring you have access to top-of-the-line gear.
• If you’re planning a group outing or a corporate event, Heritage Shores Golf Club offers special rates and packages, making it an ideal location for your next golfing gathering.
• With positive reviews and recognition as one of the best golf courses in Delaware, Heritage Shores Golf Club continues to attract golfers from the community, promising an unforgettable golfing adventure.

Visiting Heritage Shores Golf Club promises not just a round of golf, but an all-encompassing event that celebrates the beauty of the game.

Curious about what makes Plantation Lakes Golf and Country Club one of the top public golf courses in Delaware? Let’s dive in.

This scenic golf course in Delaware offers a stunning view from the 5th hole on the Kodiak Nine, making your game even more enjoyable. Notably, it has attracted golfers from the community and beyond, thanks to its challenging yet rewarding layout. Originally opened for play in 1937, the course underwent major updates in 2008 by Lester George, enhancing its overall quality.

Measuring at a par 71 and stretching 6405 yards, with a slope of 125 and a ranking of 70.9, Plantation Lakes Golf and Country Club provides a fulfilling golfing experience. It’s no surprise that this course has won awards, solidifying its place as one of the top five public golf courses in Delaware.

The presence of the South Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, adds to the allure of this golfing haven. Whether you’re tackling the demanding Creek or navigating through the well-designed South Course, Plantation Lakes Golf and Country Club offers an event that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Nestled among the picturesque landscapes of Delaware, Frog Hollow Golf Club beckons golf enthusiasts with its demanding link-style 18-hole course. This renowned course, stretching 6608 yards with a slope of 131 and a ranking of 72.3, provides a memorable adventure for players of all levels. With 50 strategically placed bunkers, it not only offers a visual treat but also poses a thrilling challenge. The accolades and recognition as one of the top five public golf courses in Delaware are well-deserved.

Here are a few things to make sure you experience at Frog Hollow Golf Club:

• Embrace the unique and challenging layout of the 18-hole link-style course.
• Test your skills against the 50 bunkers that dot the landscape, adding to the course’s aesthetic appeal and challenge.
• Enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes as you play through the course.
• Delve into the history and accolades of Frog Hollow Golf Club as one of the best public golf courses in Delaware.
• Take advantage of the club’s welcoming atmosphere and facilities to make the most of your golfing experience.

Rock Manor Golf Club was established in 1921.  That makes it one of the oldest courses in the state. 

You guys know me and old school designs – I go nuts for them.  From what our readers had to say, they do too, especially this one.

The course is an iconic Lester George design and only measures a touch over 6,400 yards.  That doesn’t make it a pushover, however.  There are plenty of quirks, humps, and bumps that keep things interesting and present a challenge.  The course is narrow too.  If you start spraying it, you could be in for a long day.

I can’t wait for a chance to play Rock Manor.

“Apparent attention to every detail”.  That’s what one of our readers said about the experience waiting at Back Creek.  It sounds like no stone is left unturned; the staff go above and beyond to make sure you’re every need is met.  Pretty lofty praise to say the least. 

Called one of the “Best 100 Modern Courses in the U.S.” by Golfweek, this links style layout gives you plenty of room to work with off the tee.  However, the greens are large and undulating.  Chances are you’ll face some challenging putts during your round. 

One of the more enjoyable rounds to be found anywhere in Delaware, be sure to give Back Creek a shot.

Maybe the best value in all of Delaware is Ed Oliver Golf Club. 

The course opened more than 100 years ago.  Sadly, all that remains is the chimney from the original clubhouse adjacent to the 18^th hole.  Nonetheless, it stands as a timeless reminder of Ed Oliver’s storied history.

In 1971, the course was re-designed by none other than Ed Ault.  The result has proven a timeless classic design that’s a shot maker’s dream. 

This is a short track.  Not exactly a bomber’s paradise.  I’m good with that, personally.  You can bet I’ll be making a tee time at Ed Oliver when I get to Delaware.

Conclusion

For such a small state, Delaware is chock full of history, wonder, and charm.  From what everyone has said, those characteristics are exemplified in the state’s golf courses. 

Whether you’re looking for a brute of a test and a modern design, or something a little more rustic and quaint, it can be found in Delaware. 

I want to extend my warmest thanks to our readers that made this course guide possible.  Without you, there’s no way I could have done it on my own. 

Have some of your own thoughts about public golf in this great state?  Drop us a note in the comments below.