People drive right past South Jersey to get to the Shore and have no idea what they're missing. Exit the Parkway a few stops early and you'll find some of the most underrated public golf in New Jersey - pine-lined fairways, layouts carved through wetlands, and a pace of play you stopped believing existed.
We went through every public option in South Jersey and came back with the courses that are actually worth the drive. Some you'll know. Most you probably don't. All of them deserve to be on your list.
"South Jersey golfers have been sitting on some of the best public tracks in the state for years. The secret is starting to get out."
Two courses, both worth the drive. The West Course is the stronger layout - tree-lined fairways, demanding approach shots, and greens that reward patience over aggression. Atlantic County's best kept secret and one of the top public facilities in all of South Jersey. Get there before the word gets out. Both courses are in excellent condition and the price point makes this a no-brainer for any South Jersey golfer.
Consistently ranked among the best 18 holes in the Mid-Atlantic region and voted one of the Top 50 Best Places to Play in America. The layout winds through wetlands and pine barrens with three holes that Golf Digest has recognized among the top ranked in all of New Jersey. If you're heading to Cape May for a weekend, this is the round you build the trip around.
The most unique round in New Jersey. Designer Archie Struthers moved two million cubic yards of earth to create this links-style layout with deep ravines, grass-covered hills, and over 100 bunkers. Golfweek ranks it among the top 4 public courses you can play in New Jersey. It plays completely different every time depending on the wind. Bring extra balls and an open mind.
Great conditions at a price that makes sense. Ballamor consistently punches above its weight in South Jersey and is one of the most underappreciated tracks in Atlantic County. If you're already making the trip to Twisted Dune, add a round at Ballamor the next morning - the two together make for one of the best golf weekends in the state.
A Cape May County gem that doesn't get enough attention from golfers outside the area. The 9th hole - a 648-yard par 5 with water on the left and in front of the green from the back tees - is one of the most demanding finishing holes in South Jersey. Worth knowing about if you're exploring the Cape May area.
A South Jersey classic with a loyal local following. Affordable, well-run, and a great option for golfers looking to explore the southern part of the state without the destination-round price tag. If you want to experience what everyday South Jersey golf culture actually feels like, this is it.
South Jersey rewards the golfer who does a little research. Cape May National and Twisted Dune alone justify making South Jersey a golf destination - and Blue Heron Pines gives you a third option most people still don't know about. Know a course we should add? Email us at hello@gardenstategolf.net or tag us @gardenstategolfer.
Every public and semi-private course in New Jersey - reviewed by real players.